JSJ 274: Amazon Voice Services and Echo Skills with Terrance Smith

JSJ 274: Amazon Voice Services and Echo Skills with Terrance Smith

JSJ 274 Amazon Voice Services and Echo Skills with Terrance SmithOn today’s episode of JavaScript Jabber, we have panelists Joe Eames, Aimee Knight, Charles Max Wood, and we have special guest Terrance Smith. He’s here today to talk about the Amazon Alexa platform. So tune in and learn more about Amazon Voice Services![01:00] – Introduction to Terrance SmithTerrance is from Hacker Ferrer Software. They hack love into software.[01:30] – Amazon Voice ServiceWhat I’m working on is called My CareTaker named probably pending change. What it will do and what it is doing will be to help you be there as a caretaker’s aid for the person in your life. If you have to take care an older parent, My CareTaker will be there in your place if you have to work that day. It will be your liaison to that person. Your mom and dad can talk to My CareTaker and My CareTaker could signal you via SMS or email message or tweet, anything on your usage dashboard, and you would be able to respond. It’s there when you’re not.[04:35] – Capabilities Getting started with it, there are different layers. The first layer is the Skills Kit for generally getting into the Amazon IoT. It has a limited subset of the functionality. You can give commands. The device parses them, sends them to Amazon’s endpoint, Amazon sends a call back to your API endpoint, and you can do whatever you want. That is the first level. You can make it do things like turn on your light switch, start your car, change your thermostat, or make an API call to some website somewhere to do anything.[05:50] – Skills KitSkills Kit is different with AVS. Skills Kit, you can install it on any device. You’re spinning up a web service and register it on Amazon’s website. As long as you have an endpoint, you can register, say, the Amazon Web Services Lambda. Start that up and do something. The Skills Kit is literally the web endpoint response. Amazon Voice Services is a bit more in-depth.[07:00] – Steps for programmingWith the Skills Kit, you register what would be your utterance, your skill name, and you would give it a couple of sets of phrases to accept. Say, you have a skill that can start a car, your skill is “Car Starter.” “Alexa tell Car Starter to start the car.” At which point, your web service will be notified that that is the utterance. It literally has a case statement. You can have any number of individual conditional branches outside of that. The limitation for the Skills Kit is you have to have the “tell” or “ask” and the name of the skill to do whatever. It’s also going to be publicly accessible. For the most part, it’s literally a web service.[10:55] – Boilerplates for AWS LambdaBoilerplates can be used if you want to develop for production. If you publish a skill, you get free AVS instance time. You can host your skill for free for some amount of time. There are GUI tools to make it easier but if you’re a developer, you’re probably going to do the spin up a web service and deal it that way.[11:45] – Do you have to have an Amazon Echo?At one point, you have to have the Echo but now there is this called Echoism, which allows you to run it in your browser. In addition to that, you can potentially install it on a device like a Raspberry Pi and run Amazon Voice Services. The actual engine is on your PC, Mac, or Linux box. You have different options.[12:35] – Machine learningThere are certain things that Amazon Alexa understand now that it did last year or time before that like understanding utterances and phrases better. A lot of the machine learning is definitely under the covers. The other portion of it Alexa Voice Service, which is a whole engine that you have untethered access to other portions like how to handle responses. That’s where you can build a custom device and take it apart. So the API that we’re working with here is just using JSON and HTTP.[16:40] – Amazon Echo ShowYou have that full real-time back and forth communication ability but there is no video streaming or video processing ability yet. You can utilize the engine in such a way that Amazon Voice Services can work with your existing tool language. If you have a Raspberry Pi and you have a camera to it, you can potentially work within that. But again, the official API’s and docs for that are not available yet.[27:20] – ChallengesThere’s an appliance in this house that listens to everything I say. There’s that natural inclination to not trust it, especially with the older generations. Giving past that is getting people to use the device. Some of the programming sides of it are getting the communication to work, doing something that Alexa isn’t pre-programmed to do. There isn’t a lot of documentation out there, just a couple of examples. The original examples are written in Java and trying to convert it to Node or JavaScript would be some of the technical challenges. In addition, getting it installed and setup takes at least an hour at the beginning. There’s also a learning curve involved.[29:35] – Is your product layered in an Echo or is your product a separate device?Terrance’s product is a completely separate device. One of the functionality of his program is medicine reminders. It can only respond to whatever the API calls from Amazon tells you to respond to but it can’t do anything like send something back. It can do an immediate audio response with a picture or turn on and off a light switch. But it can’t send a message back in like two hours from now. You do want your Alexa device to have (verbally) a list of notifications like on your phone. TLDR, Terrance can go a little further with just the Skills Kit.[32:00] – Could you set it up through a web server?Yes. There are examples out there. There’s Alexa in the browser. You can open up a browser and communicate with that. There are examples of it being installed like an app. You can deploy it to your existing iPhone app or Android app and have it interact that way. Or you can have it interact independently on a completely different device like a Raspberry Pi. But not a lot of folks are using it that way.[33:10] – MonetizationAmazon isn’t changing anything in terms of monetization. They make discovery a lot easier though. If you knew the name of the app, you could just say, “Alexa, [tell the name of the app].” It will do a lazy load of the actual skill and it will add it to your available skill’s list.However, there is something called the Alexa Fund, which is kind of a startup fund that they have, which you can apply for. If you’re doing something interesting, there is a number of things you have to do. Ideally, you can get funding for whatever your product is. It is an available avenue for you.[36:25] – More information, documentation, walkthroughsThe number one place to go to as far as getting started is the Amazon websites. They have the Conexant 4-Mic Far-Field Dev Kit. It has 4 mics and it has already a lot of what you need. You have to boot it up and/or SSH into it or plug it up and code it. They have a couple of these kits for $300 to $400. It’s one of the safe and simpler options.There are also directions for the AVS sites which is under Alexa Voice Services, where you can go to the Github from there. There will give you directions using the Raspberry Pi. If not that, there’s also the Slack chatroom. It is alexaslack.com. Travis Teague is the guy in charge in there.PicksJoe EamesAimee KnightCharles Max WoodTerrance SmithSpecial Guest: Terrance Smith.

