Analog Devices passes SoundMAX to Conexant

When Analog Devices said it would stop developing PC audio codecs this summer, we expected the move to empower other audio codec providers. That's exactly what's happened, but not quite in the way one would have thought: Conexant has signed an exclusive agreement to "manufacture, distribute, and support ADI's PC audio codec product line."

The deal applies to SoundMAX audio solutions for desktop and notebook PCs, which will now complement Conexant's audio offerings. ADI tells us passing the torch to Conexant is the best way to keep serving its customers, and it expects Conexant to "continue the level of support that is necessary and further develop features required by the PC industry."