The King Jim one of the largest office stationary supplies in Japn, has announced the launch of “Oshige Light,” a compact device designed to visualize voice volume using light. The product will go on sale on June 5, priced at ¥4,994 ($31). Oshige Light uses a front-facing microphone to monitor ambient sound levels. When voices exceed a preset threshold, the device responds by flashing a light—providing a subtle, non-verbal cue to lower the volume. Since people often misjudge how loud they’re speaking, especially in shared spaces, the device aims to eliminate the awkwardness of person-to-person reminders by acting as an automated “quiet prompt.”
Oshige Light uses a front-facing microphone to monitor ambient sound levels. When voices exceed a preset threshold, the device responds by flashing a light—providing a subtle, non-verbal cue to lower the volume. Since people often misjudge how loud they’re speaking, especially in shared spaces, the device aims to eliminate the awkwardness of person-to-person reminders by acting as an automated “quiet prompt.”
The system measures sound using A-weighting (dBA), a standard that mirrors how the human ear perceives loudness. This allows the device to deliver feedback that aligns closely with real-world listening conditions rather than raw decibel levels. Users can choose from three sensitivity settings depending on the environment:
Low (60 dBA): Ideal for quiet spaces like libraries,
Medium (70 dBA): Suited for typical office settings
High (80 dBA): Designed for louder environments
Beyond noise control, Oshige Light can also function as a vocal training aid. Users can practice projecting their voice until the light activates, helping establish a clear and consistent sense of appropriate speaking volume—something that’s often difficult to communicate verbally. The device includes three interchangeable display sheets—“Be Quiet,” “Speak Loudly,” and a customizable blank option—allowing it to adapt to different use cases. It supports multiple installation methods, including freestanding placement, magnetic mounting, and wall attachment. Oshige Light measures approximately 95 × 34 × 90 mm and weighs around 113 grams. It can be powered via four AA batteries or a USB connection, offering flexibility for both portable and fixed setups.
Dhiram Shah
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