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Qualcomm’s latest sound platform is on the edge of a groundbreaking shift in how we experience Bluetooth headphones and earbuds. For too long, the hurdle of delivering lossless audio and overcoming the limited range of Bluetooth technology has held back even the most advanced audio devices. Enter Qualcomm’s S7 Pro chip, which introduces micro-power Wi-Fi support poised to transition your audio experience from Bluetooth to Wi-Fi. This technology will allow users to walk away from their phones while still enjoying their audio.
According to Dino Bekis, Qualcomm’s VP of mixed-signal solutions, “The S7 Pro chip will help your device utilize the best of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, delivering groundbreaking user experiences” via The Verge. Qualcomm has announced the release of the S7 and S7 Pro chips. The new chips are expected to be integrated into devices in early 2024. These chips boast improvements in performance, on-device AI capabilities, enhanced active noise cancellation (ANC), and voice recognition features.
The standout feature of this release is undoubtedly the new micro-power Wi-Fi capabilities of the S7 Pro
Bekis explains, “The S7 Pro Platform, with our micro-power Wi-Fi and revolutionary Qualcomm® XPAN technology, transforms the sound experience by enabling whole-home and building audio coverage, supporting up to 192kHz multi-channel lossless music streaming, and enhancing multi-channel spatial audio for gaming.”
Imagine your earbuds seamlessly connecting to access points as you stroll through your campus or office building. This is a level of convenience and connectivity not currently offered by any other technology. However, the S7 and S7 Pro chips will not be available until 2024. Your phone must also be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip for this technology to work. Additionally, your Wi-Fi network needs to support XPAN, Qualcomm’s Expanded Personal Area Network.
As Bekis explains, the setup process for this new technology is straightforward. “When the phone detects that both ends support XPAN, it will exchange your Wi-Fi credentials with a simple prompt and a single click on the screen. From that point on, your earbuds will know the credentials for using your network, ensuring connectivity wherever you have Wi-Fi in your home.”
If you’re an audio purist seeking lossless sound and an immersive experience, then this technology is for you. Qualcomm’s S7 Pro chip has the potential to transform how you use wireless audio. It is ideal for music enthusiasts, gamers, or anyone looking for connectivity in larger spaces.
The question remains: Is micro-powered Wi-Fi the long-awaited solution that will revolutionize the headphone and earbud industry? Only time will tell how this promising technology, which is fantastic in theory, translates to real-world performance.