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75% of Smartphone Users Prefer Voice-Based Controls

6:55 am on August 27, 2009 | Category: Cell Phones, Mobile Devices, Wireless Technology

The vast majority of smartphone users would prefer to use voice-based controls, rather than dialing or typing, according to a study conducted on behalf of Tellme Networks, a Microsoft subsidiary.

75% of respondents said they would be interested in a device that let them dial a number, compose a text message, or search the web by speaking. This preference reflects an underlying trend towards multitasking, as more people use smartphones while running errands or shopping (88%), waiting at appointments (80%), walking (78%), and visiting friends (68%).

“If you’ve ever tried typing or touching on your smartphone while walking down the street or paying at the checkout line, you know how distracting it can be,” explained Anne Truscott, a brand strategist with Sanderson Studios, which carried out the research on Tellme’s behalf. “But using your voice while walking or checking out is like walking and chewing gum at the same time; it just comes naturally.”

Researchers also discovered an increased willingness on the part of users to speak into their smartphones in public. 93% said they would feel comfortable using voice commands while walking, 87% while shopping or running errands, and 71% while dining in a restaurant.

“The research is confirming what we believed would happen as people more widely use smartphones to multitask while on the go, away from the home or office,” commented Tellme senior director, Dariusz Paczuski.

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