T2V or Text to Voice

A new technology has been released as a fun new Internet tool, but with a major twist. Have you ever wanted to send someone a message and tell him or her “just what you think of them”, in the nicest possible way of course, but you were never really quite brave enough. Well, now you can! You do it by using the latest Internet messaging system; it's called T2V or 'Text to Voice'.

How does text to voice work?

The “Text to Voice” (T2V) system allows you convert your text messages into a voice message and send them to any fixed or mobile phone.

All you need do is simply type in the text or words of the message you want to send at the Web page http://www.T2V.net , you then choose from one of 7 very cool and trendy voice types  -- enter the phone number and that’s it. The person you are sending it to will have absolutely no idea where it came from.

What type of things can you use T2V for?

This is probably only limited by your imagination. You could certainly T2V from school or your friends telling your mum to pick you up. Should be what every harassed parent needs  - a loopy voice telling them their child is ready for another ride in “mum’s taxi”. If your hormones are running wild you could T2V the office babe and ask them for a date. You name it, you can probably message it.

Is it expensive?

For a fun toy T2V is a relatively cheap way to send voice messages even if they are overseas. Messages start from as low as 17 cents for fixed phones to 43 cents for mobiles. The length of your message will be restricted to approximately 45 seconds

What types of voices are available?

From the Web site itself:

Susan
Demographics: Female, 35
Personality: Mature, female executive, health & career conscious. Has a well organised life.

Suggested use scenario:
- Reminder notifications - such as appointments, or meetings - for events that don't have a lot of emotions associated with them.

Kevin
Demographics: Male, 26
Personality: Well-rounded kind of guy that every now and then decides to take a risk in life. Likes to go out but is not the center of attention when he does.

Suggested use scenario:
- When you can't tell her how you really feel.
- Secret crush

Boris
Demographics: Male, 7
Personality: Frisky and full of energy, loves a good beach run

Suggested use scenario:
- When you've got to tell someone that they've been barking up the wrong tree.
- When you want to have a good 'ole hearty chuckle.

Where can you send these messages?

It seems like pretty much anywhere on the planet that has a phone system.

Can irresponsible people misuse the system?

Well, most people can find a way around most things if they try hard enough.   However, you are not able to send a t2v to any emergency phone number for instance. This would be regarded as inappropriate use of the service.  Further the maximum number of retries you can have is 2 and the system appears to be monitored for security.

How do I get past answering machines?

A t2v message will start to play as soon as a phone call is answered, irrespective of the phone call being answered by an answer machine. It is a good idea to check that the intended recipient is at home prior to sending a t2v or that you schedule the call when you know the intended recipient will be able to receive it.

Arthur Hissey
Computer Research & Technology
www.crt.net.au