Frau mit Kopfhšrer Frau mit Kopfhšrer
Trying to get a teenager’s attention when they are wearing headphones is the bane of many families.
But one firm thinks it has solved the problem – by getting technology back on the parents’ side.
A combination of microphone and smartphone app has been developed that automatically turns down the volume on a set of headphones when a trigger noise is detected.
This can include the wearer’s name – so any youngster trying to ignore their parents will find their music is simply interrupted when their name is shouted.
The product has been designed by Harman, one of the biggest makers of music speakers in the world, and was unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this month.
A prototype showed a £200 pair of the company’s AKG N60 noise-cancelling headphones which had also been fitted with tiny microphones. These can be programmed to detect trigger noises using a dedicated smartphone app.
The headphones then recognise the sounds and are able to turn down music on the command of anyone within speaking distance.
The technology – which could also benefit cyclists – is expected to go on sale in the next year. – Daily Mail