What is VUI and why is it trending?

Even 5 years back, Indian households were not familiar with voice searches on Google, voice activated speakers and other smart gadgets that use voice as an interface. But now this technology is a strong trend, not only in urban markets, but also across tier 2 cities of India. We are going to take a closer look at the trend and the technology today.  

What does VUI mean? 

Voice user interface (VUI) is a system that allows interaction between humans and computers based on spoken commands. VUIs use speech recognition to understand spoken what the user is saying, answer the requests through text or voice outputs, and perform functions that the user wants. The greatest advantage of a VUI is that it allows hands-free, eyes-free interaction with digital devices and enhances user experience and often, portability. 

How are the tends of IoT and VUI related? 

VUIs and Internet of Things (IoT) can go hand in hand. We can say that these two technologies are made for each other. That is why we have so many trending gadgets that use VUI and IoT to make interaction with devices automated yet intuitive, useful yet fun. Such an immersive experience is the result of years of research. But the trend has gained ground especially in the last 2 years following the home smart gadget and mobile usage boom. 

What are some trending VOI and IoT linked gadgets? 

A lot of highly trending devices utilise IoT and VUI. Some examples of this technologically (and financially) beneficial pairings include everything from Cisco Webex Assist and Google Home and Assistant VUI and Amazon Echo.

Cisco Webex Voice Assist: CISCO is a leading remote collaboration platform. Its VUI allows the voice-run virtual assistant to create calls, manage meetings and control devices seamlessly. Smart offices were widely using Cisco Webex VUI already. The pandemic made seamless smart offices a greater necessity. 

Google Home and Assistant VUI: One of Google’s most popular devices as well as Google search engine uses VUI and IoT. Google’s device can control alarms, lights, music system volumes and run related devices. 

Amazon Echo: Another smart speaker able to do everything that Google Home can, and more. The VOI driven Echo smart speakers are even more popular in India than most other speakers.