Automatic gradual transition of volume to adapt to ambient noise

Abstract

The present disclosure provides systems and methods for progressively transitioning a playback volume based on a background noise level. An apparatus (800) can have a predetermined amount of volume levels between a minimum volume and a maximum volume. The volume levels can be spaced apart by a predetermined increment such that there is a predefined difference between adjacent volume levels. A digital gain (102) can be used to adjust the volume levels, and an analog gain (106) can allow the playback volume to be adjusted to an amount between adjacent volume levels. The playback volume can progressively transition within a predefined volume level by an amount less than the predetermined difference between adjacent volume levels. This smaller amount can be the analog gain (106).

Description

Background Art

[0001] Many devices, including earbuds, smartphones, and smartwatches, provide sound playback. Each device may have a default increment between a minimum volume and a maximum volume. From one increment to the next adjacent increment, each device may have a different default volume increase or decrease. In some cases, to change the volume from a device, a user may provide an input. The input may increase or decrease the volume by one increment at a time. The user may have to provide many inputs to obtain a desired volume. Summary of the Invention

[0002] One aspect of the present disclosure provides a device having: a first amplifier configured to adjust the playback volume of the device among a first set of increments of a volume scale; one or more processors configured to determine a background noise level; and a second amplifier in communication with the one or more processors. The volume scale may include a plurality of first increments between a minimum volume and a maximum volume. Each increment of the plurality of increments may be spaced apart by a predetermined difference. The second amplifier may be configured to adjust the playback volume in second increments in response to the determined background noise level. The second increments may be less than the first increments.

[0003] The device may further include: one or more microphones configured to receive an audio input; and one or more speakers for audio output. The determined background noise level may be based on the received audio input. The first amplifier may be a digital amplifier and the second amplifier may be an analog amplifier. Each of the first increments may span a plurality of second increments. Adjusting the playback volume using the second amplifier may not use the first amplifier to adjust the playback volume.

[0004] In some cases, when the difference between the determined background noise level and the playback volume is less than a predetermined difference, adjusting the playback volume may further include adjusting the playback volume by an amount that amounts to one of the first increments of the first set of increments. Additionally or alternatively, when the difference between the determined background noise level and the playback volume is greater than or equal to the predetermined difference, adjusting the playback volume may further include adjusting the volume by an amount that amounts to two of the first increments of the first set of increments.

[0005] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for automatically and gradually changing the playback volume of a device based on a background noise level. The method includes: receiving audio input from one or more microphones; determining the background noise level based on the received audio input by one or more processors; determining an adjustment amount less than a predetermined difference based on the background noise level by the one or more processors; and adjusting the playback volume based on the determined adjustment amount and at least one amplifier by the adjustment amount using the one or more processors. The predetermined difference may be the difference between adjacent increments in a volume scale. The volume scale may include a total number of increments between a minimum volume and a maximum volume.

[0006] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing instructions executable by a processor for performing a method for automatically and gradually changing the playback volume of a device based on a background noise level. The method includes: determining the background noise level; and adjusting the playback volume based on the determined background noise level and using at least one amplifier in one or more first increments. Each of the one or more first increments is less than each of a plurality of second increments. Each second increment of the plurality of second increments may be spaced apart by a predetermined difference within a volume scale. The volume scale may include a total number of second increments between a minimum volume and a maximum volume.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides an audio playback device including: one or more microphones; one or more speakers for playing an audio output; a memory for storing a volume scale; and one or more processors in communication with the one or more microphones and the memory. The volume scale may include a total number of increments between a minimum volume and a maximum volume, where each increment may be spaced apart by a predetermined difference. The one or more processors may be configured to receive an input from the one or more microphones, determine the background noise level based on the received input, and adjust the playback volume based on the determined background noise level. Adjusting the playback volume may increase or decrease the playback volume by an amount less than the predetermined difference. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Figure 1A An example of a volume scale associated with digital gain with respect to analog gain in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0009] Figure 1B An example of analog gain in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0010] Figure 1C Another analog gain with respect to a volume scale in accordance with aspects of the present disclosure is illustrated.

