Talking with Computers: Synthesis and Recognition of Speech by Machines

Humans find speech a convenient and efficient means for communicating infonnation. Machines, in contrast, prefer the symbols of assemblers and compilers-exchanged, typically, in printed form through a computer terminal. If computers could be given human-like abilities for voice communication, their value and ease of use for humans would increase. The ubiquitous telephone would take on more of the capabilities of a computer terminal. Making machines talk and listen to humans depends upon economical implementation of speech synthesis and speech recognition. Heretofore the complexities and costs of these functions have deterred wide application. But now, fueled by the advances in integrated electronics, opportunities for expanded and enhanced telephone services are emerging. This paper assesses the progress in synthesis and recognition of speech by computer techniques, and it outlines potential applications in voice-communication services.