STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader has tied up with Soundchip SA, Swiss based innovator in audio systems technology and originator of the High Definition Personal Audio HD-PA) Reference to launch technologies and components for the smart audio accessory an exciting new concept in personal listening.

Worn like a pair of In-Ear Monitors (IEMs), the smart audio accessory features new means of controlling and personalizing the sound experience. Designed to be worn at all times, the smart audio accessory supports all use modes, including music, telephony and direct conversation, without requiring any reconfiguration of the apparatus in the ear. Furthermore, the smart audio accessory maintains a faithful reproduction of sound while providing a robust shield against unwanted background noise.

The smart audio accessory employs Soundchip’s patented sound processing technologies to provide a natural and comfortable sound experience when speaking, even with the accessory in place and physically sealing the ear. By electro acoustically “opening” this seal, the smart audio accessory is able to pass ambient sound directly to the wearer, providing an ability to listen and converse naturally with the accessory still in place.

The smart audio accessory provides the ability to conveniently switch between differentaudio sources voice, music or ambient sound by simply pressing a button, making a pre-defined gesture or issuing a voice command. Various options are supported, including those that leverage ST’s recognized leadership in MEMS motion sensors.

In addition, by connecting the smart audio accessory to a DSP or DSP capable controller (such as the STM32 F4), and a smartphone or tablet computer, the sound experience can be further enhanced by taking advantage of custom made apps, which individually process and mix sound sources to deliver innovative new features, such as augmented reality.

Comprising Soundchip’s patented HD-PA^® Ready Electronic and Acoustic platforms combined with STMicroelectronics’ best in class HD-PA^® Ready MEMS microphones, the smart audio accessory represents an exciting fusion of electronics, MEMS sensing technology and acoustics and provides a compelling example of the future of personal audio.

Mark Donaldson, Soundchip CEO, said, “The smart audio accessory combines the very best of Soundchip’s unique audio system technology for sound at the ear. We believe that the smart audio accessory represents a game changing solution that offers the users of smartphones, tablet computers and gaming devices a level of sound experience only dreamed of until now.”