Bluetooth audio is about to get its biggest update in years. This new collection of features is called the Bluetooth LE Audio.
While they were expected for the end of 2020, the first LE Audio compatible products will not be available before the end of 2022.
The LC3 codec, a technological revolution
Some of these new features have been long awaited, including the ability to connect multiple devices to a single audio source. But above all, Bluetooth highlights the new LC3 codec technology, a much more efficient audio transmission. Faster, the transmission takes place at a lower bit rate and in higher quality. What does it mean ? That we will have a better quality sound transmitted more quickly, therefore without draining the battery as much. Latency is much faster, meaning sound will travel through Bluetooth LE at almost the same speed as normal sound.
Why is this important? If you watch TV through your hearing aid (connected via Bluetooth), while other people in the room are watching TV directly (without a hearing aid), you will receive the sound at the same time (or almost). LE Audio will therefore make it possible to develop the connectivity of hearing aids in Bluetooth, ultimately offering better integration for the hearing impaired.
Auracast sound broadcasting
Simultaneously, Bluetooth launches the Auracast technology, which makes it possible to connect a “ infinity » devices. So you can finally share your audio output with someone else via Bluetooth, for example to watch a series or a movie together with two different wireless headphones. In public spaces, such as the gym for example, all users will be able to watch a screen and benefit from the audio connected individually via Bluetooth, without having to disturb the other occupants of the room.
This technology will also make it possible to transmit speeches, concerts or sound announcements in real time to people with hearing loss through their hearing aids. Equipped with Auracast technology, they will theoretically be able to receive the audio transmitted without delay, in order to enjoy with others an adequate level of sound. You will be able to connect to Auracast broadcasts in public areas just like you connect to a Wi-Fi network.
These long-awaited technological advances will change both the transmission capabilities of our audio equipment and the management of sound in public spaces. It only remains for manufacturers to develop compatible devices.
We often talk about earphones and headphones, but do you really know how they work? Do you know what turns a simple electrical signal into sound? We suggest that you go around the question and discover in detail these small loudspeakers that are transducers, also approaching other sound reproduction technologies.
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Source : The Verge
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