READING, U.K. — O2 has completed a proof-of-concept trial evaluating new network-based technology designed to improve phone call clarity for customers with hearing loss.
The operator partnered with cloud-native network software provider Mavenir to test a capability that works within the mobile network to personalize call audio in real time. Participants continued using their existing phones and mobile numbers while the technology automatically optimized speech based on their individual hearing profiles.
Participants first completed a short automated hearing assessment to determine how they perceive different sound frequencies. The results generated a personalized hearing profile that was securely linked to their mobile number, allowing the network to adapt speech during phone calls to make conversations clearer and easier to follow.
Personalized Audio Optimization
Unlike device-based accessibility features or third-party applications, the audio optimization occurred within O2’s network infrastructure, enabling participants to make and receive calls as usual while benefiting from enhanced call clarity.
According to the company, nearly 90% of participants reported improvements in call clarity following the trial. Participants also reported reduced listening effort, fewer misunderstandings, and a more natural calling experience.
“I usually find phone calls tiring and stressful, even with hearing aids. Making a call without them is almost impossible. Using the technology was a completely different experience, as I could hear clearly without my hearing aids and didn’t need to keep asking people to repeat themselves,” said Mary Higgins, who is profoundly deaf and participated in the trial.
While still in the proof-of-concept stage, the trial demonstrates how network-based technology could potentially improve accessibility and everyday communication for people with hearing loss.
Company Perspectives
“For many people with hearing loss, making a phone call can be a difficult and frustrating experience. This trial is about using the intelligence within our network to improve that experience without asking customers to do anything differently. We are encouraged by the early results from this proof-of-concept and are excited to explore how this type of technology could support more accessible services for our customers in future,” said Jorge Ribeiro, Director of Core Networks, Virgin Media O2.
O2 and Mavenir say the trial illustrates how mobile network intelligence could be leveraged to create more accessible communication experiences without requiring changes to users’ devices or calling habits.
“Core networks are a powerful platform for innovation of services and delivering new value to customers. Our partnership with Virgin Media O2 in improving the call experience for their customers with hearing loss is a great example of that,” said Brandon Larson, SVP & General Manager, Cloud, AI & IMS Business Strategy at Mavenir.
About Mavenir
Mavenir develops cloud-native, AI-driven software solutions for mobile network operators designed to enable intelligent, automated, and programmable networks. The company reports deployments with more than 300 operators across over 120 countries, collectively serving more than half of the world’s mobile subscribers. Mavenir combines telecommunications expertise with cloud computing, information technology, and data science capabilities to develop AI-native solutions for network operators.
Source: Mavenir
