SpeechWorks
| Company type | Public (until acquisition) |
|---|---|
| Industry | Speech recognition software |
| Founded | 1994 in Boston, Massachusetts, United States |
| Founder | Mike Phillips, Bill O'Farrell |
| Fate | Acquired by ScanSoft in 2003 |
| Headquarters | Boston , United States |
Area served | Telecommunications, financial services, travel industries |
| Products | Speech recognition software, Speechify Solo (text-to-speech application) |
| Parent | ScanSoft (from 2003) |
SpeechWorks was established in Boston in 1994 by speech recognition innovator Mike Phillips alongside Bill O'Farrell. Initially operating under the name Applied Language Technologies, the firm focused on creating speech software primarily designed for telephony systems. After going public in 2000, the company's market value tripled, and it was subsequently acquired by Scansoft in 2003. Following this, ScanSoft purchased Nuance in 2005 and adopted the Nuance Communications brand.
The organization concentrated on developing speech recognition technologies that enabled telecommunications providers and voice portals to manage customer calls, transactions, and information access through natural language dialogue. Its solutions were distinguished by a conversational voice interface that permitted users to interrupt prompts and adapt based on prior interactions to broaden its vocabulary.
Clients such as Thrifty implemented SpeechWorks’ systems to deliver pricing details, with 90% of users expressing satisfaction regarding usability. The company served a diverse clientele across financial services, telecommunications, and travel industries, including FedEx, United Airlines, Amtrak, and Thrifty.
By 2001, SpeechWorks had also introduced “multi-modal” and text-to-speech capabilities for voice navigation on mobile phones, strengthening its foothold in the growing mobile technology sector.
Speechify Solo
Released in 2002 by SpeechWorks, Speechify Solo was a text-to-speech application featuring a natural-sounding voice that could vocalize text and customize messages for users. This product targeted sectors such as handheld computing devices, home entertainment systems, and the automotive industry.
In 2003, the National Weather Service incorporated Speechify voices into its NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts; these voices were eventually replaced in 2016 with updated technology and new voice options.
Relationship with AOL
In 2000, America Online launched "AOL by Phone," a service enabling users to access email and AOL features via spoken commands over the telephone. This service was developed through AOL-owned Quack.com, which utilized SpeechWorks' Speechify software for voice recognition functionality. AOL made a $5 million investment in SpeechWorks in 2002, acquiring a one percent ownership stake.
Acquisitions
In 2000, SpeechWorks expanded its portfolio by acquiring Ithaca-based Eloquent Technologies, Inc. for $17 million.