DSP Group has bought Swiss noise cancellation specialist SoundChip for $14.5 million down and $6 million more if performance criteria are met.

The acquisition combines SoundChip’s capabilities in hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC) with DSP Group’s SmartVoice voice processing platform, algorithms, and mixed-signal expertise.

The acquisition of SoundChip, alongside the strategic customer wins, is a milestone for DSP Group as a provider of technology and expertise for smart hearables, a market that is expected to grow rapidly.

DSP Group’s products fit the TWS (True Wireless Stereo) earbud market. Its products are in Google’s Pixel Buds 2+ and Panasonic TWS earbuds.