#USA #Rockville #Bluetooth Technology #Actions Technology #Ceva Inc.

Ceva and Actions Technology: A New Era in Wireless Audio

In an exciting advancement for wireless audio technology, Ceva, Inc. and Actions Technology Co., Ltd. have announced their collaboration on the ATS296X-series Bluetooth audio chips. This series leverages Ceva's Bluetooth High Data Throughput (HDT) platform, marking a milestone in their ongoing partnership that has already resulted in the production of over 100 million wireless audio systems-on-chip (SoCs).

The introduction of the ATS296X-series signifies one of the industry's first implementations of Bluetooth HDT technology, greatly enhancing performance in wireless audio applications. By increasing data transfer speeds from 2 Mbps in earlier Bluetooth versions to approximately 7.5 Mbps, HDT facilitates a range of advanced audio experiences. Features supported by this new technology include lossless multi-channel audio, ultra-low latency for gaming audio, rapid file transfers, and accelerated over-the-air software updates.

This upgrade opens up possibilities for multichannel audio systems, something previous Bluetooth generations struggled to support due to bandwidth limitations. With HDT, consumers can expect to see enhanced soundbar systems featuring wireless subwoofers and satellite speakers that deliver unparalleled audio quality.

The collaboration between Actions Technology and Ceva has been built over many years, during which Actions has consistently utilized Ceva's Audio DSP (Digital Signal Processing) IP for its audio processing needs. This partnership has not only enabled Actions to produce over 100 million SoCs integrating Ceva’s wireless technologies but also simplifies customers' transition to the latest Bluetooth HDT capability.

According to Tal Shalev, Vice President and General Manager at Ceva, the progression from specification to commercial product is critical for the Bluetooth HDT ecosystem. He emphasized that Bluetooth HDT signifies a substantial evolution in wireless audio capabilities, something that previous generations couldn't achieve.

Echoing this sentiment, Jeffers Gong, General Manager of Actions Technology's Portable Audio Business Unit, articulated that their partnership enables swift and confident market introduction of advanced wireless technologies. The ATS296X-series benefits from Actions' proprietary dual-RF design, which addresses multiple use cases and operational scenarios, allowing for improved sound experiences across various applications.

Ceva’s Bluetooth HDT platform consists of a comprehensive portfolio of Bluetooth IP, including controller, modem, RF, and software protocol stack IP. Even before the Bluetooth Core Specification's official ratification, Ceva has successfully participated in multiple interoperability testing events to ensure that HDT functionalities are compatible with other leading chipset providers. This proactive approach not only ensures ecosystem interoperability but also contributes significantly to the maturation of the specification.

The ATS296X-series is currently in the interoperability testing phase, a critical step before commercial distribution. Ceva's wireless connectivity solutions alongside their robust audio DSPs and sensing technologies align with their vision of integrating AI capabilities into everyday devices. This aligns with broader trends across industries aiming to combine connectivity with intelligence.

Actions Technology, known for its focus on low-power AIoT systems-on-chips, thrives on delivering integrated solutions for smart audio, wearables, and interactive AI-based devices. Their products are utilized in a variety of applications, such as Bluetooth speakers, wireless mics, and gaming headsets, showcasing the growing merger of advanced audio processing with wireless communication technologies.

In summary, the introduction of the ATS296X-series not only encapsulates the state-of-the-art developments in wireless audio but also signifies a continuing journey toward higher fidelity and more immersive audio experiences. With Ceva and Actions Technology at the helm, the future of audio technology looks promising, characterized by enhanced performance, versatility, and innovative design that meets consumers' evolving needs.

For more insights on Ceva’s Bluetooth platform and Actions Technology’s initiatives, visit their respective websites.