Specification Under Development Will Enable LC3plus High-Resolution Codec in Bluetooth LE Audio

The Bluetooth LE Audio set of specifications, introducing the LC3 codec as the mandatory option for wireless audio streaming, is an important evolution compared to the current default SBC codec. Nevertheless, unlike the current Bluetooth Classic A2DP profile that specifies optional audio codecs, LE Audio didn't offer any options. A recent article in the Fraunhofer IIS blog confirms that a new specification is under development to allow support for the LC3plus high-resolution audio codec.

Japan Audio Society (JAS), the internationally respected audio research organization, has certified MQA's new SCL6 scalable codec for use with its Hi-Res Audio Wireless logo. This new codec carries the technical name of SCL6 and is coming to market as MQair. In the announcement, JAS confirmed that both the new SCL6 (MQA) and LC3plus (Fraunhofer IIS) codecs will receive this new level of certification, created specifically for wireless audio, and expanding the existing Hi-Res Audio certification.

The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), the trade association that oversees Bluetooth technology, announced the completion of the full set of specifications that define LE Audio, the next generation of Bluetooth audio - originally announced in January 2020. The release of this set of specifications will finally enable manufacturers to design and release products supporting the full scope of improvements promised for the next-generation Bluetooth audio, including Auracast broadcast audio.

CEVA unveiled Bluebud, a highly-integrated wireless audio platform aimed at standardizing DSP-enabled Bluetooth audio IP for fast-growing applications, including True Wireless Stereo (TWS) earbuds, hearables, gaming headsets, smartwatches and other wearable devices. The solution fully supports Bluetooth 5.2 and LE Audio design and is ready to support brands in the transition from Bluetooth Classic.