For the first time this week, Amazon introduced a new Speech Synthesis Markup Language (SSML) for Alexa. Like markup for other languages might allow developers to alter the style or look of a webpage or application, this language allows developers to alter certain aspects of Alexa’s speech. Features released so far include the ability to whisper, spell out words, and modify swear words. Developers are encouraged to test these new features on their skills, so be on the lookout for some interesting new developments. Who knows, your Alexa may just whisper those sweet nothings to you after all!
NEWS
Google Announces Google Assistant SDK to Third Party Developers
Google announced that they are making the Google Assistant SDK available to third party developers. This means that consumer products, such as coffee machines, toy robots, vacuum cleaners, or home automation systems could have the assistant built directly into their interface rather than needing to use a Google Home device. Companies would still need to maintain a partnership with Google in order to run the Assistant, but they could customize it to fit their own unique needs.
VIP: From Biotech to Personalized Assistants, To frying Up Cookies
Join Jessica, Nelson, and Joel for an exciting VIP. This week, we have some dynamic stories. Here is what’s been happening in the world of tech:
Echo Look: Hands-Free Camera and Style Assistant.
Introducing a new product in the line of Echo devices from Amazon. This is a camera that can take full length photos and videos, share them with social media, and get advice on what fashion items make you look your best. The camera has all of the features of a normal Echo product, so you can still ask Alexa anything. Not only can Alexa give you the news, play music, check your calendar, and run third party skills, but she can also control the camera through voice activation. Considering that the Amazon Echo is priced at $179.99, and the Echo Look is priced at $199.99, you might want to consider paying the extra $20 to get a voice activated camera as part of your Echo platform. Currently, the Echo Look can be obtained by invitation only.
The Google Play Award Nominees for Best Accessibility Experience at Google I/O 2017.
The Google Play awards are back again at this year’s Google I/O, and we are happy to announce the apps that have been selected for the Best Accessibility Experience.
Feelin’ Mighty with the Matias Bluetooth Keyboard
Is the Samsung Galaxy S8 or S8+ Going to Replace your iPhone?
After the debacle of exploding Samsung mobile phones and the rocky start to Samsung’s version of Siri called Bixby, Samsung is attempting to recover they’re image by talking about all the intuitive functions that are built-in to the phones so that it can be accessible for people who are visually or hearing impaired.
Google’s Project Soli Makes Touchless Gestures a Reality.
Google announced the availability of Project Soli, which is a chip that is embedded in any device; such as a smart watch, phone, computer, or tablet. It allows developers to come up with a set of gestures that can be performed without having to physically interact with a device. For example; a developer could design a virtual dial that the user can interact with by making a gesture that resembles turning a dial. Sense the user doesn’t directly touch the device, the number of gestures that can be created is only limited by the developer’s imagination.
CNIB Launchs Vision Loss Rehabilitation Saskatchewan
“If an optometrist or ophthalmologist or general practitioner refers a client, they will come to Vision Loss Rehabilitation Saskatchewan rather than the Canadian National Institute for the Blind,” said Christall Beaudry, executive director of CNIB Saskatchewan. “The reason for that is really simple. We wanted to break down stigmas and barriers for people who have vision loss.”
Apple’s iWork Productivity Suite, iMovie and GarageBand are Now Free!
The Apple-apps that are now free include iWork apps Pages, Numbers, Keynote, As well as Apple’s iLife apps, GarageBand and iMovie.
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