Qualcomm Atheros launches Skifta media shifting platform for connected home

LAS VEGAS, USA: Qualcomm Atheros Inc., the networking and connectivity subsidiary of Qualcomm Inc., announced the introduction of the Skifta Media Shifting Platform for entertainment-driven consumer electronics.

Skifta powered devices will create the framework for an interoperable wireless platform, ideal for accessing and streaming digital music, photos and videos around the home. The first component to be unveiled is the Skifta Wireless Audio Adapter, which is designed for manufacturers seeking to offer consumers a way to retrofit their legacy audio devices with both connectivity and support for Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) and Universal Plug and Play (UPnP). Regardless of the connection, consumers can use the Skifta Wireless Audio Adapter to stream music and audio effortlessly throughout the home.

The Skifta Platform will provide device manufacturers and their customers with a new hardware ecosystem that builds on the strength of the Skifta Android application and promotes the wireless connected home to a broader audience of media consumers. Skifta transforms any Android device into a global media remote control, helping consumers access and enjoy their music, videos and photos at home over Wi-Fi and while on the move with 3G.

"The Skifta Platform is at the heart of a new connected home strategy from Qualcomm Atheros designed to push the boundaries of smart devices and provide endless entertainment opportunities for users," said Dan Rabinovitsj, senior VP and GM, networking business unit, Qualcomm Atheros. "We want to introduce more consumers to the experience of unfettered wireless access and control of the content and electronic devices they use in their everyday lives. The Skifta product line is a unique bundling of compatible hardware and software with benefits that will appeal to manufacturers and consumers alike."

Skifta hardware development kits and embedded software for manufacturers will be available in the coming months for products in the Skifta product line, including modules for stereos, wireless speakers, TVs, set-top boxes, wireless routers, network attached storage (NAS) drives and other digital A/V adapters.

The Skifta Android application will help consumers stream and enjoy content on the Skifta-ready products, as well as on standard DLNA Certified or UPnP devices. The Skifta platform additionally incorporates a channel library, which provides manufacturers with a selection of cloud-based content they can offer their customers. Skifta channels give immediate access to Facebook Photos, Picasa, Flickr, Photobucket, Soma.fm, ShoutCast, Revision 3, TED Talks and more. The development kit will have Wi-Fi, powerline communications and Ethernet networking support for distribution of content within the home.