Dec [{()}]1d ago

Skoda developed (with the University of Salford) an all-mechanical bicycle bell that bypasses active noise cancellation (ANC) in headphones.
https://www.skoda-storyboard.com/en/skoda-world/skoda-duobell-a-bicycle-bell-that-outsmarts-even-smart-headphones/
It's tuned to 750hz, which is a "blind spot" in most ANC headphone processing.
There is also a resonator for a higher frequency, and the hammer produces irregular strikes, confusing the ANC further, and making pedestrians look behind them faster.

Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDaVPfpQvPI

Research:
https://cdn.skoda-storyboard.com/2026/04/Skoda-DuoBell-Research-final_cf127752.pdf

#BikeTooter

Škoda DuoBell: A bicycle bell that outsmarts even smart headphones - Škoda Storyboard

Pedestrians wearing headphones are exposed to an increased risk of accidents. In an effort to reduce collisions with cyclists, Škoda Auto, in collaboration with scientists, introduces an innovative bicycle bell whose sound can penetrate even active noise cancellation systems. In doing so, it helps prevent injuries to both pedestrians and cyclists.

Škoda Storyboard
Show threadMattisCB23h ago
@dec23k ANC does not and cannot cancel single audio events... That's not how this works. That's not how any of this works... 🙂‍↔️ANC let's you hear a bicycle bell even better because it cancels the constant traffic noise that would drown voices, horns and bells.
Show threadEd22h ago
@MattisCB @dec23k Seems like that is how it works plus the distraction of listening to loud music: https://www.dekra.mx/en/keep-your-ears-open-in-traffic/
Show threadMattisCB
@EdBruce @dec23k i have and use ANC headphones. Loud music and distraction, i give you that.
Apr 8 at 3:29pmWeb