Google's human-sounding Duplex AI coming on Pixel phones: Details here
Google Duplex, the astounding AI tech that made headlines with its natural human-like voice, is coming to Pixel devices next month. In the recent #MadeByGoogle event, the search giant announced that they will be rolling out the same on Pixel phones in a phased manner, city-by-city. Here's what you should know about the release.
What is Duplex?
Duplex is the technology that provides Google Assistant capabilities to handle real-world tasks. The tech, first showcased during Google I/O in May, enables Assistant to make restaurant bookings, haircut appointments (to name a few) by speaking just like a human. Its functions are limited (as of now), but the uncanny human-like voice with 'umms' and 'ahhs' is what wowed most of us.
Phased roll-out from one city to another
While Google focused more on Pixel 3s at the recent event, the Duplex release announcement does indicate that the feature won't just be exclusive to the new phones. It will be rolled out gradually, with reports suggesting users in New York, Atlanta, Phoenix, and San Francisco would be the first ones to get the feature. Following this, Google might consider a global release.
Functions likely to be available in initial roll-out
Google has not revealed what it plans to deliver in the initial roll-out of Duplex. But, according to Wired, the feature would let users reserve tables at restaurants that don't accept online bookings. This looks good for a start, as Google might issue follow-up updates bringing capabilities to make calls for haircut appointments or regarding holiday hours. It has been testing them since June.
But, what about other phones? Will they get Duplex?
Now, that remains unclear. Google has not mentioned if or when other phones will get the Duplex-powered capabilities. Yes, Google Assistant is available in major countries and that provides Google a proper base to give Duplex a broader reach, but the final answer remains to be seen. The search giant is expected to provide more details, but for now, it will be Pixel-exclusive.
Google's move for privacy advocates
Considering privacy concerns raised over Duplex's deceptive human-like voice, Google has integrated a feature, which lets the Assistant disclose itself as a bot when talking to a vendor or making an appointment on behalf of the user.
