Cadence Tensilica HiFi 5 DSPs used in NXP’s audio DSP family

This collaboration supports the next generation of software-defined vehicles, addressing the increasing need for advanced audio processing to accommodate both traditional DSP tasks and modern AI and machine learning (AI/ML) applications.

As automotive technology evolves, NXP has incorporated two of Cadence's powerful Tensilica HiFi 5 DSPs into its SAF9xxx series to cater to the diverse audio demands of future vehicles. These DSPs provide AI/ML-based audio capabilities for mid-range and high-end cars, significantly improving the in-cabin experience by delivering more immersive and sophisticated audio environments.

Larry Przywara, Senior Product Marketing Group Director in the Compute Solutions Group at Cadence, commented on the collaboration: “The Cadence Tensilica HiFi DSP family enjoys wide adoption and established leadership in the automotive infotainment market. We are pleased that our close collaboration with NXP over the years has brought high-quality audio to millions of vehicles today in well-recognised brands. Harnessing the performance of two AI/ML-capable, high-performing HiFi 5 DSP cores in the SAF9xxx enables NXP’s customers to offer AI-rich algorithms to deliver innovative safety and infotainment features and enthral even the most demanding consumer of tomorrow with vastly more immersive in-cabin experiences.”

The Tensilica HiFi 5 DSPs blend AI/ML processing with traditional DSP tasks at high performance. This integration allows modern, computationally demanding applications to run efficiently, while maintaining low energy consumption. With their compact design and low power profile, these DSPs are ideally suited for automotive head units, which often have limited space for heat management systems.

John van den Braak, Senior Vice President and General Manager for Audio Systems at NXP, explained the impact of AI/ML on automotive infotainment: “Next-generation automotive infotainment demands a step-function upgrade that can only be effectively delivered by AI/ML-based algorithms. We are excited to have integrated two Tensilica HiFi 5 DSPs with attached neural network engines to meet the demands of efficiently running such future data-driven algorithms. Furthermore, the numerous set of HiFi 5 DSP-optimised software packages available from Cadence’s large ecosystem of partners helps us address the rapidly shrinking automotive development cycles.”

In the automotive industry, safety remains a top priority. The Tensilica HiFi 5 DSPs are Functional Safety (FuSa) certified, making them suitable for use in safety-critical applications. This certification ensures that the DSPs meet the rigorous safety standards required in modern vehicles, offering both manufacturers and consumers peace of mind.

Cadence remains dedicated to supporting FuSa-certified applications across its entire Tensilica processor lineup, from off-the-shelf DSP IPs to custom, domain-specific processors tailored to particular automotive needs.