{
  "id": 9835211,
  "title": "New kind of AI audio chip transforms earbuds into always-on 'intelligent' devices that run without a smartphone. How does it work?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/25/new-kind-of-ai-audio-chip-transforms-earbuds-into-always-on",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-09-25T20:35:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Live Science",
    "slug": "live-science",
    "url": "https://www.livescience.com/technology/electronics/new-kind-of-ai-audio-chip-transforms-earbuds-into-always-on-intelligent-devices-that-run-without-a-smartphone-how-does-it-work"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Engineers have developed an AI audio chip, called Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2, that can transform earbuds and other wearable devices into always-on intelligent devices capable of functioning without a smartphone connection. The chip is designed to enable users to interact with AI assistants by vocalizing queries and requests, which the AI models can then execute.\n\nThe chip allows devices to host apps directly on their memory, eliminating the need for a continuous smartphone connection. Users can make requests such as scheduling calendar entries or making online purchases without being tethered to a smartphone. Unlike existing devices that require a smartphone, these new devices will be able to access cloud-based services like ChatGPT when connected to Wi-Fi.\n\nThe chip's architecture enables it to consume less power than standard Wi-Fi connections while maintaining high-quality audio playback, as it bypasses Bluetooth's data compression. The chip also supports adaptive and selective active noise cancellation, which allows users to filter out unwanted background noise while still hearing important sounds.\n\nAdditionally, the chip enables lossless audio streaming, a high-quality audio standard typically only available through premium streaming services. Qualcomm representatives showcased the chip's always-on intelligence, enabling virtual assistants, transcription, translation, and contextual awareness. The chip's eNPU AI accelerator component powers these features by monitoring the user's environment and building a personal profile based on the gathered data.\n\nWhile addressing privacy concerns, Qualcomm noted that the camera lenses on future earbuds would be low resolution and would automatically mask individuals using an AI mask. The chip's features are expected to improve battery life compared to conventional non-AI devices, but the impact on battery drain remains unclear. Qualcomm representatives stated that device makers will no longer need to compromise on audio quality, AI features, and battery life.",
  "summary": "A new AI audio chip will give future headphones on-device apps and sensors that gather data about your daily movements to feed AI \"agents\" that will speak directly into your ear.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}