Eric had the idea of adding voice instructions to help others use the device in situations where they might be too panicked to read written instructions.
The prices have fallen so far so fast that some manufacturers can't resist adding voice activation as a gee-whiz component.
The plan is to integrate TaskMail with existing software platforms, first using the tool for e-mail and instant messaging applications and then adding voice mail.
Both companies are adding voice encryption and special authentication protocols that allow the devices to sign on to secure government networks like the DoD's SIPRNet, which was where the WikiLeaks diplomatic cables were stored.
Dr. Clifford Nass, a professor at Stanford University who has spent nine years studying how people react to voices coming from computers and who advises many companies that are adding voice technology to their Web-based products, has some predictions.
PDAs are headed down the wireless path too, in some cases merging with phones by adding voice capability.
Theoretically, at least, through limiting expectations, you aren't left disappointing customers by adding voice capabilities.
In a truly bizarre move, LinkedIn is adding voice messages to the professional networking platform.