[0011] Figures 2A to 2Cis a diagram and graph that illustrate an example of a gradual transition of playback volume as the device moves to a location with an increasing background noise level, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figures 3A to 3C is a diagram and graph that illustrate an example of a gradual transition of playback volume as the device moves to a location with a decreasing background noise level, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0013] Figures 4A to 4D is a diagram and graph that illustrate another example of a gradual transition of playback volume as the device moves to a location with an increasing background noise level, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0014] Figures 5A to 5D is a diagram and graph that illustrate an example of a gradual transition of playback volume when moving from a location with an increasing background noise level to a location with a decreasing background noise level, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0015] Figure 6 is a graphical representation that illustrates an example of a weighted playback level and a background noise level, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0016] Figure 7 is a chart that illustrates an example of a weighted playback level, a background noise level, and a background noise estimate for each volume level, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 8 is a block diagram of an example device, according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 9 is a flowchart of an example method, according to aspects of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0019] The systems and methods described herein relate to an audio playback device that can allow for a gradual transition of the playback volume based on the background noise level. The device can have a default amount of volume levels between a minimum volume and a maximum volume. The volume levels can be spaced apart by a predetermined increment such that there is a predefined increase or decrease in the playback volume between adjacent volume levels. The size of each predetermined increment (such as the difference between one volume level and an adjacent volume level) is referred to herein as the loudness increment. In some cases, the loudness increment can be measured in decibels ("dB") or decibels sound pressure level ("dBSPL"). The device can have a default loudness increment. The playback volume can be gradually transitioned within a predefined volume level. For example, if the background noise level is high, the playback volume can be gradually transitioned to an increased playback volume by an amount less than the loudness increment. If the background noise level is low, the playback volume can be gradually transitioned to a decreased playback volume by an amount less than the loudness increment.

[0020] The audio playback device can include earbuds, augmented reality and / or virtual reality headsets, Bluetooth-enabled headphones, smart glasses, head-mounted displays, smartwatches, mobile phones and / or smartphones, tablet computers, music players, etc. The device can include an input, internal electronics, and an output.

[0021] The input can include a user input and an audio detection input. For example, the user input can be a touch-sensitive housing, a dial, a button, or other controls for receiving manual commands. Additionally and alternatively, the user input can include one or more microphones for receiving verbal commands. Other types of user inputs (such as motion sensors or other types of sensors) can be adapted to receive gesture inputs, etc. The user input can allow the user to change the playback volume to one of the predefined volume levels in the volume meter. The volume meter can include a total number of volume levels between a minimum volume and a maximum volume. Herein, the volume levels can also be referred to as volume increments or steps. The audio detection input can include, for example, one or more microphones configured to receive an audio input signal. For example, the one or more microphones can receive the audio input signal, which can further be received by one or more processors that determine the background noise level based on the received audio input signal. In some examples, the microphones used for user input can also be used for audio detection input.

[0022] The output can include one or more speakers for outputting audio (such as the playback of music, voice, or other audio content).

[0023] Internal electronics can control the playback volume of the device. For example, the internal electronics can amplify the output signal by applying digital gain and / or analog gain for playback through the speaker. Digital gain can be applied to the signal such that the playback volume is increased or decreased. For example, a user can provide an input command to adjust the volume level, causing the internal electronics to apply digital gain. Digital gain can correspond to a change in the volume level on the volume meter of the device.

[0024] Between each adjacent volume level, the amplifier can adjust the analog gain to adjust the playback volume without adjusting the digital gain on the device. The analog gain can adjust the playback volume in an amount less than a predetermined difference between adjacent volume levels. Thus, the analog gain can achieve the playback volume between levels in the volume meter. For example, the device can set the current playback volume to volume level 12. In response to the determined background noise, the analog gain can cause the playback volume to change automatically such that the playback volume can increase or decrease in an amount less than the loudness increment, but the volume level will not change from volume level 12. Thus, the playback volume can change without receiving a user input.

[0025] The analog gain can be a negative analog gain such that when the negative analog gain is added to the playback volume, the playback volume can be decreased. According to some examples, the negative analog gain may be an analog loss.

[0026] The analog gain can gradually increase or decrease the playback volume based on the background noise level. The analog gain can allow for finer volume adjustments. The analog gain can increase or decrease the playback volume in an analog increment. The analog increment can be an amount less than the predetermined difference between adjacent volume levels measured in dB. For example, if the playback volume of the device is set to volume level 12 on the volume meter, then the analog gain can have 6 increments. However, there can be any number of increments - several, hundreds, etc. Each analog increment of the analog gain can gradually increase or decrease the playback volume without changing the digital gain. The device will not change its volume level to volume level 11 or 13. Thus, according to some aspects of the present disclosure, the analog gain can adjust the playback volume in one or more analog increments. The analog increment can be an amount measured in dB. The analog increment can be based on the background noise level. As an example, the analog increment can be based on a comparison between the loudness increment and the difference between the background noise level and the playback volume. For example, the analog increment can be determined as follows:

[0027] Loudness increment ≥ (Background noise level - Playback volume)

[0028] Or

[0029] Loudness increment ≤ (Background noise level - Playback volume)

[0030] In other examples, the analog gain can be adjusted to any calculated dB, including tens or hundreds of dB, rather than the defined increment. In some cases, an analog gain can be predetermined for each device.

