Voice Search

  


Introduction

With the rise of AI-driven interfacesvoice search has become a key feature in modern applications. Oracle APEX, a low-code development platform, can integrate voice search capabilities using JavaScript and browser APIs. This article explores how to implement voice search in Oracle APEX to enhance user experience and accessibility.

Benefits of Voice Search in Oracle APEX

  1. Improved Accessibility – Enables hands-free interaction for users with disabilities.
  2. Enhanced User Experience – Speeds up searches and data retrieval.
  3. Increased Efficiency – Reduces the need for manual typing, saving time.

Steps to Implement Voice Search in Oracle APEX

Step 1: Enable Speech Recognition in JavaScript

Oracle APEX does not natively support voice search, but it can be integrated using the Web Speech API in JavaScript.

Add the following JavaScript code to a Dynamic Action (Execute JavaScript Code) on a button click:

function startSpeechRecognition() {
    var recognition = new webkitSpeechRecognition();
    recognition.lang = 'en-US';
    
    recognition.onresult = function(event) {
        var result = event.results[0][0].transcript;
        var sanitizedResult = result.replace(/[^a-zA-Z0-9\s]/g, ""); // Removes special characters
        document.getElementById('P4_VOICE_SEARCH').value = sanitizedResult;
        
        // Trigger APEX page submission
        apex.submit({request: "VOICE_SEARCH"});
    };

    recognition.start();
}

This script will listen to the user's voice input and insert the recognized text into the search field.

Step 2: Add a Search Item in APEX

  1. Create a Text Field (P4_VOICE_SEARCH) on the page.
  2. Add a Button (BTN_VOICE_SEARCH) to trigger the voice search.
  3. Add a Dynamic Action to execute the JavaScript code when the button is clicked.

Conclusion

Voice search in Oracle APEX enhances usability and accessibility, making applications more user-friendly. By leveraging JavaScript and the Web Speech API, you can integrate this feature seamlessly into your APEX applications.

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