Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
US giant techs up Ulster base Bluetooth audio innovation in £500k Invest NI windfall
One of the world’s biggest electronics firms is planning to ramp up the development of its Bluetooth audio tech in Belfast. US giant Qualcomm has revolutionised the methods used to listen to audio through wireless means over the past few years and is a major supplier to brands such as Sony and Google.
With the help of nearly £500,000 worth of Invest NI funding, it plans to develop the next generation of its aptx innovation.
This will significantly improve the quality of wireless sound delivered to headphones, speakers, soundbars and smartphones from its base at Catalyst in Belfast’s Titanic Quarter.
Qualcomm’s Anthony Murray said the base is key to the firm’s future growth.
He added: “We have a strong and passionate team of audio engineers and technologists in Ireland and the UK.
“R&D support provided by Invest NI will help us to further develop exciting next generation technology for wireless audio and ensure our next generation aptx technology helps to lead the way to new levels of sound quality in wireless audio.” experience as more consumers are choosing wireless streaming as their preferred way of enjoying music.
Invest NI has offered Qualcomm Technologies International Ltd £472,000 of R&D support to help develop the new technology, which is part funded by the European Regional Development Fund.
Invest NI chief executive Alastair Hamilton said he was delighted the company has chosen Northern Ireland to further develop its product.
He added: “With this investment in R&D, we are helping Qualcomm Technologies International Ltd to continue to drive important technology innovation for wireless audio devices from right here in Northern Ireland.
“The audio industry is changing fast and our support is also helping the company take advantage of Northern Ireland’s highly skilled workforce and local tech ecosystem.”