Meet Australian Woman Behind GPS Voice You Rely on for Directions

A collage of a person using the phone for directions (left) and Australian songwriter and voiceover artist Karen Jacobsen
A collage of a person using the phone for directions (left) and Australian songwriter and voice-over artist Karen Jacobsen
Griffith University

With technological advancement, getting lost or stranded in Kenya or elsewhere is hard to presume. 

 

Global Positioning System (GPS) has made it easier to maneuver the country. With internet connectivity, Kenyans on the road are given accurate directions, including the approximate time it will take to arrive.

Have you been lost in the Central Business District (CBD) but were shy to ask for directions from anyone? You turn to your phone for directions. However, do you know the woman behind the voice helping you maneuver the city?

Her name is Karen Jacobsen, an Australian national, popularly known as 'GPS girl'. She is the voice giving you directions

Australian song writer and voice over artist Karen Jacobsen on stage
Australian songwriter and voice-over artist Karen Jacobsen on stage
M. Amoroso Gown: M. Kaye

Jacobsen is a voice-over artist, songwriter, international concert artist, and professional speaker.

"My speaking voice ended up in over a billion GPS and smartphone devices giving directions to people around the world," she stated in a past interview.

The songwriter is also the voice behind the popular virtual assistant Siri.

Additionally, Jacobsen is the author of Directions for Driving Performance, a self-help book that takes readers through the step-by-step recalculation process.

In a past interview, the artist stated that growing up, she aspired to be a singer and had no idea her voice would be of use to billions across the globe.

"When I was 7 years old I heard a melody. It popped into my head and it had words with it. I knew I had to figure out a way to write it down. It seemed important. Writing songs is a magical experience," she disclosed.

Jacobsen has performed in various global events alongside renowned artists. Jacobsen also has several music albums.

The next time you arrive at your holiday destination with the help of the GPS, remember to appreciate Jacobsen as you enjoy your trip.

An aerial photo of Nairobi CBD.
An aerial photo of Nairobi's Central Business District and its surroundings.
Photo
Wikimedia