Qualcomm has announced the launch of an initiative to improve audio quality by promising an optimised chain of audio innovations and software across devices including smartphones, wireless earbuds and headsets. The initiative, dubbed ‘Snapdragon Sound’, supports up to 24-bit 96kHz HD audio, ultra-low latency, improved pairing and crystal-clear voice quality, said the chipmaker, which will be adding the Snapdragon Sound label on boxes of optimised devices later this year.
In addition to supporting Bluetooth latencies as low as 89 milliseconds for more immersive gaming and a better video watching experience, Qualcomm said Snapdragon Sound incorporates the Aqstic DAC, designed to support formats of up to 384kHz 32-bit PCM and DSD with ultra-low THD+N.
Consumers will be able to look for the Snapdragon Sound badge on optimised devices to readily identify phones, earbuds and headphones and, in time, other devices like PCs, watches and XR glasses designed to deliver the full benefit of the advanced audio features.
Xiaomi and Audio-Technica have already signed up to the initiative for their latest phones and earbuds, with the company also teaming up with Amazon Music HD for the launch. A Snapdragon Sound playlist has been added to the Amazon Music HD platform to showcase the superior sound quality that Snapdragon Sound-optimised devices can achieve, said Qualcomm.
