STMicroelectronics (ST) has launched an advanced dual-processor-based wireless chip that enhances the performance of next-generation smart connected devices such as digital home products, wearable electronics, smart lighting, and smart sensors.

This device helps improve the end-user experience by providing new features and enhanced performance while extending battery life.

The STM32WB wireless SoC device integrates an Arm Cortex-M4-based microcontroller with all the capabilities to run major applications, and an Arm Cortex-M0+ core capable of offloading the main processor and operating Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) 5 and IEEE 802.15.4 wireless functions in real time.

In addition, it can simultaneously run wireless protocols such as OpenThread, ZigBee, or proprietary protocols, providing many more options for connecting IoT (Internet of Things) devices.

Currently, only a few manufacturers supply similar dual-processor wireless chips that can manage user applications and wireless functions separately for optimal performance with such large memory sizes. As an alternative, it utilizes entry-level Arm Cortex-M industry-standard cores, but this has limited architecture.

The STM32WB integrates high-performance Cortex-M4 and Cortex-M0+ for network processing and leverages ST's ultra-low-power microcontroller technology to provide excellent RF performance capable of extending battery life. Additionally, this SoC includes essential circuitry (baluns) for antenna connectivity. Typically, engineers had to design these circuits themselves, covering significant user and system memory, hardware encryption, and even customer-key repositories for brand and IP protection.

Michel Buffa, Group Vice President and Head of Microcontroller Business at ST, stated, “The STM32WB series provides advanced integration and excellent dual-core performance for developers who need to meet the ongoing demands of users for more affordable and enhanced smart connected devices,” and added, “Because it is compatible with the STM32 development ecosystem, it offers design advantages that can significantly shorten time-to-market for various new products such as lighting, fitness trackers, medical monitoring, beacons, tags, and security devices.”