The document discusses the future of virtual characters and their potential capabilities. It outlines 10 emerging technologies that could enable more advanced virtual characters, including facial expression tracking, speech recognition, natural language understanding, emotion sensing, and augmented reality. The author envisions that virtual companions of the future will have conversations with people, accompany them on adventures, be accessible everywhere through different platforms, have long-term relationships, adapt and change over time, provide teaching, and become an important part of people's social lives.
33. Tech #4: Natural Language Understanding Eliza: Please tell me what's been bothering you.you: I'm bored.Eliza: Do you enjoy being bored?you: No.Eliza: Does this make you feel unhappy?you: Yes.Eliza: Please go on.you: I want something to do.Eliza: Suppose you got something to do soon.you: That would be great!Eliza: Tell me more about that.you: I'm bored.Eliza: Is it because you are bored that you came to me?you: yes.Eliza: I see.
43. Betty’s Brain – Vanderbilt University “These kids know these characters aren’t alive, but they get engaged with the narrative, and play pretend, and it brings out a lot of good behaviors.”
50. Virtual Companions will… Talk with us Lead us on amazing adventures Be everywhere Have long term relationships with us Change as we change Teach us Learn from us Be an important part of our social life