QNX and Haleytek Join Forces to Deliver Software-Defined Audio for Volvo Cars' EX60 EV SUV

Rhea-AI Summary

QNX (NYSE:BB) expanded collaboration with Haleytek to deliver a fully centralized Software-Defined Audio (SDA) architecture for Volvo Cars' upcoming EX60 electric SUV on the SPA3 infotainment platform. The EX60 will be the first vehicle to implement centralized SDA using QNX Sound and OASIS VirtIO Sound, aiming to reduce hardware, speed feature deployment, and enable continuous software updates. Munro & Associates estimates potential savings of $22–$98 per vehicle versus legacy DSP-based amplifier designs. The work supports Volvo's Superset tech stack strategy and aims to scale across models.

Positive

• First-mover: EX60 to be the world’s first fully centralized SDA implementation
• Cost savings of $22–$98 per vehicle estimated by Munro & Associates
• Software flexibility: Centralized audio on SoC reduces hardware needs and speeds feature deployment
• Platform alignment: Supports Volvo's Superset strategy for scalable, updateable vehicle software

Negative

• None.

News Market Reaction

-4.78%

1 alert

-4.78% News Effect

On the day this news was published, BB declined 4.78%, reflecting a moderate negative market reaction.

Data tracked by StockTitan Argus on the day of publication.

Key Figures

Per-vehicle savings: $22–$98 per vehicle

1 metrics

Per-vehicle savings $22–$98 per vehicle Estimated hardware savings from SDA on centralized SoC vs DSP amplifiers

Market Reality Check

Price: $3.46 Vol: Volume 5,092,397 is at 0....

low vol

$3.46 Last Close

Volume Volume 5,092,397 is at 0.69x its 20-day average of 7,337,998 shares. low

Technical Shares trade below the 200-day MA of 4.07, with price at 3.56 pre-news.

Peers on Argus

Peers show mixed moves today: gains in AI and NN, declines in APPN, EVTC, and PA...

Peers show mixed moves today: gains in AI and NN, declines in APPN, EVTC, and PAYO, suggesting BB’s slight dip of -0.28% is more stock-specific than a uniform sector move.

Historical Context

5 past events · Latest: Jan 07 (Positive)

Pattern 5 events

Date	Event	Sentiment	Move	Catalyst
Jan 07	Industry award	Positive	-0.8%	MotorTrend SDV Innovator Awards honoring leaders, with QNX as program partner.
Jan 06	Automotive partnership	Positive	+1.0%	QNX software selected for BMW Neue Klasse safety-critical systems in next-gen vehicles.
Jan 06	Platform launch	Positive	+1.0%	Launch of Alloy Kore SDV platform with Vector, attracting interest from Mercedes-Benz.
Jan 06	Developer initiative	Positive	+1.0%	QNX Everywhere program expanding global developer ecosystem via free access and training.
Dec 22	Investor event	Positive	+4.8%	Announcement of CES 2026 investor briefing focused on QNX growth and demos.

Pattern Detected

Recent QNX automotive and SDV-related announcements have more often seen modest positive price alignment, with one instance of divergence on industry recognition news.

Recent Company History

Over the past few months, BlackBerry’s QNX unit has featured prominently in automotive and software-defined vehicle developments. On Dec 22, 2025, the company highlighted an investor briefing at CES 2026, which coincided with a +4.77% move. A cluster of QNX-focused CES announcements on Jan 06, 2026 about BMW’s Neue Klasse integration, the Alloy Kore platform, and the QNX Everywhere initiative each aligned with a +1.03% reaction. An industry award event on Jan 07, 2026 saw a slight -0.77% divergence, indicating not all positive visibility drives gains.

Market Pulse Summary

This announcement highlights QNX’s expanded role in software-defined vehicles through a centralized ...

Analysis

This announcement highlights QNX’s expanded role in software-defined vehicles through a centralized Software-Defined Audio architecture in Volvo’s EX60, reinforcing its positioning in next-generation infotainment. Recent history shows multiple QNX automotive and ecosystem updates around Jan 06, 2026 that coincided with modest share gains, while an industry award on Jan 07, 2026 saw a small decline. Investors may watch for additional design wins, how SDA deployments scale across models, and future financial disclosures such as the next update following the $393.1M nine‑month revenue reported on Dec 19, 2025.

