First electronic device for outputting sound, second electronic device for controlling same, and operating method of first electronic device

Abstract

A first electronic device according to an embodiment may be configured to: acquire, from a second electronic device, an audio signal and information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to a first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to a second speaker; identify a first frequency band with respect to the first speaker and a second frequency band with respect to the second speaker, on the basis of the crossover frequency; provide an audio signal having been processed through a first codec to the first speaker; and provide an audio signal having been processed through a second codec to the second speaker so as to output sound with respect to the audio signal.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] Various embodiments of the disclosure relate to a first electronic device for outputting sound, a second electronic device for controlling the same, and a method of operating the first electronic device.[Background Art]

[0002] According to the development of wireless communication technology, electronic devices may communicate with other electronic devices through various wireless communication technologies. Bluetooth communication technology indicates a short-range wireless communication technology in which electronic devices connect to each other and exchange data or information with each other. In addition, Bluetooth communication technology may include Bluetooth legacy (or classic) network technology or BLE (Bluetooth low energy) networks, and may have various connection types of topologies such as piconet and scatternet. Electronic devices may share data with each other at low power using Bluetooth communication technology. External wireless communication devices may be connected using this Bluetooth technology, and audio data for content running on the electronic device may be transmitted to the external wireless communication device, and the external wireless communication device may process the audio data and output it to the user. Recently, wireless earphones using Bluetooth communication technology have been widely used.[Detailed Description of the Invention][Technical Problem][Technical Solution]

[0003] A first electronic device according to an embodiment may include a communication circuit, a first codec and a second codec, a first speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the first codec, a second speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the second codec, a processor, and memory configured to store instructions. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device through the communication circuit. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to acquire, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to process, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and process, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to output sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

[0004] In a method of operating a first electronic device according to an embodiment, the first electronic device may include a first speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a first codec, and a second speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a second codec. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include wirelessly receiving an audio signal from a second electronic device. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include acquiring, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first codec and a frequency band corresponding to the second codec. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include identifying a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include processing, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and processing, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include outputting sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

[0005] A second electronic device according to an embodiment may include a communication circuit, a display, and a processor. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to wirelessly transmit an audio signal to a first electronic device through the communication circuit. According to an embodiment, the first electronic device may include a first speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal received through a first codec, and a second speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal received through a second codec. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to determine a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to determine, based on the crossover frequency, a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in a first frequency band for the first speaker, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in a second frequency band for the second speaker. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to transmit first control information to the first electronic device so that the first electronic device may output sound for an audio signal, based on the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies.[Advantageous Effects][Brief Description of Drawings]

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments. FIG. 2A is a diagram of an electronic system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2B is a block diagram of a first electronic device and a second electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an operation of a first electronic device to provide an audio signal processed through a first codec and a second codec to a first speaker and a second speaker, thereby outputting sound, according to an embodiment. FIG. 3B is a block diagram of a first electronic device including a plurality of codecs and a plurality of speakers according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound through a plurality of speakers, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound through a plurality of speakers, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment. FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are drawings illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment. FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are drawings illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal when a dip in an audio signal is identified according to an embodiment. FIG. 9A, FIG. 9B, and FIG. 9C are flowcharts illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a mode selected from among a plurality of output modes, according to an embodiment. FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, and FIG. 10C are drawings illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a playback mode, according to an embodiment. FIG. 11A, FIG. 11B, and FIG. 11C are drawings illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on an ANC mode, according to an embodiment. FIG. 12A, FIG. 12B, and FIG. 12C are drawings illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a call mode, according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a second electronic device to control a first electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B are drawings illustrating a method for a second electronic device to adjust a crossover frequency and an equalizer for a first electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a second electronic device to determine an output mode according to an embodiment. FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are drawings illustrating a method for a second electronic device to determine an output mode according to an embodiment. [Mode for Carrying out the Invention]

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device 101 in the network environment 100 may communicate with an electronic device 102 via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or at least one of an electronic device 104 or a server 108 via a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 via the server 108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include a processor 120, memory 130, an input module 150, a sound output module 155, a display module 160, an audio module 170, a sensor module 176, an interface 177, a connecting terminal 178, a haptic module 179, a camera module 180, a power management module 188, a battery 189, a communication module 190, a subscriber identification module (SIM) 196, or an antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., the connecting terminal 178) may be omitted from the electronic device 101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of the components (e.g., the sensor module 176, the camera module 180, or the antenna module 197) may be implemented as a single component (e.g., the display module 160).

[0008] The processor 120 may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program 140) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 coupled with the processor 120, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor 120 may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module 176 or the communication module 190) in volatile memory 132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory 132, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory 134. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 may include a main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), or an auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor 121. For example, when the electronic device 101 includes the main processor 121 and the auxiliary processor 123, the auxiliary processor 123 may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor 121, or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor 121.

[0009] The auxiliary processor 123 may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display module 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190) among the components of the electronic device 101, instead of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module 180 or the communication module 190) functionally related to the auxiliary processor 123. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., the neural processing unit) may include a hardware structure specified for artificial intelligence model processing. An artificial intelligence model may be generated by machine learning. Such learning may be performed, e.g., by the electronic device 101 where the artificial intelligence is performed or via a separate server (e.g., the server 108). Learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, e.g., supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), deep Q-network or a combination of two or more thereof but is not limited thereto. The artificial intelligence model may, additionally or alternatively, include a software structure other than the hardware structure.

[0010] The memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor 120 or the sensor module 176) of the electronic device 101. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program 140) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory 130 may include the volatile memory 132 or the non-volatile memory 134.

[0011] The program 140 may be stored in the memory 130 as software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS) 142, middleware 144, or an application 146.

[0012] The input module 150 may receive a command or data to be used by another component (e.g., the processor 120) of the electronic device 101, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device 101. The input module 150 may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0013] The sound output module 155 may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output module 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record. The receiver may be used for receiving incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.

[0014] The display module 160 may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device 101. The display module 160 may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the display module 160 may include a touch sensor adapted to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

[0015] The audio module 170 may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module 170 may obtain the sound via the input module 150, or output the sound via the sound output module 155 or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device 102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device 101.

[0016] The sensor module 176 may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or an environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external to the electronic device 101, and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to an embodiment, the sensor module 176 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0017] The interface 177 may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device 101 to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an embodiment, the interface 177 may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

[0018] A connecting terminal 178 may include a connector via which the electronic device 101 may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102). According to an embodiment, the connecting terminal 178 may include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0019] The haptic module 179 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. According to an embodiment, the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

[0020] The camera module 180 may capture a still image or moving images. According to an embodiment, the camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0021] The power management module 188 may manage power supplied to the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the power management module 188 may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0022] The battery 189 may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the battery 189 may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

[0023] The communication module 190 may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102, the electronic device 104, or the server 108) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module 190 may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor 120 (e.g., the application processor (AP)) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module 190 may include a wireless communication module 192 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 194 (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth ™< , wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network 199 (e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module 192 may identify and authenticate the electronic device 101 in a communication network, such as the first network 198 or the second network 199, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module 196.

[0024] The wireless communication module 192 may support a 5G network, after a 4G network, and next-generation communication technology, e.g., new radio (NR) access technology. The NR access technology may support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communications (mMTC), or ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC). The wireless communication module 192 may support a high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band) to achieve, e.g., a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module 192 may support various technologies for securing performance on a high-frequency band, such as, e.g., beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (massive MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module 192 may support various requirements specified in the electronic device 101, an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 104), or a network system (e.g., the second network 199). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20Gbps or more) for implementing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5ms or less for each of downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or a round trip of 1ms or less) for implementing URLLC.

[0025] The antenna module 197 may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include an antenna including a radiating element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network 198 or the second network 199, may be selected, for example, by the communication module 190 (e.g., the wireless communication module 192) from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module 190 and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module 197.

[0026] According to various embodiments, the antenna module 197 may form a mmWave antenna module. According to an embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, a RFIC disposed on a first surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the printed circuit board, or adjacent to the first surface and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on a second surface (e.g., the top or a side surface) of the printed circuit board, or adjacent to the second surface and capable of transmitting or receiving signals of the designated high-frequency band.

[0027] At least some of the above-described components may be coupled mutually and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) therebetween via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., a bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)).

[0028] According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 via the server 108 coupled with the second network 199. Each of the electronic devices 102 or 104 may be a device of a same type as, or a different type, from the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic device 101 may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices 102, 104, or 108. For example, if the electronic device 101 should perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 101, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at least part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device 101 may provide ultra low-latency services using, e.g., distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device 104 may include an internet-of-things (IoT) device. The server 108 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or a neural network. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device 104 or the server 108 may be included in the second network 199. The electronic device 101 may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technology.

[0029] FIG. 2A is a drawing of an electronic system according to an embodiment.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 2A, according to an embodiment, an electronic system 200 may include a plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 and a second electronic device 201. For example, the electronic system 200 may indicate a system in which a plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 output sound based on an audio signal wirelessly received from a second electronic device 201.

[0031] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 (e.g., the electronic device 101 in FIG. 1) may establish a communication link (e.g., communication link using Bluetooth communication technology) with at least one electronic device among the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 (e.g., the electronic device 102 or 104 in FIG. 1). The second electronic device 201 may transmit and receive data related to the output of sound to and from the plurality of electronic devices 301 and 301-1 through the communication link. For example, the second electronic device 201 may be implemented as a smartphone or a tablet PC.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1, based on data (e.g., audio signal or control signal) related to the output of sound received from the second electronic device 201, may output sound for the audio signal. For example, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 may be implemented as wireless earphones based on true wireless stereo (TWS). For example, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 may be implemented as a pair of wearable electronic devices. For example, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 may be implemented in a form capable of being attached to a body part or clothing, such as a head-mounted device (HMD).

[0033] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may be implemented as a wearable electronic device capable of being worn on the user's ear or face. For example, the first electronic device 301 may indicate either a wearable electronic device worn on the user's left ear or a wearable electronic device worn on the user's right ear. In this case, the other wearable electronic device (e.g., 301-1 in FIG. 2A) may also be implemented in the same or similar manner as the wearable electronic device 301. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device 301 may be implemented as a headset device.

[0034] Meanwhile, although FIG. 2A illustrates a plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1, the technical idea of the disclosure may not be limited thereto. The plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 and the second electronic device 201 of the disclosure may be implemented as various types of devices. For example, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 may be implemented as a single electronic device capable of outputting sound, based on an audio signal wirelessly received from the second electronic device 201.

[0035] Existing wireless earphones (e.g., TWS earphones) are able to provide a signal to at least one speaker through one codec (or an audio path through one codec). Even if the wireless earphones include a plurality of speakers, a predetermined number of EQ frequencies may be configured in a frequency range processed by one codec. However, even if the wireless earphones have a plurality of speakers, the number of EQ frequencies capable of being configured in a frequency band may be limited. Accordingly, the wireless earphones that output sound through a single codec have difficulty in improving sound quality by performing an equalizer function.

[0036] The first electronic device 301 according to an embodiment may determine or adjust the crossover frequency of frequency bands processed by a plurality of codecs connected to a plurality of speakers through the plurality of codecs. Based on the crossover frequency, the first electronic device 301 may determine a plurality of frequency bands assigned to a plurality of codecs and respectively configure EQ frequencies for the plurality of determined frequency bands. Through this, the first electronic device 301 may perform a highly usable equalizer function to improve the quality of sound output through the speakers.