[0031] For example, a predetermined or default analog gain of a device can be referred to as analog gain level 1 or 0 dB gain. The analog gain (in decibels) for level n can be calculated using the following formula: 20 log((analog gain level n) / (default analog gain)). For example, in a case where the default analog gain is predetermined to be 2V at analog gain volume 1 and analog gain level 6 is 4V, the analog gain in decibels will be 6 dB because 20 log(4V / 2V) = 6 dB.

[0032] As Figure 1A shown, the playback volume can be set to volume level 12 of the volume meter 130. As shown by arrow 104, the background noise level can be determined between the digital gain 102 and the analog gain 106. The background noise level can be determined based on the audio input received by one or more microphones of the device. Once the background noise level is determined, the analog gain 106 can adjust the current playback volume 108 without receiving user input. The device can determine the amount of the analog gain 106 in one of the above ways. For example, volume level 12 can have a playback volume of 88.5 dB, and volume level 13 can have a playback volume of 91.5 dB. Thus, the loudness increment can be 3 dB. It should be understood that this is merely an example, and in other examples the loudness increment can be higher or lower. Then, the device can compare the loudness increment and the difference between the current playback volume and the determined background noise level. When the loudness increment is greater than or equal to the difference between the current playback volume and the determined background noise level, the analog gain 106 can reach, for example, 6 dB. If the loudness increment is less than the difference between the current playback volume and the determined background noise level, then the analog gain 106 can reach, for example, 3 dB. The total amount of the analog gain can depend on any combination of the device, the loudness increment, the background noise level, and the current playback volume. Thus, the total amount of the analog gain can be greater than or less than 3 dB or 6 dB. For example, the total amount of the analog gain can be 1 dB, 1.5 dB, 4 dB, 6.25 dB, etc. Thus, the total amount of the analog gain can be tens of dB, hundreds of dB, and thousands of dB. Then the total amount of the analog gain can be divided into analog increments. For example, in a case where the analog gain 106 reaches 6 dB, each analog increment 1 to 6 of the analog gain 106 can be 1 dB respectively. The transition of the playback volume can occur within a predefined time. For example, a gradual transition of the playback volume may occur within a three - second period. The three - second period is just an example. Thus, the transition may occur within a period of milliseconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds, etc.

[0033] Figure 1B Illustrates the analog increments between adjacent volume levels. In this example, the following calculations are based on a volume increment of 12 with a playback volume of 108 dB, and the analog gain is in seven increments of 1 dB each, such that an increase of 134 from volume increment 12 to analog increment 1 results in a playback volume of 89.5 dB for 108. An increase of 135 to analog increment 2 results in a playback volume of 90.5 dB for 108. An increase of 136 to analog increment 3 results in a playback volume of 91.5 dB for 108. An increase of 137 to analog increment 4 results in a playback volume of 92.5 dB for 108. An increase of 138 to analog increment 5 results in a playback volume of 93.5 dB for 108. An increase of 139 to analog increment 6 results in a playback volume of 94.5 dB for 108. The playback volume 108, i.e., the volume level 12 plus the analog gain 106 (i.e., at least one of analog increments 1 to 6), can exceed the playback volume of the adjacent volume level (i.e., volume level 13). However, since there is no digital gain 102, the volume level may not change as perceived by the user. Thus, the user may only see the volume level as 12, but the playback volume may have changed. The calculations provided are only examples. Thus, depending on the playback volume based on the volume level, the value of the analog increment, and the number of increments, the calculations may change.

[0034] Figure 1C Similar to Figure 1A , however, the analog gain can be applied before the digital gain. For example, the analog gain can be applied to the default level of the device, such as analog gain level 1 or 0 dB gain. Once the background noise level is determined, the analog gain can be adjusted to gradually transition the volume of the playback device. While there is background noise, the digital gain can remain unchanged regardless of whether it is applied before or after the analog gain.

