Launch HN: Martin (YC S23) – Using LLMs to Make a Better Siri

Martin is an LLM-powered voice assistant (YC S23) that improves upon Siri by offering deeper app integrations, better personalization through conversation memory, and multi-channel access (voice, SMS, WhatsApp, email). Key features include calendar management, reminder setting, autonomous texting with contacts on behalf of users, and daily briefings. The platform addresses legacy voice assistant limitations through optimized latency, custom voice activity detection, and sophisticated memory systems that learn user context from conversations.

Key Points

• •LLM-powered voice assistant with 2-3 second latency and custom voice activity detection to minimize interruptions during speech
• •Dual voice modes: handsfree for quick commands and push-to-talk (walkie-talkie style) for detailed 20-30 second inputs
• •Deep integrations with productivity apps (calendar, email, messages, WhatsApp, Google Docs, Slack) with contextual features like adding Meet links and setting event reminders
• •Autonomous agent capability: Martin can conduct text conversations with user contacts on behalf of the user to schedule meetings, plan events, and report back via notifications
• •Personalization through multi-step LLM memory extraction: infers user context, concerns, and goals from conversations to proactively suggest tasks in morning/evening syncs
• •Multi-channel access: iOS app with voice, plus SMS, WhatsApp, and email interfaces for text-based interaction
• •Morning/evening sync workflow: 5-10 minute daily briefings on upcoming tasks, reminders, and personalized news based on user interests
• •Iterative integration strategy: one major app integration released monthly to ensure quality (e.g., Google Calendar with secondary calendars, contact invites, event reminders)
• •$30/month subscription model targeting productivity-focused prosumers with existing AI tool subscriptions
• •7-day free trial with access code delivery and step-by-step onboarding for calendar and contact integration

Workflow Diagram

Concepts