Siri, Apple's virtual assistant is one of the most advertised features of the iPhone 4s. A voice controlled virtual assistant that can actually respond to the user, Siri is a step ahead for artificial intelligence and for Apple. Siri has also caused quite a furor with her humorous answers to user questions and the matter of her voice. People have also wondered why Siri is so... well female.

A recent Times article has explored why most computerized voices are female. One theory is that women's voices are generally more pleasing than men. Research suggests that people have been implanted since their days in their mother's womb to be more receptive to female voices. Another theory is that history has shown a preference for women's voices in navigation devices. Women's voices were employed in World War II airplanes. Telephone operators have been traditionally female as well making it easier to acclimatize to hearing a female disembodied voice.

Many GPS devices already offer multiple voice options and soon iPhone users and other voice activated mobile phones will have the choice to change their virtual assistant's voices too. Until then here are some suggestions to what characters would best fit as a computerized assistant.

1. Darth Vader

The villain in three Star Wars films and moody Anakin Skywalker in the prequels, Darth Vader has inspired legions of fans and even has his own GPS voice. Darth Vader has a unique voice that can turn your mobile phone into the dark side. Ask Lord Vader to confirm a text and he'll reply that he finds your lack of faith disturbing. He'll respond to any question with "what is thy bidding my master?"

2. Jarvis

This all around butler already controls everything in Tony Stark's life why not let him control your phone too? The very proper and British sounding butler already has a leg up against other contenders because Jarvis is already a disembodied, virtual assistant. Let Jarvis' dry wit keep you entertained as he juggles your work schedule and text messages.

3. Severus Snape

Snape is probably the most misunderstood character in the Harry Potter universe but that hasn't stopped fans from loving the potions master and female fans from hyperventilating at his tragic romantic history. Voiced by Alan Rickman, Snape will be the perfect virtual assistant to keep your life in order. His withering sarcasm will translate well into some of the tasks Siri is doing. For example you can ask Snape to wake you up in the morning and he'll yell that it must be grand to wake up late, you bumbling idiot. About to miss a meeting? Snape will set you right by saying "Twenty points off from your meeting."

4. Mary Poppins

The beloved magical nanny is kind and gentle but firm in her authority. A Mary Poppins virtual assistant will be helpful to the user even if she pops in a few nonsense words. She may never explain anything but she'll gently remind you of your appointments. Be aware that she may burst into song at some point.

5. Liz Lemon

An assistant for anyone who wants a laugh, a Liz Lemon virtual assistant will always be ready with a quip and Lemon-isms. The 30 Rock character will have users laughing even more with her responses. Ask her what to do and she'll respond with "I pretty much just do whatever Oprah tells me to." She'll love junk food and will give you the best directions to any restaurant.