Microchip introduces a new generation of dual-mode Bluetooth audio products

     Microchip Technology has announced the IS206X family of next-generation dual-mode Bluetooth audio products. The new product builds on Microchip's portfolio of highly integrated SoC(system-on-chip) devices and modules, the IS202X, with the addition of Bluetooth Low Power (BLE) capabilities. Designed specifically for speakers, headsets and gaming headsets, this flash-based platform offers plenty of flexibility and powerful design performance to help audio manufacturers easily integrate wireless connectivity in streaming music and voice command applications

     The new product includes a high-performance 32-bit digital signal processing (DSP) core that provides a framework for developing complex algorithms to enable advanced audio and speech processing capabilities. At the same time, 24-bit digital audio support creates a richer listening experience for consumers with high-resolution audio. A sound system consisting of multiple Bluetooth speakers benefits from the ultra-low latency of the audio stream, making the audio played by each speaker very synchronized. Applications such as professional headsets benefit from high definition speech thanks to powerful 16 kHz wideband voice as well as noise suppression and echo cancellation. In addition, the added firmware update feature keeps product software and configuration Settings constantly updated.

     The IS206X family of devices is Bluetooth v4.2 compliant and supports enhanced data rate (EDR) links and standard audio profiles. The combination of BLE and Advanced Audio Transfer Protocol (A2DP) enables smartphone-to-speaker communication through a single mobile app. The customized application provides innovative control features including pairing, remote control and real-time sound adjustment, which brings a rich user experience to the consumer.

     Steve Caldwell, Microchip's vice president of wireless Solutions, said: "Consumers expect not only high-quality sound, but also richer user experiences to simplify their communication and interaction with their audio devices. "Our IS206X series is designed with this demand in mind, combining the convenience of a portable wireless speaker with a highly simplified interface that allows consumers to easily connect and control multiple end devices."

     The IS206X series is available in a variety of different devices, allowing customers to customize their wireless needs. For designs that require a turnkey solution to get products to market quickly, customers can choose a level 1 or Level 2 device module configuration to take full advantage of the chip's powerful performance benefits. All modules are fully certified by the United States (FCC) and Canada (IC), the European Economic Area (CE), Korea (KCC), Taiwan (NCC) and Japan (MIC).