The technology that allows for voice-activated virtual assistants is natural language processing (NLP). NLP is a subset of artificial intelligence that enables computers to understand, interpret, and respond to human speech. By processing spoken commands, virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant can perform tasks, answer queries, and control smart home devices. NLP utilizes machine learning algorithms to improve accuracy and efficiency in understanding spoken language, making virtual assistants more intuitive and user-friendly for everyday tasks.