Link-up looks to future technology

The research aims to develop new technologies

Innovative research which enables people to communicate more easily with computers is being showcased in Edinburgh.

The work is part of a new transatlantic agreement resulting in a £5m investment at the University of Edinburgh.

Leading figures from business and academia from both sides of the Atlantic will learn about a five-year collaborative research project involving the University of Edinburgh and Stanford University, in California.

It is hoped the project will bring major benefits to the Scottish economy.

The link between the two universities has seen the development of the latest language technology applications.

It includes animated "virtual" receptionists and voice systems to switch on and off radios from the comfort of an armchair.

A number of Scottish companies are already working with the research teams from Edinburgh and Stanford.