[0035] Figures 2A to 2C Illustrates the gradual transition of the playback volume in a location with an increased or relatively noisy background noise level. For example, in an urban environment, the background noise level may be between 80 and 90 dB. When the user walks in the city, the background noise may change. For example, the user may walk past a street performance, an outdoor concert, or the user may walk through a crowded intersection with car horns blaring. The audio playback device can detect such changes in the background noise level, such as through one or more microphones and / or other sensors, and determine the corresponding adjustment of the playback volume. The device gradually transitions the playback volume by adjusting the analog gain without user input, such that the playback volume will automatically increase or decrease. Thus, if the background noise increases, the user will not miss the content, or if the background noise decreases, the user will not be overwhelmed by the volume. Since the adjustment is automatic, the user does not need to provide manual input for the adjustment and has an improved user experience.

[0036] Figure 2A An example is illustrated where user 200 can walk in the city wearing device 201 (such as earbuds). The playback volume of device 201 can correspond to volume level 4, which can be equal to a playback volume of 61.4 dB. Volume levels 202, 210, 218 can correspond to volume levels 3, 4, 5 of the volume meter respectively. Each analog increment 204, 206, 208, 212, 214, 216 can correspond to an analog gain of 1 dB. However, the analog gain of each analog increment can be determined by the device. For example, the analog gain of each analog increment can be determined based on the maximum possible analog gain determined when comparing the background noise level with the playback volume. Thus, the analog gain can be an increment greater than or less than 1 dB. For example, each analog increment can be 0.5 dB, 0.75 dB, 1.5 dB, 2 dB, etc.

[0037] Figure 2B An example is illustrated where user 200 enters an atmosphere with an increased background noise level (such as passing by a street performance). Device 201 was previously set to volume level 4. Device 201 can detect the increase in the background noise level. In response to the increased background noise level, the playback volume of device 201 can automatically increase by 220 to analog increment 212 without user input, such that the playback volume can become 62.4 dB.

[0038] Figure 2C An example is illustrated where user 200 remains in an atmosphere with an increased background noise level. Device 201 was previously set to volume level 4, and analog gain 220 has been applied to device 201 such that the current playback volume is volume level 4 plus analog increment 212. The playback volume of device 201 can continue to increase by 222 to analog increment 214, such that the playback volume can become 63.4 dB. Although not shown, if the background noise level increases or the device determines that further analog gain is needed, then the playback volume of device 201 can automatically increase to analog increment 216 before reaching analog increment 218 corresponding to volume increment 5, which can be equal to a playback volume of 64.3 dB. The gradual transition of the playback volume from volume level 4 to volume level 4 plus analog gain 214 can occur within a predetermined time period. For example, each analog gain can occur within a one-second period, such that the increase of two analog gains will occur within a two-second period. However, the transition may occur within a time period greater than or less than two seconds. The gradual transition provides a gradual change in the playback volume to user 201 in response to the background noise level.

[0039] Figures 3A to 3CIllustrated is a gradual transition of the playback volume as the device moves into a location with a reduced or relatively quiet or lower background noise level. For example, in a library environment, the background noise level may be 30 dB. Thus, the playback volume can gradually transition such that the playback volume decreases according to an analog gain. The analog gain that causes the playback volume to decrease may be a negative analog gain. The negative analog gain may be an analog loss.

[0040] Figure 3A Illustrated is an example where user 200 can wear device 301 (such as earbuds) and sit in an atmosphere such as a library. Compared to a city, a library can have a reduced background noise level. However, there may still be background noise in the library, including people whispering, families talking in the children's area, etc. The playback volume of device 301 can correspond to volume level 4 on the volume meter, and this volume level can be equal to a playback volume of 61.4 dB. Volume levels 302, 310, 318 can respectively correspond to volume increments 3, 4, 5 of the volume meter. Each analog increment 304, 306, 308, 312, 314, 316 can correspond to an analog gain. For example, each analog increment can correspond to an analog gain of 1 dB. In other examples, each analog increment can be any value determined by device 301, such as 0.5 dB, 1.25 dB, 1.5 dB, 1.8 dB, etc.

[0041] Figure 3B Illustrated is an example where the background noise level has decreased. For example, the people sitting near user 300 may have stopped talking. In response to the decreased background noise level, the playback volume of device 301 can decrease 320 from volume level 4 to analog increment 308, such that the playback volume can decrease to 60.4 dB without the user providing an input and independently of digital gain. The playback volume of device 301 can continue to decrease 322 to analog increment 306, such that the playback volume can continue to decrease to 59.4 dB. Although not shown, if the background noise continues to decrease or the device determines that further analog loss is needed, then the playback volume of device 301 can decrease to analog increment 304 before reaching volume level 302. The gradual transition of the playback volume from volume level 4 to volume level 4 plus negative analog gain 306 can occur within a predetermined time period.

[0042] Figures 4A to 4D Illustrated is another example of a gradual transition of the playback volume in a location with an increasing background noise level (such as a city).

