Qualcomm introduces first Bluetooth smart headset reference design featuring push-button activation support for Alexa

Qualcomm Technologies has 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. It is based on Qualcomm’s 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. 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. It also lets manufacturers 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. 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.

The QCC5100-series SoC architecture is designed to deliver low-power consumption and optimized to ensure longer audio playback time for both voice calls and music streaming. A dedicated application processor sub-system, dual DSP architecture and next-generation audio development kit software provide a powerful foundation for the development of highly differentiated audio products.

The SoC family is also engineered to support concurrent software operation, meaning that users can transition smoothly between functions such as listening to music, making calls, running biometric sensors and using voice services. Qualcomm cVc noise reduction technology helps to deliver accurate speech recognition even in very challenging acoustic environments. The Qualcomm Smart Headset reference design with Alexa is available now and customers can use the reference design to help them evaluate building Alexa on-the-go experiences.

Anthony Murray, senior vice president, and general manager, voice & music, Qualcomm Technologies International, Ltd. said:

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. With this solution, we expect to support companies big and small to develop innovative and exciting headsets covering a range of styles featuring Alexa.

Priya Abani, Director of the Alexa Voice Service said:

Qualcomm Technologies International’s headset reference design provides manufacturers with a simple way to build rich, voice-forward experiences into hearable devices. We’re excited to have a solution that will help our customers to bring Alexa with them wherever they go.