By Robert Pelzer, Technical Product Manager, Mimi Hearing Technologies
Image Source: Futuresource Consulting
Last week I had the pleasure of attending Audio Collaborative 2023, held on 9th November, 2023 at the Ham Yard Hotel, London. This gathering of industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts provided a glimpse into the exciting future of audio technology, and I am excited to share my insights from the event.
The year’s agenda was thoughtfully curated to cover a wide range of topics. We heard insights from a range of expertise in the audio field, covering subjects including ‘Embracing sustainable sound’, ‘The role of immersive audio in leisure install’, ‘Personalisation: A must-have product experience’ and ‘Servicing the consumer through personalisation.’ Each session provided a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of audio technology.
Image Source: Futuresource Consulting
What I observed as future trends in Audio:
AI on Headphones is Inevitable: Whether you’re ready or not, artificial intelligence is making its way into headphones. The integration of AI promises a more personalized and immersive audio experience, adapting to the user’s preferences and surroundings. It’s a paradigm shift that will redefine how we interact with our audio devices.
The Rise of Lossless Audio and Wi-Fi Connectivity: Lossless audio is gaining prominence, and with it comes the need for robust Wi-Fi connectivity in headphones. Audiophiles and casual listeners alike are demanding higher-quality audio, and the industry is responding by embracing lossless formats. This shift towards Wi-Fi connectivity opens up new possibilities for seamless and high-fidelity audio experiences.
Health Applications on the Horizon: The ear, it seems, is not just for listening. The event highlighted the increasing integration of health applications in headphones. From biometric measurements to monitoring overall well-being, the ear is emerging as a prime location for unobtrusive and accurate health tracking. Expect to see more innovations in this space in the coming years that again are enabled by AI on headphones.
Personalized Sound is Non-Negotiable: Sound personalization is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Attendees unanimously agreed that a one-size-fits-all approach to audio is outdated. The future of audio technology lies in tailoring the listening experience to individual preferences, considering factors like hearing acuity, personal preferences, and even the listener’s environment. Mimi Sound Personalization has been leading the way in this area, and I am very proud to have been a part of that journey so far.
Vinyl’s Resurgence: In a surprising turn of events, vinyl is experiencing a revival, especially among younger audiences. Despite living in the age of digital streaming, vinyl records are making a comeback. The tangible, nostalgic appeal of vinyl, coupled with its warm and authentic sound, is capturing the hearts of a new generation of music enthusiasts.
The Audio Collaborative Event 2023 was a testament to the dynamic nature of the audio industry. From the integration of AI and lossless audio to the unexpected resurgence of vinyl, the future of sound is full of exciting possibilities. I am confident that Mimi’s commitment to advancing audio technology will play a pivotal role in shaping this future.
About Audio Collaborative
“At Audio Collaborative 2023, we will unite audio leaders and sonic experts to navigate the changing tides of audio. The event will unpack key challenges and opportunities of the new technological era, providing opportunities to network with other like minded experts and enthusiasts.” – FutureSource