[0037] FIG. 2B is a block diagram of a first electronic device and a second electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 2B, according to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may include a processor 220, a communication circuit 250, and a display 260.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may control the overall operation of the second electronic device 201. For example, the processor 220 may be implemented identically or similarly to the processor 120 in FIG. 1.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may wirelessly transmit a signal related to sound to the first electronic device 301 through the communication circuit 250 (e.g., the communication module 190 in FIG. 1). For example, the signal related to sound may include a signal related to audio, music, ambient sound, or telephone sound.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may transmit a control signal for controlling the first electronic device 301 to the first electronic device 301 through the communication circuit 250. For example, the control signal may include information for outputting sound by the first electronic device 301. In addition, the processor 220, based on a user input related to the output of sound, may transmit a control signal corresponding to the user input to the first electronic device 301.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may control an equalizer function of the sound output from the first electronic device 301. In addition, the processor 220 may control a frequency band of the sound output from the first electronic device 301.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may determine or adjust a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to a first speaker (e.g., a woofer) and a frequency band corresponding to a second speaker (e.g., a tweeter), which are included in the first electronic device 301. For example, the crossover frequency may indicate a frequency value that overlaps the frequencies between a frequency band output from the first speaker (e.g., a woofer) and a frequency band output from the second speaker (e.g., a tweeter), included in the first electronic device 301. For example, the crossover frequency may represent a boundary between a frequency band in which the first speaker functions dominantly and a frequency band in which the second speaker functions dominantly. For example, the processor 220 may determine or adjust the crossover frequency on the basis of a user input or automatically.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may determine or adjust a plurality of first EQ frequencies assigned to the first frequency band for the first speaker included in the first electronic device 301, based on the determined crossover frequency. In addition, the processor 220 may determine or adjust a plurality of second EQ frequencies assigned to the second frequency band for the second speaker included in the first electronic device 301, based on the determined crossover frequency. For example, the first frequency band may indicate a frequency band filtered by a first codec corresponding to the first speaker, which is determined based on the crossover frequency. For example, the second frequency band may indicate a frequency band filtered by a second codec corresponding to the second speaker, which is determined based on the crossover frequency. The plurality of first EQ frequencies may indicate frequencies (or frequency bands) to which an equalizer function is applied in the first frequency band. The plurality of second EQ frequencies may indicate frequencies (or frequency bands) to which an equalizer function is applied in the second frequency band.

[0045] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may transmit first control information to the first electronic device 301 through the communication circuit 250 so that the first electronic device 301 outputs sound for an audio signal, based on the determined crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies. For example, the first control information may include information about the determined crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may display information related to the output of sound through the display 260 (e.g., the display 160 in FIG. 1). For example, the display 260 may be implemented as a touch screen. For example, the information related to the output of sound may include information for controlling an equalizer function. In addition, the information related to the output of sound may include information for determining a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker (e.g., a woofer) and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker (e.g., a tweeter), included in the first electronic device 301.

[0047] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may display, on the display 260, the information about the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies. The processor 220 may determine or adjust at least one of the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, or the plurality of second EQ frequencies, based on a user input to the display 260 (or a touch screen).

[0048] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may display information about a plurality of output modes related to the output of an audio signal through the display 260. The processor 220, when one of the plurality of output modes is selected, may transmit second control information including information about the selected mode to the first electronic device. For example, the second control information may include information about a crossover frequency value, a plurality of first EQ frequencies, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies related to the selected mode. For example, one of the modes may be selected by a user input or automatically selected by the processor 220.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may include a processor 320, a communication circuit 310, a codec unit (or codec module) 340, and a speaker unit (or speaker module) 370.

[0050] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may control the overall operation of the first electronic device 301. For example, the processor 320 may be implemented identically or similarly to the processor 120 in FIG. 1.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may establish a communication link (e.g., a communication link using Bluetooth communication technology) with the second electronic device 201 through the communication circuit 310 (e.g., the communication module 190 in FIG. 1). The processor 320 may transmit and receive data related to sound to and from the second electronic device 201 through the communication link.

[0052] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may process data (e.g., a signal related to audio, music, ambient sound, or telephone sound (hereinafter, audio signal)) received from the second electronic device 201 through the codec unit 340 and provide the processed signal to the speaker unit 370, thereby outputting sound.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the codec unit 340 may include a plurality of codecs (e.g., a first codec 350 and a second codec 360 in FIG. 3A). Each of the plurality of codecs may independently process an audio signal. The plurality of codecs may process (or filter) different frequency bands for the audio signal from each other. For example, at least some of the plurality of codecs may be implemented as hardware or software.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the speaker unit 360 may include a plurality of speakers (e.g., a first speaker 380 and a second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first speaker may output sound, based on a signal processed through the first codec. The second speaker may output sound, based on a signal processed through the second codec. For example, the first speaker may include a woofer, and the second speaker may include a tweeter.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may wirelessly receive an audio signal from the second electronic device 201 through the communication circuit 310.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may receive or obtain, from the second electronic device 201, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker included in the speaker unit 370 and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker included in the speaker unit 370.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may process (or filter) the audio signal, based on the first frequency band, through the first codec included in the codec unit 340. In addition, the processor 320 may process (or filter) the audio signal, based on the second frequency band, through the second codec included in the codec unit 340. For example, the processor 320 may process the audio signal in parallel through the first codec and the second codec.

[0059] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may provide the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and provide the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker, thereby outputting sound for the audio signal.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may acquire, from the second electronic device 201, first EQ information about a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band. For example, the first EQ information may include adjustment values (or gain values) for a plurality of first EQ frequencies to perform an equalizer function for the first frequency band. The second EQ information may include adjustment values (or gain values) for a plurality of second EQ frequencies to perform an equalizer function for the second frequency band.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may adjust outputs for the plurality of first EQ frequencies of the audio signal, based on the first EQ information, through the first codec included in the codec unit 340. In addition, the processor 320 may adjust outputs for the plurality of second EQ frequencies of the audio signal, based on the second EQ information, through the second codec included in the codec unit 340.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may receive, from the second electronic device 201, information on an output mode related to the output of the audio signal. The processor 320 may output sound for the audio signal, based on the information about the output mode. For example, the processor 320 may identify at least one of the crossover frequency, the first EQ frequencies, and the second EQ frequencies specified for the output mode, based on the information about the output mode. The processor 320 may output sound for the audio signal, based on the identified crossover frequency, first EQ frequencies, and second EQ frequencies.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may activate only one of the first codec or the second codec, based on the information about the output mode. That is, the processor 320 may output sound through either the first speaker or the second speaker in a specific output mode.

[0064] FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an operation of a first electronic device to provide an audio signal processed through a first codec and a second codec to a first speaker and a second speaker, thereby outputting sound, according to an embodiment.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 3A, according to an embodiment, the codec unit 340 may include a first codec 350 and a second codec 360. The speaker unit 370 may include a first speaker 380 and a second speaker 390.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the first codec 350 may process an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, and transmit the processed audio signal to the first speaker 380.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the first codec 350 may include a first volume controller 352, a first filter 354, a first digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 356, and a first power amplifier (PA) 358. The first volume controller 352 may convert an audio signal into a digital value within a predetermined range (e.g., a range of 0 to 1) and provide the converted digital value to the first filter 354. The first filter 354 may perform a filtering operation on the digital value corresponding to the audio signal. For example, the first filter 354 may include a low-pass filter (LPF). For example, the first filter 354 may determine the first frequency band to filter the audio signal, based on the crossover frequency obtained from the processor 320. In addition, the first filter 354 may determine the frequencies to which the equalizer function is to be applied in the first frequency band. For example, the first filter 354 may adjust the output values for a specified number of (e.g., 10) frequencies included in the first frequency band. The first filter 354 may provide data on which the filtering operation has been performed to the first DAC 356. The first DAC 356 may convert digital data into an analog signal and provide the converted signal to the first PA 358. The first PA 358 may amplify the converted signal and provide it to the first speaker 380. The first speaker 380 may output sound, based on the signal provided from the first PA 358. For example, the first speaker 380 may include a woofer (or woofer speaker).

[0068] According to an embodiment, the second codec 360 may process an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, and transmit the processed audio signal to the second speaker 390.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the second codec 360 may include a second volume controller 362, a second filter 364, a second DAC 366, and a second PA 368. The second volume controller 362 may convert an audio signal into a digital value within a predetermined range (e.g., a range of 0 to 1) and provide the converted digital value to the second filter 364. The second filter 364 may perform a filtering operation on the digital value corresponding to the audio signal. For example, the second filter 364 may include a high-pass filter (HPF). For example, the second filter 364 may determine a second frequency band in which the audio signal is to be filtered, based on a crossover frequency obtained from the processor 320. In addition, the second filter 364 may determine frequencies to which an equalizer function is to be applied in the second frequency band. For example, the second filter 364 may adjust output values for a specified number of (e.g., 10) frequencies included in the second frequency band. The second filter 364 may provide data on which the filtering operation has been performed to the second DAC 366. The second DAC 366 may convert digital data into an analog signal and provide the converted signal to the second PA 368. The second PA 368 may amplify the converted signal and provide it to the second speaker 390. The second speaker 390 may output sound, based on the signal provided from the second PA 368. For example, the second speaker 390 may include a tweeter (or tweeter speaker).

[0070] According to the above-described method, the first codec 350 and the second codec 360 may process the audio signal in parallel. That is, the audio signal may be processed through a first audio path provided to the first speaker 380 by the first codec 350 and a second audio path provided to the second speaker 390 by the second codec 360. Through this, the first electronic device 301 may output low-frequency sound through the first speaker 380 and high-frequency sound through the second speaker 390 at the same time. In addition, the first electronic device 301 may perform an equalizer function for low frequencies and high frequencies, respectively.

[0071] FIG. 3B is a block diagram of a first electronic device including a plurality of codecs and a plurality of speakers according to an embodiment.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 3B, according to an embodiment, the codec unit 340 may include a plurality of codecs (e.g., a first codec 350, a second codec 360, a third codec 351, and a fourth codec 361). The speaker unit 370 may include a plurality of speakers (e.g., a first speaker 380, a second speaker 390, a third speaker 381, and a fourth speaker 391).

[0073] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may output low-frequency sounds through the first speaker 380 and the third speaker 381, and may output high-frequency sounds through the second speaker 390 and the fourth speaker 391. For example, each of the first speaker 380 and the third speaker 381 may include a woofer (or woofer speaker). In addition, each of the second speaker 390 and the fourth speaker 391 may include a tweeter (or tweeter speaker).

[0074] Meanwhile, although the first electronic device 301 is illustrated as including four codecs and four speakers in FIG. 3B, this is only for convenience of explanation, and the technical idea of the disclosure may not be limited thereto. For example, the number of speakers and codecs may not be limited thereto.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B described above, the first electronic device 301 may apply a crossover frequency and EQ frequencies to the respective codecs. Through this, the first electronic device 301 may enhance user experiences. In addition, the first electronic device 301 may improve sound quality when performing various functions (e.g., ambient-sound listening function, ANC function, or call function).

[0076] At least some of the operations of the first electronic device 301 described below may be controlled by the processor 320. In addition, at least some of the operations of the second electronic device 201 may be controlled by the processor 220. However, the entity of the operation will be described as the first electronic device 301 or the second electronic device 201 hereinafter.

[0077] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound through a plurality of speakers, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 4, according to an embodiment, in operation 401, a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B) may wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B).

[0079] According to an embodiment, in operation 403, the first electronic device 301 may acquire or receive, from the second electronic device 201, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. According to an embodiment, operation 403 may precede operation 401.

[0080] According to an embodiment, in operation 405, the first electronic device 301 may identify the first frequency band for the first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A) and the second frequency band for the second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A), based on the crossover frequency.

[0081] According to an embodiment, in operation 407, the first electronic device 301 may process (or filter) the audio signal, based on the first frequency band, through a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and process (or filter) the audio signal, based on the second frequency band, through a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A).

[0082] According to an embodiment, in operation 409, the first electronic device 301 may output sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec 350 to the first speaker 380 and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec 360 to the second speaker 390.

