JBL Quantum Introduces New Tool to Elevate Gaming Experiences for the Visually Impaired Community
Amsterdam, 11th June 2024 – Introducing JBL QUANTUM GUIDE PLAY, a world-first software that aims to make first-person shooter games (FPS) more inclusive. Fueled by its unwavering mission to innovate with purpose and achieve excellence, this groundbreaking initiative taps into the heart of JBL’s legendary audio prowess to empower visually impaired players within the global gaming community. At its core, JBL Quantum Guide Play embodies JBL’s dedication to weaving together a tapestry of diverse individuals and perspectives, providing visually impaired gamers unparalleled access to the world of gaming. Now ready for download, JBL Quantum warmly invites the visually impaired gaming community to contribute their insights and join in refining this pioneering software.
Despite the popularity of FPS games, accessibility for the visually impaired community remains a significant challenge. According to Ablegamers, an estimated 50 million visually impaired individuals worldwide are eager to engage in gaming experiences that have traditionally been inacce, ssible to them.
JBL Quantum Guide Play has been in development for over a year in collaboration with the visually impaired community and Ablegamers. The software leverages advanced AI and machine learning algorithms to transform in-game objects and structures into auditory cues, enabling visually impaired players to perceive their virtual environment through sound. The tool uses JBL Quantum's advanced head tracking and Spatial Audio technology to emulate echolocation, granting players heightened awareness of their surroundings and elevating their overall gaming experience.
JBL Quantum Guide Play is offered as a free tool. While the use of JBL Quantum headphones enhances the experience, they are not required for gameplay.
The JBL Quantum Guide Play software can be downloaded here.
"We recognize the immense potential of gaming to bring people together and provide immersive experiences for players of all abilities," said Grace Koh, Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Audio, Harman Asia Pacific. "Through JBL Quantum Guide Play, we are creating a platform that enriches the gaming experience for everyone, transcending limitations and building a more inclusive gaming community."
Furthermore, "JBL Quantum Guide Play is just a first step towards accessibility in FPS games. We are making it open-source and hoping that brands and developers can adopt it for their games and even contribute to its improvement."
This initiative marks a significant milestone in gaming accessibility, with the software offered as an open-source platform for integration into other games. “I believe gaming is now a real possibility for me,” said Sophie Soon Paralympic Athlete and visually impaired gamer.
With JBL Quantum Guide Play, JBL aims to foster an inclusive gaming community where everyone can participate and thrive. “It feels really nice to be included in a multiplayer game like this,” said Josh Tseng, Digital Accessibility Specialist and visually impaired gamer.
JBL recommends that individuals with 0% vision seek assistance in setting up the program and while using it for the first time.
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About JBL
For over 75 years, JBL has shaped life’s most memorable moments at the intersection of music, lifestyle, gaming and sports. JBL elevates listening experiences with superior audio quality and product designs that encourage individuality and self-expression. With unmatched professional credentials and industry-leading innovation, JBL is a trailblazer in the audio industry because of passionate and talented engineers and designers around the globe. JBL Pro Sound is the foremost technology pushing culture forward through major pop culture events and partnerships with the world’s top talent across music, sports and esports.
About HARMAN
HARMAN (harman.com) designs and engineers connected products and solutions for automakers, consumers, and enterprises worldwide, including connected car systems, audio and visual products, enterprise automation solutions; and services supporting the Internet of Things. With leading brands including AKG®, Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Lexicon®, Mark Levinson® and Revel®, HARMAN is admired by audiophiles, musicians and the entertainment venues where they perform around the world. More than 50 million automobiles on the road today are equipped with HARMAN audio and connected car systems. Our software services power billions of mobile devices and systems that are connected, integrated and secure across all platforms, from work and home to car and mobile. HARMAN has a workforce of approximately 30,000 people across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. In March 2017, HARMAN became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Samsung Electronics.