It seems like no matter what new product is dropped these days, one buzzword has to be involved for it to get noticed: AI. It's sort of a misnomer, though, as the vast majority of supposed artificial intelligence is nothing more than an enhanced predictive text algorithm and not true artificial intelligence. This ain't I:Robot.
But Predictive Text+ just doesn't seem to sway a public or investors like the AI label does. How else are you going to get that sweet, sweet venture capital cash while the AI server farms that power these systems eat up energy and fresh water at truly alarming rates, while also spewing tons of unregulated carbon emissions? Come on, folks, hop on the technology train!
All that cynicism said, I do think that under the right conditions, with the right guidance, and used in ways that aren't going to damage our brain's ability to understand reality and not make us dumber, AI is fine. It's like all other technology, as it can be used for good and evil. And reducing the potential for hearing loss, something I'm keenly aware of given my decades of riding loud motorcycles, listening to music at full volume, and playing with guns, that's something that seems like a good idea.
So I think LS2's Spectrum communicator, which uses AI to enhance its noise-cancelling capabilities, is one AI thing that makes sense.
Although best known for its helmets, LS2 has long played within the communicator space. The Spectrum, however, goes that step further. Co-developed with Midland Radios, the Spectrum has all the normal comms features you'd expect from others in the space like Cardo, including Bluetooth, mesh capabilities, an intercom that works up to four other riders, a 20-hour conversation battery capability, and it's of course IP67 waterproof. The device is also compatible with every single helmet the company makes.
LS2's Spetrum is further ECE 22-06 certified, as all helmets and accessories have to go forward. And both Siri and Google Assistant are functional with the helmet, so you've got AI on AI. Yo dawg, I hear you like AI!
As for the AI itself, according to Midland, the technology works by reducing "lower frequencies for clearer sound output," which is basically how other systems work, but with the added benefit of learning as it goes. "This technology significantly reduces background noise, such as wind or engine sounds, using an algorithm designed to identify and adjust these disturbances, ensuring clear and seamless communication at all times," says the company. So the more sound input it hears and filters, the better it gets. Neat. And again, this sort of AI is one I can get behind as it's designed to reduce harm, not just spit out janky-ass images of shrimp Jesus or sasquatch hunters. It's a real, tangible benefit.
Pricing for the system remains competitive, too, with the Spectrum costing only $185 when converted from euros, which is the downside, as these are only offered in Europe at the moment. But what do you all think of these? Are you ready to have AI anything between your ears?
