Guile 3D Studio Introduces Denise, the Virtual Assistant

Brazilian firm Guile 3D Studio has developed a virtual assistant that can accept natural language inputs to perform a wide variety of tasks.

The system was developed using advanced computer graphics, artificial intelligence software, voice recognition and synthesis in 46 languages, and biometric systems.

Denise uses voice recognition, text-to-speech, and natural language technologies to perform everyday actions, such as checking and reading email, delivering the latest news, issuing appointment reminders, initiating Internet searches, and controlling computers and applications. Some of the commands she understands include check my email, my schedule, new document, look for videos on the Internet, movie schedules, or play my songs. Users can also add and personalize voice commands for specific tasks.

In addition, a series of modules can be added to expand Denise's abilities, such as digital recognition, language interpreter, and connecting to Skype, MSN, GPS systems, and onboard car computers. Voice recognition for dictation that will enable Denise to compose documents and email is one of the capabilities currently under development, as is facial recognition. Both should be available soon, according to the company.

Denise has obvious business uses, but she can also be used as a virtual governess at home, performing a variety of tasks, such as turning lights on and off, playing music, announcing emails, controlling the alarm, and even authorizing entrance. Other applications now being tested include a Virtual Nurse to keep people company in hospitals and an assistant to help users of information kiosks, self-service terminals, and automated call centers. A special version is currently under development for the disabled that will make it possible for them to control their computers using their voices and movements of their heads and hands.

New modules under development will allow Denise to read from and update social networking sites and interact with the Microsoft Kinect gaming console, cell phones, smartphones, and other mobile devices.

"Denise is the first of a series of digital assistants. In addition to female characters, there will also be males and children since the technology is intended for people of all ages,” says Guile Lindroth, director of Guile 3D Studio.

Denise can even operate in computers with slower processors, such as netbooks and tablets. The minimum system requirements are: Celeron, Atom N280, or Pentium 4 processors; one gigabyte of RAM; two gigabytes of hard drive storage; Windows XP, Vista or 7 operating system; Internet Explorer 7 or 8; and Windows Media Player 10 or 11.

The Denise Virtual Assistant system is now for download in English at the Guile 3D Studio site. Prices start at $100.