våkordet

Våkordet is a term of Norwegian origin that translates to "wake word" or "hotword" in English. It refers to a specific spoken word or phrase that a voice-activated device, such as a smart speaker or virtual assistant, listens for to determine when it should begin actively listening for commands. When the device detects the våkordet, it activates its microphone and starts processing subsequent speech input for instructions or queries.

The purpose of a våkordet is to provide a hands-free and always-on interface for interacting with technology without requiring the user to manually press buttons or initiate communication through other means. Common examples of våkordet phrases include "Hey Siri," "Okay Google," and "Alexa." These phrases are chosen to be relatively unique and unlikely to be spoken accidentally in normal conversation, thus minimizing false activations.

The technology behind våkordet detection involves sophisticated audio processing and machine learning algorithms. Devices continuously process ambient audio in a low-power mode, specifically looking for the acoustic patterns that match their designated våkordet. Once a match is detected, the device transitions to a higher-power listening state to capture and interpret the user's subsequent spoken command. Privacy considerations are often associated with våkordet technology, as devices are passively listening to their environment. Manufacturers typically address these concerns by explaining how audio data is processed and stored, often emphasizing that recordings only begin after the våkordet is recognized.