[0043] Figure 4A Illustrated is an example where user 400 can wear device 401 (such as earbuds) and the current playback volume corresponds to volume level 4, which is very similar to Figures 2A to 2C and Figures 3A to 3C。The volume levels 402, 410, 418, 426 may correspond to volume levels 3, 4, 5, 6 of the volume meter, respectively. Each analog increment 404, 406, 408, 412, 414, 416, 420, 422, 424 may correspond to an analog gain of 1 dB.

[0044] Figure 4B An example is illustrated where user 400 enters an environment with an increased background noise level (such as when user 400 walks through a busy intersection with car horns blaring). In response to the increased background noise level, the playback volume of device 401 may be increased by 430 to analog gain 412.

[0045] Figure 4C An example is illustrated where user 400 provides an input to increase the playback volume. For example, user 401 may determine that the increase in playback volume to analog gain 412 is insufficient and may provide an input to device 401. The input provided by user 401 may cause the device to apply a digital gain or an increase 432 to amplify the output signal to increase the playback volume. Thus, after user 400 provides the input, the playback volume of device 401 may be the applied digital gain from volume level 4 plus analog gain 412 to volume level 5.

[0046] Figure 4D An example is illustrated where user 400 remains in an environment with an increased background noise level. For example, when the user may have passed through a busy intersection, user 400 may now be near an outdoor concert. The playback volume of device 401 was previously set to volume level 5. Based on the determined background noise, the playback volume is increased by 434 to analog increment 420. Although not shown, if the background noise level increases or the device determines that further analog gain is needed, then the playback volume of device 401 may be increased to analog increment 424. Alternatively, if the background noise level decreases, the device may decrease the playback volume such that the playback volume returns to volume level 5 or decreases by an analog loss. When the background noise level decreases below a threshold background noise level, the analog gain may return to 0 dB gain. Alternatively, when the user provides an input to change the playback volume level, the analog gain may return to 0 dB gain.

[0047] Figures 5A to 5D An example is illustrated of a gradual transition of the playback volume that occurs when moving from a location with an increased background noise level to a location with a decreased background noise level.

[0048] Figure 5AIllustrated is an example where user 500 can wear device 501 (such as, earbuds) and walk through an environment with increased background noise (such as, a city) to reach a desired destination (such as, a library). The playback volume can correspond to volume level 5. Volume levels 205, 210, 518, 528 can correspond to volume levels 3, 4, 5, 6 of the volume meter respectively. Each analog increment 504, 506, 508, 512, 514, 516, 520, 522, 524 can correspond to an analog gain.

[0049] Figure 5B Illustrated is an example where user 500 can walk through an environment with decreased background noise (such as, when user 500 is approaching the library). Near the library entrance, the background noise level may be lower than when walking through city streets. Thus, device 501 can determine that the background noise level has decreased. When determining that the background noise level has decreased, the playback volume can gradually transition to a decreased playback volume. For example, the playback volume may experience a negative analog gain 530 and reach analog increment 516.

[0050] Figure 5C Illustrated is an example where user 500 is within an environment with decreased background noise (such as, inside the library). Once user 500 is inside the library, user 500 can provide an input to device 501 to decrease 532 the playback volume. For example, the input provided by the user can cause the device to apply a negative digital gain or digital loss, thereby changing the volume level from volume level 5 to volume level 4. Thus, after user 500 provides the input, the current playback volume of device 501 can be the digital loss 532 applied from volume level 5 plus analog loss 516 to volume level 4.

[0051] Figure 5D Illustrated is an example where user 500 remains in an environment with a decreased background noise level. Device 501 can determine that the background noise level may still require further fine - tuning of the playback volume. For example, in response to the determined decreased background noise level, the playback volume can be decreased 534 to analog increment 508. The gradual transition of the playback volume from volume level 4 to analog increment 508 can occur within a predetermined time period. Although not shown, if the background noise level decreases or the device determines that further analog gain is needed, then the playback volume of device 501 can be decreased to analog increment 504. Thus, an analog loss can occur to reach volume level 3. Continuing this example, the analog loss can cause the playback volume to be less than the playback volume at volume level 3. Or, if the background noise increases, then the device can increase the playback volume such that the playback volume returns to volume level 4 or increases through analog gain.

