# IBM’s New Watson Large Speech Model Revolutionizes Voice-Based AI Interactions
IBM has launched the Watson Large Speech Model (LSM), a breakthrough in voice-based conversational experiences and generative AI for the phone. The LSM aims to transform the contact center with its advanced generative AI capabilities, moving beyond traditional Interactive Voice Response systems. This new technology promises to enhance customer experiences by allowing them to interact with AI assistants over the phone.
Built on transformer technology, IBM’s LSM facilitates accurate speech recognition and enables seamless customer interactions, including self-service phone assistants and real-time call transcriptions. With the deployment of LSMs in English and Japanese, IBM is offering closed beta access to Watson Speech to Text and Watson Assistant phone customers.
The performance of IBM’s LSM has been proven to surpass OpenAI’s Whisper model in accuracy on short-form English use cases. Additionally, it’s 5 times smaller than the Whisper model, allowing it to process audio 10 times faster on the same hardware. The LSM also demonstrated comparable performance to Whisper’s accuracy on long-form use cases.
To get started with these models, interested individuals can apply for IBM’s closed beta user program to explore LSMs.
## How to Get Started with IBM’s New Large Speech Model
Apply for IBM’s closed beta user program and the Product Management team will reach out to schedule a call with you. As the LSM is in closed beta, some features and functionalities are still in development.
**FAQs**
**What is the IBM Watson Large Speech Model (LSM)?**
The IBM Watson Large Speech Model is a state-of-the-art generative AI technology designed to revolutionize voice-based conversational experiences, allowing customers to interact with AI assistants over the phone.
**How can I access IBM’s Large Speech Models (LSMs)?**
You can apply for IBM’s closed beta user program to explore the LSMs. The Product Management team will reach out to you to schedule a call.
**Is the LSM available in languages other than English and Japanese?**
As of now, IBM has deployed the LSM in English and Japanese, exclusively in closed beta to Watson Speech to Text and Watson Assistant phone customers.
*Source: IBM*