Digital secretaries can help free you from phone tangles
Article Abstract:
Wildfire Communications, Webley Systems and Access Point have developed less expensive digital secretaries. These computerized phone systems consist of computer-controlled voices that can handle a range of functions. Wildfire's new system, not yet available, features a perky female voice. Among the options on Wildfire's current system are placing a call and sending a page. Wildfire can have difficulty in understanding users when placing a call. Webley, which offers a man's voice with a British accent, can read e-mail message text. Access Point is a more traditional digital assistant that relies on the user's telephone keypad input. Access Point, which features a mechanical voice-mail woman, requires only one set of commands. Wildfire's new system starts at around $10 a month, and its existing system costs an average of $150 to $200 a month. Access Point costs $24.95 a month, and Webley ranges from $14.95 to $24.95 a month.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1998
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The gamer
Article Abstract:
Teens in increasing numbers are spending their time playing Internet games, such as Quake, which involves using different sorts of weapons in virtual confrontations. Some parents are worried about the violent aspect of such games, but others say no-one takes it seriously. In fact, according to one gamer, games like Quake are good for relieving stress. Moreover, for players who become skilled, competitions such as the national Quake tournaments can lead to prizes and even scholarships. The gamer says this is not an option for most players, however, because many participants have played constantly for long periods of time, and skill levels tend to be very high.
Publication Name: The Wall Street Journal Western Edition
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0193-2241
Year: 1997
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