Key Facts
- ✓ The splitR Auracast transceiver can attach to an iPhone’s MagSafe spot.
- ✓ iOS has 58 percent of the market share in North America and nearly 28 percent worldwide.
- ✓ Apple has made no comment on Auracast.
- ✓ Atitan is developing a small disc-shaped transceiver called the splitR.
Quick Summary
Audio technology company Atitan is developing a hardware solution to enable Auracast support on Apple iPhones. The device, known as the splitR, is a small, disc-shaped transceiver designed to attach to an iPhone's MagSafe spot. This move comes as Auracast faces hurdles in mainstream adoption due to a lack of support from key industry players, most notably Apple.
Currently, iOS commands a significant portion of the mobile market, holding 58 percent of the share in North America and nearly 28 percent worldwide. Industry observers note that if Apple were to enable native Auracast support via a firmware update, it would immediately place the technology into the hands of millions of users. Despite the potential impact, Apple has remained silent regarding Auracast integration. In the absence of official support, Atitan aims to provide a third-party alternative that allows users to utilize the Bluetooth technology immediately.
The Auracast Adoption Challenge
The rollout of Auracast Bluetooth technology has encountered resistance in the consumer market, primarily due to hesitation from major manufacturers. Apple is identified as a prime example of a company that has not yet integrated support for the standard. Without backing from the manufacturer of the iPhone, the technology faces a significant barrier to entry for a massive segment of the mobile user base.
The potential for growth, however, is substantial. iOS currently holds a 58 percent market share in North America and nearly 28 percent globally. A decision by Apple to enable native support would effectively put millions of Auracast-capable devices into the world with a single firmware update. As of the current date, Apple has made no public comment regarding plans to support Auracast, leaving the market waiting for an official announcement.
"I'm not hopeful that we'll get one anytime soon."
— Source Content
Atitan's Hardware Solution
In response to the lack of native support, audio technology company Atitan is developing a workaround. The company is creating the splitR, a small, disc-shaped transceiver specifically designed for Apple devices. The hardware is engineered to attach to the iPhone's MagSafe spot, providing a physical bridge for the technology.
The splitR represents a direct approach to bypassing software limitations through hardware innovation. By utilizing the MagSafe attachment point, Atitan offers a solution that integrates seamlessly with the physical design of the iPhone. This allows users to access Auracast functionality without waiting for an operating system update from the device manufacturer.
Market Implications
The introduction of third-party accessories like the splitR highlights the demand for Auracast capabilities despite manufacturer hesitancy. If Atitan successfully brings the product to market, it could accelerate the adoption of the Bluetooth technology among iPhone users who are currently unable to access it.
While the industry waits for an official stance from Apple, developments from companies like Atitan suggest that the market for Auracast is moving forward regardless. The splitR serves as a potential stop-gap measure, ensuring that early adopters can utilize the technology while the broader industry landscape evolves.
