Tellme Networks

TellmeNetworks

Tellme Networks, Inc. was a company founded in 1999 that specialized in telephony services, including voice recognition and information technology systems. It played a significant role in the development and expansion of voice-enabled services and applications, making significant contributions to the way users interact with devices and access information over the phone. In 2007, Tellme Networks was acquired by Microsoft Corporation, marking a significant step in Microsoft's strategy to expand its services in the voice recognition and telecommunication sectors.

History

Tellme Networks was established in 1999 by Mike McCue and Angus Davis with the vision of transforming how people interact with information through advanced voice recognition technologies. The company quickly gained traction, attracting significant investment and partnerships due to its innovative approach to integrating voice commands with information retrieval systems.

In the early 2000s, Tellme Networks introduced a range of services that allowed users to access information, such as weather updates, sports scores, and directory assistance, through voice commands. This service was groundbreaking, as it provided a hands-free, intuitive way for users to interact with their devices and access information on the go.

Microsoft Corporation recognized the potential of Tellme Networks' technology and expertise in the rapidly growing field of voice recognition and telephony services. In 2007, Microsoft acquired Tellme Networks in a move to bolster its own offerings in these areas. The acquisition was seen as a strategic step for Microsoft to enhance its voice recognition capabilities and integrate them into its existing and future products and services.

Technology and Services

Tellme Networks' technology was based on advanced voice recognition algorithms and systems that could understand and process natural language queries. This technology was integrated into a variety of services, including customer service solutions for businesses, voice-enabled mobile search, and automated directory assistance.

One of the key features of Tellme Networks' services was its ability to provide users with a seamless and efficient way to access information without the need for typing or navigating through complex menus. This was particularly beneficial for users who were driving or otherwise engaged, as it allowed them to obtain information safely and conveniently.

Impact and Legacy

The acquisition of Tellme Networks by Microsoft had a significant impact on the development of voice recognition technology and its application in various sectors. Microsoft integrated Tellme Networks' technology into several of its products, including Windows Mobile and later, Cortana, Microsoft's virtual assistant.

Tellme Networks' legacy continues to influence the field of voice recognition and telephony services. The company's early work in making information accessible through voice commands laid the groundwork for the development of modern virtual assistants and voice-activated systems that are now commonplace in smartphones, home automation systems, and customer service solutions.

See Also

• Voice recognition technology
• Microsoft Corporation
• Virtual assistant
• Telephony