Voice control for model trains: control your layout with your voice using TrainPanel
We are thrilled to introduce one of the most exciting features coming to TrainPanel: voice control!
No more back-and-forth between the layout and the computer or tablet screen. You can now control your model railway network using simply your voice, in a fluid and natural way.
How does it work?
TrainPanel’s goal has always been to simplify the management of your layout. With voice control, you just need to start listening and speak naturally, as you would with a real railway worker:
- “Start the BB 67400 locomotive”
- “Take the freight train to the marshalling yard” (available in Auto mode)
As soon as you finish speaking, TrainPanel displays what it understood in a confirmation dialog box, summarizing the planned action. All you have to do is confirm!
Local, privacy-focused technology
We made a strong technological choice: everything happens locally on your computer.
Unlike traditional voice assistants that send your conversations to the cloud, TrainPanel integrates an embedded Artificial Intelligence model. This brings you three major advantages:
- Total privacy: Your voice never leaves your computer.
- Offline operation: You don’t need an internet connection to play with your trains in your basement or attic.
- Modeler accuracy: Our AI is configured to understand the specific vocabulary of model railroading and adapts to the minor mispronunciations typical of voice recognition.
A redesigned interface
To make the experience perfect, the user interface has been designed so you are never left in the dark:
- Recording is displayed in real-time.
- The raw text of your voice is transcribed as soon as the listening ends.
- A clear summary (e.g., “Start [locomotive]”) confirms the AI’s correct understanding of the desired action.
Your turn to play!
Voice control is included in the latest TrainPanel update. Feel free to try it with different intonations and phrasing, and give us your feedback!
