Qualcomm Will Use Wi-Fi for Next-Gen Smart Tech Earbuds
In the world of smart tech, the bar is continually raised, with each flagship pair of headphones and earbuds pushing the boundaries of quality and convenience. However, Qualcomm, a pioneer in the industry, is now unveiling an innovation that promises to redefine the way we experience wireless audio. With the launch of their next-generation Snapdragon Sound platform, the company is incorporating Wi-Fi alongside Bluetooth. Thus, it aims to break free from the constraints we’ve long associated with wireless audio.
The Snapdragon Sound Breakthrough
For quite some time, wireless audio enthusiasts have been eager to overcome the limitations of Bluetooth. Qualcomm is offering a solution that could make that a reality. With their S7 and S7 Pro platforms, third-party manufacturers are gearing up to revolutionize earbuds, headphones, and speakers in the coming year. Renowned brands such as Audio-Technica, Bose, Jabra, LG, and others are already on board, showing that this innovation will make waves across the industry.
Powerful ANC and Intelligent Adaptation
The new S7 and S7 Pro chips bring significant improvements in computing power, memory, and AI capabilities. They offer advanced noise cancellation, intelligently adapting to allow essential external sounds through when necessary. For instance, while riding a bike and listening to an audiobook, the earbuds will seamlessly engage in transparency mode as a truck passes by, ensuring you remain aware of your surroundings without disrupting your entertainment.
The Thrill of Micro-Power Wi-Fi
The real excitement lies in the micro-power Wi-Fi support integrated into the S7 Pro. Qualcomm’s Dino Bekis highlights the ability to deliver 192kHz lossless audio over Wi-Fi without draining the tiny batteries in earbuds. Qualcomm’s Expanded Personal Area Network (XPAN) technology makes this achievement possible. This development opens up the door to high-quality audio experiences that were previously unattainable through Bluetooth.
Seamless Handoff and Extended Range
With the S7 Pro, Qualcomm is also focusing on the freedom and convenience of audio consumption. Users can seamlessly transition from a direct Bluetooth connection to Wi-Fi, even when moving away from their phone, and maintain audio playback across different access points. This expanded operating distance extends to phone calls as well, ensuring uninterrupted conversations.
Prerequisites and Challenges Ahead
For these innovations to work seamlessly, you’ll need a phone powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. However, it’s worth noting that we may not see audio products featuring the S7 or S7 Pro for a few more months; whether this Wi-Fi and Bluetooth integration in real-world scenarios will be practical remains to be seen.
Qualcomm Earbuds: Effortless Wi-Fi Setup
As for concerns about Wi-Fi credentials, Qualcomm has it covered. When pairing your devices, the exchange of Wi-Fi credentials is automatic. A simple click on the screen and your earbuds will have the credentials needed to stay connected to your network, providing hassle-free Wi-Fi usage.
Apple’s Position in the Game
While Qualcomm is paving the way for this groundbreaking technology, Apple is yet to join the Snapdragon Sound revolution. Despite their own advances in lossless audio, Apple is currently following its path. However, Qualcomm remains open to collaboration and welcomes Apple to explore the possibilities of this innovation.
Overall, Qualcomm’s move to incorporate Wi-Fi into the world of wireless audio represents a significant step towards improving audio quality, range, and convenience in the realm of smart tech. While the company hasn’t tested the full potential of this technology in the market yet, it’s an exciting development that promises to elevate the way we experience sound in our everyday lives.
When it comes to tech sales, trade tech, and tech trade, Qualcomm’s innovation seems poised to disrupt the market and set new standards for wireless audio. With their strong tech background, Qualcomm is taking a bold step into the future.
