Audio output quality on mobile

[rosscado]

Users have reported an issue with Pi's voice output quality when using the call feature on mobile devices. The problem appears to be specific to how audio is routed through the device's audio settings.

Details

• Issue: Distorted audio quality in Pi's voice when using the call feature.
• Reported by: Chiara Maria, @names, DawidM
• Device: Android and iPhone mobile devices
• Symptoms:
  • When using Pi's voice output in a standard context (text interaction), the audio is clear and played through the device's media volume.
  • However, when engaging in a voice conversation or using the call feature, Pi's voice is routed through the call volume, resulting in a slightly distorted output.
• Suspected Cause: The mobile device system's distinct audio settings (media volume and call volume) seem to be handling Pi's voice output differently.

Device	Android Version	Browser	User
Google Pixel 7 Pro	14	Kiwi	Chiara
Xiaomi Redmi 10 S	-	Kiwi	DawidM

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Suggested Enhancement

• Proposal: Route Pi's voice output through the media volume setting, even when using the call feature or voice conversation.
• Expected Benefit: This change is anticipated to resolve the distortion issue and provide a clearer, more pleasant audio experience for users.

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Steps to Reproduce

1. Initiate a standard text interaction with Pi on an affected Android or iPhone device and observe the clear audio quality.
2. Use the call feature or engage in a voice conversation with Pi.
3. Note the difference in audio quality, with the output becoming slightly distorted.

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Additional Information

• This issue seems to be particular to certain Android devices, and is likely hardware related.
• Feedback and experiences from other Android users would be helpful in further identifying the scope of this issue. -- names reported a similar issue on iPhone too (2024/02/20), iOS < 17.3.1. This was resolved with an OS upgrade and was probably not related.

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Action Requested

• For Developers: Investigate the audio routing configurations for mobile and explore the feasibility of using media volume for all voice outputs.
• For Users: Report any similar experiences, specifying the device model and OS version, to aid in diagnosing and resolving this issue.

[rosscado]

Reported as resolved on iPhone with iOS 17.3.1.

[rosscado]

I have ordered a used Xiaomi Redmi 10S to reproduce the issue.