The software requires no voice training. Users drag any file or piece of text to a special tool bar and Madison reads back the text, freeing users to perform other tasks while they listen. Madison will alert users of the time, tell them when a new E-mail arrives and who it is from, and read back appointment reminders, said officials. It will also contain customizable notifications. Access is controlled by voice authentication.
Beta programs are due by the end of the year.
Pricing has not been set, said officials of the Boca Raton, Fla., company. The software uses a modem to get news, weather and E-mail updates that can be read to the user over the phone, officials of the Burtonsville, Md., company said. HAL 2000 also uses the X-10 protocol for carrying data over power lines to automate a thermostat, lights, fans and other appliances. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of ZDNet is prohibited.