AONDevices adds its voice to low latency, customisable edge AI speech
The compact AONDenoise stack technology enables customisable noise cancellation in low power, real time processing devices.
Traditionally, AI speech enhancement is performed using arrays of multiple microphones, beamforming and large digital signal processing algorithms. This method is currently implemented in smartphones and other devices, but requires huge amounts of memory and power, which adds cost. AONDevices has created the AI-based denoising technology. The company said it is leading the way forward into a new era of edge AI.
Designed for applications that require minimal power and latency, AONDenoise is one of the smallest denoising algorithms available, making it suitable for AI speech enhancement in hearing aids, wireless earbuds, smartphones and wearables.
With just 50k parameters, the AONDenoise is multiple orders of magnitude smaller than traditional DSP noise reduction methods, said AONDenoise, and at least an order of magnitude smaller than current AI-based denoisers. The AONDenoise stack addresses the need for customisable noise cancellation in low power, real time processing devices, such as chips used for hearing aids. The algorithm can target a wide range of noises, such as chatter in a crowded restaurant, wind noise, dogs barking, babies crying or keyboards clicking.
The AONDenoise can be used in hearing aids as customisable noise cancellation for improved performance in different environments or wireless earbuds with optimal audio quality in transparency mode, conversation mode and voice calls.
In smartphones, it can be used for clearer voice quality during calls, especially in outdoor settings and in podcasting, it can be used for crystal-clear audio streaming even in noisy surroundings.
Leveraging AI and deep learning neural networks, the AONDenoise can distinguish human speech from background noise. To maximise the efficiency of this neural network, AONDevices has developed a dedicated software tool suite. This allows both in-house and customer development to customise and train the system to handle specific noise environments or a broader range of noises.
AONDevices’ technical director, Dr. Youhong Lu, commented that the company is poised to enhance the next generation of wearable and mobile devices. “A small yet incredibly effective algorithm that works with just a single microphone will positively impact many lives,” he said.
The AONDenoise technology is now available for integration into third-party processors. AONDevices is preparing to launch the denoiser hardware IP and the associated next-generation chip – the AON2100 – in the coming months.
AONDevices is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in application-specific edge AI processors with high accuracy at low power. The company provides low-power, high performance on-device AI processors and full stack solutions.
AONDevices is headquartered in Irvine, California, USA.
