To: Mark Oliver who wrote (902 ) 9/23/1998 5:12:00 PM From: LK2 Read Replies (1) | Respond to of 2025
IBM will now include speech recognition software on its new, low- and mid-priced PCs. The $899 model doesn't include the speech recognition software, but is 333 MHz (Advanced Micro Devices Inc. K6-2), and does include Lotus SmartSuite software. Can you believe 333 MHz is now low-end? FOR PERSONAL USE ONLY--- >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> IBM To Equip Home PCs With Speech Recognition 1.41 p.m. ET (1741 GMT) September 23, 1998 RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. - IBM said Wednesday that it will equip new models of its consumer line of personal computers with speech recognition technology that allows users to control PCs using voice commands. The company unveiled four new Aptiva consumer PC models, three of which include the ViaVoice speech technology that takes dictation from a user and automatically translates it into computer text. With its ViaVoice speech-to-text technology and other features designed to make PCs easier to use, IBM is redoubling efforts to set itself apart in a field where there is often little difference between products from rival computermakers. The three speech-enabled computers are priced between $1,099 and $1,799. The fourth model starts at $899. "IBM Aptiva has long been recognized for delivering outstanding multimedia technology to consumers,'' Brian Connors, vice president of the IBM Aptiva line, said in a statement. "By incorporating the power of IBM's ViaVoice technology into three of these new Aptiva models, we are providing our customers with technology unmatched by the competition,'' he said. Eventually, all IBM Aptiva computers will include the speech recognition technology, a spokesman added. The top two models also offer a Rapid Access Keyboard, with pre-programmed buttons for quick Internet access, and ScrollPoint Mouse, with additional screen navigation features, both developed to make the PC as easy to use as possible. All four models come loaded with Lotus SmartSuite software. The $899 model runs on an Advanced Micro Devices Inc. K6-2 333 megahertz speed processor. The three ViaVoice-equipped computers include a $1,099 model with a 350 megahertz AMD processor, a $1,399 PC running an Intel Corp. 350 megahertz Pentium II chip and the $1,799 PC running an Intel 400 megahertz Pentium II, with a digital video disk player and additional software titles. c 1998 <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<