Kurt Thomas Soto

This inventor holds 43 USPTO granted patents and 11 published patent applications, plus 1 CIPO patent and 6 EPO patents, primarily in Voice Detection Optimization. Top assignee: Sonos, Inc.. Active years: 2020-2026.

USPTO Granted Patents = 43 (Patent Applications = 11)

% Patents Active = 95.3

CIPO Patents = 1 (Patent Applications = 2)

EPO Patents = 6 (Patent Applications = 7)

Average Co-Inventor Count = 2.2

ph-index = 12

Forward Citations = 1,091(Granted Patents)

Company Filing History:

43 out of 2,129

Sonos, Inc.

patents

Years Active: 2020-2026

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Areas of Expertise:

Wake-Word Engines

Network Microphone Devices

Audio System Parameters

Voice Assistant Service

Device Localization

Noise Classification

Playback Device Management

Environmental Characteristics

Sound Metadata

Command Keyword Eventing

Labeled Data Generation

Microphone Performance

43 patents (USPTO):Sort by Forward CitationsExplore Patents

1. 12730606 - Noise classification for event detection (2026-09-08),

2. 12677029 - Techniques for personalization model transfer (2026-07-07),

3. 12640148 - Network microphone device with command keyword conditioning (2026-05-26),

4. 12579978 - Networked devices, systems, and methods for intelligently deactivating wake-word engines (2026-03-17),

5. 12579183 - Systems and methods for maintaining distributed media content history and preferences (2026-03-17),

6. 12513479 - Determining and adapting to changes in microphone performance of playback devices (2025-12-30),

7. 12461708 - Modifying audio system parameters based on environmental characteristics (2025-11-04),

8. 12382245 - Systems and methods for playback device management (2025-08-05),

9. 12308018 - Systems and methods for generating labeled data to facilitate configuration of network microphone devices (2025-05-20),

10. 12230291 - Voice detection optimization using sound metadata (2025-02-18),

11. 12213022 - Systems and methods for device localization (2025-01-28),

12. 12165651 - Voice detection optimization based on selected voice assistant service (2024-12-10),

13. 12093608 - Noise classification for event detection (2024-09-17),

14. 12063486 - Optimization of network microphone devices using noise classification (2024-08-13),

15. 11915687 - Systems and methods for generating labeled data to facilitate configuration of network microphone devices (2024-02-27),

Title: Innovations and Contributions of Kurt Thomas Soto

Introduction

Kurt Thomas Soto, based in Ventura, California, is a prolific inventor with an impressive portfolio of 34 patents. His contributions to technology are notable for their focus on optimizing communication and device localization, showcasing a strong command of engineering principles and innovative thinking.

Latest Patents

Kurt's latest patents reflect significant advancements in audio detection and device localization technologies. One of his prominent inventions is titled "Voice Detection Optimization Using Sound Metadata." This patent outlines systems and methods for enhancing voice detection through a network microphone device. It describes a mechanism where individual microphones detect sound, analyze it to catch trigger events, and send metadata to network devices to adjust performance parameters accordingly.

Another noteworthy patent is focused on "Systems and Methods for Device Localization." This invention emphasizes locating portable devices within a network by measuring signal characteristics between reference devices and the target device. By normalizing these measurements, the method provides estimations of the device's likely location, enhancing user experience and functionality.

Career Highlights

Kurt Thomas Soto is currently associated with Sonos, Inc., where his expertise contributes to the development of cutting-edge audio and communication technology. His innovative spirit and problem-solving skills have positioned him as a vital asset to his team, allowing for the enhancement of products that prioritize user interaction and engagement.

Collaborations

During his career, Kurt has collaborated with talented individuals like Connor Kristopher Smith and Charles Conor Sleith. These partnerships enrich his work environment at Sonos, Inc., fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, essential for driving technological advancements in their field.

Conclusion

Kurt Thomas Soto exemplifies the essence of innovation in the realm of audio technology and device localization. His extensive patent portfolio, coupled with his collaborative efforts at Sonos, Inc., highlights his commitment to creating efficient and user-friendly solutions. The continuous evolution of his work promises to influence future developments in technology, benefiting industries and consumers alike.