Experimenting with GPT4o as personalized language coach

As an innovator dedicated to transforming ambitions into concrete ideas, strong processes, and partnerships for maximum success, I have consistently explored new technologies, particularly voice interfaces. My intrigue with voice technology began as a child, watching science fiction shows. The computer interface of Star Trek's Enterprise particularly captivated me, sparking dreams of one day having such an interface myself. This fascination only deepened in the late 90s when I worked for a voice company and was among the first to use voice dialing on my Nokia phone. While the system worked well with specifically English names, the mix of English and Dutch names presented challenges. Despite these difficulties, it provided just enough value to keep using it in practice, as voice technology evolved from simple commands to sophisticated natural language understanding.

In a previous blog, I discussed the importance of experimenting with new technologies to uncover their true value—a theme that continues to resonate in my current explorations. Voice interfaces, once a nascent field, now offer a window into how these technologies can transition from hype to genuine utility.

The introduction of Google Home marked the next phase of voice interfacing in our household. Despite initial skepticism, its frequent use by my family confirmed its value, leading to increased adoption in our home. Now, we regularly use Google Home for tasks like checking the weather, streaming radio, or adjusting our Philips Hue lamps to alter the atmosphere of our rooms.

Recently, preparing for a presentation on Circular Economy in French, I experimented with ChatGPT Omni. This tool transcended traditional voice interface applications, acting as a personalized language coach with specific domain knowledge. Thanks to the development of large language models combined with voice interface technology, it not only understood my French but also improved it, enhancing vocabulary and phrasing within half an hour. Check out the transcript below. This boosted my confidence for the stage and underscored that voice interfaces are nearing the seamless interaction depicted in science fiction, fulfilling dreams I've had since the 80s.

This journey with voice technology is an illustration to how early adoption and continuous experimentation can lead to significant advancements and integrate seamlessly into daily life. For an innovator, it's crucial to experiment—not just to adopt technology trends, but to distinguish between fleeting hypes and genuinely valuable innovations. My early experiences, from recognizing the utility of voice dialing to integrating Google Homes into our daily routines, have underscored the importance of discerning real value in technology. Ultimately, innovation is about implementing change that brings value, not just change driven by new technologies.

P.S. in case you wondered, this text has been created through voice interaction ;-)

(partial) transcript of my session