NLP and Bots for Self-Ordering Kiosks

Language understanding has improved dramatically over the past few years. New algorithms and hardware have come out that have dramatically changed the effectiveness of the feasibility of voice-activated systems. In addition, the ability for computers to accurately sound like a human has achieved near perfection. Another area where machine learning has made large strides in the past few years is natural language processing (NLP), or as some would call it, language understanding.

When you combine computer voice with language understanding, then new markets open up for voice-activated technologies such as smart kiosks and smart devices.

We will cover the following recipes in this chapter: 

• Wake word detection
• Speech-to-text using Microsoft Speech API
• Getting started with LUIS
• Implementing smart bots
• Creating a custom voice
• Enhancing bots...