Voice control might seem like it is a widely used and universally accepted service, for everything from Internet searches, to searching titles on televisions, to home automation commands. The truth is though, this technology is still new, still being adapted, and still in need of some improvements.
The question for home automation consumers is: do you get the newest, shiniest tech that already incorporates voice controls, but might have some flaws, or do you choose a service that is a little behind in voice controls because they are trying to perfect their voice control services before offering them to the public?
I’m pretty simple when it comes to technology. I want what is new, easy, and most convenient. I am happy to pay more for the best service. But am I paying for flawed voice controls when I could be saving money and using regular old buttons? Even if my service isn’t using voice controls right now, it will eventually adapt and catch up. I could just plan to upgrade my services as new options become available.
Right now, home automation services from Apple and Google are voice-based for their controls – which makes sense since both offer voice services for other products, like smartphones and Internet searches. Lagging behind a little, though is AT&T. They have a Digital Life service for home automation, but they aren’t offering voice controlling yet. They are, however, preparing for the release of a voice assistant to do just that. The new voice-based assistant won’t be available across the entire Digital Life platform yet, though. When the system updates for voice control, it will be limited to simple commands like turning on and off lights, and basic confirmations like verifying if an alarm system is active.
It’s not a full adaption, and it might still frustrate some customers, but it is a step in the right direction. At least with button control, it is easier to be precise with commands. Releasing voice-based operating before the kinks are worked out can result in more frustration that what you’ll experience using an app on your smartphone.
AT&T might have lost some customers in the last few years, as other companies seemed to be outpacing them in the technology sphere. I have to wonder if any of those customers wish they would have just kept their old AT&T service and waited for upgrades to be available.
So, which side are you on? Will you always opt to get the newest tech, even if it might be flawed, or are you patient enough to wait for your preferred provider to catch up and offer the newest services?