[0052] Figure 6Illustrated is a graphical comparison between the playback volume and the background noise frequency. The background noise estimator can measure the sum of the power of the fast Fourier transform ("FFT") noise of frequencies from 1000 Hz (1 kHz) to 5000 Hz (5 kHz) over a predetermined time period. The predetermined time period can be 16 ms. A certain time period of the collected data (e.g., 2.976 s) can be averaged and used to determine the background noise level. As Figure 6 shown, the playback volume and the background noise can cross at a frequency of 2000 Hz (2 kHz).

[0053] Figure 7 is a chart containing Figure 6 the plotted information, including the volume level, the A-weighted playback level measured in dBA for each volume level, the background noise that crosses at 2000 Hz measured in dB, and the background noise estimator measured in dB. The volume level or step can have an A-weighted decibel level or playback level measured in dBA. The A-weighted decibel level can provide the relative loudness of the sound as perceived by the user. Using the A-weighted decibel level can reduce the relative loudness as heard by the user by reducing lower frequencies. A-weighting can also be used for the measurement of background noise. Line 601 represents the background noise when the device is in the user's ear. The background noise can measure the lowest reference noise at this time. The measurement of the background noise can refer to this background noise.

[0054] The volume level 15 can have, for example, an A-weighted playback level of 97.3 dBA. As Figure 6 shown, the maximum background noise level 602 can be 105 dB. Thus, the volume level 15 shown as line 612 in Figure 6 can cross the background noise level 602 at 2000 Hz. The background noise can be calculated by averaging the sum of the power of the FFT noise collected over a specific time period. The background noise can be 94 dB when crossing the 2000 Hz threshold. Thus, the background noise estimator can be 90 dB. The value of the background noise estimator can be used to calculate the gradual transition of the playback volume increase or decrease. The playback volume increase or decrease can be an analog gain or loss. The volume level 12 can have an A-weighted playback level of 88.5 dBA. In Figure 6 the volume level 12 shown as line 614 can cross the background noise 604 at 2000 Hz. The background noise can be 85 dB when crossing the 2000 Hz threshold. Thus, the background noise estimator can be 80 dB. The volume level 9 can have an A-weighted playback level of 75 dBA. In Figure 6The volume level 9 shown as line 616 above can cross the background noise 606 at 2000 Hz. The background noise can be 75 dB when crossing the 2000 Hz threshold. Thus, the background noise estimate can be 70 dB. The volume level 5 can have, for example, an A-weighted playback level of 64.3 dBA. At Figure 6 The volume level 5 shown as line 618 above can cross the background noise level 608. The background noise can be 65 dB when crossing the 2000 Hz threshold. Thus, the background noise estimate can be 60 dB. According to one embodiment, the numbers provided herein for the A-weighted playback level, the background noise level, and the background noise estimate are merely examples and are not meant to be limiting. Depending on the device, the user, and the location, these values may differ from Figure 6 and Figure 7 the values shown. Thus, the A-weighted playback level, the background noise crossing at 2000 Hz, and the background noise estimate can be any values related to the default volume level of the device.

[0055] Figure 8 An example block diagram illustrating the components of the device 800 is provided. As shown, the device 800 includes various components, such as one or more processors 802, a memory 804, and other components commonly found in microprocessors, general-purpose computers, etc. The device 800 also includes an input 810, an internal microphone 812, one or more external microphones 814, an output 816, and an amplifier 820.

[0056] One or more processors 802 can be any conventional processor, such as a commercially available microprocessor. Alternatively, one or more processors can be a dedicated device, such as an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or other hardware-based processor. Although Figure 8 functionally illustrated with the processor, the memory, and other elements of the device 800 within the same block, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the processor, computing device, or memory can actually include multiple processors, computing devices, or memories, which may or may not be housed within the same physical housing. Similarly, the memory can be a hard disk drive or other storage medium located in a housing different from that of the device 800. Thus, a reference to a processor or computing device should be understood to include a reference to a collection of processors or computing devices or memories that may or may not operate in parallel.

[0057] The memory 804 can store information accessible by the processor 802, including instructions 806 and data 808 that can be executed by the processor 802. The memory 804 can be a type of memory operable to store information accessible by the processor 802, including non-transitory computer-readable media, or other media that stores data readable by an electronic device, such as a hard disk drive, a memory card, read-only memory (“ROM”), random access memory (“RAM”), an optical disc, and other writable and readable memories. The subject matter disclosed herein can include different combinations of the foregoing, and thus, different portions of the instructions 806 and data 808 are stored on different types of media.

