What’s SSML?

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SSML is a markup language used to build speech functionality for online activities. It allows for clear and concise audio signals, and can be used for audiobooks and regional accents. Its goal is to broaden electronic communication accessibility for people with physical limitations.

Speech Synthesis Markup Language or SSML is one of three types of markup language used to build speech functionality with Internet browsers and email programs. Sometimes used as a standalone approach, SSML is also sometimes used in tandem with Spoken Text Marketup Language (STML) and Java Speech Markup Language (JSML). The ultimate goal of SSML is to provide applications that allow people to use voice commands with various online activities such as searching the Internet, receiving and replying to emails, and consuming the content of various websites.

Text-to-speech applications using SSML are commonly used with interactive telephony applications, especially online. This type of XML-based markup language allows for excellent clarity of sound while ensuring that the audio signal produced is concise and free from translation issues. While not necessarily the most popular option with offline telephony applications, SSML can be used with point-to-point connections that don’t carry over the Internet.

Another common application of SSML has to do with creating audiobooks. Using text-to-speech software of this type allows you to quickly convert the printed word into spoken word. This particular application allows visually impaired people to enjoy any type of reading material, including books that are a bit obscure and may not be mass-produced in audio format.

Using SSML goes beyond just building a collection of correctly pronounced words. Functions within SSML also allow for input of rhythm, variation of voice level and pitch, and inflection. In some cases, programs created using SSML as the primary application may also allow for the inclusion of regional accents. This feature can be especially useful with reading material that revolves around the unique culture of a certain place or involves characters with a particular cultural background.

Like all text-to-speech applications, SSML is intended to broaden the range of people who can use electronic communications. Thanks to innovations of this kind, the Internet and modern communication technologies can be effectively used by people with various types of physical limitations.




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