Microsoft and 24/7 Inc. announce agreement to combine the power of “Big Data” and natural user interfaces into a new enterprise cloud platform for customer service.

By Zig Serafin, General Manager, Microsoft Tellme

Microsoft Tellme helps Avis and Budget improve customer service using cloud services, is recognized for leadership in speech technology.

Zig Serafin outlines the future of speech technology and natural user interfaces at SpeechTEK.

Zig Serafin, general manager, Speech at Microsoft, delivers a keynote address to over 600 people at SpeechTEK 2010. Serafin outlines Microsoft’s vision for speech technology and natural user interfaces. Demonstrations of speech in Kinect, Windows Phone 7 and the Kia UVO are also featured.

Microsoft Tellme’s speech recognition services are deeply integrated into the upcoming release of Windows Phone 7, you can easily use your voice to simplify everyday tasks—make a call, find a business, or open an application.

2010 looks like another major year in technology. One clear trend is the focus on more natural ways of interacting with computers, in essence making technology more approachable to more people.

With more than 2 million SYNC-equipped vehicles on the road today, Ford has shown that people want a simpler and easier way to make phone calls, listen to music and get directions while in the car.