[0083] The horizontal axes of the graphs in FIGS. 5, 7A to 7B, 8A to 8B, 10A to 10C, 11A to 11C, and 12A to 12Cdescribed below may represent a frequency value (e.g., Hz), and the vertical axes may represent a magnitude (e.g., dB) of sound (or sound signal).

[0084] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound through a plurality of speakers, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 5, according to an embodiment, a first graph 510 may represent a first frequency band processed by a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first codec 350 may include a low-pass filter (LPF).

[0086] According to an embodiment, a second graph 520 may represent a second frequency band processed by a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A). For example, the second codec 360 may include a high-pass filter (HPF).

[0087] According to an embodiment, a crossover frequency 530 may correspond to a point where the first graph 510 and the second graph 520 meet (or intersect). For example, the crossover frequency 530 may be changed or adjusted within a specified range (e.g., 4 kHz to 12 kHz).

[0088] According to an embodiment, when the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band may also be changed, based on the changed crossover frequency 530. For example, when the crossover frequency 530 is reduced (e.g., when the crossover frequency 530 moves to the left), the first frequency band may be narrowed and the second frequency band may be widened. Alternatively, when the crossover frequency 530 increases (e.g., when the crossover frequency 530 moves to the right), the first frequency band may be widened and the second frequency band may be narrowed.

[0089] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 6, according to an embodiment, in operation 601, a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B) may obtain, from a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B), first EQ information about a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band. For example, the plurality of first EQ frequencies may be different from the plurality of second EQ frequencies. The plurality of first EQ frequencies may include frequencies at regular intervals. In addition, the plurality of second EQ frequencies may also include frequencies at regular intervals. For example, each of the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies may include a specified number of frequencies. For example, the number of EQ frequencies of each of the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies may be configured within a maximum allowable range. According to an embodiment, the number of the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies may be configured to be the same or different from each other. For example, the intervals between the plurality of first EQ frequencies (or the plurality of second EQ frequencies) may be determined according to a specified number. For example, the first EQ frequency and the last EQ frequency may be determined by the EQ frequency corresponding to the center among the plurality of first EQ frequencies (or the plurality of second EQ frequencies). For example, the first electronic device 201 may determine the plurality of first EQ frequencies (or the plurality of second EQ frequencies) by adjusting the EQ frequency corresponding to the center automatically or by user input. That is, the first electronic device 201 may determine the sections (e.g., frequency sections) capable of configuring the EQ frequency, based on the EQ frequency corresponding to the adjusted center. According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may provide a user interface for adjusting the EQ frequency corresponding to the center.

[0091] According to an embodiment, in operation 603, the first electronic device 301 may adjust outputs of an audio signal for the first EQ frequencies to be output through a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A), based on first EQ information, through a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first electronic device 301 may increase or decrease outputs for the first EQ frequencies for the audio signal.

[0092] According to an embodiment, in operation 605, the first electronic device 301 may adjust outputs of the audio signal for the second EQ frequencies to be output through a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A), based on second EQ information, through a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first electronic device 301 may increase or decrease outputs for the second EQ frequencies for the audio signal. According to an embodiment, operation 605 may precede operation 603. Alternatively, operation 605 may be performed simultaneously with operation 603.

[0093] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are drawings illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, according to an embodiment, a first graph 710 or 715 may represent a first frequency band processed by a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A). A second graph 720 or 725 may represent a second frequency band processed by a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A).

[0095] Referring to FIG. 7A, according to an embodiment, a crossover frequency 730 may correspond to a point where the first graph 710 and the second graph 720 meet (or intersect). For example, the crossover frequency 730 may be 10 kHz. For example, the first frequency range may be a frequency range of 10 kHz or less, and the second frequency range may be a frequency range of 10 kHz or more. For example, the second frequency range may be relatively narrow (compared to that in FIG. 5). A plurality of second EQ frequencies 750 may be specified in the second frequency range. As the second frequency range becomes narrow, the plurality of second EQ frequencies 750 may be intensively specified in the second frequency range. Through this, the first electronic device 201 may intensively apply the equalizer function to the second frequency range, thereby improving the sound quality in the corresponding frequency range.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 7B, according to an embodiment, when the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band may also be changed, based on the changed crossover frequency 735. For example, when the crossover frequency 735 is changed to 4 kHz, the first frequency band may be narrowed and the second frequency band may be widened. For example, the first frequency range may be a frequency range of 4 kHz or less, and the second frequency range may be a frequency range of 4 kHz or more. In this case, the first frequency range may be relatively narrowed. The plurality of first EQ frequencies 765 may be specified in the first frequency area. As the first frequency area becomes narrow, the plurality of first EQ frequencies 755 may be intensively specified in the first frequency area. Through this, the first electronic device 201 may intensively apply an equalizer function to the first frequency area, thereby improving sound quality in the corresponding frequency area.

[0097] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are drawings illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal when a dip in an audio signal is identified according to an embodiment.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 8A, according to an embodiment, an audio signal 805 may have a dip section 807. For example, the dip section 807 may indicate a section where the intensity of the signal is rapidly reduced. The first electronic device 301 or the second electronic device 201 may analyze the audio signal 805 to identify the dip section 807 included in the audio signal 805.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 8B, according to an embodiment, a first graph 810 may represent a first frequency band processed by a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A). A second graph 820 may represent a second frequency band processed by a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A).

[0100] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 or the second electronic device 201 may apply an equalization function intensively to the dip section 807 to enhance or supplement sound quality. To this end, the second electronic device 201 may determine or adjust a crossover frequency 830 to intensively apply an equalization function to the dip section 807. In addition, the second electronic device 201 may determine a plurality of EQ frequencies 850 (e.g., a plurality of first EQ frequencies and a plurality of second EQ frequencies) to intensively apply an equalization function to the dip section 807. The first electronic device 301 may output sound with enhanced or supplemented sound quality, based on information about the crossover frequency 830 and the plurality of EQ frequencies 850 obtained from the second electronic device 201.

[0101] FIGS. 9A to 9C are flowcharts illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a mode selected from among a plurality of output modes, according to an embodiment.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 9A, according to an embodiment, in operation 901, a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B) may receive, from a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B), information about an output mode related to the output of an audio signal. For example, the output mode may include a playback mode, an active noise cancellation (ANC) mode, an ambient-sound listening mode, or a call mode, as shown in Table 1. [Table 1]ModesDetailed modesBW (Frequency band)ScenarioCrossover frequency (or Cutoff frequency)Activated speaker (Path)PlaybackNormal-quality sound~20kHz10kHzWF / TWTHigh-quality sound~50kHz10kHz(WF / TWT)WF / TWTExpert mode (Custom EQ / xOver)~50kHzVariable crossoverANCANC only~4kHz4kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveANC + Playback~10kHz ↑10kHz or 10kHz LPFWF / TWTANC + Call~8kHz8kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveAmbient soundAmbient sound only~12kHz12kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveAmbient sound + Playback~20kHz10kHzWF / TWTAmbient sound + Call~8kHz8kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveCallWB Call~8kHz8kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveSWB Call~12kHz12kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveFB Call~20kHz10kHzWF / TWT

[0103] For example, the playback mode may include a normal mode indicating a default, a high-quality mode emphasizing high-quality sound, and an expert mode that may be customized by the user. An active noise cancellation (ANC) mode may include an ANC-only mode of performing only a noise-cancelling function, an ANC + playback mode of performing a playback function while performing a noise-cancelling function, and an ANC + call mode of performing a call function while performing a noise-cancelling function. The ambient-sound listening mode may include an ambient-sound-only mode of performing only an ambient-sound listening function, an ambient-sound + playback mode of performing a playback function while performing an ambient-sound listening function, and an ambient-sound + call mode of performing a call function while performing an ambient-sound listening function. The call mode may include a WB mode of performing a wideband call function, a SWB mode of performing a super-wideband call function, and a UWB mode of performing an ultra-wideband call function.

[0104] According to an embodiment, depending on a specific output mode among the plurality of output modes, a frequency band (bandwidth (BW), a crossover frequency (or a cutoff frequency), and an activated speaker (or an activated path) specified for the specific output mode may be determined.

[0105] According to an embodiment, in operation 903, the first electronic device 301 may process an audio signal, based on information about the output mode, and output sound for the processed audio signal. For example, the first electronic device 301 may identify a crossover frequency between the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on information about the output mode. In addition, the first electronic device 301 may identify a plurality of EQ frequencies (e.g., a plurality of first EQ frequencies and a plurality of second EQ frequencies) applied to the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on information about the output mode. The plurality of EQ frequencies (e.g., the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies) may be determined based on the corresponding frequency band (BW) and crossover frequency.

[0106] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may pre-store information on the plurality of output modes. For example, the first electronic device 301 may pre-store information on the crossover frequency and frequency bands specified for a specific output mode. For example, the first electronic device 301 may pre-store a table such as Table 1. Thereafter, when information indicating a specific mode is received, the first electronic device 301 may identify information on the crossover frequency and frequency bands specified for the specific mode using the pre-stored table.

[0107] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may also pre-store a table such as Table 1. In addition, the second electronic device 201 may manage and edit a table such as Table 1, based on user input. Alternatively, the second electronic device 201 may update information about the table, based on data received from an external server. The second electronic device 201 may transmit information about the edited or updated table to the first electronic device 201.

[0108] FIGS. 9B and 9C are diagrams illustrating a method for the first electronic device to process an audio signal, based on a selected output mode.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 9B , according to an embodiment, in operation 911, the first electronic device 301 may receive, from the second electronic device 201, information about a first mode among a plurality of output modes related to the output of an audio signal. For example, the first mode may be a playback mode in Table 1.

[0110] According to an embodiment, in operation 913, the first electronic device 301 may identify a crossover frequency specified for the first mode, based on the information about the first mode. In operation 915, the first electronic device 301 may identify the frequency bands processed by a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A).

[0111] Through this, the first electronic device 301 may process the audio signal according to a mode selected from among the plurality of output modes and output sound.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 9C, according to an embodiment, in operation 921, the first electronic device 301 may receive, from the second electronic device 201, information about a second mode from among the plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. For example, the second mode may be the ANC mode, the ambient-sound listening mode, or the call mode in Table 1.

[0113] According to an embodiment, in operation 923, the first electronic device 301 may activate only one of the first codec 350 or the second codec 360, based on the information about the second mode. For example, in the case where the second mode is a mode of performing only the "ANC mode," the first electronic device 301 may activate only the first codec 350.

[0114] According to an embodiment, in operation 925, the first electronic device 301 may identify a frequency band to be processed by the activated codec. For example, in the case where the activated codec is the first codec 350, the cutoff frequency of a low-pass filter (LPF) included in the first codec 350 may be identified.

[0115] Through this, the first electronic device 301 may process an audio signal according to a mode selected from among the plurality of output modes and output sound.

[0116] FIGS. 10A to 10C are drawings illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a playback mode, according to an embodiment.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 10A and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in a normal-quality playback mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1030 specified for the corresponding mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1010 and a second frequency band 1020, based on the crossover frequency 1030. Alternatively, the first electronic device 301 may identify the first frequency band 1010 and the second frequency band 1020, and identify the crossover frequency 1030, based on the identified first frequency band 1010 and second frequency band 1020. For example, the first frequency band 1010 may be 0 to 10 kHz, and the second frequency band 1020 may be 10 to 20 kHz.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 10B and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in a high-quality playback mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1030 specified for the corresponding mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify the first frequency band 1010 and the second frequency band 1020, based on the crossover frequency 1030. For example, the first frequency band 1010 may be 0 to 10 kHz, and the second frequency band 1025 may be 10 to 50 kHz.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 10C and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an expert playback mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1080 specified for the corresponding mode. For example, the first electronic device 301 may identify the crossover frequency 1080 selected by the user in the expert mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1060 and a second frequency band 1070, based on the crossover frequency 1080 selected by the user.

