Chip provides intelligent location technology

Rather than being performed by the application processor (AP), information from WiFi, Bluetooth Smart, GPS and MEMS can be calculated by a SoC. By offloading from the AP, the combo chip uses 80% less power and reduces board area by 34%. 

By integrating GNSS and providing a direct connection to the WiFi combo chip, Broadcom personalises the always-on location experience as it allows a mobile device to locate the user. For example, using information from WiFi, Bluetooth Smart, GPS and MEMS, a BCM4773-based smartphone can recognise when a runner is outdoors or in. In doing this the smartphone can manage these technologies to save battery life and improve the user experience.

"Broadcom today extends its leadership by announcing the industry's first combo chip that brings GNSS and sensor hub technology together to revolutionise mobile apps in areas such as health, fitness and lifelogging," said Mohamed Awad, Broadcom Director, Wireless Connectivity. "We are proud to make all mobile platforms even smarter by enabling them to dynamically predict and react to consumers' needs."