Back/Ceva Partners with Sensory to Enhance Voice Activation in Embedded Systems
tech·January 8, 2026·ceva

Ceva Partners with Sensory to Enhance Voice Activation in Embedded Systems

ED
Editorial
Cashu Finance·2 min read
TL;DR
  • Ceva partners with Sensory to integrate TrulyHandsfree™ voice activation into its NeuPro-Nano neural processing unit.
  • The collaboration enhances user experience in low-power devices, supporting applications like earbuds and smartwatches.
  • Ceva’s NeuPro-Nano aims to drive innovation in voice-enabled technology while maintaining energy efficiency and data privacy.

Ceva Partners with Sensory to Revolutionize Voice Activation in Embedded Systems

At CES 2026, Ceva, Inc. unveils a strategic collaboration with Sensory Inc., aiming to integrate the latter’s TrulyHandsfree™ voice activation technology into Ceva's NeuPro-Nano neural processing unit (NPU). This partnership is particularly significant as the demand for AI-driven, voice-first user experiences in ultra-low power devices continues to rise. The NeuPro-Nano, recognized as Ceva's most compact and efficient embedded AI NPU, is specifically designed for applications in battery-constrained consumer products, including true wireless stereo earbuds, smartwatches, and home appliances. By incorporating Sensory's advanced voice recognition technology, the collaboration promises to enhance the user experience while ensuring the safety and privacy of data through on-device keyword spotting.

Elia Shenberger, Senior Director of Product Marketing at Ceva, underscores the transformative potential of the NeuPro-Nano, suggesting it redefines the capabilities of AI in embedded systems. The integration of voice activation not only facilitates intuitive interactions for users but also optimizes performance in devices that require constant connectivity. Todd Mozer, CEO of Sensory, emphasizes the synergy between the two technologies, which will enable efficient low-power voice processing across various applications, including smart home devices and wearables. This partnership is poised to accelerate the development of innovative voice-enabled devices, catering to an increasing consumer appetite for seamless, hands-free technology.

The collaboration also highlights Ceva's commitment to enhancing its edge AI ecosystem, reflecting a broader trend in the industry towards integrating voice-first user experiences in low-power devices. As the market for voice-activated technology expands, the NeuPro-Nano's capabilities will be instrumental in enabling OEMs and SoC vendors to implement advanced features without compromising on energy efficiency. This strategic move positions both companies at the forefront of the evolving landscape of consumer electronics, as they aim to provide more sophisticated and user-friendly interfaces for a wide range of applications.

In related news, Ceva also announces the licensing of its SensPro™ AI DSP architecture to BOS Semiconductors for their Eagle-A ADAS System-on-Chip (SoC). This collaboration targets enhanced real-time sensor processing for advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous driving technologies, showcasing Ceva's versatility in addressing diverse market needs. Meanwhile, the integration of Ceva's AI DSP technology into NXP Semiconductors' S32Z2 and S32E2 processors signals a significant advancement in the software-defined vehicle sector, further solidifying Ceva's role as a leader in AI-driven automotive solutions.