News
Issue #2003 - 04 (February 2003)
(Updated Feb. 5, 2003)

APPLICATION SOLUTIONS & APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT

Babel to Offer Advanced Text-to-Speech on TI's OMAP Platform for Wireless Phones, PDAs

27 January 2003, Mons, Belgium - Mobile devices will soon be able to read text messages aloud following an agreement between Babel Technologies S.A. and Texas Instruments. Babel has made PocketBabil - its Text to Speech technology - commercially available for Texas Instrument's widely used OMAP wireless processing platform. Mobile devices that feature the platform with PocketBabil embedded, such as 2.5G and 3G handsets and PDAs, will enable mobile users to listen to text messages (SMS), receive spoken feedback, and listen to e-mail and voice prompts. 

Mobile text messaging is becoming increasingly popular, with over 24 billion text messages sent worldwide in May 2002, according to a recent GSM Association report. The ability to listen to a message is a logical progression as it is the most convenient, safest and most natural way to receive those messages. Furthermore, the technology will help to prevent mobile phone users from compromising safety while still enjoying the benefits of communication via text message.

Paul Werp, worldwide marketing director for TI's OMAP platform, said: "As text-based applications for wireless devices become more prolific, text-to-speech and speech-to-text technology will continue to gain popularity."

For more information: http://www.webitpr.com

MobileInfo Comments and Advisory: Text-to-speech is an important feature in mobile voice applications. While listening to voice translation is less efficient than seeing a text message, it is the only safe way you can get voice-mail while you are traveling. Therefore, this should have applications in Telematics.

Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and section 21E of Securities Exchange act of 1934 in USA. Similar provisions exist in other countries. There is no assurance that the stipulated plans of vendors will be implemented. MobileInfo does not warrant the authenticity of the information. Readers should take appropriate caution in developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology architectures.  All trademarks used in this summary are the property of their respective owners.