Qualcomm wants to improve the haptic feedback experience of Android devices through software solutions

Some sensitive smartphone users may be able to detect subtle differences in tactile feedback between iOS and Android mobile devices. The good news is that starting in the second half of 2021, Android smartphones equipped with Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 chipsets are expected to see significant improvements in this regard. Foreign media reported that Qualcomm recently announced an in-depth collaboration with Lofelt to enhance the tactile experience through software optimization (rather than hardware).

At first, this collaboration was a little confusing to many people. After all, it seems that hardware (rather than software) plays a greater role in tactile feedback.

Judging from the devices sold on the market in recent years, except for a few high-end models, the vibration motors of most Android smartphones only bring a "muddy" simulated touch.

Technical analysis of the hardware and software stack

In contrast, Apple's built-in Taptic Engine for iPhone smartphones/Apple Watch wearable devices has been leading the market for a long time.

Although the vibration motor may not rank as high as other components in terms of functional necessity, it can make people instantly judge the superiority or inferiority in terms of user experience.

Comparison of motor travel between iOS and Android platforms

According to a press release today, Lofelt has developed a companion software framework and open API for phone manufacturers to improve and fine-tune the conversion of tactile data for specific hardware.

In other words, instead of integrating a standard actuator into the chipset, Lofelt developed a more scalable software solution that can run on any smartphone based on the Snapdragon hardware platform.

The Android haptic feedback API has evolved over the years

In a feature article published on Medium, Lofelt CEO and co-founder Daniel Büttner details how to build a better haptic experience for Android devices.

Compared with the closed iOS ecosystem, the openness of Android has also led to a more fragmented experience. Apple can relatively easily set the benchmark in software and hardware, while the Android camp is somewhat independent.

There are huge differences between iOS and Android platforms

Fortunately, with Lofelt's software solution, manufacturers can continue to make mobile devices the way they want, while creating a more consistent tactile experience across the Android ecosystem.