Description: A natural language interface (NLI) is a system that allows users to interact with computers and applications using everyday human language. Unlike traditional interfaces that require specific commands or the use of menus, NLIs are designed to understand and process natural language, making communication between humans and machines easier. These interfaces utilize advanced natural language processing (NLP) techniques and large language models to interpret user intentions, answer questions, and perform tasks more intuitively. NLIs can be found in various applications across multiple sectors, including virtual assistants, chatbots, and customer support systems, and are increasingly common in mobile devices and online platforms. Their ability to understand context and meaning behind words allows for smoother and more natural interaction, enhancing user experience and expanding the possibilities of technology use in everyday life.
History: The concept of natural language interface began to take shape in the 1960s with the development of the first natural language processing systems. One of the most significant milestones was the ELIZA program, created by Joseph Weizenbaum in 1966, which simulated a conversation with a psychotherapist. Over the decades, research in NLP advanced, but it was in the 2010s that the arrival of large language models, such as OpenAI’s GPT-2 and GPT-3, revolutionized the field, enabling more sophisticated and natural interactions.
Uses: Natural language interfaces are used in a variety of applications, including virtual assistants, customer service chatbots, voice search systems, and automatic translation tools. These interfaces allow users to perform complex tasks more easily, using natural language commands instead of technical instructions.
Examples: Examples of natural language interfaces include Google Assistant, which allows users to ask questions and receive answers in natural language, and customer service chatbots from companies like Sephora, which help customers find products and resolve issues through natural language conversations.
