Testing SpeechMate as a speech support system for public speaking and challenging conversations
Speaking in public or having tricky conversations can feel challenging. This research study is testing an experimental tool called SpeechMate. Developed at the University of Oxford, SpeechMate combines smart augmented reality glasses with bone-conduction headphones. The system displays text on the glasses while playing a gentle guiding voice, allowing people to speak along with the words in unison. The researchers want to discover whether this technology helps people speak more smoothly and feel more confident. The trial is open to adults aged 18 to 65 who stutter, have apraxia of speech, or have typical, fluent speech. Taking part involves a single 60 to 90-minute visit to Oxford to try out speaking tasks and answer questionnaires. Some participants will also use the app at home over one month. SpeechMate does not provide a medical cure, but it may improve future speech technology.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Public speaking and everyday chats—like ordering in a café, attending a job interview, or speaking up in a meeting—can sometimes feel daunting. For people who stutter or live with speech conditions like apraxia of speech, these situations can bring extra worry. Researchers at the University of Oxford are exploring whether wearable technology can help make speaking out loud feel easier and more comfortable.
SpeechMate works on the known idea that speaking in time with another voice can help words flow more smoothly. The system pairs smart augmented reality glasses with special headphones that sit comfortably just outside the ear. Words appear on the lenses while a guiding voice plays quietly through the headphones. This allows the speaker to talk along with the voice at their own preferred pace.
During this study, the researchers want to see how people use SpeechMate in different speaking situations. By comparing how adults who stutter, adults with apraxia of speech, and typically fluent speakers interact with the tool, the team hopes to design better digital support systems for the future.
Key takeaways
- Tests an experimental app and smart glasses system designed to support public speaking and conversation.
- Open to adults aged 18 to 65 who stutter, have apraxia of speech, or have fluent speech.
- Involves one 60 to 90-minute visit to the University of Oxford for speaking tasks and questionnaires.
- Some participants will test the app in daily life over a one-month follow-up period.
- Safe and non-invasive, with no medications or medical treatments involved.
Who may be eligible?
You may be able to join this study if you are between 18 and 65 years old and speak fluent or near-fluent English. The researchers are looking for three groups of volunteers: adults who stutter, adults who have a medical diagnosis of apraxia of speech, and adults who consider themselves typically fluent speakers. You also need to have normal or corrected vision and hearing, meaning wearing everyday glasses or contact lenses is completely fine.
You will not be able to take part if you have uncorrected sight or hearing problems that make it hard to use smart glasses or headphones. You are also not eligible if you have another diagnosed speech, language, or neurological condition (such as dysarthria), or if wearing smart glasses and earbuds would feel unsafe or uncomfortable for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am between 18 and 65 years of age.
- I speak fluent or near-fluent English.
- I have normal or corrected vision and hearing (glasses or contact lenses are fine).
- I identify as a person who stutters, have apraxia of speech, or am a typically fluent speaker.
- I do not have another speech, language, or neurological condition (such as dysarthria).
What does participation involve?
Taking part involves one visit to a research laboratory at the University of Oxford, lasting about 60 to 90 minutes. During this session, you will answer short questionnaires and carry out speaking tasks while audio and video recordings are taken. These tasks include reading a short speech and role-playing everyday situations, such as booking an appointment or ordering food. Depending on your group, you may try these tasks with and without the SpeechMate glasses and guiding voice. After the laboratory visit, participants who stutter and fluent speakers will be asked to try SpeechMate during at least three everyday situations over the following month and fill in brief logs about their experience. There are no drugs or medical procedures involved.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of Oxford, Biomedical EngineeringCity onlyOxford, England
Common questions
Is SpeechMate a cure or treatment for stuttering?
No. SpeechMate is an experimental support tool designed to guide speech. It is not a cure and is not intended to replace speech and language therapy.
Do I need to take any medication?
No. The study only tests wearable technology (smart glasses and headphones) and speaking exercises. There are no medicines involved.
How long will the study take?
The main part is a single 60 to 90-minute visit to Oxford. Some participants will also spend a few minutes logging their use of the app at home over the next month.
What happens if I find the speaking tasks stressful?
You are in control at all times. You can ask for a break, skip a task, or stop taking part altogether whenever you wish.
Do I have to pay to take part?
No, you do not have to pay anything to take part in this research study.
How to find out more
Birtan Demirel
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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