Non-Speech Input

A method of controlling computers or devices using sounds produced by the human vocal tract that are not recognised words — such as humming, whistling, hissing, clicking, or varying pitch and volume. Unlike speech recognition, which must wait for a complete utterance before processing, non-speech sounds can be interpreted continuously and on-the-fly, making them faster for real-time control tasks. Non-speech input is gaining popularity in accessible computing as an alternative for people with motor impairments, offering hands-free control using a standard microphone. Features such as pitch, volume, timbre, and duration can be mapped to different commands. Non-speech input has been successfully used for cursor control, game interaction, and keyboard emulation.