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Jaksot(735)

Unpacking Core Web Vitals - JSJ 620

Unpacking Core Web Vitals - JSJ 620

Harry Roberts is a web performance consultant. They immerse themselves in the critical realm of web performance and JavaScript. The esteemed panel, including the renowned Harry Roberts, delves into the intricate details of site speed measurement and the evolving landscape of web performance metrics. The conversation sheds light on the profound impact of Core Web Vitals on businesses and the challenges they pose. Join them as they navigate the intricacies of web development, explore the nuances of user experience, and unravel the complexities of performance optimization.SponsorsChuck's Resume Template Developer Book Club Become a Top 1% Dev with a Top End Devs MembershipSocialsLinkedIn: Harry RobertsGitHub: Harry RobertsPicksAJ - ImageOptimAJ - AmeriDroid AJ - CloudFreeAJ - TRÅDFRIAJ - Aquarium Co-OpAJ - MJ AquascapingAJ - AQUAPROSAJ - Father FishDan - Apple Vision ProDan - Cache Rules Everything | Harry Roberts | performance.now() 2023Dan - GriseldaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/javascript-jabber/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/javascript-jabber--6102064/support.

13 Helmi 20241h 19min

Mastering Back-End Functionalities and Development with AWS Amplify - JSJ 619

Mastering Back-End Functionalities and Development with AWS Amplify - JSJ 619

In this episode, Steve delves into a deep and insightful conversation with Erik Hanchett from Amazon AWS. They explore a wide range of topics, from discussing the possibilities and complexities of using multiple software services for back-end development to unraveling the benefits of using services like AWS Amplify for handling multiple tasks and integrated functionalities. The conversation also touches on the development and deployment processes, local testing environment setup, language choices, and the Vue component library with connected components and theming. Erik shares his vast expertise and knowledge in the field, and the engaging dialogue offers valuable insights and recommendations for both experienced and aspiring developers.SponsorsChuck's Resume Template Raygun - Application Monitoring For Web & Mobile AppsBecome a Top 1% Dev with a Top End Devs MembershipSocialsLinkedIn: Erik Hanchett PicksErik - Apple Vision ProSteve - Why You’ve Never Been In A Plane CrashSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/javascript-jabber/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/javascript-jabber--6102064/support.

