Qualcomm Introduces aptX Lossless Audio Solution Over Bluetooth

Reacting to the fact that streaming music services have started to offer lossless music streaming options, Qualcomm has now extended its aptX Adaptive set of technologies - supported by its latest Snapdragon Sound processors - to also include a CD-quality lossless option over Bluetooth. The new aptX Lossless technology expands options available for Bluetooth wireless audio, combining codec, wireless link and RF optimizations.

Smaller, lighter, and better sounding Class-D audio systems with GaN (gallium nitride) were one of the technology trends in 2020. GaN Systems predicts that by the end of 2021 a significant number of the world’s noteworthy brands in the audio market will be offering GaN-based Class-D audio solutions. In this article , Paul Wiener (GaN Systems) explains why the technology benefits from three important trends, now influencing the rise of the predominance of audio in both consumer experiences and technology design.

IFA 2020, in Berlin, Germany, was "the first major global fair for consumer and home electronics" to physically take place since the pandemic. This limited push to promote a trade show again, lead some major consumer electronics companies and brands to converge their announcements in the week from September 1-5, with showcases streamed to the world live from the Berlin exhibition grounds. Some announcements were relevant to the audio industry and included the Qualcomm press conference, which used the opportunity to launch its latest Adaptive ANC platform, an important step towards smart true wireless earbuds.

Qualcomm has released its annual The State of Play 2018 report, with valuable insights on the fast-moving world of personal and home audio technology - including expectations and product purchase drivers for American, British and Chinese consumers. The new report shows, for the second year in a row, that sound quality is by far the highest ranked buying consideration when choosing wireless headphones or speakers. More than half of participants surveyed (53%) said they are planning to purchase completely wire-free earbuds.

Qualcomm released its 2017 State of Play report. The report based on a survey of 4,000 adult smartphone users in the US and UK conducted by OnePoll, Ltd., helps identify current consumer attitudes and purchase drivers for wireless headphones and speakers. This annual report highlights consumer demand for convenience and quality from personal audio devices.

CSR commissioned a survey to understand the attitudes, habits and trends set to influence the design of home audio systems in the coming years. Audio buyers are becoming increasingly selective about what they want from their audio equipment but are manufacturers delivering on the needs of the market today and the wants of the future?