HEAD acoustics Announces coreIP-Alexa Extension Module for Voice Quality Measurements of Alexa Built-In Devices

HEAD acoustics announced availability of its labCORE extension module coreIP-Alexa, specifically created for measurement and validation of the user experience using voice on Alexa-built-in devices. This new labCORE module allows developers and manufacturers to assess the numerous services that Amazon Alexa enables on Alexa-built-in devices, including evaluation of qualified devices that offer Alexa-to-Alexa calls to other Alexa users.

NXP expanded its already broad portfolio of voice enablement solutions with the acquisition of Retune DSP, the Denmark-based provider of Digital Signal Processing (DSP) software and algorithms for voice control and communication applications. Announced in July and now confirmed, the acquisition of Retune DSP adds three powerful voice DSP software products that will merge with NXP’s voice solutions. The combination with NXP’s broad customer base, global footprint and scale, promises to expand breakthrough voice solutions through combined R&D, sales force and customer support teams.

Sensory announced the integration of its TrulyNatural embedded speech recognition software within the latest public beta release of Zoom Rooms for Android, iOS, MacOS and Windows. With this integration, voice commands are now supported on all Zoom Rooms platforms, which now offer the convenience of voice control while maintaining privacy. With this update, Zoom-native voice commands support expanded functionality, all processed locally, never in the cloud.

audioXpress February 2021 explains why Microphones have gained Essential Status, and how microphones have a foundational contribution to voice front-ends. Erica Yorga details how Thousands of Virtual Microphones can solve audio conferencing challenges, and Mike Meechan explains how to design high-performance microphone preamplifiers. Brent Butterworth reviews the Widex Moment mRIC RD hearing aids to understand the differences and similarities in the critical sound experience. Michael Steffes explains how to increase the output current for an audio op-amp, and Andrew C. Russell details the X-Altra, a high-performance MC/MM phono equalizer DIY project. Now available in print and digital.

Leading embedded wireless voice/AI solutions provider Libre Wireless Technologies announced the launch of new voice enabled communications products with Gigaset, Europe’s largest Telco producer and top five in the world. These audio products are industry leading smart communications products featuring Alexa Voice Assistant Built-In that is seamlessly integrated with advanced voice calling features on traditional DECT and PSTN phone systems, combining technology from Libre and DSP Group.

LG Electronics USA has announced its new AI Smart Display with Google Assistant combined with a Meridian Audio designed sound system to create a powerful smart home device. Following the recent trend of combining the features of a voice-assisted speaker with a touch screen for both content viewing, communication and interactions, the LG XBOOM AI ThinQ model WK9 is available now at U.S. retailers at a suggested price of $299 with special Black Friday pricing of $199 currently in effect.