Ad creep into Internet Calls
A new service, Puddingmedia, aims to use voice recognition technology to help create ad-supported Internet phone service.
The software listens to the calls, then displays ads on the callers' computer screens based on what's being talked about.
For instance, a caller talking about going for dinner might see ads to local restaurants and restaurant review sites, while someone pondering whether to buy a new computer might see ads for computer stores. Relevant unsponsored links also appear.
On Monday, the Silicon Valley-based company is launching a public trial of the software on its Website