SMART Technologies Launches SoundFlow Classroom Audio Accessibility System

SMART Technologies has introduced SoundFlow, a plug-and-play broadcasting system that sends classroom audio content directly from a SMART Board display to students' compatible hearing aids, earbuds, headphones, personal listening devices, or speakers, the company announced. The solution can also connect to Auracast speakers to extend audio across an entire classroom.

SoundFlow connects by USB to SMART Board displays running iQ4 and requires no wiring through walls or complex installation, according to the company. Through the iQ4 interface, teachers can start or stop a broadcast, manage access, password-protect the channel, and limit the broadcast range.

The system can also be paired with SMART SoundLift, the company's classroom microphone system, to combine a teacher's voice and lesson audio from a SMART Board display into a single audio stream. SMART Technologies said the design is intended to deliver clearer audio to students without singling anyone out.

"Every student should be able to hear the lesson clearly, no matter where they sit or how they learn," said Sara Murray, executive vice president and chief product officer at SMART Technologies. "SoundFlow sends teacher and lesson audio straight to compatible student devices, without singling anyone out or adding complexity for teachers. It's a simple way to make clearer, more accessible audio part of the everyday classroom experience."

The launch adds to a growing category of classroom assistive-listening tools aimed at students with hearing loss and others who benefit from direct-to-device audio. SMART Technologies directed readers to its website for more information about SoundFlow.