Speechly Releases Free Tool to Help Developers Scale Voice Experiences From Alexa Skills

Speechly, a voice technology startup from Finland, launched a new developer tool that lets users convert an Alexa skill into a Speechly application that work across the web and mobile applications. The Speechly application can be used to enable Reactive Voice User Interfaces across all major browsers and in mobile apps. The announcement was made live on stage, during the second day of the 2021 VOICE Summit in Arlington, Virginia. The tool was released as a public beta, with plans for quick iteration in partnership with users.

Libre Wireless Technologies announced a technology partnership with Vodafone to deliver Vodafone’s UK launch of Pro Broadband with Alexa Built-in - featuring voice-assistant calling, messaging (ACM) and Vodafone One Number calling, as well as a selection of advanced custom Skills. The Vodafone Pro Broadband with Alexa Built-in product offers a Super WiFi Plus booster with hybrid 4G broadband back-up and dedicated support.

Arduino boards are extremely popular among DIY enthusiasts and a number of add-ons or “shields” exist, particularly for audio players. Now, the Arduino MKR family has expanded the possibilities even more. This article details an Infineon amplifier board featuring integrated MERUS MA12070P proprietary multi-level Class-D ICs, which create an exciting platform for advanced wireless audio projects — including full-fledged Alexa-powered DIY smart speakers. This article was originally published in audioXpress, October 2020.

Amazon announced that Alexa, the voice recognition engine that powers the Amazon Echo range of smart speakers, is now available for Canada, along with three Alexa-enabled devices: Echo, Echo Plus, and Echo Dot. The expansion also means that the Alexa Skills Kit (ASK) and the Alexa Voice Service (AVS), enabling developers to build voice experiences for Alexa users will now be available for English speakers in Canada.