Skip to main content

Project Understood improves Google’s voice recognition for those with Down syndrome

Smart assistants have proven themselves to be truly useful, but the devices struggle to recognize heavy accents and can leave some users frustrated. The problem is of even more concern when users with unique speech patterns attempt to use a smart assistant. That is the driving force behind the Canadian Down Syndrome Society’s (CDSS) program “Project Understood.” This program is part of a partnership with Google to ensure that people with Down syndrome can use and be understood by smart assistants.

Down syndrome occurs in about 1 out of every 700 babies. The rate of Down syndrome actually increased between 1979 and 2003 by roughly 30%, according to the CDC. Thanks to advances in medical science, people with Down syndrome can lead relatively normal, healthy lives, but their speech patterns and movement are forever affected by the disease. One of the driving forces behind Project Understood is the potential for greater independence that voice technology offers for those who have the genetic condition.

Recommended Videos

The program works by allowing users with Down syndrome to sign up and “donate” their voices to Google. In doing so, they will record various words and phrases that help the A.I. algorithms to better recognize everyday words spoken by someone with Down syndrome. The project is two-fold in its purpose. Aside from improving Google’s voice accuracy, CDSS hopes that by allowing individuals with Down syndrome to record voices for Google, they will achieve greater recognition and a sense of accomplishment.

The more data Google is able to collect on speech patterns, the more accurate Google Assistant will become. Those interested in helping out can do so at projectunderstood.ca. There is a five-step process involved in donating. The first two are to simply click “Donate your voice” and wait for a login email from Google. The next step involves recording phrases. Finally, the last two steps are to share the program on Facebook and through other social media, since every voice added will help the program’s accuracy.

Estimates suggest there will be 8 billion voice assistants in use by 2023. With so much of the world’s technological future driven by voice technology, everyone needs to be represented – no matter how their voice sounds.

Patrick Hearn
Patrick Hearn writes about smart home technology like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, smart light bulbs, and more. If it's a…
Echo Show 10 vs. Nest Hub (2nd Gen): which smart display is better for your home?
The Echo Show 10 on a kitchen counter.

When it comes to smart displays, few are as popular as the Echo Show 10 and Nest Hub (2nd Gen). Both are incredibly powerful devices, allowing you to quickly check your calendar, get updates on the weather, or dive into a variety of entertainment apps. However, there are a few key differences between these devices -- including screen size, available apps, and supported smart home platforms.

Ready to add one of these smart displays to your home? Here's what you need to know before making a purchase to ensure you're picking the best smart display for your needs.
Pricing and design

Read more
Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) vs. Google Nest Hub Max: Which is the better smart display?
The Nest Hub Max on a table.

The Google Nest Hub Max and Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) are two of the best smart displays of 2024. Offering heaps of functionality, tons of useful apps, and eye-catching designs, they make a great addition to any smart home. But which is best for your smart home -- the more expensive Nest Hub Max or the budget-friendly Nest Hub (2nd Gen)?

To help you make the best choice, here's a comprehensive look at the two smart displays. From pricing and display size to build quality and additional features, here's everything you need to know about these popular devices.
Pricing and design

Read more
Google Nest Doorbell vs. Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen): which is better for your front door?
Ring Video Doorbell 2nd gen on doorway

Take a stroll through any neighborhood, and you're bound to encounter more than a few video doorbells. These nifty devices have grown in popularity over the years, with companies like Ring, Google, Arlo, and Wyze offering their own take on the hardware. But of all the products available today, few are as well-regarded as the Google Nest Doorbell and Ring Video Doorbell (2nd Gen).

These two devices are easy to install, capture high-quality footage, and bring an added layer of security to your front door. But which of the two is the better purchase -- the Nest Doorbell or the Ring Video Doorbell? Here's a look at both video doorbells to help you decide.
Design

Read more