In this video from CEATEC 2012, we take a look at the Kyocera Urbano Progresso smartphone. While the handset sports a 4-inch WVGA OLED display, 1.4GHz dual-core processor, an 8 megapixel camera and Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, the key feature of the device is its Smart Sonic Receiver. Using tissue conduction audio technology, the Smart Sonic Receiver replaces the standard earpiece speaker and grill with a smooth, flat surface in which audio can be transmitted through display screen vibrations. It all actually works quite well. Though nothing is officially confirmed, Kyocera hopes to bring the technology to the USA in new phone models next year. The Urbano Progresso is currently available on KDDI’s network in Japan.
Smart Sonic Receiver:
1. Smart Sonic Receiver uses display screen vibrations to transmit audio
Smart Sonic Receiver is a new function which uses a piezo-electric actuator to create vibrations along a wide area of the display screen which in turn transmits clear voice quality to the user. This is the first smartphone in the world to be equipped with this function.
2. Audible voice clarity from a wide area of the screen
As the vibrations cover a wide area of the screen, the user is able to hear clear voice quality regardless of where their ear is placed. Furthermore, by pressing the whole screen against your ear to create a cover, it is easier to hear in crowded and noisy environments.