Validación del uso de teléfonos inteligentes para medición de ruido ambiental urbano

This study evaluates the reliability of using smartphones for monitoring environmental urban noise as a low-cost alternative to conventional monitoring instruments. A noise evaluation tool was designed using KoBoToolbox enabling the simultaneous recording of sound measurements with a professional sound level meter and two smartphone apps: Sound Meter X Standard on iOS, and Sound Meter Pro on Android. The measurements were compared with the one-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) method. Sampling was carried out in “El Paraíso” park in Cuenca, by following the Ecuadorian legislation. Results suggest that Android app shows less measurement variation compared to the iOS platform. Results also showed a significant relation between high noise levels and noise pollution hotspots caused by traffic. Indeed, this research establishes a background for future use in noise level community monitoring programs under a citizen science focus, while also complements current national laws and regulations.