Frontier Introduces AURIA Bluetooth LE Audio, Auracast, and Wi-Fi Turnkey Platform

October 10 2023, 00:35
Following a presentation at IFA 2023 in Berlin, Frontier Smart Technologies is now launching its first Bluetooth Low Energy (LE) Audio and Wi-Fi module, ready for use in consumer products. The new AURIA board also features Auracast support, allowing Bluetooth audio synchronization across multiple speakers. The module has been designed and engineered for simple and straightforward integration into various audio products, and comes with a customizable SDK, rich I/O, comprehensive documentation and technical support.
 

With the ever-growing demand for seamless connectivity and audio everywhere, Frontier has harnessed its expertise to develop this nem solution for consumer audio. The AURIA module seamlessly integrates Bluetooth LE 5.3 Audio and Wi-Fi 6 capabilities into a turnkey platform, customizable software SDK, connected Internet Services and an iOS/Android app, providing a comprehensive solution for manufacturers of audio products. The module is suitable for various consumer audio application including connected speakers, soundbars, portable speakers and dongles to upgrade existing equipment.

Key features of the AURIA module includes dual connectivity with the latest Bluetooth LE Audio 5.3 and Wi-Fi 6 in one compact certified module, allowing users to effortlessly switch between the two sources for their audio streaming needs. The solution uses the new LC3 codec, mandatory for Bluetooth LE Audio, delivering low latency, efficient audio streaming, and reduced power consumption, ideal for mobile, battery powered designs.
Support for Bluetooth Auracast allows a point to multipoint wireless broadcast with an unlimited number of receivers. According to Frontier, this opens a range of use cases, starting with streaming to multiple speakers, creating a stereo wireless speaker pair, streaming from a soundbar to speakers or headphones, or streaming from a public display to listeners’ headphones.
 
Supporting the latest dual band Wi-Fi 6 technology, the AURIA module is ready to support Hi-Res audio to be streamed directly from the Internet, as support for AirPlay 2 with multiroom features. Preset buttons allow for audio to be streamed with a single touch, removing the need for mobile phones to provide connectivity and control.
 
The new Frontier module uses a dual core ARM A32 1.2Ghz processor that allows for many advanced features such as Spotify Connect, Apple AirPlay 2 support for 3D audio and advanced UI experiences to be added via software updates. The module also offers all the connectivity options including I2S digital audio output, DAC/ADC for analog audio I/O, MIPI / SPI display interface, plus IC2, SPI, UART, IR GPIO, and GPADC. The module also includes an integrated Wi-Fi and Bluetooth printed PIFA antenna. The fully certified turnkey solution also comes with Frontier's OKTIV iOS/Android control app, and Internet services including software updates.
 
"Our Bluetooth LE Audio and Wi-Fi Module, AURIA, represents a significant advancement in home audio technology. We believe it will empower manufacturers to create audio products that exceed the evolving needs of consumers. We are thrilled to be at the forefront of this audio revolution," says Prem Rajalingham, Managing Director at Frontier.
 

Frontier demoed the platform at the 2023 IFA show in Berlin (pictured above) and received strong interest across the consumer electronics industry. AURIA is the first available, ready to use platform that supports Bluetooth LE Audio 5.3, Auracast, Wi-Fi 6 and is sampling now. Initial products based on AURIA technology are expected to hit retail shelves already during the first half of 2024.

Frontier Smart Technologies is a pioneer in technologies for digital audio and the market leader in DAB/DAB+ radios and SmartRadio solutions. Powering over 50 million devices worldwide, Frontier provides a range of radio chips and modules – from turnkey entry-level solutions to sophisticated, highly configurable options – to leading consumer electronics brands. With its R&D centre in Cambridge (UK) and manufacturing and sales offices in Shenzhen, Taipei, and Hong Kong, Frontier supports clients and consumers across Europe and Asia. Frontier is a Science Group (AIM:SAG) company with more than 700 employees worldwide.
www.sciencegroup.com
www.frontiersmart.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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