Volume Shield accuracy and privacy

Does Volume Shield measure dB at my ear?

Volume Shield provides estimates for personal awareness. It does not measure sound pressure at your ear, certify a headphone, or guarantee a safe listening level.

It analyzes Mac audio and output information with a profile or category basis. A catalog match can establish identity while the acoustic profile remains incomplete. The app should not imply measured precision when only a category estimate is available.

What affects an estimated headphone level?

Source content, volume position, output behavior, connection, listening mode, firmware and headphone fit can affect the relationship between digital audio and acoustic output. An incomplete or ambiguous identity should remain visible rather than being filled with a guessed generation.

Does the app record my microphone or save audio?

No microphone recording is needed. Audio is analyzed locally, not saved as recordings or uploaded for cloud processing. Listening history stays on your Mac. The Screen & System Audio Recording permission allows the system-audio analysis the app relies on.

Why does activation use the network?

License activation and verification contact the licensing service. That network operation is separate from local audio analysis. You can read the existing privacy policy and setup guide for the published handling details.

Can a recognized headphone always be reduced automatically?

No. Automatic Volume Reduction requires a supported adjustable headphone output. It lowers sustained high estimated output gradually, never raises volume and can be undone. A catalog entry is not an all-device control guarantee.

Frequently asked questions