[0120] FIGS. 11A to 11C are diagrams illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on an ANC mode, according to an embodiment.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 11A and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ANC-only mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1130 (e.g., 4 kHz) of a low-pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. For example, the first electronic device 301, in the ANC-only mode, may filter a signal of a corresponding frequency band (e.g., 0 to 4 kHz) through the low-pass filter (LPF) and provide the signal to a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first electronic device 301, in the ANC-only mode, may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and the first speaker 370. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1110, based on the cutoff frequency 1130. In this case, since a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) is deactivated, a second frequency band 1120 may also be in a deactivated state (e.g., the filter gain is - 80 dB).

[0122] Referring to FIG. 11B and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ANC and playback mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1160 (e.g., 10 kHz) of the low-pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 11A, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the ANC and playback mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1145, based on the cutoff frequency 1160. According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may also activate the second codec 360 and the second speaker 390 in consideration of the frequency band of the sound to be played.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 11C and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ANC and call mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1190 (e.g., 8 kHz) of the low pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 11A, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the ANC and call mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1170, based on the cutoff frequency 1190.

[0124] According to the above-described method, the first electronic device 301 may reduce the current consumption of the first electronic device 301 by activating only some codecs (and speakers) depending on a specific mode. In addition, the first electronic device 301 may improve the performance of an ANC function by not reproducing a high-frequency peak when executing the ANC function.

[0125] FIGS. 12A to 12C are diagrams illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a call mode, according to an embodiment.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 12A and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in a wideband (WB) call mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1230 (e.g., 8 kHz) of the low-pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. For example, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the WB call mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1210, based on the cutoff frequency 1230. In this case, since a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) is deactivated, a second frequency band 1220 may also be in a deactivated state (e.g., the filter gain is -80 dB).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 12B and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in a super-wideband (SWB) call mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1260 (e.g., 12 kHz) of the low-pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 12A, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the SWB mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1240, based on the cutoff frequency 1260.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 12C and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in full-band (FB) call mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1290 specified for the corresponding mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1270 and a second frequency band 1280, based on the crossover frequency 1290. For example, the first frequency band 1270 may be 0 to 10 kHz, and the second frequency band 1280 may be 10 to 20 kHz.

[0129] According to another embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ambient-sound listening-only mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1260 (e.g., 12 kHz) of the low pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 12B, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the ambient-sound listening-only mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1240, based on the cutoff frequency 1260.

[0130] According to another embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ambient-sound listening and playback mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1290 specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 12C, the first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1270 and a second frequency band 1280, based on the crossover frequency 1290, in the ambient-sound listening and playing mode. For example, the first frequency band 1270 may be 0 to 10 kHz, and the second frequency band 1280 may be 10 to 20 kHz.

[0131] According to another embodiment, in an ambient-sound listening and call mode, a cutoff frequency 1230 (e.g., 8 kHz) of the low pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode may be identified. Similarly to that in FIG. 12B, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A). The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1210, based on the cutoff frequency 1230.

[0132] According to the above-described method, the first electronic device 301 may reduce the current consumption of the first electronic device 301 by activating only some codecs (and speakers) depending on a specific mode.

[0133] Meanwhile, the crossover frequencies and frequency bands described in Table 1 and FIGS. 10A to 12C are examples, and the technical idea of the disclosure may not be limited thereto.

[0134] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a second electronic device to control a first electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 13, according to an embodiment, in operation 1301, a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B) may transmit an audio signal to a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B) including a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A) and a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A).

[0136] According to an embodiment, in operation 1303, the second electronic device 201 may determine a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker, which are included in the first electronic device 301. For example, the second electronic device 201 may determine a crossover frequency, based on a user input. Alternatively, the second electronic device 201 may automatically determine a crossover frequency according to pre-configured conditions. For example, in the case where a default value (e.g., 10 kHz) of the crossover frequency is specified, the second electronic device 201 may determine the crossover frequency as the default value (e.g., 10 kHz). Alternatively, the second electronic device 201 may determine, depending on output modes, the crossover frequency specified for a corresponding output mode.

[0137] According to an embodiment, in operation 1305, the second electronic device 201, based on the crossover frequency, may determine a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band for the first speaker, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band for the second speaker. For example, the second electronic device 201 may determine the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies, based on a user input. Alternatively, the second electronic device 201 may automatically determine the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies, based on pre-configured conditions.

[0138] According to an embodiment, in operation 1307, the second electronic device 201 may transmit first control information to the first electronic device so that the first electronic device 301 outputs sound for an audio signal, based on the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies. Meanwhile, operations 1303 to 1307 may precede operation 1301. Alternatively, at least some of operations 1303 to 1307 may be performed together with operation 1301.

[0139] FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B are diagrams illustrating a method for a second electronic device to adjust a crossover frequency and an equalizer for a first electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B, according to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may display a screen 1401 for adjusting a crossover frequency and an equalizer on a display (e.g., the display 260 in FIG. 2B).

[0141] According to an embodiment, the screen 1401 may include a first control window 1410 for a crossover frequency, a second control window 1440 for adjusting an equalizer of the first speaker (e.g., a woofer WF), and a third control window 1450 for adjusting an equalizer of the second speaker (e.g., a tweeter TWT).

[0142] According to an embodiment, the first control window 1410 may include a control object 1420 for adjusting a crossover frequency. For example, the control object 1420 may display a currently configured crossover frequency. Based on a user input (e.g., touch input, tap input, or drag input) to the control object 1420, the second electronic device 201 may change the crossover frequency.

[0143] According to an embodiment, the second control window 1440 may include information for adjusting output values of a plurality of first EQ frequencies included in the first frequency band. For example, the second electronic device 201 may adjust output values (or gain) of corresponding frequencies, based on a user input for adjusting the object representing each of the plurality of first EQ frequencies.

[0144] According to an embodiment, the third control window 1450 may include information for adjusting output values of a plurality of second EQ frequencies included in the second frequency band. For example, the second electronic device 201 may adjust the output values (or gain) of corresponding frequencies, based on a user input for adjusting the object representing each of the plurality of second EQ frequencies.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 14B, when the control object 1420 is moved based on a user input (e.g., touch input, tap input, or drag input), the second electronic device 201 may identify a crossover frequency corresponding to the moved distance or moved position. For example, when the control object 1420 is moved to the right, the crossover frequency may increase. Alternatively, when the control object 1420 is moved to the left, the crossover frequency may decrease.

[0146] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may transmit information about the changed crossover frequency to the first electronic device 301. Thereafter, the first electronic device 301 may change the crossover frequency, based on the information about the changed crossover frequency, and then change the first frequency band and the second frequency band.

[0147] Meanwhile, in the second electronic device 201, when the crossover frequency is changed based on a user input (e.g., touch input, tap input, or drag input), the value representing each of the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the value representing each of the plurality of second EQ frequencies may be changed. For example, when the crossover frequency is changed to 8 kHz, the smallest frequency value of the plurality of second EQ frequencies may be greater than 8 kHz. In addition, when the crossover frequency is changed to 8 kHz, the largest frequency value of the plurality of first EQ frequencies may be less than 8 kHz.

[0148] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a second electronic device to determine an output mode according to an embodiment.

[0149] Referring to FIG. 15, according to an embodiment, in operation 1501, the second electronic device 201 may determine one mode from among a plurality of output modes. For example, the second electronic device 201 may display a screen for selecting one of the plurality of output modes on a display (e.g., the display 260 in FIG. 2B). The second electronic device 201 may determine one of the modes, based on a user input to the corresponding screen.

[0150] According to an embodiment, in operation 1503, the second electronic device 201 may transmit information about a crossover frequency value, a plurality of first EQ frequencies, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies related to the determined mode to a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B). According to an embodiment, only information related to the determined mode may be transmitted to the first electronic device 301. The first electronic device 301 may change the configuration for processing an audio signal, based on the information received from the second electronic device 201.

[0151] FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are drawings illustrating a method for a second electronic device to determine an output mode according to an embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 16A, according to an embodiment, a second electronic device 1601 (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B) may display a screen 1610 for determining an output mode of a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B). The screen 1610 may include a mode window 1620 for selecting a specific mode. For example, the mode window 1620 may include a first object 1621, a second object 1622, a third object 1634, and a fourth object 1624. For example, the first object 1621 may be an object for selecting a playback mode, the second object 1622 may be an object for selecting an ANC mode, the third object 1623 may be an object for selecting an ambient-sound listening mode, and the fourth object 1624 may be an object for selecting a call mode.

[0153] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 1601 may select one of the plurality of output modes, based on a user input for selecting one of the first object 1621, the second object 1622, the third object 1623, and the fourth object 1624.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 16B, when a user input for the first object 1621 is identified, the second electronic device 1601 may display a selection window 1630 for determining a detailed mode of the playback mode. The selection window 1630 may include a first selection object 1631, a second selection object 1632, and a third selection object 1633. For example, the first selection object 1631 may be an object for selecting a normal-quality playback mode, the second selection object 1632 may be an object for selecting a high-quality playback mode, and the third selection object 1633 may be an object for selecting an expert mode (or a custom mode).

[0155] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 1601 may select one of the plurality of detailed modes, based on a user input for selecting one of the first selection object 1631, the second selection object 1632, and the third selection object 1633.

[0156] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 1601 may transmit information related to the selected mode to the first electronic device 301. The first electronic device 301 may change the configuration for processing an audio signal, based on the information received from the first electronic device 1601.

[0157] A first electronic device 301 according to an embodiment may include a communication circuit 310, a first codec 350 and a second codec 360, a first speaker 380 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the first codec, a second speaker 390 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the second codec, a processor 220, and memory 330 configured to store instructions. According to an embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device 201 through the communication circuit. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to acquire, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to process, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and process, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to output sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

[0158] The first codec and the second codec according to an embodiment may be configured to process different frequency bands for the audio signal from each other.

[0159] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to acquire, from the second electronic device, first EQ information about a plurality of first equalizer (EQ) frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to adjust outputs of the audio signal for the first EQ frequencies, based on the first EQ information, through the first codec. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to adjust outputs of the audio signal for the second EQ frequencies, based on the second EQ information, through the second codec.

[0160] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to change, in a case where the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on the changed crossover frequency.

[0161] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to change the plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band, based on the change in the first frequency band. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to change the plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band, based on the change in the second frequency band.

[0162] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to receive, from the second electronic device, information about a first mode among a plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to identify, based on the information about the first mode, the crossover frequency specified for the first mode.

[0163] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to receive, from the second electronic device, information about a second mode among the plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to activate, based on the information about the second mode, only one of the first codec or the second codec.

[0164] According to an embodiment, the first speaker may include a woofer and the second speaker may include a tweeter.

[0165] The first electronic device according to an embodiment may be implemented as true wireless stereo (TWS) earphones.

[0166] In a method of operating a first electronic device 301 according to an embodiment, the first electronic device may include a first speaker 380 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a first codec 350, and a second speaker 390 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a second codec 360. The operating method of the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include wirelessly receiving an audio signal from a second electronic device 201. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include acquiring, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first codec and a frequency band corresponding to the second codec. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include identifying a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include processing, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and processing, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include outputting sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

[0167] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include acquiring, from the second electronic device, first EQ information about a plurality of first equalizer (EQ) frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include adjusting outputs of the audio signal for the first EQ frequencies, based on the first EQ information, through the first codec. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include adjusting outputs of the audio signal for the second EQ frequencies, based on the second EQ information, through the second codec.

[0168] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include changing, in a case where the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on the changed crossover frequency.

[0169] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include changing the plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band, based on the change in the first frequency band. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include changing the plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band, based on the change in the second frequency band.

