The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has announced the completion of the full set of specifications that define LE Audio, the next generation of Bluetooth audio.
LE Audio is designed to improve wireless audio performance, add support for hearing aids, and introduces Auracast broadcast audio, a new Bluetooth capability that will deliver life-changing audio experiences and enhance the way consumers engage with other and the world around them.
“Our members overcame the many challenges placed on them these past few years to complete the largest specification development project in the history of Bluetooth SIG,” said Mark Powell, CEO of the Bluetooth SIG.
“LE Audio extends the boundaries of what’s possible for the wireless audio market, including the introduction of Auracast broadcast audio, a new Bluetooth capability that promises to deliver life-changing audio experiences to consumers, bringing friends and family closer together and making public locations more accessible and enjoyable for all. I can’t wait to see the innovation LE Audio brings.”
Qualification for Bluetooth products seeking to add support for LE Audio is also now enabled. Initial consumer products supporting LE Audio, including those with Auracast broadcast audio, are expected to come to market in the coming months, and the Bluetooth SIG anticipates LE Audio product availability to increase as we approach the end of the year.
In addition to introducing new features to Bluetooth audio, LE Audio offers a new, flexible architecture that provides an ideal platform for future wireless audio innovation, and work within the Bluetooth SIG is already underway to bring additional LE Audio features and capabilities to market.