Software-defined architecture enables seamless radio and audio upgrades via software alone.
NXP Semiconductors has unveiled the SAF9800, a new automotive audio and radio processor that combines analog radio (AM/FM) and AI/ML-enabled audio processing into a single-chip solution, enabling automakers to simplify infotainment architectures and scale features across global vehicle platforms.
The SAF9800 consolidates functions that traditionally required multiple radio and audio components into a single device, allowing manufacturers to reduce system complexity while supporting next-generation software-defined vehicles.
The processor also uses AI-driven acoustic source separation technology to isolate critical sounds—such as voice commands, emergency sirens and mechanical faults—from background cabin noise, improving voice recognition and in-cabin audio sensing.
“The industry is moving away from fragmented, hardware-driven infotainment systems toward more integrated, software-defined architectures,” said John van den Braak, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Infotainment and Audio Systems product line at NXP Semiconductors.
He added that the SAF9800 combines broadcast radio, digital audio and AI-powered audio capabilities in a flexible single-chip platform that helps automakers simplify development while enhancing the in-car experience.
The processor integrates a HiFi 5 audio DSP with neural-network processing capabilities and hardware-based biquad accelerators, delivering more than 10 times the audio processing performance of previous generations.
This enables features such as real-time noise reduction, voice and sound classification, and adaptive in-cabin listening experiences using AI-driven algorithms. The software-defined architecture also allows automakers to configure and upgrade radio and audio functions through software without changing hardware.
NXP said the solution addresses evolving regulatory requirements and technical challenges surrounding in-vehicle radio, including the need to preserve AM radio and mitigate signal interference in electric vehicles. The SAF9800 also incorporates the company’s latest EVAM-lite AM denoising technology to reduce interference affecting AM broadcasts in EVs.
Published On Jul 21, 2026 at 04:35 PM IST
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