Smart FPGA selected for feature differentiation and integration on Star 2 smartphone

Lattice Semiconductor has announced its iCE40 LM FPGA has been integrated in the recently released ZTE Star 2 flagship smartphone to perform IR remote control, and sensor hub functions. From wearables to smartphones, the iCE40 LM family of devices offers exceptionally low power consumption and extremely small footprint – and have been specifically designed to enable manufacturers of mobile consumer products to implement top of line features fast and efficiently, without sacrificing performance. The ultra low-power iCE40 LM device allowed ZTE to set the Star 2 apart by implementing critical always-on functions. In the crucial battle to reduce energy consumption, it can recognize various gestures and activities while the application processor remains inactive, significantly reducing power usage. Minimizing the application processor usage allows ZTE to maximize the battery life of the Star 2, says the company. “Lattice’s programmable solution allows ZTE to achieve high performance while meeting low power targets, making it possible to implement key differentiating features in our smartphones,” said Ling Xiaobing, product manager, ZTE. “The solution's flexibility makes it the right choice for fast implementation of its features.” ZTE considered a software-based solution for IR remote control, but integrated hard IP found in Lattice’s iCE40 LM offered better reliability and performance. ZTE was able to individually decide which functions to incorporate, targeting the features of each model, while simultaneously saving board space, cost and power, says the company. Subra Chandramouli, director of marketing, Lattice, added: “Lattice’s low power, small size, low cost iCE40 FPGAs are widely used in smartphone, tablet and IoT devices. The ZTE Star 2 shows how customers can provide flexible integration, add differentiation, boost performance, save system power and reduce BOM cost.”