I-Doser
| Developer(s) | Nick Ashton |
|---|---|
| Stable release | 4.5
|
| Operating system | Windows |
| Type | Binaural beats |
| License | Proprietary |
| Website | www |
I-Doser is an application for the playback of proprietary audio content. This separately purchasable content has attracted media attention as it aims to simulate specific mental states through the use of binaural beat technology, and many of the simulations available take their names from prohibited recreational drugs.[1] The I-Doser player has been downloaded more than a million times[2] and is based on the audio technology of a GPL-licensed binaural beat generator, SBaGen.[3]
Technological validity
Research into the neurological technology behind I-Doser is sparse. Peer-reviewed studies exist suggesting that some specific binaural beat mixes can affect aspects of mental performance and mood[4][5], act as analgesic supplements[6] or affect perceptions,[7] but there have been no formal studies of any effects of mixes particular to I-Doser. Researchers from Oregon Health and Science University interviewed about I-Doser have expressed skepticism over its scientific basis, citing a four person controlled study of binaural beats that demonstrated no evidence of brainwave entrainment.[8] Other universities have also stated skepticism.[9]
References
- ^ "Some call i-dosing a drug substitute, while others say binaural beats fall flat", Washington Post, 3 Aug 2010
- ^ "iDosing and digital drugs - can your kids really get high without narcotics?", news.com.au, July 16, 2010
- ^ "This is your mind on... binaural beats" Jerusalem Post, Aug 19, 2008, p18
- ^ Lane, Kasian, Owens & Marsh, "Binaural Auditory Beats Affect Vigilance Performance and Mood", Physiology & Behavior, 1998, 63, No. 2, p249–252
- ^ Padmanabhan, Hildreth & Laws, "A prospective, randomised, controlled study examining binaural beat audio and pre-operative anxiety in patients undergoing general anaesthesia for day case surgery", Anaesthesia, 2005, 60 p874–877
- ^ Lewis, Osborn & Roth, "The Effect of Hemispheric Synchronization on Intraoperative Analgesia", Anesthesia & Analgesia, February 2004, 98 no. 2 p533-536
- ^ Johnson & Persinger, "The Sensed Presence may be Facilitated by Interhemispheric Intercalation", Perceptual and Motor Skills, 1994, 79, p351-354
- ^ "Researcher Dispels Notion Music Can Get Kids High", NPR, 14 July 2010
- ^ "Turn on, tune in and get high on 'audio drugs'?", Seattle Times, 24 Jun 2010