#200 Trevor Back: How Speechmatics is Shaping the Future of Conversational AI

In this episode of the Eye on AI podcast, we explore the forefront of voice-powered AI technology with Trevor Back, Chief Product Officer at Speechmatics. Discover how Speechmatics is pushing the boundaries of speech recognition and conversational AI with their latest innovation, Flow.

Trevor shares his journey from a background in computational astrophysics to becoming a key figure in AI at DeepMind and now Speechmatics. He delves into the development and potential of Flow, a groundbreaking tool combining automatic speech recognition (ASR), large language models (LLMs), and text-to-speech synthesis, aimed at creating seamless and responsive voice interactions.

We explore the wide-ranging applications of Speechmatics' technology across industries, including media, call centers, and education. Trevor discusses the challenges of achieving high accuracy in speech recognition, especially in diverse and noisy environments, and how Speechmatics addresses these challenges with their unique approach to training models.

Listen in as we uncover the intricacies of handling multiple languages, improving diarization, and the future goals of understanding complex audio cues like emotion and sarcasm. Learn about the company's vision for integrating voice technology into everyday products, making technology more accessible and user-friendly.

Don't miss this insightful conversation on the future of voice technology, AI in business, and its role in the evolving landscape of AI. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more expert discussions on cutting-edge advancements in AI.

This episode is sponsored by Shopify.

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Checkout Speechmatics, the most accurate AI speech technology - with AI transcription & real-time translation components.: https://www.speechmatics.com/

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(00:00) Introduction and Background

(01:49) Trevor Back's Journey into AI

(04:02) DeepMind and Early AI Applications

(07:30) Speechmatics' Mission and Focus

(12:06) Key Applications of Speechmatics Technology

(14:25) Achieving High Accuracy and Low Latency

(17:52) Language Coverage and Challenges

(21:27) Future of Voice Technology and AGI

(24:52) Integrating Large Language Models

(27:31) Handling Multiple Voices and Diarization

(29:32) Real-world Applications and Challenges

(35:20) Demonstration of Flow and Capabilities

(41:14) Endpoint Prediction and Interruption

(43:53) Real-time Interactions and Future Prospects

(45:34) Launch Event and Future Plans

(50:13) New Language Releases and Compliance