# Qualcomm's new AI chip powers next-gen audio wearables

> Qualcomm launches Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2, doubling AI capabilities for earbuds, headphones and smart glasses with on-device processing.
- Title: Qualcomm's new AI chip powers next-gen audio wearables
- Summary: Qualcomm launches Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2, doubling AI capabilities for earbuds, headphones and smart glasses with on-device processing. Qualcomm…
- Keywords: qualcomm, snapdragon sound elite gen 2, ai chip, audio wearables, earbuds, headphones, on-device ai, technology, Qualcomm's, chip, powers, next-gen
- Source: Engadget — https://engadget.com/2267407/qualcomm-snapdragon-sound-elite-ai-for-audio-wearables
- Author: Mariella Moon
- Published: 2026-09-24T11:23:00+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: qualcomm, snapdragon sound elite gen 2, ai chip, audio wearables, earbuds, headphones, on-device ai, technology
## Qualcomm launches new audio AI chip
Qualcomm has released the Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2 chip for audio devices with AI features including earbuds, headphones, audio glasses and camera-equipped earbuds.
## Double the AI power of predecessor
The Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2 has twice the AI capabilities of its predecessor, the Snapdragon S7 Gen 1 Sound Platform, enabling more powerful on-device AI.
## Natural AI interaction without screens
Qualcomm Senior Vice President Ziad Asghar said users will increasingly expect natural ways to interact with AI through conversations rather than screens, receiving help in real time.

> Those interactions won't always happen through a screen. They will happen through natural conversations, where users can simply speak to an AI assistant and receive help in real time.
## Real-time translation and accessibility features
The new chip will give devices the power to offer real-time on-device translation and the ability to amplify sounds and conversations for those who are hard of hearing.
## Advanced audio and connectivity technology
The chip supports Qualcomm's aptX Lossless technology for immersive audio quality and XPAN wireless audio technology combining Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to extend device range.
## Wi-Fi 6E enables always-available AI
Wi-Fi 6E connectivity enables faster speeds that Qualcomm says makes always-available AI possible without affecting the device's battery life and sound quality.
## Key takeaway

Qualcomm released the Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2 chip for audio wearables, offering twice the AI capabilities of its predecessor to enable on-device features like real-time translation and sound amplification.