Description: Speech synthesis is the artificial production of human speech using artificial intelligence technologies. This process involves converting written text into audio, allowing machines to ‘speak’ in a way that is understandable and natural for listeners. Speech synthesis relies on advanced natural language processing (NLP) algorithms and machine learning, which analyze the text and generate an acoustic representation that simulates human voice. The main features of speech synthesis include the ability to modulate tone, speed, and intonation, allowing for significant customization in how information is presented. This technology is relevant in multiple contexts, from accessibility for individuals with visual impairments to customer service automation, where virtual assistants are used to interact with users. The evolution of speech synthesis has led to the creation of more natural and expressive voices, expanding its use in various devices and applications beyond mobile devices, enhancing human-machine interaction.
History: Speech synthesis has its roots in the 1950s when the first speech synthesis systems, such as the ‘Vocoder’ and ‘Dectalk,’ were developed. In 1961, John Larry Kelly Jr. and Louis Gerstman created the first speech synthesis system capable of pronouncing words in English. Over the decades, the technology has evolved significantly, moving from robotic voices to more sophisticated systems that use neural networks and deep learning to generate more natural voices. In the 1980s, speech synthesis began to be integrated into personal devices and computers, and in the 2000s, it became popular with the arrival of various virtual assistants.
Uses: Speech synthesis is used in a variety of applications, including virtual assistants, GPS navigation systems, accessibility tools for individuals with visual impairments, and customer service automation. It is also employed in the creation of audiobooks, in education to help students learn languages, and in video games to bring characters to life through computer-generated dialogues.
Examples: Examples of speech synthesis include the use of various virtual assistants and applications like Amazon Alexa. It is also used in screen reading software like JAWS and NVDA, which help individuals with visual impairments interact with computers and mobile devices.
