Microsoft shuts down audio app Soundscape 3D and open source code • TechCrunch

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Microsoft is setting up an experimental research project that uses audio-based technology to help visually impaired people navigate and gain greater awareness of their surroundings.

However, the company has also revealed that it will be releasing the code under an open source license for other developers to use.

The tech giant first debuted Soundscape in 2017, essentially with the goal of helping people feel “more comfortable with unfamiliar places” by using 3D audio cues.

The project spawned an iOS app in 2018 to showcase the fruits of the project so far. Using the iPhone’s built-in sensors, the Soundscape app reads points of interest as you pass, or notable streets and intersections that can help you figure out exactly where you are. It’s less turn-by-turn navigation and more “this is where you are now,” with users able to configure specific audio beacons to appear in locations relevant to them.

While it’s common for companies to shut down research projects that, for many at least, have shown some potential, it’s not always the case for the company to release the code for third parties to develop. The company explained why it’s doing so in a Q&A detailing the project transition:

As we evolve our research portfolio, it is natural to terminate or transfer some projects. We believe the community can benefit from the new experiences we’ve developed for the Soundscape research project, which is why we’re releasing the code as open-source software.

Effective January 3, 2023, Microsoft will remove the Soundscape app from the App Store and release the underlying code on GitHub for others to use and run.

Existing installations of the app will continue to work until June next year.

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