AI Headphones Can Isolate a Single Person's Voice in a Crowd, Tim Dixon

AI-Enhanced Hearing:

The University of Washington has developed an AI system called "Target Speech Hearing" that allows users to isolate a single person's voice in noisy environments. By wearing headphones equipped with microphones, users can focus on a speaker's voice, which the system then amplifies, while canceling out all other sounds.

How It Works:

To activate the system, users tap a button and direct their gaze towards the speaker for a few seconds. The system's machine learning software identifies the speaker's vocal patterns and continues to track and amplify their voice, even as the user moves around.

Testing and Development:

The technology was presented at the ACM CHI Conference and has been tested on subjects who reported a significant improvement in voice clarity. The research team aims to adapt the system for earbuds and hearing aids in the future.

Potential Impact:

This innovation could greatly benefit individuals with hearing impairments, allowing them to engage in conversations more effectively in challenging auditory environments. It represents a significant step forward in assistive hearing technology.

"We tend to think of AI now as web-based chatbots that answer questions," said senior author Shyam Gollakota, a UW professor in the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering. "But in this project, we develop AI to modify the auditory perception of anyone wearing headphones, given their preferences. With our devices you can now hear a single speaker clearly even if you are in a noisy environment with lots of other people talking."

https://www.disabled-world.com/assistivedevices/hearing/target-speech-hearing.php

Creating, sharing and inspiring change. For good.

The global issues we face are challenging and interconnected. They can seem insurmountable. But if you know where to look, co-operation, positive change and hope are all around us. Build Back Ever Better is a project that recognises the progress being made, and the amazing people who are making a difference. Share your own hopes, pledges and projects with #BBEB, or become a contributor.