UK software start-up Insigma Technologies Ltd has developed an application called Hyperceive to enable users to design audio into their sites by splitting music or speech tracks into manageable-size components which are downloaded and reassembled at the browser end, without the need for plug-ins. Now it’s looking for around $8m in venture capital to grow the company.
Web sites with Hyperceive-authored audio launch a Java applet that manages download and synchronizes sound to graphical output, so while one component is playing, the next is downloading. This applet ensures there are no breaks in the sound, and that the track follows the correct sequence. Individual components, such as a sentence of speech, can also be flagged to only play once, or to only play under certain circumstances, so an audio journey through the site can take place.
Insigma claims that the software overcomes the buffering and speed problems users can experience with popular streaming audio sites. The software costs around 150 pounds ($240), so could even be used for personal home pages. Insigma is also offering a cut-down Hyperceive 6-Pack version of the original 24-track Hyperceive as a freeware. Insigma says its customers include computer games developer, Eidos Interactive Plc and music retailer, HMV.
