AI Case Study
BBC is developing interactive fictional programs utilising the natural language generation capabilities of smart home assistants such as Alexa and Google Home
BBC plans to develop a natural language processing engine to offer interactive programmes. The initiative is titled 'Talking with Machines' and will explore content, interaction and software development patterns. The first programme in this series, an interactive audio drama has been already broadcast in November 2017. The programme is now being expanded.
Industry
Consumer Goods And Services
Media And Publishing
Project Overview
BBC initiative called Talking with Machines, aims to “explore the possibilities of these devices and platforms in terms of content, interaction design, and software development patterns”, finally developing a BBC engine for natural language processing focused on spoken interfaces.
One outcome of the Talking with Machines work is an original, interactive audio drama, created especially for smart speakers Amazon Echo and Google Home. Working with audio production specialists Rosina Sound, the BBC released the first programme, a comedy/science fiction story called The Inspection Chamber, in November 2017."
Reported Results
"An original, interactive audio drama, a comedy/science fiction story called The Inspection Chamber, in November 2017. The BBC team expects to expand to other voice-activated devices going forward."
Technology
Function
R And D
Product Development
Background
To “explore the possibilities of smart devices and platforms in terms of content, interaction design, and software development patterns” and develop and nurture expertise around spoken interface technology within the BBC itself.
Benefits
Data