If you have snug-fitting earphones that drown out any noise from your surrounding environment, this is normally a great feature. However, there are situations where being completely isolated from your surroundings can be problematic. For instance, if you are at work and need to hear a little of what is happening around you, such as your boss shouting instructions at you, then this new iPhone Awareness App might be for you. See a demo after the jump.
How the Awareness App Works
The app automatically calibrates its threshold upon startup to only alert you of sounds when they are above the average level of your current location. This means that it intelligently adapts to your environment, ensuring that you are only notified of significant sounds that might require your attention.
For example, if you run the app while you’re on the subway, it will acclimate itself to the rumble of the train, only relaying sound from your mic when it picks up louder noises, like the conductor announcing the next stop. This feature is particularly useful for commuters who need to stay aware of important announcements without being overwhelmed by constant background noise.
Customizing Your Experience
You can also set the threshold manually, as well as increase the level of the mic’s input. This customization allows you to tailor the app to your specific needs and preferences. For instance, if you are in a quieter environment and want to be more aware of subtle sounds, you can lower the threshold. Conversely, if you are in a noisier setting, you can raise the threshold to avoid being bombarded with unnecessary noise.
If your headphones don’t have a built-in microphone, Awareness can use your iPhone’s microphone, but you’ll need to keep your iPhone out of your pocket so it can pick up sounds. This flexibility ensures that the app can be used with a wide range of headphones, making it accessible to more users.
Awareness! is available for $5 from the iTunes App Store and will soon be available on the iPad, Android, Symbian, and even the Mac and PC. This cross-platform availability means that more users will be able to benefit from the app’s features, regardless of their preferred device.
The Awareness App is a valuable tool for anyone who needs to stay connected to their surroundings while using earphones. Whether you are a commuter, a professional, or simply someone who enjoys listening to music while staying aware of your environment, this app offers a practical solution. Its intelligent calibration, manual customization options, and cross-platform availability make it a versatile and user-friendly choice.
Via Engadget
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
