Amazon has recently launched the latest evolution in testing the capabilities of Alexa skill developers which is known as Alexa Test Simulator (Beta). The tool has expanded capabilities for testing with more sturdy features that includes a visual display, capability to test multi-turn conversation, new voice input options, dialog management, entity resolution and so on.
This update will allow the developers to test, optimize and improve their skill set without having a device. It also allows the developers to follow other features that have been introduced this year that helps them create a more engaging as well as high-quality skills which include the beta testing tool.
This tool shall be available on a global level with support for the following language-based models which include English-UK, English-IN, English-US, English-CA, German and Japanese. The voice input property helps validate Alexa’s understanding of any spoken word and the resulting response. The device event log provides the directives that are being sent to the devices. This helps the user understand the interaction of the skill with the device.
The new dialog style with UI pattern also helps you keep a track of all the interactions with Alexa. It allows you to check previous interaction bubbles as well to help inspect any relevant debugging information. Samsung is also improving the programmatic automated testing option by enhancing the skill-testing API which will support a feature like entity resolution as well as dialog management. The enhancements shall be rolled out by next week. The Beta version of the Alexa skill testing is available now but the visual display testing capability made for the Echo Spot will only be available by next year.