6 Helmi 20241h 10min

Exploring AI Impact on Code Generation and Quality Metrics - JSJ 618

Exploring AI Impact on Code Generation and Quality Metrics - JSJ 618

Conor Bronsdon is the host of the Dev Interrupted Podcast and currently works at LinearB. They dive into the world of generative AI tools in software development, exploring the impact, challenges, and potential benefits they present. They engage in a lively discussion about the use of AI tools like Copilot and the implications for code generation, team efficiency, and happiness. The conversation also touches on the concerns and considerations surrounding AI integration in coding, including compliance, quality, and intellectual property. Join them as they delve into the evolving landscape of AI in software development, the quest for improved developer experiences, and ethical considerations.SponsorsChuck's Resume Template Developer Book Club Become a Top 1% Dev with a Top End Devs MembershipLinksDev InterruptedSocialsLinkedIn: Conor BronsdonConor BronsdonPicksAJ - Market Saturation = 98.9% - What Now?AJ - Mentour PilotAJ - Keychain Pin ToolAJ - Open AudibleConor - Feel-Good Productivity: How to Do More of What Matters to YouSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/javascript-jabber/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/javascript-jabber--6102064/support.

30 Tammi 20241h 6min

Inside the World of React: Server Components, Unidirectional Data Flow, and Frameworks - JSJ 617

Inside the World of React: Server Components, Unidirectional Data Flow, and Frameworks - JSJ 617

Sam Selikoff is the founder of Build UI, Inc. They unpack a myriad of discussions surrounding JavaScript and its applications. They delve into topics such as RPC resurgence, React server components, and the challenges and solutions around integrating design and components. A variety of technical concepts, tools, and frameworks, including Tailwind, Redux, and Remix, are also explored. Additionally, the episode touches upon important mental health conversations, personal experiences, and the pitfalls of fragmented media subscriptions. SponsorsChuck's Resume Template Developer Book Club Become a Top 1% Dev with a Top End Devs MembershipSocialsTwitter: @samselikoffPicksAJ - No BackendAJ - Home AssistantAJ - CloudFreeAJ - AmeriDroidAJ - Chaos WalkingDan - Blue Eye SamuraiDan - Samurai JackSam - Lessons in ChemistrySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/javascript-jabber/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/javascript-jabber--6102064/support.

23 Tammi 20241h 22min

Streamlining AI Integration - JSJ 616

Streamlining AI Integration - JSJ 616

Ismail Pelaseyed is the co-founder of Superagent. They delve into the world of AI technology, open-source frameworks, and the practical applications of AI assistants. The conversation covers a range of topics, from the technical and philosophical differences between AI frameworks to the importance of user-facing UI components with the power of AI. They also talk about the practical use cases of Superagent, its potential impact on the AI industry, and the challenges and considerations surrounding the deployment and monetization of open-source projects.SponsorsChuck's Resume Template Raygun - Application Monitoring For Web & Mobile AppsBecome a Top 1% Dev with a Top End Devs MembershipLinksSuperagentSocialsLinkedIn: Ismail PelaseyedPicksAJ - His & Her BidetAJ - Ollama (Installer)AJ - Home AssistantAJ - Chaos Walking (Books)AJ - Market Saturation = 98.9% - What Now?AJ - Keychain Pin ToolCharles - Disney ChronologyCharles - once.comDan - PrometheusDan - Which one is the un-React?Ismail - Fargoismail - outlinesSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/javascript-jabber/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/javascript-jabber--6102064/support.

