The way in which we interact with our computer changes continuously and sometimes we are not aware of the changes. For example, until recently, monitors were for viewing and not for playing. Now, with touchscreens, that is a thing of the past. Another innovation that we have quickly integrated has been the interaction with the computer through the voice. Thanks to our virtual assistant we can manage a large part of the functions of our computer without touching any peripherals.
These tools are popular today, although their origins date back to 1962 when IBM launched IBM Shoebox at the Seattle World’s Fair. This machine was capable of recognizing sixteen words and the numbers from 0 to 9. As you can see, a long time has passed since then until its consolidation thanks to options such as Siri – Apple‘s virtual assistant – and Cortana – Microsoft‘s virtual assistant.
However, today we are going to show you other virtual assistants that can be installed in Windows 10. Some are very well known, such as Google Now but there are also other minorities, which you may not know and may surprise you.
Google Now, the most used option
The virtual assistant of the Mountain View company is available for Windows 10 but to enjoy its advantages you will have to download the Python tool first. This free and open source program will bridge Windows 10 and Google’s virtual assistant. You can see the entire installation process at the link .
Once installed, you can interact with your computer and your other connected devices thanks to this personal assistant.
Alexa, from the supermarket to your house
Amazon is another one of those innovations that years ago did not exist. What started as a distribution company has ended up being one of the largest companies in the world. And one of its most popular products is Alexa, its virtual assistant and its Amazon Echo smart speakers.
Alexa will help you make purchases, book tickets, select music, get information about the weather or find out about the latest news in your country, order food or listen to the radio.
Installing the Alexa app is easy if it is available in your country. In that case, you just have to go to the official Microsoft store and download the application. However, if you live in Spain, the process will be a little more complex but we will indicate it below.
Install Alexa on Windows 10 from Spain
The first thing you need to do is go to the Microsoft Store, search for the Alexa application and copy the url. We attach it to you in case you want to skip this step: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/alexa/9n12z3cctcnz
Then you have to go to the Adguard Store website. Paste the address into the address bar, select “retail” and run. A series of links will appear. You have to download the first ones that end in .appxbundle and .eappxbundle. Once downloaded, install Alexa on your computer.
Now you just have to enter your username and password and give Alexa permission to use the computer microphone.
Once the installation process is finished, you already have the Amazon virtual assistant at your disposal, you just have to say “Alexa, …”
DataBot, focused on entertainment
This free assistant has the particularity that it can be used on Windows 10, Xbox One, Windows Phone and iOS and Android devices.
Among its features we highlight that you can create multimedia presentations, answer specific questions, read news, tell jokes, find phrases and quotes appropriate for various situations, chat with the user and even play with him.
Its operation is a bit complex. Each functionality is stored in a series of modules and before using it, you will have to activate it. You will need a little time to find out where each one is, but it can be interesting to discover all its functions.
If you are interested in this personal assistant, download it from their website .
Jarvis Lite, focused on command handling
The ACW Technologies tool focuses on user interaction with the computer and not so much on entertainment. Although it will inform us of the latest news published by the BBC and we can use our multimedia controls, its functions go further. We highlight the customization of commands, the execution of programs and web pages -shell commands-, the dictation or the possibility of creating hotkey comands. that is, integrating our most common keyboard combinations into the wizard.
Get this personal assistant on its official page .
Braina, an assistant and translator
This virtual assistant is not a search program like Cortana but it is characterized because it will only assist you in managing your computer through voice commands.
With the free version of Braina – contraction of the expression “Brain Artificial” – you can dictate texts, enter new commands, play songs, search for data online or open and search for files on a PC. The main drawback of this free modality is that you will have to write one by one the commands that you will use with Braina.
The paid version improves interaction with music applications and, above all, offers the artificial intelligence function. Thanks to it, you will experience continuous improvement if you use it regularly.
You can download the free version here .
VoiceMacro, simple but effective
Large virtual assistants have many functions and make it possible to automate a large number of tasks. If you prefer simplicity and control the tool instead of it controlling you, your choice may be VoiceMacro.
This program is extremely simple because it only has two functions: dictation and command execution. In addition, all the commands will have to be entered by you, so it will only do what you previously ordered.
Choosing the simplest option is sometimes the best. Click the link to check it out.
Digital Assistant, the workers’ choice
The option offered by Adenin is interesting because it focuses on a very specific type of user, the worker who, in his job, requires an assistant to improve his productivity. In addition, it is a native web tool so you can use it wherever you have an internet connection.
It allows you to receive notifications, establish communication channels with other users or coworkers, create reminders or integrate the applications you use in your daily life. In addition, an artificial intelligence engine that will solve the most common doubts that we have in our day to day.
Do you think this tool is better suited to you? Visit their website to register and start using it.
OpenSource options, more freedom but more work
Sepia
This free and open source personal assistant offers the user a wide range of possibilities, almost as many as you are capable of creating. You can work with it on all platforms and decide the degree of connection between devices (from computers to smart watches) and users.
To use the program, you will first have to compile it. You will find all the necessary material at this link .
Lion
Under development is Leon, a basic personal assistant, but you can improve if you have advanced knowledge and, above all, you dedicate time. Being open source, you will be able to use the modules of the other developers and they will use yours, which will allow you to expand your capabilities as a programmer.
Visit your GitHub page and download the necessary material for the compilation .