A new automotive processor combines radio reception, AI-powered audio processing and software-defined flexibility to simplify infotainment design while improving voice clarity, noise reduction and system scalability.
NXP Semiconductors has introduced the SAF9800 automotive radio and audio processor. This single-chip solution combines analog radio reception with AI/ML-enabled audio processing to simplify next-generation vehicle infotainment systems. By integrating functions that traditionally required multiple radio and audio components, the processor reduces hardware complexity, lowers system footprint, and enables automakers to deploy scalable infotainment platforms across global vehicle models.
The processor integrates AM and FM radio reception with advanced digital audio processing, allowing OEMs to consolidate key infotainment functions into a single device. Designed for software-defined vehicle architectures, the solution enables manufacturers to configure, upgrade and differentiate radio and audio capabilities through software without requiring hardware redesigns. This flexibility supports faster product development and easier feature deployment throughout a vehicle’s lifecycle.
The key features are:
- Integrated neural-network accelerator for AI audio workloads
- Dedicated hardware biquad accelerators for faster audio processing
- HiFi 5 DSP architecture optimized for high-performance audio
- Software-defined feature upgrades without hardware replacement
- Development tools and software enablement available for rapid integration
A major highlight is its AI/ML-enabled acoustic source separation capability. Using machine learning, the processor isolates important sounds such as voice commands, emergency sirens and potential mechanical fault noises from complex in-cabin background noise. Unlike conventional filtering techniques, AI-based processing adapts dynamically to changing acoustic environments, improving voice recognition accuracy and enabling intelligent in-cabin audio sensing for advanced driver assistance and infotainment applications.
The processor also incorporates a HiFi 5 audio DSP with integrated neural-network processing and dedicated hardware biquad accelerators. This architecture delivers significantly higher audio processing performance than previous generations, enabling real-time noise suppression, voice enhancement, sound classification and adaptive listening experiences while supporting increasingly sophisticated in-vehicle audio functions.
The chip also addresses growing challenges associated with analog radio in electric vehicles. As EV powertrains generate electromagnetic interference that can degrade AM reception, the processor supports NXP’s latest EVAM-lite AM denoising technology to improve broadcast radio performance. Combined with support for evolving global radio regulations and software-defined feature scalability, the device is suitable for passenger vehicles ranging from entry-level models to premium connected cars. Development support and software enablement tools are already available to accelerate integration into future automotive infotainment platforms.
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