As laptop manufacturers face persistent challenges with audio distortion and mechanical rattle, two industry leaders are developing an innovative AI solution to transform the PC audio experience.

Cirrus Logic (Nasdaq: CRUS), a leader in audio engineering and semiconductor innovation, today announced a strategic collaboration with Compal Electronics (Compal; TWSE: 2324), a global leader in electronic design and manufacturing services, to develop AI technology aimed at solving persistent audio quality challenges in laptop computers. The partnership will leverage Cirrus Logic's expertise in audio processing and Compal's manufacturing excellence to address mechanical rattle and audio distortion issues that have long plagued the PC industry. This initiative represents Cirrus Logic's first AI audio technology designed specifically for the PC market, with prototypes scheduled for demonstration at Computex 2025 in Taipei.

Solving a Persistent Industry Challenge

The collaboration addresses one of the most pervasive yet difficult-to-solve problems in laptop audio: mechanical rattle and distortion. When audio plays at high volumes through laptop speakers, it can cause mechanical components like speakers, keyboards, and chassis elements to vibrate and rattle, resulting in distorted sound and a diminished user experience. Currently, manufacturers typically address this issue by limiting maximum volume or reducing bass frequencies, sacrificing audio performance to prevent distortion.

"Today's PC users expect premium audio experiences, but laptop manufacturers face significant engineering challenges in delivering consistent, high-quality sound," said Carl Alberty, Executive Vice President of Cirrus Logic’s Mixed-Signal Products. "Our AI-powered audio technology is a huge step forward in ensuring quality audio performance for OEMs, ODMs, and end users. By collaborating with Compal, we're bringing this technology directly to the manufacturing process to catch problems early, significantly enhancing performance, quality and sustainability."

AI-Driven Approach to Quality and Consistency

This collaboration is significant with the application of AI to address solving audio quality issues. Cirrus Logic’s AI tools & rattle limiter algorithms can be used to detect and help reduce rattle, respectively, to deliver quality audio performance.

Compal, which manufactures laptops for several global, top-tier brands, will endeavor to build its plan to implement this technology in their production lines, enabling better quality assurance and consistency across high-volume manufacturing.

Compal is constantly seeking innovative solutions to improve quality and enhance the products they manufacture for their global partners. Collaboration with Cirrus Logic helps Compal address a long-standing audio quality challenge in the manufacturing process, ultimately delivering superior audio experiences to consumers while reducing production costs associated with inconsistent performance and returns.

Benefits Across the PC Ecosystem

The new AI audio technology offers multiple benefits throughout the PC ecosystem:

For PC Manufacturers (OEMs)

The technology allows OEM brands to deliver superior audio experiences without making the traditional trade-offs between loudness and distortion. Manufacturers can confidently push sound performance boundaries while maintaining quality, potentially reducing customer returns related to audio issues.

For Manufacturing Partners (ODMs)

For ODMs like Compal, the technology streamlines quality testing processes and helps ensure more consistent audio performance across production batches.

For End Users

Consumers will ultimately benefit from laptop computers that deliver louder, clearer audio with richer bass response without the distraction of mechanical rattle or distortion that diminishes the listening experience.

Building on Audio Leadership

This initiative builds upon Cirrus Logic's existing Rattle Limiter technology. While the current technology has made significant strides in addressing audio distortion issues, the AI-powered approach represents a major leap forward in effectiveness and adaptability.

"This collaboration represents Cirrus Logic's first major AI audio technology for the PC market, but it leverages our decades of experience in audio processing and our extensive patent portfolio," added Alberty. "We're excited to showcase this technology at Computex 2025 and collaborate with additional partners to bring enhanced audio experiences to consumers worldwide."

About Cirrus Logic Inc.

Cirrus Logic is a leader in low-power, high-precision mixed-signal processing solutions that create innovative user experiences for the world’s top mobile and consumer applications. With headquarters in Austin, Texas, Cirrus Logic is recognized globally for its award-winning corporate culture. Check us out at www.cirrus.com.

Cirrus Logic, Cirrus and the Cirrus Logic logo are registered trademarks of Cirrus Logic, Inc. All other company or product names noted herein may be trademarks of their respective holders.

About Compal

Founded in 1984, Compal is a leading manufacturer in the notebook and smart device industry, creating brand value in collaboration with various sectors. Its groundbreaking product designs have received numerous international awards. In 2024, Compal was recognized by CommonWealth Magazine as one of Taiwan's top 6 manufacturers and has consistently ranked among the Forbes Global 2000 and Fortune Global 500 companies. In recent years, Compal has actively developed emerging businesses, including cloud servers, auto electronics, and smart medical, leveraging its integrated hardware and software R&D and manufacturing capabilities to create relevant solutions. More information on Compal, please visit www.compal.com.

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