I can already hear the next version of those “Can you hear me now?” TV commercials.
German company Fraunhofer IIS, which developed the mp3 technology that revolutionized the digital music industry, is showcasing this week an audio technology that allows mobile phone calls to be heard in stereo CD quality over a 4G network.
They say that, for the first time, phone conversations will sound as clear and natural as if you’re talking to someone in the same room. Likewise, the audio quality for music and other multimedia playback is also enhanced.
The company is demonstrating the technology at the Mobile World Congress show in Barcelona this week.
In a statement, the company offers some details about the technology:
The Fraunhofer Audio Communication Engine combines several elements that may be incorporated in future 4G handsets to ensure highest possible communication quality. First, the specifically designed MPEG audio communications codec “AAC Enhanced Low Delay” ensures CD quality audio at very low coding delays and bit rates. Second, robust, multi-channel echo control software reliably removes echoes, providing hands-free convenience and complete freedom to move around in a room. Finally, a specially matched IP streaming stack and error concealment tools allow for high-quality audio even under adverse network conditions.