[0170] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include receiving, from the second electronic device, information about a first mode among a plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include identifying, based on the information about the first mode, the crossover frequency specified for the first mode.

[0171] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include receiving, from the second electronic device, information about a second mode among the plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include deactivating, based on the information about the second mode, one of the first codec or the second codec.

[0172] A second electronic device 201 according to an embodiment may include a communication circuit 250, a display 260, and a processor 220. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to wirelessly transmit an audio signal to a first electronic device 301 through the communication circuit. According to an embodiment, the first electronic device may include a first speaker 380 configured to output sound, based on a signal received through a first codec 350, and a second speaker 390 configured to output sound, based on a signal received through a second codec 360. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to determine a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to determine, based on the crossover frequency, a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in a first frequency band for the first speaker, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in a second frequency band for the second speaker. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to transmit first control information to the first electronic device so that the first electronic device may output sound for an audio signal, based on the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies.

[0173] The first control information according to an embodiment may include information about the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies.

[0174] The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to display information about a plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal on the display. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to transmit, when a first mode is selected from among the plurality of output modes, second control information including information about the first mode to the first electronic device.

[0175] The second control information according to an embodiment may include information about the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies related to the first mode.

[0176] The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to display information about the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies on the display. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to adjust at least one of the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, or the plurality of second EQ frequencies, based on a user input to the display.

[0177] A non-transitory recording medium according to an embodiment may store instructions configured to cause, when executed by at least one processor included in a first electronic device 301 including a first speaker 380 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a first codec 350, and a second speaker 390 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a second codec 360, the first electronic device to wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device 201, acquire, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first codec and a frequency band corresponding to the second codec, identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency, process the audio signal, based on the first frequency band, through the first codec, process the audio signal, based on the second frequency band, through the second codec, provide the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker, and provide the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker, thereby outputting sound for the audio signal.

[0178] The electronic device according to various embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic devices may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic devices are not limited to those described above.

[0179] It should be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for a corresponding embodiment. With regard to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It is to be understood that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, each of such phrases as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C," may include any one of, or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together in a corresponding one of the phrases. As used herein, such terms as "1st" and "2nd," or "first" and "second" may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another, and does not limit the components in other aspect (e.g., importance or order). It is to be understood that if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to, with or without the term "operatively" or "communicatively", as "coupled with," "coupled to," "connected with," or "connected to" another element (e.g., a second element), it means that the element may be coupled with the other element directly (e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via a third element.

[0180] As used in connection with various embodiments of the disclosure, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may interchangeably be used with other terms, for example, "logic," "logic block," "part," or "circuitry". A module may be a single integral component, or a minimum unit or part thereof, adapted to perform one or more functions. For example, according to an embodiment, the module may be implemented in a form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0181] Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., the program 140) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory 136 or external memory 138) that is readable by a machine (e.g., the electronic device 101). For example, a processor (e.g., the processor 120) of the machine (e.g., the electronic device 101) may invoke at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, and execute it, with or without using one or more other components under the control of the processor. This allows the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction invoked. The one or more instructions may include a code generated by a complier or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Wherein, the term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.

[0182] According to an embodiment, a method according to various embodiments of the disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online via an application store (e.g., PlayStore ™< ), or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. If distributed online, at least part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in the machine-readable storage medium, such as memory of the manufacturer's server, a server of the application store, or a relay server.

[0183] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately disposed in different components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components before the integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0007]FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device 101 in the network environment 100 may communicate with an electronic device 102 via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or at least one of an electronic device 104 or a server 108 via a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 via the server 108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include a processor 120, memory 130, an input module 150, a sound output module 155, a display module 160, an audio module 170, a sensor module 176, an interface 177, a connecting terminal 178, a haptic module 179, a camera module 180, a power management module 188, a battery 189, a communication module 190, a subscriber identification module ...

[Technical Field]

[0001] Various embodiments of the disclosure relate to a first electronic device for outputting sound, a second electronic device for controlling the same, and a method of operating the first electronic device.[Background Art]

[0002] According to the development of wireless communication technology, electronic devices may communicate with other electronic devices through various wireless communication technologies. Bluetooth communication technology indicates a short-range wireless communication technology in which electronic devices connect to each other and exchange data or information with each other. In addition, Bluetooth communication technology may include Bluetooth legacy (or classic) network technology or BLE (Bluetooth low energy) networks, and may have various connection types of topologies such as piconet and scatternet. Electronic devices may share data with each other at low power using Bluetooth communication technology. External wireless communication devices may be connected using this Bluetooth technology, and audio data for content running on the electronic device may be transmitted to the external wireless communication device, and the external wireless communication device may process the audio data and output it to the user. Recently, wireless earphones using Bluetooth communication technology have been widely used.[Detailed Description of the Invention][Technical Problem][Technical Solution]

[0003] A first electronic device according to an embodiment may include a communication circuit, a first codec and a second codec, a first speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the first codec, a second speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the second codec, a processor, and memory configured to store instructions. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device through the communication circuit. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to acquire, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to process, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and process, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to output sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

[0004] In a method of operating a first electronic device according to an embodiment, the first electronic device may include a first speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a first codec, and a second speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a second codec. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include wirelessly receiving an audio signal from a second electronic device. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include acquiring, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first codec and a frequency band corresponding to the second codec. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include identifying a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include processing, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and processing, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include outputting sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

[0005] A second electronic device according to an embodiment may include a communication circuit, a display, and a processor. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to wirelessly transmit an audio signal to a first electronic device through the communication circuit. According to an embodiment, the first electronic device may include a first speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal received through a first codec, and a second speaker configured to output sound, based on a signal received through a second codec. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to determine a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to determine, based on the crossover frequency, a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in a first frequency band for the first speaker, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in a second frequency band for the second speaker. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to transmit first control information to the first electronic device so that the first electronic device may output sound for an audio signal, based on the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies.[Advantageous Effects][Brief Description of Drawings]

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device in a network environment according to various embodiments. FIG. 2A is a diagram of an electronic system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2B is a block diagram of a first electronic device and a second electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an operation of a first electronic device to provide an audio signal processed through a first codec and a second codec to a first speaker and a second speaker, thereby outputting sound, according to an embodiment. FIG. 3B is a block diagram of a first electronic device including a plurality of codecs and a plurality of speakers according to an embodiment. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound through a plurality of speakers, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound through a plurality of speakers, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment. FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment. FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are drawings illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment. FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are drawings illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal when a dip in an audio signal is identified according to an embodiment. FIG. 9A, FIG. 9B, and FIG. 9C are flowcharts illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a mode selected from among a plurality of output modes, according to an embodiment. FIG. 10A, FIG. 10B, and FIG. 10C are drawings illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a playback mode, according to an embodiment. FIG. 11A, FIG. 11B, and FIG. 11C are drawings illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on an ANC mode, according to an embodiment. FIG. 12A, FIG. 12B, and FIG. 12C are drawings illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a call mode, according to an embodiment. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a second electronic device to control a first electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B are drawings illustrating a method for a second electronic device to adjust a crossover frequency and an equalizer for a first electronic device according to an embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a second electronic device to determine an output mode according to an embodiment. FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are drawings illustrating a method for a second electronic device to determine an output mode according to an embodiment. [Mode for Carrying out the Invention]

[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device 101 in the network environment 100 may communicate with an electronic device 102 via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or at least one of an electronic device 104 or a server 108 via a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 via the server 108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include a processor 120, memory 130, an input module 150, a sound output module 155, a display module 160, an audio module 170, a sensor module 176, an interface 177, a connecting terminal 178, a haptic module 179, a camera module 180, a power management module 188, a battery 189, a communication module 190, a subscriber identification module (SIM) 196, or an antenna module 197. In some embodiments, at least one of the components (e.g., the connecting terminal 178) may be omitted from the electronic device 101, or one or more other components may be added in the electronic device 101. In some embodiments, some of the components (e.g., the sensor module 176, the camera module 180, or the antenna module 197) may be implemented as a single component (e.g., the display module 160).

[0008] The processor 120 may execute, for example, software (e.g., a program 140) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device 101 coupled with the processor 120, and may perform various data processing or computation. According to one embodiment, as at least part of the data processing or computation, the processor 120 may store a command or data received from another component (e.g., the sensor module 176 or the communication module 190) in volatile memory 132, process the command or the data stored in the volatile memory 132, and store resulting data in non-volatile memory 134. According to an embodiment, the processor 120 may include a main processor 121 (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU) or an application processor (AP)), or an auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., a graphics processing unit (GPU), a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor (ISP), a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor (CP)) that is operable independently from, or in conjunction with, the main processor 121. For example, when the electronic device 101 includes the main processor 121 and the auxiliary processor 123, the auxiliary processor 123 may be adapted to consume less power than the main processor 121, or to be specific to a specified function. The auxiliary processor 123 may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the main processor 121.

[0009] The auxiliary processor 123 may control at least some of functions or states related to at least one component (e.g., the display module 160, the sensor module 176, or the communication module 190) among the components of the electronic device 101, instead of the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor 121 while the main processor 121 is in an active state (e.g., executing an application). According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as part of another component (e.g., the camera module 180 or the communication module 190) functionally related to the auxiliary processor 123. According to an embodiment, the auxiliary processor 123 (e.g., the neural processing unit) may include a hardware structure specified for artificial intelligence model processing. An artificial intelligence model may be generated by machine learning. Such learning may be performed, e.g., by the electronic device 101 where the artificial intelligence is performed or via a separate server (e.g., the server 108). Learning algorithms may include, but are not limited to, e.g., supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning. The artificial intelligence model may include a plurality of artificial neural network layers. The artificial neural network may be a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), deep Q-network or a combination of two or more thereof but is not limited thereto. The artificial intelligence model may, additionally or alternatively, include a software structure other than the hardware structure.

[0010] The memory 130 may store various data used by at least one component (e.g., the processor 120 or the sensor module 176) of the electronic device 101. The various data may include, for example, software (e.g., the program 140) and input data or output data for a command related thereto. The memory 130 may include the volatile memory 132 or the non-volatile memory 134.

[0011] The program 140 may be stored in the memory 130 as software, and may include, for example, an operating system (OS) 142, middleware 144, or an application 146.

[0012] The input module 150 may receive a command or data to be used by another component (e.g., the processor 120) of the electronic device 101, from the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device 101. The input module 150 may include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0013] The sound output module 155 may output sound signals to the outside of the electronic device 101. The sound output module 155 may include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker may be used for general purposes, such as playing multimedia or playing record. The receiver may be used for receiving incoming calls. According to an embodiment, the receiver may be implemented as separate from, or as part of the speaker.

[0014] The display module 160 may visually provide information to the outside (e.g., a user) of the electronic device 101. The display module 160 may include, for example, a display, a hologram device, or a projector and control circuitry to control a corresponding one of the display, hologram device, and projector. According to an embodiment, the display module 160 may include a touch sensor adapted to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor adapted to measure the intensity of force incurred by the touch.

[0015] The audio module 170 may convert a sound into an electrical signal and vice versa. According to an embodiment, the audio module 170 may obtain the sound via the input module 150, or output the sound via the sound output module 155 or a headphone of an external electronic device (e.g., an electronic device 102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly coupled with the electronic device 101.

[0016] The sensor module 176 may detect an operational state (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device 101 or an environmental state (e.g., a state of a user) external to the electronic device 101, and then generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected state. According to an embodiment, the sensor module 176 may include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, an atmospheric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0017] The interface 177 may support one or more specified protocols to be used for the electronic device 101 to be coupled with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102) directly (e.g., wiredly) or wirelessly. According to an embodiment, the interface 177 may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, a secure digital (SD) card interface, or an audio interface.