[0058] The data 808 can be retrieved, stored, or modified by the processor 802 according to the instructions 806. For example, although the present disclosure is not limited to a particular data structure, the data 808 can be stored in computer registers, as a table with multiple different fields and records, in a relational database as an XML document or a flat file. The data 808 can also be formatted in a computer-readable format, such as, but not limited to, binary values, ASCII, or Unicode. Further, by way of example only, the data 808 can be stored as a bitmap composed of pixels or computer instructions for drawing graphics stored in a compressed or uncompressed format, or in various image formats (e.g., JPEG), vector-based formats (e.g., SVG). In addition, the data 808 can include information sufficient to identify related information, such as numbers, descriptive text, proprietary codes, pointers, references to data stored in other memories (including other network locations), or information used by a function to calculate related data.

[0059] The instructions 806 can be any set of instructions (such as, machine code) directly executable by the processor 802 or an instruction set indirectly executable (such as, a script). In this regard, the terms “instructions,” “application,” “step,” and “program” can be used interchangeably herein. The instructions can be stored in a target code format for direct processing by the processor, or in any other computing device language in the form of a script or a collection that includes independent source code modules interpreted on demand or pre-compiled. The functions, methods, and routines of the instructions are explained in more detail below.

[0060] The device 800 can also include an input 810 for receiving volume adjustment commands. The input 810 can be, for example, a touch sensor, a dial, a button, or other controls for receiving manual commands. The device 800 can also include an output 816. The output 816 can be, for example, a speaker.

[0061] Device 800 may have one or more microphones at various locations. For example, an internal microphone 812 may be positioned such that it can determine the playback volume. According to some embodiments, there may be one or more external microphones 814 located outside the device 800. The external microphones 814 are capable of detecting background noise. The external microphones 814 are also capable of detecting sounds to be processed by one or more processors within the device 800 and transmitting the sounds to another device.

[0062] Device 800 may include at least two amplifiers. A first amplifier 820 may be a digital amplifier. The digital amplifier may apply a digital gain to a signal, as described in more detail herein. A second amplifier 820 may be an analog amplifier. The analog amplifier may adjust an analog gain, as described in more detail herein.

[0063] It should be understood that device 800 may include other components not shown, such as a battery, a charging input for the battery, signal processing components, etc. These components may also be used for the execution of instruction 806.

[0064] Figure 9 A series of steps that may occur when gradually changing the playback volume of a device based on the background noise level is illustrated. For example, in block 910, the device may determine the background noise level. According to some examples, one or more of the external microphones may be listening to the background noise. In other examples, the internal microphone may be listening to the background noise. Then, the background noise picked up by the one or more microphones may be processed to determine the background noise level. For example, in a quiet location (such as a library), the background noise level may be 30 dB. Or, in a busy location (such as on a city street), the background noise level may be between 80 and 90 dB. Additionally, when the user is performing a noisy activity (such as mowing the lawn with a gas-powered lawn mower or attending a concert), the background noise level may be 90 dB or higher.

[0065] In block 920, the difference between the determined background noise level in dB and the A-weighted playback level in dBA may be compared with a loudness increment. Additionally, in block 930, the device may determine an analog gain based on the difference between the background noise level and the A-weighted playback level. For example, the difference between the background noise level and the A-weighted playback level may be compared with the loudness increment between volume steps in a volume meter. When the loudness increment is greater than or equal to the difference between the background noise level and the A-weighted playback level, the analog gain may be applied. This may be shown as:

[0066] Loudness increment ≥ (Background noise level - A-weighted playback level)

[0067] For example, the analog gain can increase the playback volume to a value corresponding to the comparison (such as, 6 dB). When the loudness increment is less than the difference between the background noise level and the A-weighted playback level, the analog gain can reach, for example, 3 dB. According to some examples, the analog gain can be equal to the default loudness increment of the device. Additionally and alternatively, the analog gain can be a multiple of the loudness increment of the device. However, the analog gain can increase or decrease the playback to a value based on the device, the loudness increment, the background noise level, and the current playback level. Thus, the analog gains of 3 dB and 6 dB are merely examples, and other values are possible.

[0068] In block 940, the device can adjust the playback volume by increasing or decreasing the playback volume based on the determined analog gain. The playback volume can transition gradually based on the determined analog gain. The transition can occur within a predefined time period.

[0069] The gradual transition of the playback volume provides a better listening experience for the user. As the user enters an atmosphere with an increasing background noise level, the gradual transition for increasing the playback volume can prevent the user from missing any content. As the user enters an atmosphere with an increasing or decreasing background noise, the gradual transition of the playback volume can reduce the need for user input. Additionally, the gradual transition of the playback volume can adjust the playback volume without manual input, thus improving the user experience.

