s-t-f-u.com/speakerphone
Everyone on this train can hear your video
The carriage is now watching your videos. None of us chose this.
Sound is the one thing people can't opt out of. They can look away from your screen. They cannot look away from your speaker.
This is a solved problem. It was solved by headphones, decades ago, and they cost less than the thing you're holding.
Why it lands badly
Nobody can escape it
In a shared space, sound is the only medium with no off switch for everyone else.
It broadcasts your life
Your speakerphone call includes your bank, your family, and your medical appointment. We heard all of it.
Phone speakers are bad
You're not even enjoying it properly. It sounds like a wasp in a tin.
Do this instead
Headphones
Any pair. Wired ones cost less than a coffee.
Hold it to your ear
The original design. Still works.
Subtitles exist
Every major app has them now. Silent scrolling is a complete experience.
When it's completely fine
You're alone. You're outdoors with space around you. It's an accessibility need — some people genuinely can't use headphones or need the sound. It's a real emergency and you need both hands.
Questions people ask
- What about my kid's videos on a long journey?
- Headphones for kids exist and are volume-limited. Everyone will love you.
- How do I ask someone to stop?
- Send them this. That's the whole point of it.