Description: A virtual assistant is software designed to interact with users and provide information and support for various tasks, using advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP). These assistants can operate across multiple platforms, including mobile devices and various computing environments, allowing them to offer a more immersive and contextualized experience. Their functionality ranges from managing schedules and reminders to searching for information and automating tasks, thus facilitating users’ daily lives. The integration of AI enables these assistants to learn from past interactions, improving their ability to anticipate needs and provide more accurate responses. In the context of immersive environments, virtual assistants can interact with users in three-dimensional settings, providing contextual information and real-time assistance. On mobile devices, their presence has become ubiquitous, helping users perform everyday tasks more efficiently. In summary, virtual assistants are versatile tools that combine advanced technology to enhance human-computer interaction and optimize user experience across various environments.
History: The concept of virtual assistants began to take shape in the 1960s with the development of natural language processing systems. However, it was in the 2010s that these assistants became popular with the launch of products like Apple’s Siri (2011), Google Assistant (2016), and Amazon Alexa (2014). These advancements in AI and NLP allowed virtual assistants to become more accessible and functional, integrating into mobile devices and smart homes.
Uses: Virtual assistants are used in a variety of applications, including task management, information retrieval, smart device control, and customer support. They are also employed in augmented reality environments to provide contextual information and enhance user experience.
Examples: Examples of virtual assistants include Apple’s Siri, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Microsoft’s Cortana. In augmented reality environments, applications like Google Lens use virtual assistants to provide contextual information about objects and places.
