NXP Combines Automotive Radio and AI Audio Processing in Single Chip

NXP Semiconductors has introduced the SAF9800, an automotive processor that combines analog radio reception and AI/ML-enabled audio processing in a single device. Designed for next-generation infotainment systems, the processor integrates AM and FM radio with high-performance audio processing to reduce system complexity and support software-defined vehicle architectures.

The company says the SAF9800 enables automakers to replace multiple discrete radio and audio components with a single scalable solution for a wide range of vehicle platforms.

Integrated Radio and Audio Processing

The SAF9800 combines analog AM and FM radio reception with a HiFi 5 audio DSP featuring integrated neural-network processing capabilities. The processor also incorporates NXP's hardware-based biquad accelerators, which the company says provide more than ten times the audio processing performance of previous generations.

The additional processing capability supports applications including real-time noise reduction, voice and sound classification, and adaptive in-cabin audio processing.

AI-Based Acoustic Source Separation

The processor uses AI-driven acoustic source separation to isolate specific sounds captured by in-cabin microphones, including voice commands, emergency vehicle sirens and mechanical noises. Rather than relying on conventional filtering techniques, the system uses machine learning to separate multiple sound sources in real time.

NXP says the processor is also compatible with its latest EVAM-lite AM denoising technology, which is designed to reduce the interference that electric vehicles can introduce into the AM radio band.

Designed for Software-Defined Vehicles

The SAF9800 is intended for software-defined vehicle architectures, allowing radio and audio features to be configured and updated through software without changing the underlying hardware.

According to NXP, integrating radio reception and audio processing into a single processor also reduces PCB area and simplifies infotainment system design.

The SAF9800 automotive radio and audio processor has been available since May 2026, with development tools and software support also available.

Learn more and read the original announcement at NXP's website.

Technology Overview

The NXP SAF9800 is an automotive infotainment processor that combines AM/FM radio reception with AI/ML-enabled audio processing in a single device. It integrates a HiFi 5 audio DSP, neural-network processing and hardware audio accelerators to support advanced in-cabin audio functions while reducing infotainment system complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the NXP SAF9800?

The SAF9800 is an automotive radio and audio processor that combines analog AM/FM radio reception and AI-enabled audio processing in a single chip.

What audio processing features does the SAF9800 support?

The processor supports AI-based acoustic source separation, real-time noise reduction, voice and sound classification, and adaptive in-cabin audio processing using an integrated HiFi 5 DSP with neural-network processing.

When is the SAF9800 available?

The SAF9800 has been available since May 2026, with development tools and software support available from NXP.