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Talking iPods

chrisb33 writes to tell us the next iteration of the iPod may talk you through the menus instead of just relying on text. The Scotsman speculates on this new technology based on a patent filed by Apple in the US. From the article: "The patent reveals the idea is driven largely by safety considerations. It states: 'A user will have difficulty navigating the interface in "eyes-busy" situations. Such activities include, for example, driving an automobile, exercising and crossing the street." The patent also makes clear that text-to-speech technology is likely to spread to other hand-held electronic devices such as mobile phones and palm-top computers."

2 of 194 comments (clear)

  1. What would be cool... by fullcircleflight · · Score: 5, Interesting

    If I whistle to my iPod a few seconds of a song melody, I would like to see it identify the track and then play it! I'm sure it would be impossible, but at least it would be more patent-worthy!

  2. so i can have a conversation and it change? by nihaopaul · · Score: 5, Funny

    me > hello, thanks for calling me back
    *ipod changes* playing album: hello my name is q
    *ipod changes* The Calling - Thank You.mp3
    me > shut up!
    caller > what?
    *ipod changes* 03-lil_kim-shut_up_bitch.mp3
    me > no not you, my ipod is freaking me out
    *ipod changes* Ali G Indahouse-Da Soundtrack/14-another_level-freak_me-rns.mp3
    caller > you know its weird to talk to that thing right?
    me > your driving me crazy
    *ipod changes* Fidel Cashflow (2005) - Rap/06-stack_bundles-hustlers_go_crazy.mp3
    caller > what ever, forget the job!
    me > no, wait a minute!
    *ipod changes* ez-rollers/lickable_beats_lp_sampler/09-60_minute_ man_and_dj_touch-tonight.mp3

    real men dont mark this funny, real men mark it insightful!