--- markdown_generated_at: "2026-11-04" title: "Qualcomm® Active Noise Cancellation (ANC)" url: "https://www.qualcomm.com/audio/technologies/active-noise-cancellation" --- # Qualcomm® Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VM-Tech-ANC-01-HeroImage-2000?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=85) Qualcomm ANC helps listeners stay immersed, whilst also allowing natural noise leak-through when a user needs to hear the world around them, for smarter safer listening experiences. ## Ultimate immersion, all-day performance ### Adaptive ANC for seamless immersion Next-level noise cancellation with self-optimizing, AI-driven Adaptive ANC. It intelligently adjusts to your surroundings, keeping you deeply immersed by reducing ambient noise. Use ANC on its own or during music playback and calls—the transitions between modes are smooth and effortless for a truly uninterrupted experience. ### Single SoC Solutions for every product tier Our integrated SoC solutions combine advanced ANC processing with adaptive algorithms to minimize size and reduce power consumption—helping developers create more efficient products. Qualcomm offers options for every need, from simple single-mic earbuds to sophisticated multi-mic headsets, delivering flexibility without compromise. ### Market ready ANC solutions Qualcomm’s wireless audio SoCs feature built-in ANC systems that work seamlessly across music and voice use cases, with smooth transitions between ANC, Transparency, and hearing loss compensation modes. All solutions are pre-integrated into our Audio Development Kit (ADK) and rigorously tested to minimize time to market. Plus, developers have access to powerful tools for customization and optimization. ### AI Enhanced for exceptional experiences AI intelligently selects the right mode at the right time, while multi-scene adaptation ensures performance stays flawless—no matter where you are. ## Highly accurate anti-noise generation Qualcomm’s hardware accelerated ANC provides low power, high precision anti-noise generation. Ultra-low latency (3uS) ensures that anti-noise can be precisely aligned with incoming noise extending performance to higher frequencies for exceptional listening experiences. ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VM-Tech-ANC-04-BenefitImage01?$QC_Responsive$&fmt=png-alpha) ## AI Driven Adaptive ANC Our latest AI-powered ANC continuously monitors performance and dynamically adjusts anti-noise generation coefficients to minimize residual noise. This intelligent adaptation ensures optimal noise cancellation for a superior listening experience. ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VM-Tech-ANC-04-BenefitImage02?$QC_Responsive$&fmt=png-alpha) ## Flexible ANC users Our configurable, low-latency system gives audio developers the freedom to tailor ANC performance to their product’s unique requirements. With extensive processing resources, it supports complex multi-mic designs and advanced use cases—delivering precision and adaptability without compromise. ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VM-Tech-cVc-04-BenefitImage03?$QC_Responsive$&fmt=png-alpha) ## Deliver the experiences your customers expect ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VM-Tech-ANC-04-UseCase01?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=85&wid=1800&fit=fit,1) ### Distraction‑free streaming, without limits High-noise environments no longer demand high-volume outputs, since ANC blocks low‑frequency rumble and background voices. This allows consumers to enjoy music at smarter, safer volumes, whether they’re sitting in a noisy bar or cafe or trying to focus at home. ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VM-Tech-ANC-04-UseCase02?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=85&wid=1800&fit=fit,1) ### Seamless ANC however you listen Qualcomm’s Adaptive ANC is designed to work across music playback, voice calls, and voice assistant interactions without interruption. Users can switch between these modes smoothly while ANC remains active for a smooth and seamless sound experience. ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VM-Tech-ANC-04-UseCase03?