[0018] A connecting terminal 178 may include a connector via which the electronic device 101 may be physically connected with the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102). According to an embodiment, the connecting terminal 178 may include, for example, a HDMI connector, a USB connector, a SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0019] The haptic module 179 may convert an electrical signal into a mechanical stimulus (e.g., a vibration or a movement) or electrical stimulus which may be recognized by a user via his tactile sensation or kinesthetic sensation. According to an embodiment, the haptic module 179 may include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electric stimulator.

[0020] The camera module 180 may capture a still image or moving images. According to an embodiment, the camera module 180 may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0021] The power management module 188 may manage power supplied to the electronic device 101. According to one embodiment, the power management module 188 may be implemented as at least part of, for example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0022] The battery 189 may supply power to at least one component of the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the battery 189 may include, for example, a primary cell which is not rechargeable, a secondary cell which is rechargeable, or a fuel cell.

[0023] The communication module 190 may support establishing a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 102, the electronic device 104, or the server 108) and performing communication via the established communication channel. The communication module 190 may include one or more communication processors that are operable independently from the processor 120 (e.g., the application processor (AP)) and supports a direct (e.g., wired) communication or a wireless communication. According to an embodiment, the communication module 190 may include a wireless communication module 192 (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module 194 (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module or a power line communication (PLC) module). A corresponding one of these communication modules may communicate with the external electronic device via the first network 198 (e.g., a short-range communication network, such as Bluetooth ™< , wireless-fidelity (Wi-Fi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or the second network 199 (e.g., a long-range communication network, such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., LAN or wide area network (WAN)). These various types of communication modules may be implemented as a single component (e.g., a single chip), or may be implemented as multi components (e.g., multi chips) separate from each other. The wireless communication module 192 may identify and authenticate the electronic device 101 in a communication network, such as the first network 198 or the second network 199, using subscriber information (e.g., international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module 196.

[0024] The wireless communication module 192 may support a 5G network, after a 4G network, and next-generation communication technology, e.g., new radio (NR) access technology. The NR access technology may support enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), massive machine type communications (mMTC), or ultra-reliable and low-latency communications (URLLC). The wireless communication module 192 may support a high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band) to achieve, e.g., a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module 192 may support various technologies for securing performance on a high-frequency band, such as, e.g., beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (massive MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module 192 may support various requirements specified in the electronic device 101, an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device 104), or a network system (e.g., the second network 199). According to an embodiment, the wireless communication module 192 may support a peak data rate (e.g., 20Gbps or more) for implementing eMBB, loss coverage (e.g., 164dB or less) for implementing mMTC, or U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5ms or less for each of downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or a round trip of 1ms or less) for implementing URLLC.

[0025] The antenna module 197 may transmit or receive a signal or power to or from the outside (e.g., the external electronic device) of the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include an antenna including a radiating element composed of a conductive material or a conductive pattern formed in or on a substrate (e.g., a printed circuit board (PCB)). According to an embodiment, the antenna module 197 may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas). In such a case, at least one antenna appropriate for a communication scheme used in the communication network, such as the first network 198 or the second network 199, may be selected, for example, by the communication module 190 (e.g., the wireless communication module 192) from the plurality of antennas. The signal or the power may then be transmitted or received between the communication module 190 and the external electronic device via the selected at least one antenna. According to an embodiment, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) other than the radiating element may be additionally formed as part of the antenna module 197.

[0026] According to various embodiments, the antenna module 197 may form a mmWave antenna module. According to an embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, a RFIC disposed on a first surface (e.g., the bottom surface) of the printed circuit board, or adjacent to the first surface and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., the mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., array antennas) disposed on a second surface (e.g., the top or a side surface) of the printed circuit board, or adjacent to the second surface and capable of transmitting or receiving signals of the designated high-frequency band.

[0027] At least some of the above-described components may be coupled mutually and communicate signals (e.g., commands or data) therebetween via an inter-peripheral communication scheme (e.g., a bus, general purpose input and output (GPIO), serial peripheral interface (SPI), or mobile industry processor interface (MIPI)).

[0028] According to an embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device 101 and the external electronic device 104 via the server 108 coupled with the second network 199. Each of the electronic devices 102 or 104 may be a device of a same type as, or a different type, from the electronic device 101. According to an embodiment, all or some of operations to be executed at the electronic device 101 may be executed at one or more of the external electronic devices 102, 104, or 108. For example, if the electronic device 101 should perform a function or a service automatically, or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device 101, instead of, or in addition to, executing the function or the service, may request the one or more external electronic devices to perform at least part of the function or the service. The one or more external electronic devices receiving the request may perform the at least part of the function or the service requested, or an additional function or an additional service related to the request, and transfer an outcome of the performing to the electronic device 101. The electronic device 101 may provide the outcome, with or without further processing of the outcome, as at least part of a reply to the request. To that end, a cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device 101 may provide ultra low-latency services using, e.g., distributed computing or mobile edge computing. In another embodiment, the external electronic device 104 may include an internet-of-things (IoT) device. The server 108 may be an intelligent server using machine learning and / or a neural network. According to an embodiment, the external electronic device 104 or the server 108 may be included in the second network 199. The electronic device 101 may be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology or IoT-related technology.

[0029] FIG. 2A is a drawing of an electronic system according to an embodiment.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 2A, according to an embodiment, an electronic system 200 may include a plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 and a second electronic device 201. For example, the electronic system 200 may indicate a system in which a plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 output sound based on an audio signal wirelessly received from a second electronic device 201.

[0031] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 (e.g., the electronic device 101 in FIG. 1) may establish a communication link (e.g., communication link using Bluetooth communication technology) with at least one electronic device among the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 (e.g., the electronic device 102 or 104 in FIG. 1). The second electronic device 201 may transmit and receive data related to the output of sound to and from the plurality of electronic devices 301 and 301-1 through the communication link. For example, the second electronic device 201 may be implemented as a smartphone or a tablet PC.

[0032] According to an embodiment, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1, based on data (e.g., audio signal or control signal) related to the output of sound received from the second electronic device 201, may output sound for the audio signal. For example, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 may be implemented as wireless earphones based on true wireless stereo (TWS). For example, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 may be implemented as a pair of wearable electronic devices. For example, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 may be implemented in a form capable of being attached to a body part or clothing, such as a head-mounted device (HMD).

[0033] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may be implemented as a wearable electronic device capable of being worn on the user's ear or face. For example, the first electronic device 301 may indicate either a wearable electronic device worn on the user's left ear or a wearable electronic device worn on the user's right ear. In this case, the other wearable electronic device (e.g., 301-1 in FIG. 2A) may also be implemented in the same or similar manner as the wearable electronic device 301. Alternatively, the wearable electronic device 301 may be implemented as a headset device.

[0034] Meanwhile, although FIG. 2A illustrates a plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1, the technical idea of the disclosure may not be limited thereto. The plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 and the second electronic device 201 of the disclosure may be implemented as various types of devices. For example, the plurality of first electronic devices 301 and 301-1 may be implemented as a single electronic device capable of outputting sound, based on an audio signal wirelessly received from the second electronic device 201.

[0035] Existing wireless earphones (e.g., TWS earphones) are able to provide a signal to at least one speaker through one codec (or an audio path through one codec). Even if the wireless earphones include a plurality of speakers, a predetermined number of EQ frequencies may be configured in a frequency range processed by one codec. However, even if the wireless earphones have a plurality of speakers, the number of EQ frequencies capable of being configured in a frequency band may be limited. Accordingly, the wireless earphones that output sound through a single codec have difficulty in improving sound quality by performing an equalizer function.

[0036] The first electronic device 301 according to an embodiment may determine or adjust the crossover frequency of frequency bands processed by a plurality of codecs connected to a plurality of speakers through the plurality of codecs. Based on the crossover frequency, the first electronic device 301 may determine a plurality of frequency bands assigned to a plurality of codecs and respectively configure EQ frequencies for the plurality of determined frequency bands. Through this, the first electronic device 301 may perform a highly usable equalizer function to improve the quality of sound output through the speakers.

[0037] FIG. 2B is a block diagram of a first electronic device and a second electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 2B, according to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may include a processor 220, a communication circuit 250, and a display 260.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may control the overall operation of the second electronic device 201. For example, the processor 220 may be implemented identically or similarly to the processor 120 in FIG. 1.

[0040] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may wirelessly transmit a signal related to sound to the first electronic device 301 through the communication circuit 250 (e.g., the communication module 190 in FIG. 1). For example, the signal related to sound may include a signal related to audio, music, ambient sound, or telephone sound.

[0041] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may transmit a control signal for controlling the first electronic device 301 to the first electronic device 301 through the communication circuit 250. For example, the control signal may include information for outputting sound by the first electronic device 301. In addition, the processor 220, based on a user input related to the output of sound, may transmit a control signal corresponding to the user input to the first electronic device 301.

[0042] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may control an equalizer function of the sound output from the first electronic device 301. In addition, the processor 220 may control a frequency band of the sound output from the first electronic device 301.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may determine or adjust a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to a first speaker (e.g., a woofer) and a frequency band corresponding to a second speaker (e.g., a tweeter), which are included in the first electronic device 301. For example, the crossover frequency may indicate a frequency value that overlaps the frequencies between a frequency band output from the first speaker (e.g., a woofer) and a frequency band output from the second speaker (e.g., a tweeter), included in the first electronic device 301. For example, the crossover frequency may represent a boundary between a frequency band in which the first speaker functions dominantly and a frequency band in which the second speaker functions dominantly. For example, the processor 220 may determine or adjust the crossover frequency on the basis of a user input or automatically.

[0044] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may determine or adjust a plurality of first EQ frequencies assigned to the first frequency band for the first speaker included in the first electronic device 301, based on the determined crossover frequency. In addition, the processor 220 may determine or adjust a plurality of second EQ frequencies assigned to the second frequency band for the second speaker included in the first electronic device 301, based on the determined crossover frequency. For example, the first frequency band may indicate a frequency band filtered by a first codec corresponding to the first speaker, which is determined based on the crossover frequency. For example, the second frequency band may indicate a frequency band filtered by a second codec corresponding to the second speaker, which is determined based on the crossover frequency. The plurality of first EQ frequencies may indicate frequencies (or frequency bands) to which an equalizer function is applied in the first frequency band. The plurality of second EQ frequencies may indicate frequencies (or frequency bands) to which an equalizer function is applied in the second frequency band.

[0045] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may transmit first control information to the first electronic device 301 through the communication circuit 250 so that the first electronic device 301 outputs sound for an audio signal, based on the determined crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies. For example, the first control information may include information about the determined crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies.

[0046] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may display information related to the output of sound through the display 260 (e.g., the display 160 in FIG. 1). For example, the display 260 may be implemented as a touch screen. For example, the information related to the output of sound may include information for controlling an equalizer function. In addition, the information related to the output of sound may include information for determining a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker (e.g., a woofer) and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker (e.g., a tweeter), included in the first electronic device 301.

[0047] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may display, on the display 260, the information about the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies. The processor 220 may determine or adjust at least one of the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, or the plurality of second EQ frequencies, based on a user input to the display 260 (or a touch screen).

[0048] According to an embodiment, the processor 220 may display information about a plurality of output modes related to the output of an audio signal through the display 260. The processor 220, when one of the plurality of output modes is selected, may transmit second control information including information about the selected mode to the first electronic device. For example, the second control information may include information about a crossover frequency value, a plurality of first EQ frequencies, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies related to the selected mode. For example, one of the modes may be selected by a user input or automatically selected by the processor 220.

[0049] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may include a processor 320, a communication circuit 310, a codec unit (or codec module) 340, and a speaker unit (or speaker module) 370.

