Lycos to introduce voice portal in five markets
Reuters, 10/11/2000 08:40
WALTHAM, Ma., Oct 11 (Reuters) - Internet media network Lycos Inc. (NASDAQ:LCOS) on Wednesday unveiled its new voice portal that allows telephone users in five local calling markets to dial an access number, then speak commands into their phones to obtain free content from the Lycos network of Web sites.
The service, which will be available in Boston, metro New York including northern New Jersey, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles, is built with voice-recognition technology from wireless applications company Mobilee Inc.
The launch comes a day after rival Yahoo Inc. (NASDAQ:YHOO) formed a pact with Net2Phone Inc. (NASDAQ:NTOP) for a group of voice-based services that will let it offer Internet content over the phone, voice mail and long distance calling for free.
It also formed a pact with SpeechWorks International Inc. (NASDAQ:SPWX) for the voice recognition software maker to supply the the Intenret media giant with the ability to let its users check their electronic mail via the telephone.
"The market is all in a state of being just evolved," said Amanda McCarthy, an analyst at Forrester Research. "All the players are racing. Mobile data services in their initial phase has disappointed in the view of hype. Whoever has a brand name and a customer base has a head start. If anyone should be worried about losing it should be the carriers."
Users of the new Lycos service will also have the option to develop a customized Web profile to focus on the news, scores and stock quotes they find most relevant.
"Our product is open to anyone with a touch-tone phone or wireless device through a phone number," said Jason Pavona, director of wireless strategy and personalization in a phone interview.
While the service will use content from Lycos' network of sites, Pavona said the company, whose merger with Spain's Terra Networks SA (NASDAQ:TRRA) is pending completion, was always open about forging new pacts to meet clients' wishes.
"It's a logical that we will extend our distribution through all of (our existing relationships) and through new partners," he added, noting Lycos' relationship with Telefonica SA (MADRID:TEF) and its joint ventures with the likes of Bell Canada International Inc. (TSE:BI) and Singapore Telecom (SIN:TELE).
Copyright 2000, Reuters News Service |
