In-ear-monitor can switch the i/p audio
source as per user control
STMicroelectronics and Soundchip SA have introduced technologies
and components for the smart audio accessor.
Its something called In-Ear Monitors (IEMs) worn at all
times supports all use modes, including music, telephony
and direct conversation, without requiring any reconfiguration
of the apparatus in the ear. It s designed to deliver good
quality sound while shielding against unwanted background
noise.
The smart audio accessory employs Soundchip's patented
sound-processing technologies to provide a natural and comfortable
sound experience when speaking, even with the accessory
in place and physically sealing the ear. By electro-acoustically
"opening" this seal, the smart audio accessory
is able to pass ambient sound directly to the wearer, providing
an ability to listen and converse naturally with the accessory
still in place.
The smart audio accessory provides the ability to conveniently
switch between different audio sources - voice, music or
ambient sound - by simply pressing a button, making a pre-defined
gesture or issuing a voice command. Various options are
supported, including those that leverage ST's recognized
leadership in MEMS motion sensors.
In addition, by connecting the smart audio accessory to
a DSP or DSP-capable controller (such as the STM32 F4),
and a smartphone or tablet computer, the sound experience
can be further enhanced by taking advantage of custom-made
apps, which individually process and mix sound sources to
deliver innovative new features, such as augmented reality.
Mark Donaldson, Soundchip CEO, said, "The smart audio
accessory combines the very best of Soundchip's unique audio-system
technology for sound at the ear. We believe that the smart
audio accessory represents a game changing solution that
offers the users of smartphones, tablet computers and gaming
devices a level of sound experience only dreamed of until
now."
"As a global leader in the design and high-volume
manufacturing of integrated circuits and MEMS, ST's collaboration
with Soundchip aims to provide customers with the solutions
they need to pioneer the audio products of the future,"
said Andrea Onetti, Audio and Sound Business Unit Leader
at STMicroelectronics. "The smart audio accessory represents
an exciting step forward made possible by the uncompromised
quality and performance of our MEMS microphones combined
with our expertise and experience in audio silicon design."
Soundchip and ST will be presenting examples of the smart
audio accessory concept to customers throughout June.
Author: Srinivasa Reddy N
