Radio and Audio > Innovation in Audio & Radio

JBL QUANTUM GUIDE PLAY

BLKJ HAVAS, Singapore / JBL QUANTUM / 2024

Awards:

Shortlisted Cannes Lions
CampaignCampaignLayout(opens in a new tab)
Supporting Images
Supporting Images
Supporting Images

Overview

Credits

Overview

Why is this work relevant for Audio and Radio?

JBL Quantum Guide Play is a revolutionary audio solution that exemplifying the transformative power of sound in immersive experiences. By leveraging advanced audio technology, the initiative enhances accessibility for visually impaired gamers, showcasing the profound impact sound can have in gaming environments. This underscores the importance of audio quality and innovation in delivering inclusive and engaging experiences, not only in gaming but across various audio platforms. As such, Guide Play serves as a testament to the potential of audio technology to break barriers and create meaningful experiences for diverse audiences, further highlighting its relevance in the audio industry.

Please provide any cultural context that would help the Jury understand any cultural, national or regional nuances applicable to this work.

JBL Quantum Guide Play emerges at a pivotal moment where the cultural and market dynamics of the gaming industry intersect. In recent years, gaming has transcended its niche status to become a mainstream form of entertainment, captivating audiences worldwide. However, amidst this surge in popularity, there remains a glaring gap in inclusivity for visually impaired gamers, highlighting broader societal challenges around accessibility and representation.

This initiative reflects a cultural shift towards recognizing and addressing these disparities within the gaming landscape. As gaming continues to diversify its audience, there's a growing awareness of the need for inclusive experiences that cater to individuals of all abilities. By leveraging AI and machine learning to develop Guide Play, JBL not only pioneers technological innovation but also demonstrates a commitment to social responsibility and inclusivity.

The timing of this initiative is strategic. With the global gaming market experiencing unprecedented growth, brands are under increasing pressure to differentiate themselves and connect with consumers on a deeper level. By championing accessibility and empowering visually impaired gamers, JBL not only strengthens its brand identity but also taps into a growing market segment that has long been overlooked.

Guide Play's open-source nature signifies a broader cultural shift towards collaboration and community-driven innovation within the gaming industry. By making the software accessible to developers worldwide, JBL fosters a culture of inclusivity and collective problem-solving, further cementing its position as a leader in the space.

Write a short summary of what happens in the radio or audio work.

JBL Quantum Guide Play software uses AI and machine learning to turn the structures, objects, and actions in the game into sound, providing visually impaired players with ways to understand their spatial environment. The software uses spatial audio and head tracking technologies to highlight specific actions and moments in the game. The more than 50 audio cues offered by the software were crafted by a visually impaired gamer and sound designer in collaboration with the visually impaired community, using sounds they are already familiar with.

Translation. Provide a full English translation of any audio.

n/a

Background:

JBL is a leader in providing audio solutions to people, but when it comes to gaming, we're fairly new to the market. Our QUANTUM series is not widely known. Although it offers revolutionary spatial audio and head tracking technology, we were far behind our competitors. The challenge given to us was simple: make gamers take our headphones seriously by building a strong emotional association with gaming while proving functional superiority. The objective was to showcase QUANTUM's incredible technology and position the brand as an enabler of amazing experiences for all.

Describe the Impact:

In terms of business impact, the initiative led to a significant increase in brand visibility and consumer engagement, resulting in a notable uplift in sales and site traffic. The response rate was overwhelmingly positive, with millions of gamers embracing the technology within the first month of launch. Impressions soared, with the initiative garnering over 500 million earned impressions globally. There was a noticeable change in behavior, as visually impaired gamers experienced a sense of inclusion and empowerment. Consumer awareness of JBL's commitment to accessibility and innovation skyrocketed, leading to a positive shift in brand perception. Overall, Guide Play not only achieved its intended objectives but also left a lasting impact on both the business and the broader gaming ecosystem. Initially aimed at highlighting audio's importance and quality products in gaming, JBL Quantum Guide Play goes beyond headset debates, potentially revolutionizing gaming. Testimonials from visually impaired gamers confirm its transformative impact.

Please outline the innovative elements of the work

JBL Quantum Guide Play's creative idea revolves around transforming the gaming experience for the visually impaired by introducing an innovative audio solution. Leveraging cutting-edge A.I and machine learning, the technology converts in-game elements into spatial sounds, providing a unique and accessible way for visually impaired individuals to perceive their virtual environment. The key lies in emulating echolocation through JBL Quantum's advanced head tracking and Spatial Audio technology, enhancing players' awareness within the game. By translating visual cues into auditory signals, JBL Quantum Guide Play not only addresses the challenge of exclusion but also elevates the overall gaming experience for the visually impaired. The creative concept prioritizes inclusivity and user empowerment, marking a pioneering stride in making the gaming world accessible to a broader audience, ultimately fostering a more diverse and enriched gaming community.

More Entries from Use of Audio & Radio Technology in Radio and Audio

24 items

Grand Prix Cannes Lions
THE MISHEARD VERSION

Use of Audio & Radio as a Medium

THE MISHEARD VERSION

SPECSAVERS, GOLIN

(opens in a new tab)

More Entries from BLKJ HAVAS

24 items

Shortlisted Cannes Lions
JBL QUANTUM GUIDE PLAY

Use of Audio & Radio Technology

JBL QUANTUM GUIDE PLAY

JBL QUANTUM, BLKJ HAVAS

(opens in a new tab)