Nuance Communications released the results of a recent survey regarding user interest in the use of speech technology for mobile phones.  According to the survey of nearly 2,000 mobile phone customers in the U.S. and the U.K., consumers are demanding increased hands-free and eyes-free access to mobile phones for improved convenience and safety.  These requirements are more important than ever since mobile phones are increasingly used for messaging, email and Web browsing.

More than 75 percent of respondents expressed interest in using speech commands to facilitate dialing and improve access to the advanced features of mobile phones, particularly when driving. 

Additional survey results include the following:

• 60 percent of U.S. respondents frequently or occasionally use their cell phones while driving.
• The top reason cited for rarely or never using the cell phone while driving is safety concerns (73 percent).
• More than half of all respondents are looking for solutions that allow them to drive more safely by keeping their eyes on the road when using the phone.
• 47 percent of respondents are demanding technology that will allow them to comply with regulations for hands-free mobile phone use while driving.
• 35 percent of respondents are interested in speech solutions that enable them to become more productive during commute time.

U.K. survey respondents expressed an interest in text messaging: 90 percent of U.K. respondents use text messaging at least once a week, compared to 48 percent of U.S. respondents.  The survey found that mobile phone users, particularly those ages 13-24, are hoping to take better advantage of SMS and text messaging services: 

• More than 60 percent of respondents said they would be likely to use dictation technologies to enter SMS and email messages.  
• More than half of respondents found speech solutions for dictation "very appealing" if the technology enabled quicker text entry.
• 52 percent valued the ability to compose messages by speaking naturally, with no need to pause between words.

Respondents also expressed an interest in full voice control of media applications:

46 percent of the survey audience said they would be likely to use a voice application that enabled hands-free, eyes-free activation of MP3 players. 

Justification for the appeal of this service was evenly split among the following factors: the ability to drive more safely, quickly search playlists and song libraries, and the ability to jump to songs without scrolling.