# Qualcomm Sound Chip Enables AI-Only Gadgets

> Qualcomm's new sound chip lets earbuds and smart glasses run AI without phones.
- Title: Qualcomm Sound Chip Enables AI-Only Gadgets · PCMAG | Shortify
- Summary: Qualcomm's new sound chip lets earbuds and smart glasses run AI without phones. Qualcomm's Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2 chip enables wireless earbuds and…
- Keywords: qualcomm, snapdragon, sound, earbuds, smart glasses, wireless, 2027, technology, Chip, Enables, AI-Only, Gadgets
- Source: PCMAG — https://pcmag.com/news/new-qualcomm-sound-chip-turns-gadgets-into-ai-devices-that-dont-need-a
- Author: Florence Ion
- Published: 2026-09-23T19:45:52+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: qualcomm, snapdragon, sound, ai, earbuds, smart glasses, wireless, 2027, technology
## Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2
Qualcomm announced a new sound chip at its Hawaii summit that turns wireless earbuds and smart glasses into standalone ai devices without smartphones.
## Twice the AI Power
The chip offers up to twice the on-device ai capability of its predecessor, uses 40% less power, and supports micro-power wi-fi 6e for computer-less audio transmissions.
## AI-Focused Design
Unlike the standard version of its predecessor, this generation focuses specifically on ai interactions, is about 30% smaller, and includes a dedicated ultra-low-power ai accelerator.
## XPAN Technology
The chip includes xpans, a feature that combines low-power bluetooth and micro-power wi-fi to keep you connected as you move between rooms and farther from the host device.
## AI-Driven Audio Curation
Other features include fifth-generation adaptive anc, aptx lossless support for bit-for-bit music streaming, and ai-driven audio curation that adjusts sound levels based on the environment.
## 2027 Launch Timeline
Qualcomm expects the first batch of devices using the sound platform to launch in 2027, targeting smart glasses, earbuds, and camera buds.
## Key takeaway

Qualcomm's Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2 chip enables wireless earbuds and smart glasses to interact with AI without needing a smartphone.