A look at how Noveto Systems and speaker companies are using unidirectional sound to entertain consumers.
JUNE 01, 2016
Do you hear what I hear? If you’re anywhere near me and if I’m not wearing headphones connected to a device, then the answer is probably yes. But by harnessing today’s advanced sound technology, new audio systems are bringing laser-focused sound to consumers. This development could lead to the end of headphones among other products.
Wires are annoying. And cumbersome. And as far as audio files are concerned, close to becoming antiquated. That’s why wireless headphones have been a huge hit in 2016 thus far. The Israel-based company, Noveto Systems, is taking sound technology a step (or a leap) further by transmitting sounds from a device to a user’s ears without using any external hardware. This is done through the amalgamation of 3D sensors, Noveto’s processing and DSP engine, and transducers.
Wires are annoying. And cumbersome. And as far as audio files are concerned, close to becoming antiquated.See also: Capturing innovation anywhere it lives
The sensors include visual (image) and depth sensing and vary in configuration depending on if it is for single person application (smartphones or personal computing), larger range and multiple users (TVs), or a confined area (cars). In most cases, the sensors will automatically pair with the most dominant face in the FOV (Field Of View) or alternatively require exact pairing with a specific face in case of a gaming application having multiple users scenario. Once the user is engaged, the device will constantly report a relative 3D position of this person to the device and track any changes once he or she moves.
Noveto Systems CEO, Noam Babayoff, says the sound technology is receiving interest from multiple sectors and verticals, including the smartphone industry, TV, medical companies catering to the hearing impaired, automotive companies interested in hands-free technology, and the smart home domain.
For your ears only
Noveto Systems isn’t the only company harnessing location for listeners. The “A” speaker from the French company Akoustic Arts is a unidirectional tool that transmits sound to a sole listener without anyone else hearing it, and without headphones. The device generates ultrasonic waves, and then turns them into audible sound waves for your ears only.
Imagine using the “A” speaker while watching “House of Cards” or another series that would warrant severe annoyance from your friends if you gave away any spoilers. This could come in handy. There’s something comforting about sitting in a room with others without the isolation that headphones can create.
Besides user friendliness, what uses can new unidirectional sound technology have in the commercial world?
With regard to Noveto Systems’ 3D sound beams, Babayoff says he sees great usability and added value to the common users in consumer electronic verticals.
“It seems this technology adds new dimension for man-machine user interaction – privacy without earphones, and lesser acoustic pollution. Other domains include IoT and “roaming” of sound over the internet,” says Babayoff.
See also: Go #InsideInnovation at Paris Innovation & Research Lab
Regarding privacy and safety, he says the system emits pure acoustic waves and is operating under known regulation thresholds.
The possibilities for directed sound are vast. One day, it might even enable smart homes to communicate to visually impaired home owners.
How do you think unidirectional sound could benefit your life and other parts of society?
###
The contents or opinions in this feature are independent and may not necessarily represent the views of Cisco. They are offered in an effort to encourage continuing conversations on a broad range of innovative technology subjects. We welcome your comments and engagement.
We welcome the re-use, republication, and distribution of “The Network” content. Please credit us with the following information: Used with the permission of http://thenetwork.cisco.com/.
PR Archives: Latest, By Company, By Date