Microsoft to Test 'Voice Command' for PDAs, Phones

Just days after announcing a partnership with Motorola to develop Windows CE based smart phones, an e-mail sent to beta testers reveals an inkling of detail about where Microsoft intends to enhance its partners' products.

The e-mail invitation, sent to Redmond testers on Wednesday, introduces a new product for PDAs and phones dubbed Voice Command.

According to Microsoft's invite, "Voice Command works with your PDA or phone so you can use your voice to control your device and receive information in a way that is easier, more convenient, and safer while you are on the go such as in the car or walking down the street carrying packages or even while sitting on a park bench."

While voice commands are nothing new, a workable solution for mobile devices must exhibit far greater dependability than seen in the past in order to break into the mainstream. Industry heavyweights such as AT&T, Lucent, Lernout & Hauspie Speech Products, and IBM have poured resources into developing alternate proprietary technology solutions, and are vying for a piece of the market.

Voice Command is a new addition to a long list of aligned technologies Microsoft has dabbled in, including the more advanced Microsoft Speech Server and Speech Application Software Development Kit (SASDK).

Other endeavors such as the Athens PC prototype and Voice Commands beta are focusing strictly on the client-side.

Microsoft is accepting nominations for the Voice Command beta via BetaPlace. Those interested must fill out a brief survey after signing in using the guest ID: VoiceCommandReq.