Amazon updated Alexa devices to have the ability to convey emotions. The new ability will make the voice assistant sound more human, which could make interactions with the system more normal. Alexa devices in the United States will now have voice inflection capabilities that can convey either excitement or disappointment.
In order to launch the feature, Amazon developed a Neural Text-to-Speech system. The company also outlined the impact the system could have, "overall satisfaction with the voice experience increased by 30 percent when Alexa responded with emotions."
Amazon also developed the ability to have Alexa devices mimic the speaking styles seen on various news broadcasts.
Overall it is clear that Amazon is attempting to foster authentic interactions between Alexa devices and human owners.
Human-Like Voice Assistants
Alexa Devices Now Have the Ability to Convey Emotions to Users
Trend Themes
1. Emotion-conveying Voice Assistants - The rise of emotion-conveying voice assistants presents opportunities for companies to leverage human-like interactions and provide more personalized experiences for their customers.
2. Neural Text-to-speech Technology - Innovations in neural text-to-speech technology enable companies to build more advanced voice assistants that not only sound more human, but can also convey complex emotions and respond to users in a more nuanced way.
3. News Broadcast-inspired Speaking Styles - Companies can look to news broadcast-inspired speaking styles to create differentiating features for their voice assistants, which can help to increase brand loyalty and enhance user experience.
Industry Implications
1. Smart Home Devices - Smart home device manufacturers can use emotion-conveying voice assistants to enhance the user experience and differentiate their products in a crowded market.
2. Virtual Assistants - Virtual assistant app developers can leverage emotion-conveying voice technology to create more human-like and engaging interactions that keep users coming back for more.
3. Call Centers - Call centers can adopt emotion-conveying voice technology to improve customer engagement and satisfaction, which can lead to increased loyalty and repeat business.