Researchers developed a method to modify vehicle sounds using auditory augmented reality, which can draw pedestrian attention without loud warnings. By artificially increasing the frequency of approaching vehicle sounds, participants judged the vehicle as moving faster and closer.
Researchers discovered the brain's brief 'dual tracking' ability to process two conversations simultaneously, potentially explaining why some individuals excel in busy social situations. This finding may help improve hearing technologies and provide insight into why certain people struggle with multitasking.
Researchers have captured the behavior of scissor-tailed nightjars creating a unique sound by snapping their wrists together during courtship and copulation. The study sheds light on lesser-known bird communication methods and raises questions about the nuances of mechanical sounds.
VIRTUOSO, developed by Dr. Hyunkook Lee from the University of Huddersfield's Applied Psychoacoustics Lab, enables immersive 3D audio without loudspeakers through binaural technology powered by ASPEN. This technology simulates the ambience and reflections found in a room with headphones, allowing for accurate translation to real speakers.
A laboratory study found that exposure to background traffic noise, even at 40 dB, significantly impairs concentration and perceived workload. Researchers also highlight the difficulties in avoiding high-frequency noise indoors due to reduced vehicle speeds.
The Collaborative Research Centre Hearing Acoustics is developing smart hearing aids that use artificial intelligence to adjust to different environments. The project, which aims to create more adaptable hearing devices, has received $8.1 million in funding for another four years.
A personalized soundscape using AcustiCare can help individuals with dementia by providing clues about time of day and place. The system refines the sounds to reinforce time and space, improving sleep quality, reducing agitation and distress, and decreasing stress on caregivers.
A £326,000 UK Government-backed project is developing immersive augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) audio experiences for music fans. The VASAR project aims to improve sound quality and production efficiency using new recording techniques and software.