APPLE'S NEW INVENTION MAKES HEADPHONES SEPARATE SOUNDS BETTER
New York, NY - Technology giant Apple has recently been granted a patent that provides a solution to a long-standing problem in the audio industry. The patent, titled "Audio Source Separation for Audio Devices," aims to enhance the sound separation capabilities of audio devices such as earbuds or headphones.
The core problem that this patent addresses is the limited processing and storage capacity of low-resource audio devices. Neural networks used for speech enhancement, noise reduction, and other audio processing tasks require a significant amount of memory and processing power. However, smaller devices like earbuds often lack the resources to handle these demanding tasks effectively.
This limitation poses several issues. Firstly, audio devices may require a companion device, such as a smartphone or tablet, with more power to help process and separate different sounds. This can create latency and drain the battery life of both devices due to the continuous transfer of audio data and processed results. Secondly, the need for a separate companion device can be inconvenient for users who prefer a compact and seamless audio experience.
Apple's patent proposes a solution by leveraging the processing power of companion devices to enhance the separation of audio sources. For instance, if a user is using Apple AirPods Pro, their iPhone or other compatible Apple device can play a crucial role in improving sound separation capabilities. The companion device will analyze the audio input data transmitted from the audio device and determine the noise condition. Based on this analysis, a suitable small-footprint source separation model pre-stored on the companion device will be selected to facilitate sound separation.
Implementing scene analysis on the companion device offloads complex computations and saves computational resources on the audio device, leading to low latency audio source separation. This patent allows audio devices with limited resources to deliver enhanced sound quality, noise reduction, and speech enhancement without overburdening their own processing capabilities.
Once this patent technology is implemented, users will experience improved audio clarity and reduced background noise in various scenarios. For example, during phone calls, users will be able to hear the voice of the caller more clearly and enjoy a more immersive music experience. In crowded areas or public transportation, noise cancellation will be more effective, bringing tranquility to the listener's audio experience.
As with any patent, it is important to note that there is no certainty that this technology will make its way into the market in the near future. However, should Apple pursue further development and integration of this invention, it has the potential to revolutionize the audio industry and provide audio enthusiasts with an enhanced, user-friendly listening experience.
P.S. This article is based on a recently published patent filed by Apple with the patent number US20240029754A1. It is important to mention that the existence of a patent does not guarantee that the technology described will be commercially available.
P.S. This article is based on a recently published patent filed by Apple with the patent number US20240029754A1. It is important to mention that the existence of a patent does not guarantee that the technology described will be commercially available.