Once again, Microsoft is touting the robust flexibility of its AI investments as it starts the process of replacing its former Windows Speech Recognition software with a new Voice Access app powered by artificial intelligence.
Microsoft went public with the Windows Speech Recognition transition through its Microsoft Support page in a Voice access FAQ back in late 2023, and it looks like there are more details about the proposed switch that include a clearer timeframe, what users can expect, and some of the new features that come with the replacement.
According to Microsoft, sometime in September 2024, an updated version to Windows 11 (22H2) will deliver the official Voice Access replacement app for Windows Speech Recognition.
Voice Access will leverage AI to deliver more accurate and flexible interactions between the user and the operating. Soon, users will be able customize voice commands which will allow them to use natural language they are most comfortable with to prompt the system. However, to leverage the most out of this feature, users will need an internet connection. Voice Access will also support multi-monitor workstations that can be toggled following the steps below:
- Press Win and go to Settings, afterward to Time & Language, next to Speech.
- Look for the Microphone settings and press Get Started.
And because it’s a Microsoft paradigm, both Voice Access and Windows Speech Recognition will sit next to each other in the settings and allow users to keep their current setup for a bit longer. Part of the reason Microsoft is opting to keep its good ol’ Speech Recognition tools has to do with its ability to work offline if necessary.
Another reason WSR users may opt to keep the old app is because it also supports more languages in its current form, which is something that Voice Access will have to nail down before it’s really deemed a truly viable replacement for such a dependent feature.
The Windows 11 update scheduled for later this year is shaping up to be a pretty significant one that spans both hardware and software for the company in some exciting ways.
