What is a conversational system that utilizes natural language processing to understand voice commands?

A voice assistant is a conversational system specifically designed to interact with users through natural language processing (NLP). This technology enables the system to understand and respond to voice commands, allowing users to engage in a dialogue without needing to use text-based communication. Voice assistants are often integrated with smart devices and can perform a variety of tasks, such as setting reminders, playing music, or providing information based on users' inquiries.

The focus on voice interaction and the ability to parse and comprehend spoken language distinctly characterize voice assistants as opposed to other systems. For instance, while a chatbot primarily functions through text and may not process voice commands, a speech recognition system strictly refers to the process of converting spoken language into text, lacking the interactive conversational element present in voice assistants. Similarly, a text processor does not engage in dialogue or interpret voice commands, highlighting the unique capabilities of a voice assistant in leveraging NLP for seamless user interaction.