Try a Headset that Talks Back

Almost everyone with a cell phone also uses a wireless Bluetooth headset – and almost every user has been confused by them. As the Associated Press points out, given the fact that the buttons lack markers and there is only one indicator light, it is hard to tell what they do – and how to get them to do what they are intended to do.

Of course, a glance at the owner’s manual can clear up most of those questions. Still, it is kind of easy to forget, and no one really has time to check out the manual whenever they are confused – especially if they are trying to use the headset so they can be responsible and hands free as they try to talk while driving.

BlueAnt Wireless may have the solution to such problems. Just this past Tuesday, the company launched the very first wireless headset to recognize demands spoken in English – and to respond in the same language. Indeed, the V1 headset is a true innovation.

Peter Svensson, who reviewed the product for the Associated Press, described the headset as “having an automated cell center in your ear.” Still, in spite of going for $130, it does not have all the capabilities a standard Bluetooth comes with, especially when it is paired with a cell phone that has voice recognition.

All the same, the ease of use speaks for it quite a lot. For instance, all you have to do to use it is press the headset’s big button. You will be vocally prompted to give a command, whereupon you simply say, “Pair mode.” The voice will then give you directions to sync the phone up with the headset.

Once it is hooked up, the headset will even act as a Caller ID for you, quoting both the number and asking whether or not you want to answer the call. You will not have to touch the headset at all. To answer, you simply say, “Answer.”

It must be said, however, that the V1 headset only knows a limited amount of words, terms, and command, and you cannot train it to respond to or say new ones. Nor can you recite a number or a name in your phone book and have the call dialed for you. You have to program the numbers into the phone, and you can only have seven.

(August 29, 2008)