Qualcomm announced that it plans on adding support for Android Things operating system (OS) on Snapdragon 210 processors with X5 LTE modems.
The Android Things OS is a new vertical of Android designed for ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) devices and Snapdragon processors are expected to be the world’s first commercial System-on-Chip (SoC) solutions to offer integrated 4G LTE support for this OS. According to the company, this combination is designed to support a new class of IoT applications requiring robust, security-focused and managed connectivity including electronic signage, remote video monitoring, asset tracking, payment and vending machines and manufacturing as well as consumer devices such as smart assistants and home appliances.
Snapdragon 210 processors running Android Things OS will also allow manufacturers and developers to harness the power of the Google Cloud Platform and Google services over 4G LTE in their IoT solutions. Additionally, support for Google Cast for Audio in the Snapdragon 210 processor can help facilitate the development of innovative consumer devices and Qualcomm Technologies plans to extend support of Android Things OS on a variant of its Qualcomm Smart Home Reference Platform.
"We are very pleased to add support for Android Things OS on Qualcomm Technologies' Snapdragon 210 processor and bring these exciting new development options to our IoT customers," said Jeffery Torrance, vice president, business development, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "Integrated 4G LTE, a first for Android Things, combined with our other wireless technologies, brings comprehensive connectivity and capabilities to the Google Cloud Platform. Developers are now able to create cost-effective, innovative connected devices and applications for both consumer and industrial IoT segments, which will help accelerate and expand the development of the overall IoT ecosystem."
Manufacturers will be able to use their expertise in Android and Snapdragon processors to help them quickly create and commercialise a variety of connected devices. They will have access to familiar connectivity environments, including cellular, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; support for a wide array of sensors; camera, graphics, multimedia and rich UI capabilities. Additionally the platform offers hardware-based security; Google services and cloud integration; well-known development tools such as Qualcomm Technologies' development platforms, Android Studio and the Android SDK; widely-available test and optimization tools, and more, allowing for rapid development of scalable, cost-effective and security-focused IoT solutions.
Support for Android Things on Snapdragon 210 processors is anticipated to be available later this year.
