As I am always on the lookout for news of potential technologies that enhance the sensorium, I was gratified of some recent work at the Royal College of Art in London. First was the gratifying surprise that such work has been undertaken outside of the expected environment: laboratories run under Big Science grants or via corporate investment. Not to decry these sources, but a greater diversity of institutional sources for these projects should lead to more competition and innovation. Good to see the arts involved.
The art students developed masks which could provide an ability to single out ambient sounds (such as a single performer in an orchestra) using a directional microphone or utilising video to enhance sight. Early but important steps!