Microsoft has patented a method for 'silent' voice commands to address privacy, social awkwardness
While voice assistants like Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, and Cortana continue to develop, no company seems to have considered how awkward it can be to issue commands in public. Until now.
One of the most fundamental problems with phone-based voice assistants is how awkward it can be to use them in public. As much as I use my Harman/Kardon Invoke at home to control smart lights, get calendar info, and create Cortana reminders, I pretty much never use her on my Android phone for one pretty simple reason, it's just a bit ... weird, to do so in public at least. Apparently, Microsoft agrees, as the company has patented a module that can detect "silent" voice commands.
As described by the company's patent filing, the "silent" input method can detect whispers and extrapolate voice commands from the airflow created while mouthing words. The module can be placed in a range of devices, including smart watches, phones, a smart "ring," regular headset microphones, and even a TV remote.
As usual, note that patents don't necessarily translate into products, but there have been a few rumors floating around recently that Microsoft isn't done thinking about Cortana-focused hardware. We'll just have to wait and see.
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Jez Corden is a Managing Editor at Windows Central, focusing primarily on all things Xbox and gaming. Jez is known for breaking exclusive news and analysis as relates to the Microsoft ecosystem while being powered by tea. Follow on Twitter (X) and Threads, and listen to his XB2 Podcast, all about, you guessed it, Xbox!