While the world is still waiting for Google’s official answer to Siri, Magnifis is the latest startup to join in on the voice assistant wars by launching its new application, Robin, on Google Play today. Robin is the latest in a long line of attempted competitors, though each application has failed to appeal to the masses for one reason or another. Robin is not your typical voice assistant, however. The main focus of this application is to act as a hands-free assistant when you’re driving in your car. Not all that bad of an idea, considering how many reckless drivers there are out there with smartphone in hand.
Meet Robin – your personal voice assistant on the road! You can ask her for directions, traffic information, real-time parking data – in these domains, Robin understands questions and commands, and she’s constantly learning to do more. Just tap the microphone button, and Robin will be all ears. Even when in the background, Robin is there for you – just “wave hello” twice in front and above the screen.
Examples of useful commands
————————————Parking
• Where can I park?
• Find cheapest parking around Union Square
• I need parking near Columbus at Montgomery
• Next one
• Anything closer/cheaper?
• What else do you have?
• Let’s go there!Navigation
• Go to 1234 Lombard San Francisco
• Navigate to nearest Starbucks
• Get me to Getty Museum
• Directions to Hollywood and HighlandTraffic
• How is the traffic?
• What is the traffic like in San Francisco?Misc
• What can you do?
• What time is it?
• Tell me a joke
I installed the app on my HTC Amaze 4G, and at first glance, I’m not overly impressed. Robin doesn’t seem to like the questions I ask and usually cuts off my search queries at only one word. The app is still in beta, however, so it might be a bit too early to fry this fish just yet. I’ll keep it installed and check back for updates. There’s a lot of potential here, but the appeal isn’t quite there yet.
If you would like to try Robin out for yourself, you know the drill. Hit the QR code below to head over to Google Play for the installation file. Be sure to let us know what you think.
Application:Â Robin
Developer:Â Magnifis, Inc.
Cost:Â FREE
Via: CNet