[0050] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may control the overall operation of the first electronic device 301. For example, the processor 320 may be implemented identically or similarly to the processor 120 in FIG. 1.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may establish a communication link (e.g., a communication link using Bluetooth communication technology) with the second electronic device 201 through the communication circuit 310 (e.g., the communication module 190 in FIG. 1). The processor 320 may transmit and receive data related to sound to and from the second electronic device 201 through the communication link.

[0052] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may process data (e.g., a signal related to audio, music, ambient sound, or telephone sound (hereinafter, audio signal)) received from the second electronic device 201 through the codec unit 340 and provide the processed signal to the speaker unit 370, thereby outputting sound.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the codec unit 340 may include a plurality of codecs (e.g., a first codec 350 and a second codec 360 in FIG. 3A). Each of the plurality of codecs may independently process an audio signal. The plurality of codecs may process (or filter) different frequency bands for the audio signal from each other. For example, at least some of the plurality of codecs may be implemented as hardware or software.

[0054] According to an embodiment, the speaker unit 360 may include a plurality of speakers (e.g., a first speaker 380 and a second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first speaker may output sound, based on a signal processed through the first codec. The second speaker may output sound, based on a signal processed through the second codec. For example, the first speaker may include a woofer, and the second speaker may include a tweeter.

[0055] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may wirelessly receive an audio signal from the second electronic device 201 through the communication circuit 310.

[0056] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may receive or obtain, from the second electronic device 201, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker included in the speaker unit 370 and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker included in the speaker unit 370.

[0057] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may process (or filter) the audio signal, based on the first frequency band, through the first codec included in the codec unit 340. In addition, the processor 320 may process (or filter) the audio signal, based on the second frequency band, through the second codec included in the codec unit 340. For example, the processor 320 may process the audio signal in parallel through the first codec and the second codec.

[0059] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may provide the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and provide the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker, thereby outputting sound for the audio signal.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may acquire, from the second electronic device 201, first EQ information about a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band. For example, the first EQ information may include adjustment values (or gain values) for a plurality of first EQ frequencies to perform an equalizer function for the first frequency band. The second EQ information may include adjustment values (or gain values) for a plurality of second EQ frequencies to perform an equalizer function for the second frequency band.

[0061] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may adjust outputs for the plurality of first EQ frequencies of the audio signal, based on the first EQ information, through the first codec included in the codec unit 340. In addition, the processor 320 may adjust outputs for the plurality of second EQ frequencies of the audio signal, based on the second EQ information, through the second codec included in the codec unit 340.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may receive, from the second electronic device 201, information on an output mode related to the output of the audio signal. The processor 320 may output sound for the audio signal, based on the information about the output mode. For example, the processor 320 may identify at least one of the crossover frequency, the first EQ frequencies, and the second EQ frequencies specified for the output mode, based on the information about the output mode. The processor 320 may output sound for the audio signal, based on the identified crossover frequency, first EQ frequencies, and second EQ frequencies.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the processor 320 may activate only one of the first codec or the second codec, based on the information about the output mode. That is, the processor 320 may output sound through either the first speaker or the second speaker in a specific output mode.

[0064] FIG. 3A is a block diagram illustrating an operation of a first electronic device to provide an audio signal processed through a first codec and a second codec to a first speaker and a second speaker, thereby outputting sound, according to an embodiment.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 3A, according to an embodiment, the codec unit 340 may include a first codec 350 and a second codec 360. The speaker unit 370 may include a first speaker 380 and a second speaker 390.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the first codec 350 may process an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, and transmit the processed audio signal to the first speaker 380.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the first codec 350 may include a first volume controller 352, a first filter 354, a first digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 356, and a first power amplifier (PA) 358. The first volume controller 352 may convert an audio signal into a digital value within a predetermined range (e.g., a range of 0 to 1) and provide the converted digital value to the first filter 354. The first filter 354 may perform a filtering operation on the digital value corresponding to the audio signal. For example, the first filter 354 may include a low-pass filter (LPF). For example, the first filter 354 may determine the first frequency band to filter the audio signal, based on the crossover frequency obtained from the processor 320. In addition, the first filter 354 may determine the frequencies to which the equalizer function is to be applied in the first frequency band. For example, the first filter 354 may adjust the output values for a specified number of (e.g., 10) frequencies included in the first frequency band. The first filter 354 may provide data on which the filtering operation has been performed to the first DAC 356. The first DAC 356 may convert digital data into an analog signal and provide the converted signal to the first PA 358. The first PA 358 may amplify the converted signal and provide it to the first speaker 380. The first speaker 380 may output sound, based on the signal provided from the first PA 358. For example, the first speaker 380 may include a woofer (or woofer speaker).

[0068] According to an embodiment, the second codec 360 may process an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, and transmit the processed audio signal to the second speaker 390.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the second codec 360 may include a second volume controller 362, a second filter 364, a second DAC 366, and a second PA 368. The second volume controller 362 may convert an audio signal into a digital value within a predetermined range (e.g., a range of 0 to 1) and provide the converted digital value to the second filter 364. The second filter 364 may perform a filtering operation on the digital value corresponding to the audio signal. For example, the second filter 364 may include a high-pass filter (HPF). For example, the second filter 364 may determine a second frequency band in which the audio signal is to be filtered, based on a crossover frequency obtained from the processor 320. In addition, the second filter 364 may determine frequencies to which an equalizer function is to be applied in the second frequency band. For example, the second filter 364 may adjust output values for a specified number of (e.g., 10) frequencies included in the second frequency band. The second filter 364 may provide data on which the filtering operation has been performed to the second DAC 366. The second DAC 366 may convert digital data into an analog signal and provide the converted signal to the second PA 368. The second PA 368 may amplify the converted signal and provide it to the second speaker 390. The second speaker 390 may output sound, based on the signal provided from the second PA 368. For example, the second speaker 390 may include a tweeter (or tweeter speaker).

[0070] According to the above-described method, the first codec 350 and the second codec 360 may process the audio signal in parallel. That is, the audio signal may be processed through a first audio path provided to the first speaker 380 by the first codec 350 and a second audio path provided to the second speaker 390 by the second codec 360. Through this, the first electronic device 301 may output low-frequency sound through the first speaker 380 and high-frequency sound through the second speaker 390 at the same time. In addition, the first electronic device 301 may perform an equalizer function for low frequencies and high frequencies, respectively.

[0071] FIG. 3B is a block diagram of a first electronic device including a plurality of codecs and a plurality of speakers according to an embodiment.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 3B, according to an embodiment, the codec unit 340 may include a plurality of codecs (e.g., a first codec 350, a second codec 360, a third codec 351, and a fourth codec 361). The speaker unit 370 may include a plurality of speakers (e.g., a first speaker 380, a second speaker 390, a third speaker 381, and a fourth speaker 391).

[0073] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may output low-frequency sounds through the first speaker 380 and the third speaker 381, and may output high-frequency sounds through the second speaker 390 and the fourth speaker 391. For example, each of the first speaker 380 and the third speaker 381 may include a woofer (or woofer speaker). In addition, each of the second speaker 390 and the fourth speaker 391 may include a tweeter (or tweeter speaker).

[0074] Meanwhile, although the first electronic device 301 is illustrated as including four codecs and four speakers in FIG. 3B, this is only for convenience of explanation, and the technical idea of the disclosure may not be limited thereto. For example, the number of speakers and codecs may not be limited thereto.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B described above, the first electronic device 301 may apply a crossover frequency and EQ frequencies to the respective codecs. Through this, the first electronic device 301 may enhance user experiences. In addition, the first electronic device 301 may improve sound quality when performing various functions (e.g., ambient-sound listening function, ANC function, or call function).

[0076] At least some of the operations of the first electronic device 301 described below may be controlled by the processor 320. In addition, at least some of the operations of the second electronic device 201 may be controlled by the processor 220. However, the entity of the operation will be described as the first electronic device 301 or the second electronic device 201 hereinafter.

[0077] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound through a plurality of speakers, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment.

[0078] Referring to FIG. 4, according to an embodiment, in operation 401, a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B) may wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B).

[0079] According to an embodiment, in operation 403, the first electronic device 301 may acquire or receive, from the second electronic device 201, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. According to an embodiment, operation 403 may precede operation 401.

[0080] According to an embodiment, in operation 405, the first electronic device 301 may identify the first frequency band for the first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A) and the second frequency band for the second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A), based on the crossover frequency.

[0081] According to an embodiment, in operation 407, the first electronic device 301 may process (or filter) the audio signal, based on the first frequency band, through a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and process (or filter) the audio signal, based on the second frequency band, through a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A).

[0082] According to an embodiment, in operation 409, the first electronic device 301 may output sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec 350 to the first speaker 380 and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec 360 to the second speaker 390.

[0083] The horizontal axes of the graphs in FIGS. 5, 7A to 7B, 8A to 8B, 10A to 10C, 11A to 11C, and 12A to 12Cdescribed below may represent a frequency value (e.g., Hz), and the vertical axes may represent a magnitude (e.g., dB) of sound (or sound signal).

[0084] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound through a plurality of speakers, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 5, according to an embodiment, a first graph 510 may represent a first frequency band processed by a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first codec 350 may include a low-pass filter (LPF).

[0086] According to an embodiment, a second graph 520 may represent a second frequency band processed by a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A). For example, the second codec 360 may include a high-pass filter (HPF).

[0087] According to an embodiment, a crossover frequency 530 may correspond to a point where the first graph 510 and the second graph 520 meet (or intersect). For example, the crossover frequency 530 may be changed or adjusted within a specified range (e.g., 4 kHz to 12 kHz).

[0088] According to an embodiment, when the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band may also be changed, based on the changed crossover frequency 530. For example, when the crossover frequency 530 is reduced (e.g., when the crossover frequency 530 moves to the left), the first frequency band may be narrowed and the second frequency band may be widened. Alternatively, when the crossover frequency 530 increases (e.g., when the crossover frequency 530 moves to the right), the first frequency band may be widened and the second frequency band may be narrowed.

[0089] FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 6, according to an embodiment, in operation 601, a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B) may obtain, from a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B), first EQ information about a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band. For example, the plurality of first EQ frequencies may be different from the plurality of second EQ frequencies. The plurality of first EQ frequencies may include frequencies at regular intervals. In addition, the plurality of second EQ frequencies may also include frequencies at regular intervals. For example, each of the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies may include a specified number of frequencies. For example, the number of EQ frequencies of each of the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies may be configured within a maximum allowable range. According to an embodiment, the number of the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies may be configured to be the same or different from each other. For example, the intervals between the plurality of first EQ frequencies (or the plurality of second EQ frequencies) may be determined according to a specified number. For example, the first EQ frequency and the last EQ frequency may be determined by the EQ frequency corresponding to the center among the plurality of first EQ frequencies (or the plurality of second EQ frequencies). For example, the first electronic device 201 may determine the plurality of first EQ frequencies (or the plurality of second EQ frequencies) by adjusting the EQ frequency corresponding to the center automatically or by user input. That is, the first electronic device 201 may determine the sections (e.g., frequency sections) capable of configuring the EQ frequency, based on the EQ frequency corresponding to the adjusted center. According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may provide a user interface for adjusting the EQ frequency corresponding to the center.

[0091] According to an embodiment, in operation 603, the first electronic device 301 may adjust outputs of an audio signal for the first EQ frequencies to be output through a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A), based on first EQ information, through a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first electronic device 301 may increase or decrease outputs for the first EQ frequencies for the audio signal.

[0092] According to an embodiment, in operation 605, the first electronic device 301 may adjust outputs of the audio signal for the second EQ frequencies to be output through a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A), based on second EQ information, through a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first electronic device 301 may increase or decrease outputs for the second EQ frequencies for the audio signal. According to an embodiment, operation 605 may precede operation 603. Alternatively, operation 605 may be performed simultaneously with operation 603.

[0093] FIG. 7A and FIG. 7B are drawings illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal, based on a crossover frequency, according to an embodiment.

