
Glossary
voice search
Voice search is a technology that enables users to perform internet searches using spoken commands instead of typed text. The system converts speech to text through automatic speech recognition and processes the query to deliver relevant results. This technology allows for hands-free interaction with digital devices and search engines.
Context and Usage
Voice search is commonly used through smartphones, smart speakers, and vehicle infotainment systems, where users interact with virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. It is frequently employed for quick information retrieval, local business searches, and controlling smart home devices. The technology is particularly valuable in situations where typing is inconvenient or when users prefer natural language interaction.
Common Challenges
Voice search systems often struggle with accuracy in noisy environments and when processing diverse accents or dialects, leading to misinterpretation of user queries. Ambiguous phrasing and homophones can create confusion, while background noise may interfere with speech recognition. Contextual understanding across multi-turn conversations remains challenging, and specialized vocabulary may not be properly recognized, limiting effectiveness in technical or professional domains.
Related Topics: speech recognition, natural language processing, virtual assistants, conversational AI, smart speakers, automatic speech recognition
Jan 26, 2026
Reviewed by Dan Yan