Microchip Technology has released its second-generation multizone audio technology and a mobile app for use in whole-home-audio and multi-room applications based on the JukeBlox 4 platform. The JB Multizone 2.0 feature enables tightly synchronised and highly robust audio streaming to multiple speakers in conjunction with the JB App, a turnkey mobile app that enables easy setup and operation of the wireless speaker.
Whole-home audio and multi-room audio systems allow consumers to group speakers into a zone to play back a common audio stream. Consumers create multiple zones, each with their own audio streams such as pop music streaming to a pair of patio speakers while the children play outside and soothing classical music to four speakers downstairs, while dinner is prepared.
JB Multizone 2.0 utilises advanced technology to reduce audio drops found in traditional Wi-Fi streaming applications. Wi-Fi Direct eliminates the need for each speaker in a zone to connect with the access point, thereby eliminating common problems associated with overloading access points.
Bypassing the access point also reduces the RF bandwidth consumed by half, resulting in increased streaming quality and/or the ability to add more speakers in a zone. The addition of Wi-Fi Multimedia (WMM) to Wi-Fi Direct reduces source-to-zone speaker latency and packet loss, resulting in tightly synchronised audio playback with minimal audio drops.
JB App is a complete mobile app that enables OEMs to quickly deploy a complete whole-home-audio solution without having to manage an app development project. OEMs can choose between source code for custom app development or simply rebrand the app for release to consumers. Consumers use the JB App to create and modify zones, select audio sources and easily connect the speaker to the local Wi-Fi network. JB App source code is available at no charge and supports both iOS and Android platforms.
Mobile satellite connectivity available in SA
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Space42 has commercially launched its next generation mobile satellite service, Thuraya 4 NGS, available in South Africa as of February 2026.
Read more...Next-gen Wi Fi 6E connectivity for embedded systems iCorp Technologies
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Espressif Systems has expanded its connectivity portfolio with the introduction of the ESP32-E22, the company’s first Wi-Fi 6E connectivity co-processor.
Read more...Quectel redefines connectivity with RG660Qx 5G Series iCorp Technologies
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Purpose-built to meet the demands of next-generation IoT and wireless broadband, these modules leverage the cutting-edge Qualcomm X85 and X82 5G Modem-RF systems to deliver enterprise-grade performance.
Read more...NXP has expanded its MCX A Series Altron Arrow
AI & ML
NXP has significantly expanded its MCX A Series of Arm Cortex-M33 microcontrollers, doubling the portfolio with six new families aimed at industrial and IoT edge applications.
Read more...Contactless IO-Link couplers IOT Electronics
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The IO-Link couplers from Phoenix Contact are industrial contactless couplers designed to transmit power and IO-Link data across a small air gap without physical connectors.
Read more...Quectel’s RG255C-NA and RM255C-GL accelerate 5G RedCap adoption iCorp Technologies
Editor's Choice Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Quectel’s RG255C-NA and RM255C-GL modules represent a strategic move into this fast-growing segment, delivering Sub-6 GHz 5G connectivity optimised for mid-tier IoT applications.
Read more...SDRs – Which RF architecture should you choose? RFiber Solutions
Editor's Choice Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
There are several common methods of implementing SDR architectures. This paper discusses which is best when meeting a specific need.
Read more...Multi-band GNSS patch antenna RF Design
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
The Taoglas AHP2356A is a compact, high-performance active GNSS patch antenna designed for next-generation positioning systems requiring precision, reliability, and multi-constellation support.
Read more...Cellular routers for explosive areas Phoenix Contact
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Updated versions of the Cellulink outdoor cellular router product range from Phoenix Contact are now available; they have been specially developed for use in Zone 2 potentially explosive areas.
Read more...Power the next wave of IoT innovation Links Field Networks
Telecoms, Datacoms, Wireless, IoT
Links Field Networks’ portfolio includes connectivity platforms, edge devices, and network management tools designed to support secure, resilient IoT deployments across a range of use cases.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.