# New Qualcomm Sound Chip Turns Gadgets Into AI Devices That Don't Need a Phone

> Source: <https://au.pcmag.com/mobile-phones/120052/new-qualcomm-sound-chip-turns-gadgets-into-ai-devices-that-dont-need-a-phone>
> Published: 2026-09-23 19:45:52+00:00

The Snapdragon Sound Elite Gen 2 platform, announced today at Qualcomm's annual Snapdragon Summit in Hawaii, aims to turn [wireless earbuds](https://au.pcmag.com/headphones/50409/airpod-alternatives-the-best-true-wireless-earbuds) and [smart glasses](https://au.pcmag.com/smart-glasses/103127/the-best-smart-glasses) into standalone devices that can interact with AI without a smartphone. 

The audio chip adds up …