Startup plans customizable RISC-V edge AI speech processor
AONDevices has developed an efficient edge AI denoising technology for applications that require minimal power and latency running on its forthcoming accelerator IP and hardware as well as third party microcontrollers.
AONDenois is one of the smallest denoising algorithms available, making it suitable for AI speech enhancement for use in hearing aids, wireless earbuds, smartphones and wearables.
AONDevices in the US is preparing to launch the denoiser hardware IP and the associated next-generation chip – the AON2100 – in the coming months. This follows AI IP based on RISC-V and a chip launched in 2021.
Traditionally, AI speech enhancement is performed using arrays of multiple microphones, beamforming and large Digital Signal Processing (DSP) algorithms. This method, currently implemented in today’s smartphones and other devices, can require large amounts of memory and power, which is costly.
Instead the AI-based denoiser has just 50K parameters, making it one of the most compact denoising algorithms on the market, multiple orders of magnitude smaller than traditional DSP noise reduction methods and at least an order of magnitude smaller than current AI-based denoisers.
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AONDenoise can distinguish human speech from background noise and is supported by a dedicated software tool suite. This allows both in-house and customer development to customize and train the system to handle specific noise environments or a broader range of noises.
This addresses the need for customizable noise cancellation in ultra-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.
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For hearing aids the customizable noise cancellation for improved performance in different environments, or can boost audio quality in transparency mode, conversation mode, and voice calls for earbuds.
“A small yet incredibly effective algorithm that works with just a single microphone will positively impact many lives,” said AONDevices’ new Technical Director, Dr. Youhong Lu. “I have been incredibly impressed by AONDevices’ achievements and am excited for the upcoming technology revolution in which AI delivers better user experiences.”
The AONDenoise solution is now available for integration into third-party processors.
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