UK – In an innovative departure from noise cancelling technology, Sony’s new LinkBuds aim to integrate noise from the outside world rather than block it out completely.
The unique design of the ear buds forms a ring with an opening that lets in noise from the wearer’s surroundings. Voice pick-up technology, which relies on AI trained by more than 500m voice samples, prioritises voices over ambient street noise. Meanwhile, adaptive volume control allows wearers to adjust the volume depending on outside inputs.
LinkBuds usher in a new frontier of audio technology that discreetly blends online input and the physical environment for a ‘never off’ listening experience. The move invents a new mode of subtle, integrated connectivity for socialising, working, gaming, cycling and beyond.
Following our Connective Audio trend, Sony shows how audio can enhance, rather than shut off, real-world environments.
Strategic opportunity
Hardware lags behind when it comes to connective audio experiences. How can you build social sound into everyday technologies?