16 Tammi 20241h 17min

Iterating on Open Source - JSJ 615

Iterating on Open Source - JSJ 615

Today the panel is discussing iterating on open source projects. Aimee and AJ recall a conversation they had in the past on this subject and AJ talks about some of his experience iterating with open source. AJ believes that we have an obligation to capture the value of what you create so that we can reinvest and create more value, though he admits that making money in open source is a unique challenge because donations only really work if you have a project that gets billions of downloads a month. As your project grows, it has to change in order to survive, and eventually you will need to get financial support from your project. The panel agrees that some of the main issues with iterating in open source are maintaining the code and getting feedback from users, financial backing, and roadmapping and integrations.The panel discusses their methods for getting feedback from their users. This feedback is valuable because it can show you things that you missed. They acknowledge that there can be conflicts of interest between those who only use the project and those who financially support it, and you have to make a choice. Unfortunately, someone is probably going to be inconvenienced no matter what choice you make. When making these decisions, you have to consider who it helps, who it frustrates, and who it may cause problems for. The panelists talk about different ways they’ve handled making these decisions in the past. The JavaScript experts talk about the importance of having data on your user base in order to make good choices for your users. They talk about different methods for notifying your users of upcoming changes and how it will affect compatibility, and some of the challenges with communicating with your users. AJ talks about an iteration he thought was a good idea but that a lot of people hated and how he noticed that the new users liked it but the old users did not. They panel agrees that people in general don’t like change. AJ talks about what he learned from this experience. Another common issue is integrating with other services. Integrating with cloud services, or at least giving people the option to integrate gives you an opportunity to reach more people and maintain the project long term. AJ gives some final thoughts to close the show, namely that most projects never go anywhere, and that’s ok. If you’ve got something that starts going somewhere, think early on about how you can better serve the community and remember that these people are mostly grateful and semi-willing to support you. He believes that if you are helping people create value, you deserve to see the fruits of your labor. He advises listeners to stay true to your open source ideals, think about your users perspective, and that the earlier you can think about this and make these choices, the better it is for your project SponsorsChuck's Resume Template Developer Book Club Become a Top 1% Dev with a Top End Devs MembershipLinksHow-npm-am-iReactVue.jsLet’s EncryptAsync/awaitNodePicksAimee - Debug Like a NinjaSteve - Jack Ryan AJ - Why I, as a black man, attend KKK meetingsCharles - It’s a Wonderful LifeCharles - Mr. Kreuger’s ChristmasSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/javascript-jabber/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/javascript-jabber--6102064/support.

9 Tammi 202457min

Dev Dilemmas: TypeScript Triumphs and Quirks of JavaScript Arrays - JSJ 614

Dev Dilemmas: TypeScript Triumphs and Quirks of JavaScript Arrays - JSJ 614

AJ, Charles, Dan, and Steve dive deep into all things JavaScript and TypeScript. In this episode, they discuss the pros and cons of arrow functions and the ongoing debate about using semicolons at the end of JavaScript statements. They also explore the use of different types of quotes for strings and the rise in popularity of TypeScript among developers. Additionally, they cover a wide range of topics, including array manipulation, coding laziness, and the challenges of reading and understanding JavaScript code. Join them as they navigate through these intriguing discussions and gather valuable insights for our development journey.SponsorsChuck's Resume Template Raygun - Application Monitoring For Web & Mobile AppsBecome a Top 1% Dev with a Top End Devs MembershipPicksAJ - Chaos Walking: The Complete Trilogy: Books 1-Charles - SaltconCharles - MysteriumDan - CatanDan - Documentary about the history of Zionism and the founding of Israel: "Pillar of Fire"Steve - How archaeologists reconstructed the burning of Jerusalem in 586 BCESupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/javascript-jabber/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/javascript-jabber--6102064/support.

2 Tammi 20241h 33min

The Future of Authentication in JavaScript: An Inside Look into Passport JS with Jared Hanson - JSJ 613

The Future of Authentication in JavaScript: An Inside Look into Passport JS with Jared Hanson - JSJ 613

Jared Hanson is a software engineer at Okta. In this episode, they delve into the world of authentication strategies, troubleshooting touchscreen frustrations, and exploring the evolution of web application technology. They touch on the challenges of secure authentication, the complexity of JavaScript type checking, and the intersection of security and usability in technologies like WebAuthn. Join us as they discuss their experiences with Passport JS, the potential of WebAuthn, the frustration with ongoing changes in browser technology, and much more. Tune in for an insightful discussion on cutting-edge trends in the JavaScript and Node.js ecosystems!SponsorsChuck's Resume Template Developer Book Club Become a Top 1% Dev with a Top End Devs MembershipSocialsLinkedIn: Jared HansonTwitter: @jaredhansonPicksAJ - SQL <---> Types <---> JShttps://github.com/nettofarah/postgres-schema-tshttps://www.npmjs.com/package/ts-to-jsdochttps://jswithtypes.com/AJ - Creative T60 SpeakersAJ - HammerHead Metal Shower HeadAJ - Degrees of Comfort King Dual-Heated BlanketCharles - Risk Legacy | Board GameCharles - Ubiquiti: UniFi - IntroductionSteve - The DriveSteve - FigmaSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/javascript-jabber/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacyBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/javascript-jabber--6102064/support.

26 Joulu 20231h 19min

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