Mobile applications for environmental noise and soundscape evaluation

In the past ten years, in parallel to the development of low-cost digital technology, we witnessed the increasing development of mobile applications deployed as environmental noise and soundscape evaluation tools. Firstly, this paper presents the results of a survey conducted through literature and market review covering the past 10 years, spanning from the release of the first app, Noise Tube, to the more recent ones, such as Hush City. Secondly, it discusses the benefits and challenges of using mobile apps for environmental noise and soundscape projects. In conclusion, considering the release of ISO norms on soundscape, it discusses the possibility to standardize the design and implementation of mobile apps for soundscape research.