How Voice-Controlled Intelligent Agents Can Redefine Computing

Workers are only beginning to dip their toes into voice-controlled computing: According to Telecom And Mobility Workforce Survey, Q2 2013, just over a third of workers with smartphones say they employ voice commands, although usage is only occasional. But voice control promises much more as vendors link it to intelligent agents — cloud-delivered digital concierges that are familiar with the user and her data, embedded into the user's online relationships, and discerning enough to make decisions. Everything from office meetings to shopping to managing one's calendar will be mediated by the presence of voice-controlled intelligent agents. This report discusses what's possible and what happens when workers bring their own intelligent agents into the workplace.