Key Terms

software-defined audio (sda), system-on-chip (soc), digital signal processors (dsps), software-defined vehicles, +1 more

5 terms

software-defined audio (sda) technical

"expanded collaboration with Haleytek to enable a fully centralized Software-Defined Audio (SDA)"

Software-defined audio (SDA) is audio processing and control handled primarily by software rather than fixed hardware circuits, enabling sound features, tuning and formats to be changed through code updates. Think of it like using apps to change how a smartphone works instead of buying a new device. For investors it signals product flexibility, lower manufacturing cost, faster feature rollouts, and potential recurring revenue from updates or licenses, which can affect margins and growth.

system-on-chip (soc) technical

"SDA centralizes audio processing on a powerful system-on-chip (SoC), providing automakers"

A system-on-chip (SoC) is a single microchip that packs the main electronic components of a computer — such as the processor, memory, graphics and input/output controllers — that would otherwise be separate parts. Like a Swiss Army knife replacing multiple tools, an SoC reduces size, power use and manufacturing cost while shaping device performance and features, so investors watch it as a key driver of product competitiveness, margins and market share.

digital signal processors (dsps) technical

"Unlike traditional approaches that rely on dedicated digital signal processors (DSPs) within amplifiers"

Digital signal processors (DSPs) are specialized microchips designed to quickly clean up, transform and analyze streams of data such as sound, radio signals, images or sensor readings; think of them as fast translators that turn noisy raw inputs into usable information. For investors they matter because DSPs can enable better product features, lower power use and higher performance in devices from phones to cars and networks, influencing demand, product competitiveness and profit margins for hardware and semiconductor companies.

software-defined vehicles technical

"Setting a new standard for audio innovation in software-defined vehicles, the milestone supports"

Vehicles whose key features and performance are controlled and updated primarily through software rather than fixed hardware designs. Like a smartphone that gains new apps and capabilities over time, these cars can receive over-the-air updates that add features, improve efficiency, or fix issues, which matters to investors because it can extend product life, create ongoing revenue from software services, lower recall risk, and change how value is created and captured in the auto industry.

adas technical

"from digital cockpits and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to infotainment systems"

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are electronic systems in vehicles that assist the driver with safety tasks. Examples include automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. These systems use sensors and cameras to improve vehicle safety.

AI-generated analysis. Not financial advice.

Collaboration enables Volvo Cars to deliver premium, software-driven audio experiences in its new infotainment SPA3 platform

WATERLOO, ONTARIO / ACCESS Newswire / February 3, 2026 / QNX, a division of BlackBerry Limited (NYSE:BB)(TSX:BB) today announced an expanded collaboration with Haleytek to enable a fully centralized Software-Defined Audio (SDA) architecture for Volvo Cars' upcoming EX60 fully electric SUV. Setting a new standard for audio innovation in software-defined vehicles, the milestone supports Volvo Cars' progress in its Superset tech stack strategy, which seeks to unify hardware and software into a scalable, future-ready platform.

The EX60 will debut with Volvo Cars' new SPA3 infotainment platform, featuring branded sound system options from multiple prominent audio providers. Unlike traditional approaches that rely on dedicated digital signal processors (DSPs) within amplifiers, SDA centralizes audio processing on a powerful system-on-chip (SoC), providing automakers with greater flexibility, faster deployment of new features and a foundation for continuous software innovation.

"Our Superset tech stack strategy is about building a foundation that is optimized for continuous improvement," said Martin Kristensson, Head of Software Defined Vehicle at Volvo Cars. "Through collaboration with QNX and Haleytek, we've delivered a centralized audio architecture in the EX60 that enables flexibility and long-term innovation. This approach ensures we can evolve capabilities over time, providing customers with a premium experience that keeps getting better long after they drive off the lot."

The EX60 will be the world's first vehicle to implement a fully centralized SDA architecture using QNX Sound. This breakthrough was achieved through close collaboration between QNX and Haleytek, Volvo Cars' software subsidiary, leveraging QNX Sound and the OASIS VirtIO Sound open standard, reinforcing Volvo Cars' commitment to migrating more in-vehicle capabilities to software.

QNX Sound is a digital audio platform for software-defined vehicles that decouples audio and acoustics software from hardware, unifying all vehicle audio functionalities, including voice treatment, media playback, alerts and noise control into one system, helping to streamline development, reduce hardware needs, and speed time-to-market for automakers.

"We are proud to collaborate with Volvo Cars and Haleytek on advancing software-defined audio in the EX60," said Grant Courville, SVP, Products and Strategy at QNX. "This implementation demonstrates how QNX Sound enables automakers to migrate more vehicle functions to software. By embracing a fully centralized Software Defined Audio architecture in the EX60, Volvo Cars is reinforcing its Superset Tech Stack vision - creating a platform that supports continuous updates, scalability across models, and a future-ready approach to in-vehicle experiences."

Munro & Associates, a leading engineering and manufacturing consulting firm recently confirmed that migrating from a legacy hardware-based approach utilizing DSP-enabled "smart" amplifiers, to SDA on a centralized SoC can potentially save automakers $22-$98 per vehicle, depending on system complexity and trim level.

