What is the best voice activated phone?
Voice activated phones are an increasingly popular technology that allows users to interact with their mobile devices hands-free using voice commands. According to a report by Insider Intelligence, 66 million US adults owned a smart speaker device that utilizes voice assistance in 2019, showing the rapid adoption of this technology (Source). Voice assistants like Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa and Cortana are becoming more advanced and ubiquitous thanks to artificial intelligence and natural language processing. As these technologies continue improving, using your voice to operate phones and other devices is becoming faster, more convenient and widespread.
Voice Assistant Options
When it comes to voice assistants, there are three main options that stand out: Siri, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa 1. These three assistants have become the most widely used and have the most capabilities for voice-activated features on mobile devices.
Siri is Apple’s proprietary voice assistant, first released in 2011. It comes built into Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, AirPods, the HomePod mini speaker, and Mac computers running macOS. Siri allows you to make calls, send messages, set reminders, get directions, play music, and more completely hands-free 2.
Google Assistant was introduced in 2016 and is Google’s smart assistant. It comes built into Android phones, tablets, Google Nest speakers and displays, and is also available as a standalone app. Google Assistant helps you manage daily tasks, get answers, control smart home devices, play media, and more using natural voice commands.
Amazon Alexa, first released in 2014, is the voice assistant created by Amazon for their Echo line of smart speakers. Alexa powers Amazon Echo devices as well as the Alexa app on mobile. Alexa enables voice control of music, news, weather, timers, shopping lists, compatible smart home devices, and connecting with various services.
Top Voice Activated Phones
When looking for the best voice activated phone, there are several top models to consider in 2023:
Apple iPhone 14 Pro
The iPhone 14 Pro features Apple’s Siri voice assistant and is one of the top voice controlled phones available. Key features include fast performance, excellent dual rear cameras, and up to 23 hours of battery life. The dynamic island makes notifications and alerts more convenient. While not the most affordable option, the iPhone 14 Pro provides a seamless experience for voice commands and AI assistance.
Samsung Galaxy S22
With Bixby voice commands and Google Assistant support, the Galaxy S22 is a leading Android phone for hands-free use. It touts a bright 6.1-inch display, qualcomm’s fast Snapdragon processor, and an excellent 50MP camera. The Galaxy S22 offers robust voice control in a premium and pocketable size.
Sonim XP5s
Built for extreme conditions, the Sonim XP5s is one of the most durable voice controlled cell phones. It meets military standards for resistance to shock, drops, vibration, and other hazards. Battery life exceeds 2 days of typical use. While not the most advanced smartphone, the XP5s provides reliable hands-free access in harsh environments.
Jitterbug Smart3
Jitterbug cell phones are designed specifically for seniors, with simplified menus and voice control via Amazon Alexa. The Smart3 model has a 5.5-inch screen, 13MP camera, loud speaker, and big buttons. It also includes 5Star urgent response services. For seniors seeking an easy-to-use voice activated device, the Jitterbug Smart3 is a top choice.
Nokia G400 5G
With Google Assistant integration, the budget-friendly Nokia G400 supports voice commands very well. It also features 5G connectivity, a 120Hz display, and a 48MP camera. For an affordable but capable voice controlled smartphone, the Nokia G400 5G is worth considering.
Key Features to Look For
When evaluating the best voice activated phones, there are some key features to prioritize:
Hands-free access – Being able to use all the core features of your phone through voice commands allows for a hands-free experience. This is especially useful while driving, cooking, exercising or in other situations where you can’t physically interact with your phone. Look for robust voice assistant integrations that allow you to place calls, dictate texts, get directions and more through voice alone (1).
Accurate voice recognition – The accuracy of the phone’s speech recognition technology is critical. You want it to correctly understand your commands, names, and dictations the vast majority of the time. Phones that utilize AI and machine learning tend to have the most accurate voice recognition capabilities.
Seamless smart home control – Many of the top voice activated phones allow you to control your smart home devices and appliances through voice commands. This enables you to adjust connected lights, thermostats, appliances and more, hands-free (2). Look for full integration with popular smart home platforms.
Voice Commands
Voice activated phones allow users to perform various tasks through voice commands. Some common voice commands include:
For calls:
- “Call [contact name]” to call a contact
- “Redial” to call the last dialed number
- “Answer” to answer an incoming call
For texts:
- “Text [contact name]” to text a contact
- “Send text to [contact name]” to text a contact
- “Read my texts” to read recent text messages
For calendar:
- “What’s on my calendar today?” to hear today’s calendar events
- “Create calendar event” to add a new event
- “Reschedule meeting” to reschedule an existing event
For music:
- “Play [song name]” to play a specific song
- “Play [artist name]” to play music by an artist
- “Pause music” to pause music playback
- “Skip song” to skip to the next song
Other helpful commands include “What time is it?”, “Set alarm for 7am”, and “Navigate to [location]”. With robust voice command capabilities, voice activated phones aim to provide hands-free convenience for many daily tasks.
