Jenn is the new "virtual assistant" at Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air, developed through artificial-intelligence software to help consumers. Technology editor Dan Luzadder recently unlimbered his computer keyboard and tapped out a virtual interview with her. (Jenn can "talk" back through the computer.)
Q: Can you tell me what exactly is a virtual assistant?
A: I am a virtual assistant, here to help you navigate our Web site.
Q: That's so cool. What kind of information can you help me with?
A: Incredible, isn't it? Is there anything else I can help you with?
Q: Let's start with something general: How many cities does Alaska Airlines serve?
A: Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air serve more than 80 cities in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. You can view or download the latest Alaska and Horizon route maps here.
Q: Thanks for showing me a route map. If I want to travel outside the U.S., can you help me with information on that?
A: Browse this page for important information about passports and international travel.
Q: Gee, what lovely graphics you have. If I want to travel to a foreign country served by Alaska Airlines, and book a hotel as well as air travel, can you help me with that?
A: Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air offer international flights to and from the U.S. and select destinations in Canada and Mexico. Choose a link to see a display of the cities we serve.
Q: I see that your Web site offers weather information and driving directions. Why driving directions and weather?
A: Plan ahead by checking on the local forecast for any Alaska or Horizon destination.
Q: I appreciate that. If I have canceled a flight with Alaska Airlines and am using a mobile device, can I still reach you for advice through a mobile device?
A: You're welcome.
Q: Alaska Airlines is known for its technological innovation. Are you the only virtual assistant in the marketplace?
A: I would love to help you, but I am not sure I understand your question. Could you please rephrase that for me?
Q: Do you know if you are the only virtual assistant available on an airline Web site?
A: I am not positive that I understand what you are asking. Please try rephrasing your question.
Q: Let's try this. How many customers do you help in a day?
A: I would love to help you, but I am not sure I understand your question. Could you please rephrase that for me?
Q: Can you connect me to a reservations agent?
A: I am not positive that I understand what you are asking. Please try rephrasing your question.
Q: How many flights per day do you have between California and Mexico?
A: Here you will be able to access Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air flight schedules.
Q: I see something on the Web site called Eazybiz? What is that?
A: Explore the links on this page to gain a better understanding of what this product can do for you and your company.
Q: You are remarkably fast at finding pages on the Web site. What else can you do?
A: I know quite a bit about traveling with Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air. What can I help you with?
Q: Well, I have heard it said that people sometimes ask inappropriate questions of you. Is that true?
A: Good question. I'm not sure how to answer that. Please try rewording your question.
Q: Where are you located?
A: I live in the virtual world, so I'm at home virtually anywhere!
Q: You're pretty cute. Are you free Saturday night?
A: Currently, I am single.
Q: I think we could have a good time together in cyberspace, but I am busy virtually every night but Saturday. Are you free?
A: Currently, I am single.
Q: Do you have a sister?
A: I don't have any brothers or sisters. But you never know what my developers are thinking up next.
Q: OK, let's get back to business. Do you enjoy your job?
A: I love it!
Q: Jenn, thanks for sharing your thoughts with me. Do you fly Alaska Airlines?
A: My favorite airlines are Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air!
Q: Which one is better?
A: Good question. I'm not sure how to answer that. Please try rewording your question.
To contact reporter Dan Luzadder, send e-mail to [email protected].