Smartphones Can Detect Alcohol Intoxication with 98% Accuracy

A recent study in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs suggests that sensors in smartphones and smart speakers could be used to determine a person’s level of alcohol intoxication based on changes in their voice. Researchers conducted a small study with 18 adults, providing them with alcohol and assessing their intoxication levels by analyzing voice patterns. The study achieved a 98% accuracy rate in predicting alcohol intoxication based on voice changes when compared to breath alcohol results.

The researchers envision using smartphones and smart speakers as tools for passive monitoring to alert individuals when they may be intoxicated, aiming to prevent accidents and injuries. The lead researcher suggests that future surveillance tools may combine various sensors, such as gait, voice, and texting behavior, and calls for larger studies to confirm the validity of voice patterns as an indicator of intoxication. The ultimate goal is to develop an intervention system that is easy to use and can effectively prevent injuries and save lives by providing real-time support.