Key Points:
- Qualcomm introduces S3 Gen 3 and S5 Gen 3 sound platforms to improve audio performance in mid-tier and high-tier mobile devices.
- S3 Gen 3 emphasizes low power consumption and customization; Manufacturers can access the Qualcomm Extension Program to develop custom plugins.
- S5 Gen 3 supports Snapdragon Sound and features on-device AI and fourth-generation Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology.
- Vivo has emerged as the first manufacturer to debut a device equipped with the S3 Gen 3 sound platform, and further releases are anticipated.
Qualcomm has announced the launch of its latest sound platforms, the S3 Gen 3 and S5 Gen 3, targeting improved audio performance in mid-tier and high-tier mobile devices, respectively.
Building upon the success of the S3 Gen 2 and S5 Gen 2 released in 2022, which introduced features like spatial audio and Qualcomm’s third-generation Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology, the new S3 Gen 3 series emphasizes low power consumption and customization. Designed for a range of devices, including true wireless earbuds, stereo headphones, and speakers, the S3 Gen 3 aims to enable prolonged usage of earbuds with its low power consumption capabilities.
Manufacturers utilizing the S3 Gen 3 series gain access to the Qualcomm Voice and Music Extension Program, allowing them to develop custom plugins tailored to their specific requirements, with over 50 members, including industry leaders like Dirac and Dolby.
However, not all S3 Gen 3 models will support Snapdragon Sound, Qualcomm’s audio technology to deliver high-quality audio on connected devices. In contrast, all variants of the S5 Gen 3, targeting premium devices, boast support for Snapdragon Sound and are suitable for wireless audio devices such as earbuds, headsets, and speakers. Leveraging Qualcomm’s highest-end audio technology, the S7 sound platform, the S5 Gen 3 incorporates on-device AI for audio enhancement while minimizing battery consumption.
The S5 Gen 3 features Qualcomm’s fourth-generation ANC technology, dynamically adjusting audio to mitigate external noises and compensating for changes caused by loosely fitting earbuds. It offers significantly enhanced compute power and on-device AI compared to its predecessor, with 5MB of memory and Bluetooth 5.4 connectivity.
Vivo has emerged as the first manufacturer to debut a device equipped with the S3 Gen 3 sound platform, and further releases are anticipated. As Qualcomm continues to roll out its latest sound chips in collaboration with device manufacturers, consumers can expect an elevated audio experience across various mobile devices.
