Qualcomm’s XPAN technology, designed to enable Wi-Fi connectivity in headphones, is on the verge of debuting in consumer products. According to a report by Android Authority on Monday, January 20, Qualcomm confirmed that it is actively collaborating with manufacturers to integrate this innovative solution into upcoming devices.
In a statement shared with the publication, Qualcomm expressed its excitement:
“We are excited to collaborate with several of our customers to bring the first XPAN devices to market, and they will be announced very, very soon.”
What is XPAN?
XPAN, short for Expanded Personal Area Network, is a Qualcomm innovation introduced in 2023 that allows headphones to connect via Wi-Fi. This technology offers an alternative to Bluetooth with some distinct advantages.
One of XPAN’s standout features is its extended range. It can maintain connections over much longer distances while minimizing interference and dropouts. The audio quality is also comparable to Bluetooth, delivering 96 kHz resolution for a high-fidelity listening experience.
The technology relies on the Snapdragon S7 Pro chip and will only be compatible with devices powered by Snapdragon processors. However, specific processor models have yet to be disclosed.
What is the advantage of XPAN over Bluetooth?
Compared to Bluetooth, XPAN offers a notable advantage: users no longer have to compromise between high audio quality and low latency. This makes it particularly beneficial for gaming, where both features are essential for delivering high-quality sound with minimal delay.
Additionally, headphones featuring XPAN will also include Bluetooth functionality, allowing users to seamlessly switch between wireless connection types as needed.
When will the first headset with XPAN be launched?
For now, the technology remains without a specific launch date.
