boAt, a popular audio wearables brand, has teamed up with the semiconductor startup HrdWyr to launch the HrdWyr Indus 1011, a homegrown chip designed for high-volume production. This partnership received support from Tata Electronics for tasks like assembly and testing, marking a step forward for India in semiconductor innovation.
This collaboration is significant because it highlights boAt’s shift towards local partnerships. Unlike before, when they worked mainly with international firms, this marks a first for an Indian brand in the audio sector. The new chip will feature intelligent battery management and is set to debut in boAt’s premium TWS earbuds in early 2026.
By working closely, boAt and HrdWyr are setting a unique model in India. boAt provides valuable insights into consumer preferences, while HrdWyr develops chip features based on those insights. This partnership has allowed a young semiconductor startup to thrive and innovate.
The entire process, from design to testing, is happening within India. This effort aligns with the Government of India’s goals for self-reliance and local manufacturing, contributing to initiatives like Make in India and Digital India.
Experts see this partnership as a strong indicator of India’s potential in the semiconductor landscape. Sameer Mehta, co-founder of boAt, mentioned that this initiative showcases how Indian brands can drive innovation in technology. In his words, “We are proud to show that true product differentiation comes from innovation at the chip level.”
Ramamurthy Sivakumar, co-founder of HrdWyr, echoed this sentiment. He emphasized that having control over semiconductor production is essential for major economies like India. The partnership with boAt demonstrates that Indian tech can hold its own on a global scale.
As interest in semiconductor technology grows, this collaboration stands out in the context of India’s rapid tech advancements and ambitions for self-sufficiency in deep tech. With support from local businesses, India’s semiconductor ecosystem is poised for international achievement.
For more on India’s semiconductor ambitions, you can check the India Semiconductor Mission.
