Qorvo Accelerates UWB Adoption with Fully Integrated Module and Certification for Apple U1 Interoperability

July 26 2022, 01:10
Qorvo announced that it completed MFi certification of interoperability for its Ultra-Wideband (UWB) solutions with the Apple U1 chip used in supported iPhone and Apple Watch models. Qorvo UWB solutions comply with the Nearby Interaction accessory protocol and allow developers to easily design new commercial UWB-enabled accessories. The company also announced a fully integrated Ultra-Wideband (UWB) module that enables robust UWB implementation in automation, safety, and industrial systems.
 

Qorvo is a leading provider of RF solutions for connected products, and serves diverse global markets, including advanced wireless devices, wired and wireless networks and defense radar and communications. The company also leverages its technology in 5G networks, cloud computing, and emerging applications interconnecting people, places and things. 

Ultra-wideband (UWB) is a radio technology based on the IEEE 802.15.4a and 802.15.4z standards that can enable a more precise measure of the Time of Flight of the radio signal, leading to centimeter accuracy distance/location measurement. In addition to this unique capability, UWB offers data communication capability up to 27 Mbps, while using extremely little energy – enabling coin cell operation for years without needing to be recharged or replaced. By combining accurate location and communication, UWB also offers a new way of securely communicating over wireless, opening the door to new forms of secure transactions.
Qorvo offers a range of ultra-wideband (UWB) products available as ICs or modules (with or without a microcontroller), and also has development kits that allow developers to explore the possibilities with the technology.

Qorvo completed MFi certification of interoperability for its Ultra-Wideband (UWB) solutions with U1-enabled iPhone models (iPhone 11 onwards) and Apple Watch Series 6 and 7. This includes Qorvo's DW3110, an integrated Impulse Radio UWB wireless transceiver with Nearby Interaction firmware.

Qorvo UWB solutions comply with the Nearby Interaction accessory protocol and allow developers to easily design new commercial UWB-enabled accessories that leverage the advanced location, direction and distance capabilities of U1-equipped iPhone or Apple Watch models.

New background interaction functionality announced in iOS 16 enables applications to trigger real-time events, such as turning on lights or playing music, hands-free, even if the user isn't actively using the application at the time. This will enable developers to create innovative new products and accessories that interact seamlessly with their environment, leveraging the full power and precision of UWB technology provided by Qorvo.

"Our extensive portfolio of UWB chips, modules and software will help accelerate the ecosystem of connected UWB products and accessories. Qorvo is a vital part of making a truly seamless user experience reality, where innovative technologies anticipate our needs and enrich our lives," says Eric Creviston, president of Qorvo Mobile Products.

Based on the same certified chip, Qorvo also introduced the DWM3001C module, designed to accelerate applications such as tags, access control, asset tracking and secure bubble environments. This certified integrated modem solution simplifies UWB implementation in a broad range of systems using a standard low-power MCU.

Qorvo's UWB solutions are compliant with the IEEE 802.15.4z standard and are developed in accordance with the FiRa Consortium PHY - MAC specification and Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) specifications. As a member of FiRa and CCC, Qorvo is committed to ensuring device interoperability and growing the UWB ecosystem. As Ciaran Connell, general manager of Qorvo's UWB team explains, "The DWM3001C provides a seamless solution to implement FiRa compliant applications for a wide variety of industrial uses, as well as faster time to market for customers who want to avoid costly RF development."

Qorvo's portfolio of available modules and development kits based on DW3110 allow developers to immediately start the design of their UWB-enabled products in automotive, and consumer applications. The DWM3001C module is available now.
www.qorvo.com
 
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About Joao Martins
Since 2013, Joao Martins leads audioXpress as editor-in-chief of the US-based magazine and website, the leading audio electronics, audio product development and design publication, working also as international editor for Voice Coil, the leading periodical for... Read more

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