Software support for smart mobile sensors

Qualcomm Technologies intends to add software support for STMicroelectronics’ inertial sensor solutions. The companies expect that the support will enable the rapid introduction of Android smartphones based on Qualcomm Snapdragon processors with minimised power consumption and high-performing sensor capabilities through the use of hardware features integrated into the sensor.

While the agreement extends to all of ST’s inertial modules and sensors (motion, environmental and acoustic), first efforts will focus on supporting the LSM6DS3 inertial module in key Qualcomm Technologies’ reference designs. The LSM6DS3 is an always-on, low-power inertial module combining a 3D accelerometer and a 3D gyroscope with high sensing precision.

The flexible architecture of ST’s sensors complements Snapdragon’s ultralow-power approach to contextual data processing. It supports extended battery life, with Qualcomm All-Ways Aware hub for Android background sensor functions, and numerous value-added features, including the fusion of sensors with location technology, modem and camera subsystems.

“We are pleased to work with ST to bring support for Snapdragon-based platforms, offering users improved sensing capabilities with improved battery life,” said Keith Kressin, senior vice president, product management, Qualcomm Technologies. “Our joint efforts in offering superior, robust, tested and certified solutions will help OEMs quickly and efficiently implement across regions.”

“We continue to see the expansion of different sensor types and combinations across the smartphone and mobile markets globally, and the work between ST and Qualcomm Technologies is expected to further grow the types of sensors in these devices,” added Andrea Onetti, general manager, MEMS Sensors Division, STMicroelectronics. “We believe that the combination of ST sensors and Qualcomm Technologies’ processors in superior, robust, tested and certified solutions that OEMs can design-in quickly can enable waves of new ultralow-power devices to amaze and excite the ecosystem.”