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Qualcomm Makes It Easier for Manufacturers to Develop Wireless Earbuds and Hearables Featuring Amazon Alexa

Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd, a subsidiary of Qualcomm Incorporated (NASDAQ: QCOM), today announced the industry’s first qualified end-to-end Bluetooth Smart Headset reference design featuring push-button activation support for Alexa for users of Android phones with the Alexa app. Based on Qualcomm Technologies International’s most advanced family of Bluetooth audio chips (QCC5100-series), the reference design includes virtually all the key hardware and software required for manufacturers to help them develop advanced Bluetooth headsets more efficiently and cost-effectively. In addition to support for Alexa, the solution also supports ultra-low power consumption for extended playback time and battery life, as well as Qualcomm® cVc™ noise reduction technology designed for superior audio and voice service capabilities. Manufacturers can also add support for active noise cancellation and Qualcomm® aptX™ HD high-resolution wireless audio.

The Qualcomm® Smart Headset Development Kit is the first Bluetooth Smart Headset reference design built with support for the Alexa Mobile Accessory Kit, a protocol that runs over Bluetooth and is designed to allow users to easily connect Bluetooth-enabled audio devices with Alexa via the Alexa app. This means device makers no longer need to oversee the bulk of coding for their Alexa integration or to add any communication hardware beyond Bluetooth, which helps to reduce cost and accelerates development time.

“Our consumer research shows that four out of five consumers have embraced voice services, but the vast majority are also looking for superb audio quality. The Qualcomm Smart Headset reference design brings this and more together, helping consumers to take advantage of Alexa on-the-go, without the need to interact with their phone,” said Anthony Murray, senior vice president and general manager, voice & music, Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd. “With this solution, we expect to support companies big and small to develop innovative and exciting headsets covering a range of styles featuring Alexa.”