…and it wants a spot in your living room
There was one point at the Google I/O 2018 – Google’s annual developer conference - which saw the audience erupt in applause. Sundar Pichai introduced an all-new Google Assistant and showed off a new skill. Assistant called a hair salon to make an appointment in response to an instruction from Pichai, and the salon employee couldn't tell that she was in a conversation with a bot. This was no bot with a robotic voice, but one that managed to pose as a real person. Assistant promptly updated the calendar once the salon confirmed the appointment. Pulling off the voice act was only part of the trick - Assistant also needed to stay in the conversation by understanding what the salon executive said. Google calls this Duplex, but hasn't confirmed when this will be available on your smartphone. Google needs all the tricks in the book for another battle that has been brewing; India is the latest frontier for this slugfest – the smart speaker segment.
It was Amazon that fired the opening salvo in India in October 2017, with the launch of Echo, which was driven by Alexa, its digital assistant. Google Home arrived almost six months later. Apple’s Home Pod hasn't confirmed its India launch date, leaving the Echo and Google Home to create the buzz for this category. We put these two speakers head to head.
DESIGN
This story is from the June 2018 edition of Man's World.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 2018 edition of Man's World.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Rekha At 70 The Enduring Mystique
More than a generation after she was last seen on screen, the mystique that she successfully wrapped herself in continues to serve her well in the public imagination. Her fleeting public appearances in dazzling silk sarees and makeup continue to beguile the camera in the same manner it did at the peak of her career
iPhone Fatigue
Do we really need an annual Apple flagship release?
Men's Guide To Combat Premature Hair Loss
Male pattern baldness hit men at an early age, at times in late 30s and early 40s. We asked the experts the reason behind it, treatments that can help, and factors to take care of
SMRITI MANDHANA MAKES CRICKET LOOK EASY
In conversation with Man's World for Hyundai Drive Within campaign, the stylish Indian batter talks about her craft, evolution, and her thoughts on women's cricket
Pritam Hitting The High Note
A National Award for Brahmastra: Part One Shiva this year and songs that continue to clock millions of streams, Pritam Chakraborty proves why he's one of the most acclaimed Hindi Film music directors of our time
JEMIMAH RODRIGUES IS HAVING THE TIME OF HER LIFE
In conversation with Man's World as a part of Hyundai Drive Within campaign, Jemimah Rodrigues take us through the drive within her that inspires her to be the best in her business.
SHAFALI VERMA IN A LEAGUE OF HER OWN
In conversation with Man's World India as a part of the Hyundai Drive Within campaign, Shafali Verma opens up about her historic double century, her fearless brand of cricket, and more
Hands Onl Seiko Prospex 1965 Heritage Diver's Watch SPB455 100th Anniversary Edition
Seiko's 100th anniversary of the first watch to bear its name brought an exciting addition to its famed Prospex collection; a timepiece that pays homage to the brand's iconic history while embracing modern ideas of versatile wearability
WATCHES ON THE WILD SIDE ATYPICAL CASE DESIGNS
Horology isn't just about precision. It's also about understanding the rules of perception-and sometimes, taking a sledgehammer to them
Denim The Timeless Trendsetter
Crystal Henricksen, Head of Denim Design at GAP, shares with us what makes the fabric simple, versatile, and timeless
