[jasonallen]

I think that, over time, both paradigms are required. For the quick lookup/command, "ask" is best. For longer interactions, like driving directions, or cooking instructions, etc... a "conversation" makes more sense. Given that we're at the early stages of conversational UIs, I think the 'ask' case is more helpful, but I'm more excited to see what will evolve through conversations.

[candiodari]

This is being made a platform for external developers, unlike Google search for instance. So what makes more sense for users is only important on large averages and to the extent users don't get mad enough to abandon it.

What matters for action developers ?

Having people buy shit

Keeping people occupied longer (for commercials)

(for companies that do other things) Preventing people from trying to communicate with a real person