NXP introduces advanced media processing for automotive DVD players and in-car TV

NXP Semiconductors unveiled an advanced media processor, the Nexperia PNX9520, to address the growing demand for best-in-class audio and video applications in the car. According to strategy analytics, increasing demand for new digital entertainment features in the car will result in the market for in-vehicle multimedia infotainment systems reaching $36 billion by the end of 2012. The worldwide in-car infotainment market is also highly differentiated by region-in-car DVD players and broadcast video, for example, are most prevalent as an option for backseat passengers in North America, while terrestrial TV access is more prevalent in Japan where drivers and front-seat passengers regularly tune in during rush-hour traffic.

Eddie Chan, regional marketing manager, automotive electronics, NXP Semiconductors, Greater China, said, "By offering more functionality through software, NXP is making it possible for infotainment suppliers to bring highly differentiated in-car multimedia systems to market. With this level of flexibility, consumers can also be confident that their in-car infotainment systems can be kept up to date with the most advanced technologies. The PNX9520 media processor makes the most of proven Nexperia technology - bringing the rich sensory experiences that consumers are accustomed to at home to the car."

Joanne Blight, director, automotive multimedia and communications service, Strategy Analytics, stated, "As demand for automotive digital entertainment features continues to soar, developers should be focused on meeting the growing requirements for different combinations of advanced audio and video in the vehicle. The shift toward digital multimedia means that automotive companies must embrace more universal standards such as MP3 and MPEG, as well as digital broadcasting. Flexible platforms that will allow developers to design automotive multimedia products that can meet changing consumer requirements, and be cost effective, will be the most successful."

The Nexperia PNX9520 processor from NXP is an integrated solution for automotive infotainment, which offers flexibility so that car manufacturers and tier-one suppliers can deliver a wide range of vibrant media technologies tailored for the needs of different markets. The solution is offering advanced software features, including the ability to implement the latest audio and video codecs as they become available, and add additional multimedia features as they develop and grow in popularity. High picture quality is made possible through a combination of efficient video decoding and advanced video post-processing. In addition, the PNX9520 enables multi-speed audio encoding.

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