[0070] Unless otherwise stated, the foregoing alternative examples are not mutually exclusive, but can be implemented in various combinations to achieve unique advantages. Since these and other variations and combinations of the features discussed above can be utilized without departing from the subject matter defined by the claims, the foregoing description of the embodiments should be in a manner that illustrates the subject matter defined by the claims, rather than in a manner that limits it. Additionally, the provision of the examples described herein and the short phrases described using words such as "such as", "including", etc. should not be construed as limiting the subject matter of the claims to specific examples; rather, these examples are only intended to illustrate one of many possible embodiments. Additionally, the same reference numerals in different figures can identify the same or similar elements.

Claims

1. An audio playback device, comprising: A first amplifier configured to adjust the playback volume of the device among a first increment of a volume meter, the volume meter including a plurality of first increments between a minimum volume and a maximum volume, wherein: Each of the plurality of first increments is spaced apart by a predetermined difference; and The first amplifier is a digital amplifier; One or more processors configured to determine a background noise level; and A second amplifier in communication with the one or more processors, the second amplifier configured to adjust the playback volume in one or more second increments in response to the determined background noise level, wherein: The second increment is less than the first increment; The second amplifier is an analog amplifier; and The second increment is calculated based on the determined background noise level.

2. The audio playback device according to claim 1, further comprising: One or more microphones configured to receive an audio input, wherein the determined background noise level is based on the received audio input; and One or more speakers for playing an audio output.

3. The audio playback device according to claim 1, wherein, The second increment is further calculated based on one or more of the first increments.

4. The audio playback device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the first increments of the first increment covers a plurality of the second increments.

5. The audio playback device according to claim 1, wherein, The second amplifier is used to adjust the playback volume without using the first amplifier to adjust the playback volume.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein When the difference between the determined background noise level and the playback volume is less than the predetermined difference, adjusting the playback volume further includes adjusting the playback volume by an amount equivalent to one first increment of the first increments.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein, When the difference between the determined background noise level and the playback volume is greater than or equal to the predetermined difference, adjusting the playback volume further includes adjusting the volume by an amount equivalent to two first increments of the first increments.

8. A method for gradually changing a playback volume based on a background noise level, comprising: Adjusting the playback volume of a device among a first increment of a volume meter by a first amplifier including a digital amplifier, the volume meter including a plurality of first increments between a minimum volume and a maximum volume, wherein each of the plurality of first increments is spaced apart by a predetermined difference; Determining a background noise level by one or more processors; Calculating, by one or more processors, one or more second increments less than the first increment based on the determined background noise level; and Adjusting the playback volume by a second amplifier including an analog amplifier in response to the determined background noise level, wherein the adjustment by the second amplifier is among the one or more second increments.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein Adjusting the playback volume does not adjust the digital gain.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The digital gain corresponds to the volume meter such that adjusting the digital gain adjusts the playback volume to one increment of the first increments of the total.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein, Adjusting the playback volume includes adjusting an analog gain to obtain a playback volume between increments in the volume table.

12. The method according to claim 8, wherein Determining the background noise level is based on a noise level detected by one or more microphones, the one or more microphones including an internal microphone that detects the volume heard by a user and an external microphone that detects the background noise level.

13. An audio playback device, comprising: One or more microphones; One or more speakers for playing an audio output; A memory for storing a volume table, the volume table including a total number of increments between a minimum volume and a maximum volume, wherein each increment is spaced apart by a predetermined difference; and One or more processors in communication with the one or more microphones and the memory, the one or more processors configured to: Receive an input from the one or more microphones; Determine a background noise level based on the received input; and Adjust a playback volume based on the determined background noise level, wherein adjusting the playback volume includes adjusting an analog gain that increases or decreases the playback volume by an amount less than the predetermined difference, the amount being calculated based on the determined background noise level.

14. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, The amount is further calculated based on one or more of the increments.

15. The device according to claim 13, wherein Adjusting the playback volume does not adjust a digital gain.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein, The digital gain corresponds to the volume table such that adjusting the digital gain adjusts the playback volume to one of the total number of increments.

17. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein Adjusting the playback volume includes adjusting an analog gain to obtain a playback volume between increments in the volume table.

18. The apparatus according to claim 13, wherein, When a difference between the determined background noise level and the playback volume is less than the predetermined difference, adjusting the playback volume further includes adjusting the playback volume by an amount equivalent to one of the total number of increments.

19. The device according to claim 13, wherein When a difference between the determined background noise level and the playback volume is greater than or equal to the predetermined difference, adjusting the playback volume further includes adjusting the volume by an amount equivalent to two of the total number of increments.

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