Qualcomm has recently introduced the third generation of its mid-range and premium audio chipsets – the Qualcomm S3 Gen 3 and S5 Gen 3. These new models replace the Gen 2 versions that were initially announced in 2022. Both chipsets offer more processing power, improved sound quality, and can be integrated into devices that are part of the Qualcomm Voice & Music expansion program (more on this below).
Let’s start with the Qualcomm S5 Gen 3. This updated version now boasts a 200MHz CPU (up from 80MHz on Gen 2) and a new 350MHz DSP (up from 240MHz). It also features 1.5 times more memory than its predecessor.
Prior to this update, AI computations had to be carried out on the DSP. With the Gen 3 chipset, however, there is a dedicated AI accelerator which provides a significant 50 times more computing power. This accelerator can be utilized for tasks such as AI-powered Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and voice processing. Furthermore, the chip includes specific hardware for features like hearing loss compensation, transparency mode, and noise management.
For the “ultra-premium” sector, Qualcomm offers the S7 and S7 Pro chips. These chips provide even more AI acceleration (approximately twice as fast as the S5 Gen 3), faster CPUs and DSPs, but are targeted towards a higher-end market.
For those looking for more budget-friendly options, the Qualcomm S3 Gen 3 also received enhancements, albeit more conservative ones. It maintains a dual-core 80MHz CPU but sees a boost in DSP to dual 240MHz (from single 240MHz). While the Qualcomm AI engine is supported, it lacks the powerful AI accelerator. Nonetheless, this mid-range chip still supports features like Google Fast Pair, Qualcomm TrueWireless Mirroring, Auracast, and more.
Both the S3 and S5 chips are highly energy-efficient, consuming just 4mA of power when streaming music via A2DP. Snapdragon Sound enables these chips to deliver 24-bit 48kHz lossless music streaming.
The Qualcomm Voice & Music Extension Program empowers headphone manufacturers to integrate Qualcomm technology into their products. This includes functionalities like spatial audio, echo cancellation, and health monitoring (e.g., some buds can monitor heart rate).
vivo is set to reveal the first device powered by the Qualcomm S3 Gen 3 soon. “By utilizing this robust platform, we aim to provide our customers with audiophile-quality music listening experience, ensuring they hear their music just as the artist intended. Stay tuned for the launch,” stated Youfei Wang, General Manager of the Intelligent Terminal Development Division at vivo. It can be expected that companies are also working on products based on the S5 Gen 3.