Modern voice recognition solutions offer endless possibilities. But this technology can easily struggle with the ability to understand your voice if you’re not paying attention.
If you find your program having difficulty understanding your speaking, there may be some quick solutions. Our experts reveal the 5 most common problems that users face when using their voice recognition software.
1. Speaking Too Close
An improper positioning of the microphone is perhaps the most frequent source of a non-responsive voice recognition system.
Many people hold the receptor directly in front of their face, which creates a lack of space for sound to travel. This ultimately generates garbled sounds and muffled syllables.
The angle may also impact the system’s understanding by creating unnecessary sound reverberations that interfere with normal acoustic vibrations.
2. Slurring Words
A lot of people use voice recognition as an alternative to typing when they are inebriated, as an example.
Unfortunately, even the slightest amount of slurring can derail the software’s understanding. These systems are designed for perfect enunciation, so the best bet is simply sounding out each word individually.
Actually, intoxication is not even necessary for this issue to arise. It can also happen when one simply talks too fast and the words blend together.
The solution is easy: Just audibly separate each directive, and include mild pauses between every word. By emphasizing clear language, you can remedy most instances of being misunderstood.
3. Mispronouncing Words
Sometimes, the challenge can be in a user’s vernacular. Pronunciation is a vital aspect of voice recognition, so make sure that you have a keen grasp of your syllables.
Keep a dictionary out for difficult phrases, and consider substituting tough expressions with simpler synonyms! Many words have multiple pronunciations available, but the system will probably prefer one version over all of the others.
It is wise to check the program’s library to see how the computer pronounces the phrase. By mimicking the software’s speaking patterns, there should be no more errors.
Occasionally, this may mean saying a word in a way that contradicts your own internal lexicon. Being willing to compromise your articulation abilities can work wonders with voice recognition!
4. Speaking Too Softly
This may be the most common difficulty facing voice recognition users today. People can never seem to get the right pitch and volume for their systems.
This is because every machine has different microphone specifications. The easiest path to good results involves treating it like you’re using a speaker phone.
When you talk too loud, the interface only picks up the intonation. If your voice is too quiet, it may not register at all. To avoid being inaudible or silent, just use a tone that is only a decibel higher than your speaking voice!
5. Unknown Accents
Even the tiniest dialectical differences can wreak havoc on voice recognition protocols. Many of the systems only recognize accents from America, England and Australia. Fortunately, you may be able to find some plug-ins that can cover your specific region’s talking patterns!
Final Note: Other Potential Hazards
This list covered some of the basic problems facing today’s voice recognition utilities, but there are several other possible challenges too.
For example, a crowded room can generate noise interference that inhibits the program’s listening capabilities. Unlike human ears, these systems cannot distinctly separate sounds based on their sources.
As such, loud engines can prevent functionality as well, which can be problematic with certain types of transportation. Another detrimental issue can be a damaged microphone. If none of the previous solutions are unable to fix the communication problem, then it may be time to check the internal speaker.
In the end, every voice recognition malfunction is unique. Once you identify the cause, a remedy should be easy to find!