"Delivering a centralized audio architecture in the EX60 reflects how software can unlock new possibilities," said Erik Gustafsson, Lead Architect at Haleytek. "This approach gives Volvo Cars flexibility for future enhancements and demonstrates a model that can scale across programs. It's a clear signal of where the industry is headed - toward platforms that simplify complexity and enable continuous innovation and it's only a matter of time before other automakers follow in the wake of Volvo's leadership."

As SDV complexity grows, QNX remains committed to helping automakers navigate change, accelerate innovation, and deliver safer, smarter vehicles. Its foundational software supports future-proof engineering design, from digital cockpits and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to infotainment systems and domain controllers, enabling automakers to bring innovation to market faster and at lower cost.

For more information on QNX, visit QNX.com and follow @QNX News.

-ENDS-

About BlackBerry

BlackBerry (NYSE:BB)(TSX:BB) provides enterprises and governments the intelligent software and services that power the world around us. Based in Waterloo, Ontario, the company's high-performance foundational software enables major automakers and industrial giants alike to unlock transformative applications, drive new revenue streams and launch innovative business models, all without sacrificing safety, security, and reliability. With a deep heritage in Secure Communications, BlackBerry delivers operational resiliency with a comprehensive, highly secure, and extensively certified portfolio for mobile fortification, mission-critical communications, and critical events management.

About QNX

QNX, a division of BlackBerry Limited (NYSE:BB)(TSX:BB), enhances the human experience and amplifies technology-driven industries, providing a trusted foundation for software-defined businesses to thrive. The business leads the way in delivering safe and secure operating systems, hypervisors, middleware, solutions, and development tools, along with support and services delivered by trusted embedded software experts. QNX^® technology has been deployed in the world's most critical embedded systems, including more than 275 million vehicles on the road today. QNX^® software is trusted across industries including automotive, medical devices, industrial controls, robotics, commercial vehicles, rail, and aerospace and defense. Founded in 1980, QNX is headquartered in Ottawa, Canada. Learn more at qnx.com.

^©2025 BlackBerry Limited. Trademarks, including but not limited to BLACKBERRY and EMBLEM Design, QNX and the QNX logo design are the trademarks or registered trademarks of BlackBerry Limited, and the exclusive rights to such trademarks are expressly reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. BlackBerry is not responsible for any third-party products or services.

Volvo Cars in 2024

For the full year 2024, Volvo Car Group recorded a record-breaking core operating profit of SEK 27 billion. Revenue in 2024 amounted to an all-time high of SEK 400.2 billion, while global sales reached a record 763,389 cars.

About Volvo Car Group

Volvo Cars was founded in 1927. Today, it is one of the most well-known and respected car brands in the world with sales to customers in more than 100 countries. Volvo Cars is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm exchange, where it is traded under the ticker "VOLCAR B".

"For life. To give people the freedom to move in a personal, sustainable and safe way." This purpose is reflected in Volvo Cars' ambition to become a fully electric car maker and in its commitment to an ongoing reduction of its carbon footprint, with the ambition to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2040.

As of December 2024, Volvo Cars employed approximately 42,600 full-time employees. Volvo Cars' head office, product development, marketing and administration functions are mainly located in Gothenburg, Sweden. Volvo Cars' production plants are located in Gothenburg, Ghent (Belgium), South Carolina (US), Chengdu, Daqing and Taizhou (China). The company also has R&D and design centres in Gothenburg and Shanghai (China).

Media Contacts:

BlackBerry Media Relations
+1 (519) 597-7273
mediarelations@BlackBerry.com

SOURCE: QNX

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire

FAQ

What did QNX (BB) announce about Volvo EX60 on February 3, 2026?

QNX announced an expanded collaboration with Haleytek to enable a fully centralized SDA architecture in the EX60. According to the company, this uses QNX Sound and OASIS VirtIO Sound to centralize audio on the vehicle SoC.

How much could centralized SDA save per vehicle for Volvo EX60 buyers?

Munro & Associates estimates savings of $22–$98 per vehicle versus legacy DSP-enabled amplifiers. According to the company, the range depends on system complexity and trim level.

What does centralized Software-Defined Audio mean for Volvo Cars' SPA3 infotainment?

Centralized SDA moves audio processing to a powerful SoC, consolidating voice, media, alerts, and noise control. According to the company, this reduces hardware, streamlines development, and speeds time-to-market.

Will Volvo EX60 support continuous audio feature updates with QNX Sound?

Yes — the centralized architecture is designed to enable continuous software updates and feature evolution post-sale. According to the company, this aligns with Volvo's Superset tech stack vision for scalability.

How does the QNX and Haleytek collaboration affect Volvo's software strategy (BB)?

The collaboration advances Volvo's migration of vehicle capabilities to software and reinforces its Superset strategy. According to the company, it creates a scalable platform supporting future updates across models.