|
According to BizMaps, an Irish company, voice navigation services are predicted to be a major application of the wireless Internet.
The technology, named BizMaps DirectionFinder, allows users to call a telephone number, state a street name and destination address, and receive voice directions to reach the destination. DirectionFinder was launched Wednsday at e-XPO in Dublin.
Pat Donnelly, managing director, BizMaps, said, "Driving directions are a natural fit for voice technology, providing a service that consumers will find convenient and useful to their everyday lives - helping drivers find where they need to go without having to take their hands off the wheel."
The new product is the result of a merger between exisiting technologies developed by both companies. Voxpilot's XML/VoiceXML SpeechSuite technology and voice service-hosting in conjunction with BizMaps RouteFinder have made this new application possible.
According to BizMaps, the company has compiled information on all routes in Ireland and created a software application that calculates the most direct driving route between two locations.
In addition, the service allows walking or driving, current traffic conditions, and it takes into account one way street, illegal turns, and other traffic hindrances.
Both companies expect the technology to be a value-added service for ISPs and mobile operators.
The company was launched in June of 2000 and is at www.bizmaps.ie. In November of 2000 BizMaps worked in conjunction with Eircell in the launch of a direction finder service providing turn-by-turn street directions from Eircell's WAP portal.
|
