Google has filed for a patent on a technology that would let users
search their program listings with only the sound of their voice.
According to Patently Apple, which obtained the patent request,
Google’s application describes a method of allowing users to say a
voice command through a mobile device. That command is then relayed to a
television or set-top box–likely equipped with the company’s Google TV
platform–that displays the desired information.
According to Patently Apple, the patent describes one implementation
in which a user asks, “When is ‘Seinfeld’ on?” The software on the
television then displays the title, name of the episode, and when it
will be on. The patent also relates to users searching for live TV shows
and turning the set on, all with their voices.
