People who are deaf may now listen to music by touching a screen. An algorithm created by researchers at the University of Malaga transforms monophonic music into audible stimuli that are communicated through a wrist-worn gadget.
The upgraded portable version of this ground-breaking technology, which may be utilized during concerts, is the next stage. The prototype is now connected to a computer.
The invention makes use of “tactile illusions,” an illusion that distorts touch perception, which the team compared to “hacking” the nervous system to get it to respond differently to the actual stimulus that was transmitted.
The primary author of this research, Paul Remache, stated in a statement that their long-term goal is to enable deaf individuals to “listen” to music.
The emphasis is on how music may affect one’s mood and skills to alleviate pain and treat mental problems.
In order to comprehend how the algorithm would operate, research involving more than 50 volunteers was carried out.
Each participant wore the gadgets around their wrists as well as noise-canceling headphones to drown out outside noise.
According to the findings, the configuration of “tactile illusions” triggers better than negative feelings.
The vibrations also elicited a distinct emotional reaction from the original song since they were considered as more pleasing and energetic than the audio.
To read our blog on “Abey Khao — Pakistan’s first deaf-staffed food truck,” click here.
