Cambridge, UK based CSR has launched RadioPro, a Wi-Fi internet radio example design based on the company's UniFi single-chip Wi-Fi platform. RadioPro provides wireless streaming of internet radio via Wi-Fi, without the need for a PC and supports over 10,000 radio stations through a dedicated internet radio portal. With a bill of material (BOM) of less than $15, the RadioPro has cut the cost of internet radio solution with the added advantage of being software upgradeable, asserted CSR. Radios using CSR's RadioPro design will be in shops for Christmas, according to CSR.

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According to a recent report by Radio Joint Audience Research (RAJAR), almost a quarter of the UK population listened to the radio via the internet in March 2007. However, as a relatively new entrant in the home entertainment arena, the initial cost for specific internet radio products has so far come with a hefty price tag of no less than $200. CSR claims that its RadioPro solution will allow ODMs to bring internet radio products to consumers at a fraction of the price.

RadioPro uses the maker’s UniFi-1 chip to connect to a dedicated internet radio portal through a Wi-Fi access point. Once a station has been selected, RadioPro's software ensures smooth, reliable and high quality streamed audio. It also supports "over-the-air" software upgrades, allowing end users to update their products directly with new capabilities as they are made available.

RadioPro is based on two low-power chips. A single-chip Wi-Fi platform and the multimedia application processor (MAP). The low power design of the radio platform boasts up to 25 hours of active streaming time running on a 1500 mAH battery.

Tracy Hopkins, vice president of CSR's consumer business unit, commented, "The market for internet radio products is forecasted to increase significantly within the next two years. With a $15 BOM, CSR's RadioPro is a breakthrough design that provides ODMs with the ability to penetrate this market quickly, at lower risk and at low cost to the consumer."