Qualcomm Technologies International has launched Qualcomm adaptive active noise cancellation (ANC) that is designed to deliver improved user experience for earbuds with integrated ANC.

The technology will also enhance user comfort and provide consistent sound quality for true wireless earbuds by adapting its performance to meet variations in how an earbud fits in a user’s ear, and adapt in real-time to changes in fit as the earbuds are in use.

“Our 2020 State of Play report found that consumer demand for active noise cancellation has increased year on year and it is now the fourth most wanted feature for earbuds. This makes it a key differentiator for manufacturers,” said James Chapman, vice president and general manager, Voice, Music & Wearables, Qualcomm Technologies, International.

In the 2020 State of Play report, in-ear comfort for true wireless earbuds is a key purchase criterion for 53 percent of consumers surveyed.

Better fit

Qualcomm Adaptive ANC reduces the dependency on forming a tight seal so a user doesn’t need to push or twist the earbud into the ear. Variation in fit can also occur depending on user activity, for example as a user is running, walking, or even moving their head.

The technology dynamically adapts performance in real-time according to the tightness of fit and the level of leak-through no matter how or where the earbuds are being used.

It operates across virtually all modes and works concurrently as a user transitions from one mode to another. For example, the technology allows a user to switch from taking a call, to listening to music, to using a digital assistant to asking a question – all with no interruption to the ANC.

Adapts to environment

Qualcomm Adaptive ANC is designed to automatically adjust to environmental conditions — ramping up and down the ANC strength accordingly.

It can be used as Qualcomm Reference Design solution to help those OEMs who want to develop their product faster. Customers can also customise the solution to provide a unique Qualcomm Adaptive ANC experience.

Qualcomm Adaptive ANC is now available on the Qualcomm QCC514x bluetooth audio.