Satya Nadella’s vision for artificial intelligence has been a driving force in the creation of interactive APIs across Microsoft products. One such example is the development of bots for Skype. The communication application has embraced the technology as a means to enhance the way humans converse amongst themselves. Bots are useful tools that take advantage of cards and natural language recognition to reply with relevant and non-invasive responses.
Many Skype users have already gotten their chance to play with the bots through the convenient Summarize and often hilarious Murphy. According to the blog post released today, the team is rolling out some new collaborations, partnering up to provide more chat options for customers.
- Skyscanner Bot – A travel search engine that sends back real-time ticket prices based on location suggestions.
- IFTTT Bot – Also called “If This, Then That” gives you the power to set up triggers and connect apps, devices, and websites with personalized integration.
- StubHub Bot – Find the tickets for nearby artists, shows, events, and performers easily.
- Hipmunk Bot – A travel assistant that will find the tickets for your next trip and help you secure the flight of your choice.
- Spock – Everyone’s favorite second in command from the Star Trek universe willing to share his bout of logic to anyone that will listen.
The bots are easily added onto your Skype directory by just clicking the “Add to Contacts” button at the link provided. They can be included in personal conversations, group conversations, or talk to one by yourself if you’re feeling the need for company and information.
More bots are expected to join the Skype contacts as a result of the very first Skype Bot Hackathon held earlier this summer. Some of the upcoming creations include bots to help choose dinner, find that song you’re dying to listen to, and search for just the right health insurance. These and many more will be coming as the Skype team continues to develop easier ways to communicate and interact with your contacts.
