Oct 9, 2024 | Read time 2 min

Speechmatics showcases inclusive technology in film produced by BBC StoryWorks

ASR technology is breaking down language barriers and empowering people like Osama through innovative, accessible solutions.
Inclusivity mini-documentary header
Speechmatics
SpeechmaticsEditorial team

Empowering voices through inclusive speech technology

At Speechmatics, we believe that inclusive speech technology can break down barriers and create opportunities for people across industries and countries.

We can now share a film, recently released and produced for us by BBC Story Works Commercial Productions that shows just how powerful inclusive technology can be. 

The video tells Osama’s story, a student from Sudan who is currently studying biomedical sciences at Bradford University in the UK, with the dream of practising medicine in his home country. 

Studying complicated technical medical terms is tough in any language, but in Osama’s case he does so in his second language. Fortunately, he is able to re-watch his lectures, with translated audio captions in his native Arabic, all powered by Echo 360 and Speechmatics’ ASR. 

Inclusive technology in action: Osama’s story

The film doesn’t just showcase Osama’s journey - it reminds us of the importance of building technology that works for everyone and, in Speechmatics' case, understands everyone.

Inclusive speech technology, such as Speechmatics' ASR, allows individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds to access education and professional opportunities that may otherwise be out of reach.

Insights from Benedetta Cevoli on inclusivity

At Speechmatics, inclusivity is more than a technical goal - it’s an ethical imperative. By creating solutions that work across languages, accents, and dialects, we ensure that everyone can benefit from cutting-edge AI-powered speech recognition.

In the video, Benedetta Cevoli, Senior Machine Learning Engineer at Speechmatics, discusses how the technology works and why inclusivity is central to our mission to "Understand Every Voice".

"Having experienced firsthand how accents can challenge speech technologies, I’m passionate about creating speech technology that works for all voices - regardless of language, accent, or dialect.

Every voice is unique, and when technology understands everyone, it can have a life-changing impact. Inclusive technology should break down barriers, not reinforce them."

Looking to the future with Flow

The film also teases a look at the future of voice technology with our latest development: Flow.

With Flow, students like Osama—and users across industries—will soon experience speech-powered interactive learning and engagement.

As voice becomes a primary way to interact with technology, inclusive technology will be more important than ever.

The impact of inclusive speech technology

Inspirational stories like the one documented in our film now streaming on BBC.com and produced for us by BBC StoryWorks, serve as a powerful reminder of why we are committed to inclusive speech technology.

We believe that technology should break down barriers, not create them, and Osama’s story shows what’s possible when we prioritize accessibility and inclusivity.

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