Microphone Mode
🎤 Microphone Mode: Speak Freely, Listen Deeply, Connect Safely
Microphone Mode is the heartbeat of live interaction across the Virtual Mall universe. Whether you're performing in Mic Mode, chatting in a lounge, or exploring zones with friends, this system empowers users to control their voice presence with clarity and respect.
🟢🟡🔴 The Three-Tier Communication System
| Mode | Color | Meaning | Behavior & Visuals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green | 🟢 Green | Talking / Active Voice Chat | Avatar glows subtly, mic icon pulses, voice is live to nearby users |
| Yellow | 🟡 Yellow | Listening / Passive Mode | Avatar has a soft halo, mic icon is static, can hear others but not speaking |
| Red | 🔴 Red | Silent / Do Not Disturb | Avatar dims slightly, mic icon crossed out, no voice input or output |
🔊 How It Works:
- Mic Icon Placement: Bottom-right corner of screen, always visible and color-coded
- Tap to Toggle: One tap cycles through Green → Yellow → Red
- Hover Tooltip: Displays current mode + quick description (“You’re listening” / “Mic off”)
- Zone-Specific Defaults:
- Mic Mode Stage: Defaults to Green
- Serenity Zones: Defaults to Red
- Lounges: Defaults to Yellow with option to switch
💬 Emotional & Social Intelligence:
- Consent-Driven Communication: Users choose when and how to engage—no forced voice chat
- Respectful Presence: Red mode signals boundaries; Yellow invites quiet companionship; Green opens dialogue
- Visual Feedback: Nearby avatars see your mic status subtly—no intrusive popups, just ambient cues
🌐 Integration Across the Mall:
- Mic Mode Stage: Live performances, open mic nights, spoken word, comedy, music
- Dance Zones: Real-time shoutouts, DJ interactions, crowd cheers
- Youth & Lounge Zones: Casual conversations, group chats, voice bubbles
- Business Promenade: Professional voice meetings, vendor Q&A, onboarding walkthroughs
- Welcome Center: Avatar assistants use Green mode to greet; users default to Yellow
🛡️ Safety & Moderation:
- Voice Filters: Optional voice modulation tools for privacy or creative expression
- Mute Nearby: Users can mute specific avatars or entire zones
- Report & Block Tools: Built into mic settings for quick access
- Age-Gated Zones: Kids Zone disables voice chat entirely; Youth Zone uses moderated Green/Yellow only
🌟 Why It Matters:
Microphone Mode isn’t just a feature—it’s a philosophy. It respects boundaries, encourages expression, and builds trust. In a world where digital spaces often feel noisy or impersonal, this system brings warmth, clarity, and choice to every conversation.