Pros of Voice Activated Phones
Voice activated phones offer several key benefits and conveniences to users:
Convenience
Voice activation provides a convenient hands-free way to use your phone. You don’t need to tap buttons or swipe the screen to place calls, send texts, set alarms, open apps, or search the web. Just use your voice to activate the phone’s features and functions. This is especially helpful while driving, cooking, exercising, or doing other activities where your hands are occupied.
Hands-free Use
With voice commands, you can keep your phone in your pocket or bag and still access its capabilities. This enables hands-free use so you don’t have to hold and handle your phone to use it. You can make calls, dictate texts or emails, set reminders, and more without ever touching your phone.
Multi-tasking
Voice control allows you to multi-task more easily. You can check your schedule, respond to messages, and get information while in the middle of other activities. This saves you time and boosts your productivity. Voice activated features enable you to use your phone efficiently while still focusing on other tasks.
Cons to Consider
There are some potential drawbacks and limitations to consider before using a voice activated phone, including:
Security and Privacy Concerns:
Voice activated devices are always listening and recording, which raises concerns over privacy and the potential for data breaches. Private conversations can be unintentionally recorded and leaked (Source).
Potential Limitations in Loud Environments:
Voice recognition does not work well in noisy environments with lots of background noise. This can make voice commands ineffective when out in public or noisy places (Source). Speakers may need to adjust their voice volume or diction.
Who Would Benefit Most from Voice Activated Phones?
Voice activated phones can be especially helpful for certain groups of people who may have challenges using traditional touchscreen smartphones and keypads. Three key groups who often find voice activated phones most useful are:
People with Disabilities or Mobility Challenges
For those with limited mobility in their hands and fingers, a voice activated phone allows full access to calling, texting, and other features without the need to press any buttons (https://www.seniorliving.org/cell-phone/best/voice-activated/). Voice commands enable easy dialing, navigation, and more. Voice activated phones empower those with disabilities or conditions like arthritis, paralysis, tremors, or missing limbs.
Drivers
Voice activated calling and communication while driving allows drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road (https://botpenguin.com/blogs/which-are-the-7-best-voice-assistants-of-2023). Just speaking naturally enables full use of a phone without dangerous distractions. Key features like voice texting, voice dialing, and virtual assistants provide safer access.
Seniors
For older adults, a voice activated phone provides an intuitive, simple interface without complex menus to navigate (https://www.theseniorlist.com/cell-phones/best/voice-activated/). Voice commands are often easier than trying to locate and press small touchscreen buttons. Seniors can access key features through voice without needing to learn new technology skills.
The Future of Voice Tech
Experts predict major improvements in the accuracy, speed, and capabilities of voice assistants in the coming years. According to ClearBridge Mobile, voice assistants will achieve 95% comprehension accuracy by 2023, compared to about 80% today. This boost in accuracy will come from advancements in natural language processing and neural networks.1
Processing speeds are also expected to improve dramatically. Voice commands that take 2-3 seconds today may process in under a second in the near future. This real-time response time will make interactions feel more natural. Additionally, voice assistants will be able to handle more complex requests and multi-step commands as the technology evolves.2
Some key capabilities predicted for voice assistants include personalized experiences based on voice recognition, push notifications by voice, and integration with more IoT devices and smart home systems. Voice tech will likely expand beyond smart speakers into AR glasses, cars, wearables, and more. Overall, voice looks to become an increasingly seamless and integrated part of our digital lives.
Conclusion
After reviewing the top voice activated phones on the market, the Google Pixel 6 Pro stands out as the best overall option for most consumers. With Google Assistant built-in, the Pixel 6 Pro offers the most advanced voice assistant available today. Features like Hold for Me that can wait on hold during phone calls exemplify how Google is pushing the boundaries of voice technology.
For consumers looking to maximize voice control on their smartphone, focus your search on Android phones with Google Assistant integration. While Siri and Alexa are capable assistants, Google Assistant has the edge in understanding natural language and conversational commands. Opt for a phone with the latest Snapdragon processor for optimal performance. As smartphone makers continue to advance voice recognition algorithms and hands-free capabilities, voice activated phones will only get smarter and more useful.
The key takeaways are to look at the voice assistant integration above all else. Processor power and microphone quality are also important factors. While still early days, voice technology on smartphones holds tremendous promise for the future.
