Google Names HARMAN as Audio Technology Partner

HARMAN and Google have recently announced a new audio collaboration at Google I/O 2016.

The extended partnership between the two companies will include modules for Google’s latest modular mobile device, Ara. This device is designed to provide customers with complete selection over the features they value, including the highest quality audio from a HARMAN-designed module. HARMAN considers its 80-year audio heritage and deep know-how in the Android operating system as vital elements in the development process.

Moreover, HARMAN and Google’s Advanced Technology and Projects Group (ATAP) are also collaborating on Project Soli. This project utilizes radar to enable new types of touchless interactions, one where the human hand becomes a natural and intuitive interface for devices. The Soli sensors can monitor sub-millimeter motions at high speed and accuracy to enable accurate and effortless hand gestures.

According to Michael Mauser, President, HARMAN Lifestyle Audio, HARMAN is at the forefront of engineering flexible, personalized intelligent audio solutions for the professional, consumer and automotive markets and they are thrilled to collaborate with Google, a long-time HARMAN partner on several fronts, to bring to market totally customizable mobile devices.

He added that consumers now understand they do not have to compromise sound for portability, and Ara would provide them with the premium audio and the functionalities they want on the go. “We look forward to collaborating with Google on other innovations incorporating smart audio in the future.”