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=85&wid=1800&fit=fit,1) ### Immersive sound with a safety upgrade Immersive listening is great, but, in certain settings, complete disassociation with the wider world can be dangerous. Imagine a consumer commuting to work on a bicycle or skateboard, or enjoying a long run through their city on a weekend. With ANC, they can listen to their favorite playlist while leak-through lets them hear approaching traffic or other critical environmental cues. ## Platforms for every product tier Snapdragon Sound Platforms deliver the right mix of performance, features, and efficiency for audio products in any market segment. [Explore all products](https://www.qualcomm.com/audio/products) ULTRA PREMIUM ### Snapdragon S7 and Snapdragon S7+ Sound Platforms Flagship performance and flexibility with best-in-class compute, on-device AI & audio. Advanced connectivity includes Bluetooth and micro-power Wi-Fi, enabling breakthrough features like Qualcomm Expanded Personal Area Network (XPAN) and Direct to Cloud. Ideal for next-gen hearables demanding maximum innovation, intelligence, and feature richness. [More](https://www.qualcomm.com/audio/products/snapdragon-s7-series/snapdragon-s7-gen-1-sound-platforms) PREMIUM ### Snapdragon S5 Sound Platform A high-performance, programmable platform packed with advanced features to deliver cutting-edge audio experiences across all types of Bluetooth audio devices. Perfect for brands seeking customization and best in class audio capabilities. [More](https://www.qualcomm.com/audio/products/snapdragon-s5-series/snapdragon-s5-gen-1-sound-platform) MID-TIER ### Snapdragon S3 Sound Platform A versatile and optimized platform tailored for earbuds, headphones, speakers, and transmitters. Balances solid performance with accelerated time to market, making it ideal for mainstream products. Designed for scalability and efficiency across product categories. [More](https://www.qualcomm.com/audio/products/snapdragon-s3-series/snapdragon-s3-gen-1-sound-platform) ## The mark of exceptional audio Snapdragon Sound™ brings together Qualcomm’s finest audio, connectivity, and voice technologies in one optimized system, empowering brands to deliver immersive, low-latency, lossless high-resolution wireless experiences across devices. The Snapdragon Sound logo on certified products assures every listener of an exceptional, high-quality listening experience. [Learn more](https://www.qualcomm.com/smartphones/features/snapdragon-sound) ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VoiceAndMusic-04-SnapdrdagonSound2x?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=85) ## Enhancing audio across every device category ### Earbuds and headphones Proven to deliver quality, consistent, and seamless audio experiences across varied environments and user fits. [Learn more](https://www.qualcomm.com/audio/applications/headphones-headsets-earbuds) ### XR headsets ANC blocks out household and environmental distractions for deeper in-game immersion with spatial audio. [Learn more](https://www.qualcomm.com/snapdragon/xr) ## Frequently asked questions ### How is Qualcomm Adaptive ANC different from standard ANC? Adaptive ANC automatically adjusts noise‑cancellation strength based on earbud fit, noise leak‑through, and environmental conditions, ensuring consistent performance and comfort without manual adjustments. ### How long has Qualcomm been developing ANC technology? Qualcomm has over a decade of experience developing ANC, with deployments in millions of premium smartphones and audio devices worldwide. ### Can ANC be integrated into ultra‑small form factor devices? Yes. Qualcomm ANC can be fully integrated into our single‑chip Bluetooth® audio SoCs, eliminating the need for external ANC components and enabling sleeker designs. ### Which Qualcomm platforms support ANC? ANC is available on Qualcomm Bluetooth Audio SoCs including QCC5151, QCC5144, QCC5141, QCC5127, and is integrated into Snapdragon Sound Platforms (S7, S5, S3). ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VoiceAndMusic-08-Whitepaper-small?$QC_Responsive$&fmt=png-alpha) WHITEPAPER ### Global Audio Trends Report—Opportunities in Laptop Audio Did you know? Laptop power users around the world are looking for high-quality wireless earbuds or headphones that will satisfy all their audio needs. And they are willing to pay a premium for them. Explore more consumer data and audio trends in our latest State of Sound report. [Download the report](https://www.qualcomm.com/audio/state-of-sound-2025) ![](https://s7d1.scene7.com/is/image/dmqualcommprod/VoiceAndMusic-09-NewsletterBG?fmt=webp-alpha&qlt=85) ### Hear from us Stay on our wavelength with information about the latest audio solutions, innovations, industry updates, and more. [Sign up for our newsletter](https://assets.qualcomm.com/voice-and-music-newsletter-sign-up.html) ### Sales at your service Partnership is powerful. Get in touch. Let’s talk about the solutions and products that will help achieve your audio ambitions. [Contact us](https://assets.qualcomm.com/contact-sales-audio.html)