[0094] Referring to FIGS. 7A and 7B, according to an embodiment, a first graph 710 or 715 may represent a first frequency band processed by a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A). A second graph 720 or 725 may represent a second frequency band processed by a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A).

[0095] Referring to FIG. 7A, according to an embodiment, a crossover frequency 730 may correspond to a point where the first graph 710 and the second graph 720 meet (or intersect). For example, the crossover frequency 730 may be 10 kHz. For example, the first frequency range may be a frequency range of 10 kHz or less, and the second frequency range may be a frequency range of 10 kHz or more. For example, the second frequency range may be relatively narrow (compared to that in FIG. 5). A plurality of second EQ frequencies 750 may be specified in the second frequency range. As the second frequency range becomes narrow, the plurality of second EQ frequencies 750 may be intensively specified in the second frequency range. Through this, the first electronic device 201 may intensively apply the equalizer function to the second frequency range, thereby improving the sound quality in the corresponding frequency range.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 7B, according to an embodiment, when the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band may also be changed, based on the changed crossover frequency 735. For example, when the crossover frequency 735 is changed to 4 kHz, the first frequency band may be narrowed and the second frequency band may be widened. For example, the first frequency range may be a frequency range of 4 kHz or less, and the second frequency range may be a frequency range of 4 kHz or more. In this case, the first frequency range may be relatively narrowed. The plurality of first EQ frequencies 765 may be specified in the first frequency area. As the first frequency area becomes narrow, the plurality of first EQ frequencies 755 may be intensively specified in the first frequency area. Through this, the first electronic device 201 may intensively apply an equalizer function to the first frequency area, thereby improving sound quality in the corresponding frequency area.

[0097] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B are drawings illustrating a method of applying an equalizer to an audio signal when a dip in an audio signal is identified according to an embodiment.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 8A, according to an embodiment, an audio signal 805 may have a dip section 807. For example, the dip section 807 may indicate a section where the intensity of the signal is rapidly reduced. The first electronic device 301 or the second electronic device 201 may analyze the audio signal 805 to identify the dip section 807 included in the audio signal 805.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 8B, according to an embodiment, a first graph 810 may represent a first frequency band processed by a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A). A second graph 820 may represent a second frequency band processed by a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) or a frequency band of sound output through a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A).

[0100] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 or the second electronic device 201 may apply an equalization function intensively to the dip section 807 to enhance or supplement sound quality. To this end, the second electronic device 201 may determine or adjust a crossover frequency 830 to intensively apply an equalization function to the dip section 807. In addition, the second electronic device 201 may determine a plurality of EQ frequencies 850 (e.g., a plurality of first EQ frequencies and a plurality of second EQ frequencies) to intensively apply an equalization function to the dip section 807. The first electronic device 301 may output sound with enhanced or supplemented sound quality, based on information about the crossover frequency 830 and the plurality of EQ frequencies 850 obtained from the second electronic device 201.

[0101] FIGS. 9A to 9C are flowcharts illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a mode selected from among a plurality of output modes, according to an embodiment.

[0102] Referring to FIG. 9A, according to an embodiment, in operation 901, a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B) may receive, from a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B), information about an output mode related to the output of an audio signal. For example, the output mode may include a playback mode, an active noise cancellation (ANC) mode, an ambient-sound listening mode, or a call mode, as shown in Table 1. [Table 1]ModesDetailed modesBW (Frequency band)ScenarioCrossover frequency (or Cutoff frequency)Activated speaker (Path)PlaybackNormal-quality sound~20kHz10kHzWF / TWTHigh-quality sound~50kHz10kHz(WF / TWT)WF / TWTExpert mode (Custom EQ / xOver)~50kHzVariable crossoverANCANC only~4kHz4kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveANC + Playback~10kHz ↑10kHz or 10kHz LPFWF / TWTANC + Call~8kHz8kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveAmbient soundAmbient sound only~12kHz12kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveAmbient sound + Playback~20kHz10kHzWF / TWTAmbient sound + Call~8kHz8kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveCallWB Call~8kHz8kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveSWB Call~12kHz12kHz (Cutoff frequency)WF ExclusiveFB Call~20kHz10kHzWF / TWT

[0103] For example, the playback mode may include a normal mode indicating a default, a high-quality mode emphasizing high-quality sound, and an expert mode that may be customized by the user. An active noise cancellation (ANC) mode may include an ANC-only mode of performing only a noise-cancelling function, an ANC + playback mode of performing a playback function while performing a noise-cancelling function, and an ANC + call mode of performing a call function while performing a noise-cancelling function. The ambient-sound listening mode may include an ambient-sound-only mode of performing only an ambient-sound listening function, an ambient-sound + playback mode of performing a playback function while performing an ambient-sound listening function, and an ambient-sound + call mode of performing a call function while performing an ambient-sound listening function. The call mode may include a WB mode of performing a wideband call function, a SWB mode of performing a super-wideband call function, and a UWB mode of performing an ultra-wideband call function.

[0104] According to an embodiment, depending on a specific output mode among the plurality of output modes, a frequency band (bandwidth (BW), a crossover frequency (or a cutoff frequency), and an activated speaker (or an activated path) specified for the specific output mode may be determined.

[0105] According to an embodiment, in operation 903, the first electronic device 301 may process an audio signal, based on information about the output mode, and output sound for the processed audio signal. For example, the first electronic device 301 may identify a crossover frequency between the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on information about the output mode. In addition, the first electronic device 301 may identify a plurality of EQ frequencies (e.g., a plurality of first EQ frequencies and a plurality of second EQ frequencies) applied to the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on information about the output mode. The plurality of EQ frequencies (e.g., the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies) may be determined based on the corresponding frequency band (BW) and crossover frequency.

[0106] According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may pre-store information on the plurality of output modes. For example, the first electronic device 301 may pre-store information on the crossover frequency and frequency bands specified for a specific output mode. For example, the first electronic device 301 may pre-store a table such as Table 1. Thereafter, when information indicating a specific mode is received, the first electronic device 301 may identify information on the crossover frequency and frequency bands specified for the specific mode using the pre-stored table.

[0107] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may also pre-store a table such as Table 1. In addition, the second electronic device 201 may manage and edit a table such as Table 1, based on user input. Alternatively, the second electronic device 201 may update information about the table, based on data received from an external server. The second electronic device 201 may transmit information about the edited or updated table to the first electronic device 201.

[0108] FIGS. 9B and 9C are diagrams illustrating a method for the first electronic device to process an audio signal, based on a selected output mode.

[0109] Referring to FIG. 9B , according to an embodiment, in operation 911, the first electronic device 301 may receive, from the second electronic device 201, information about a first mode among a plurality of output modes related to the output of an audio signal. For example, the first mode may be a playback mode in Table 1.

[0110] According to an embodiment, in operation 913, the first electronic device 301 may identify a crossover frequency specified for the first mode, based on the information about the first mode. In operation 915, the first electronic device 301 may identify the frequency bands processed by a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A).

[0111] Through this, the first electronic device 301 may process the audio signal according to a mode selected from among the plurality of output modes and output sound.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 9C, according to an embodiment, in operation 921, the first electronic device 301 may receive, from the second electronic device 201, information about a second mode from among the plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. For example, the second mode may be the ANC mode, the ambient-sound listening mode, or the call mode in Table 1.

[0113] According to an embodiment, in operation 923, the first electronic device 301 may activate only one of the first codec 350 or the second codec 360, based on the information about the second mode. For example, in the case where the second mode is a mode of performing only the "ANC mode," the first electronic device 301 may activate only the first codec 350.

[0114] According to an embodiment, in operation 925, the first electronic device 301 may identify a frequency band to be processed by the activated codec. For example, in the case where the activated codec is the first codec 350, the cutoff frequency of a low-pass filter (LPF) included in the first codec 350 may be identified.

[0115] Through this, the first electronic device 301 may process an audio signal according to a mode selected from among the plurality of output modes and output sound.

[0116] FIGS. 10A to 10C are drawings illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a playback mode, according to an embodiment.

[0117] Referring to FIG. 10A and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in a normal-quality playback mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1030 specified for the corresponding mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1010 and a second frequency band 1020, based on the crossover frequency 1030. Alternatively, the first electronic device 301 may identify the first frequency band 1010 and the second frequency band 1020, and identify the crossover frequency 1030, based on the identified first frequency band 1010 and second frequency band 1020. For example, the first frequency band 1010 may be 0 to 10 kHz, and the second frequency band 1020 may be 10 to 20 kHz.

[0118] Referring to FIG. 10B and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in a high-quality playback mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1030 specified for the corresponding mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify the first frequency band 1010 and the second frequency band 1020, based on the crossover frequency 1030. For example, the first frequency band 1010 may be 0 to 10 kHz, and the second frequency band 1025 may be 10 to 50 kHz.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 10C and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an expert playback mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1080 specified for the corresponding mode. For example, the first electronic device 301 may identify the crossover frequency 1080 selected by the user in the expert mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1060 and a second frequency band 1070, based on the crossover frequency 1080 selected by the user.

[0120] FIGS. 11A to 11C are diagrams illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on an ANC mode, according to an embodiment.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 11A and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ANC-only mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1130 (e.g., 4 kHz) of a low-pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. For example, the first electronic device 301, in the ANC-only mode, may filter a signal of a corresponding frequency band (e.g., 0 to 4 kHz) through the low-pass filter (LPF) and provide the signal to a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A). For example, the first electronic device 301, in the ANC-only mode, may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and the first speaker 370. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1110, based on the cutoff frequency 1130. In this case, since a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) is deactivated, a second frequency band 1120 may also be in a deactivated state (e.g., the filter gain is - 80 dB).

[0122] Referring to FIG. 11B and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ANC and playback mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1160 (e.g., 10 kHz) of the low-pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 11A, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the ANC and playback mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1145, based on the cutoff frequency 1160. According to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301 may also activate the second codec 360 and the second speaker 390 in consideration of the frequency band of the sound to be played.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 11C and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ANC and call mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1190 (e.g., 8 kHz) of the low pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 11A, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the ANC and call mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1170, based on the cutoff frequency 1190.

[0124] According to the above-described method, the first electronic device 301 may reduce the current consumption of the first electronic device 301 by activating only some codecs (and speakers) depending on a specific mode. In addition, the first electronic device 301 may improve the performance of an ANC function by not reproducing a high-frequency peak when executing the ANC function.

[0125] FIGS. 12A to 12C are diagrams illustrating an operating method of a first electronic device for outputting sound, based on a call mode, according to an embodiment.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 12A and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in a wideband (WB) call mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1230 (e.g., 8 kHz) of the low-pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. For example, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the WB call mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1210, based on the cutoff frequency 1230. In this case, since a second codec (e.g., the second codec 360 in FIG. 3A) is deactivated, a second frequency band 1220 may also be in a deactivated state (e.g., the filter gain is -80 dB).

[0127] Referring to FIG. 12B and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in a super-wideband (SWB) call mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1260 (e.g., 12 kHz) of the low-pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 12A, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the SWB mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1240, based on the cutoff frequency 1260.

[0128] Referring to FIG. 12C and Table 1, according to an embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in full-band (FB) call mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1290 specified for the corresponding mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1270 and a second frequency band 1280, based on the crossover frequency 1290. For example, the first frequency band 1270 may be 0 to 10 kHz, and the second frequency band 1280 may be 10 to 20 kHz.

[0129] According to another embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ambient-sound listening-only mode, may identify a cutoff frequency 1260 (e.g., 12 kHz) of the low pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 12B, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A) in the ambient-sound listening-only mode. The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1240, based on the cutoff frequency 1260.

[0130] According to another embodiment, the first electronic device 301, in an ambient-sound listening and playback mode, may identify a crossover frequency 1290 specified for the corresponding mode. Similarly to that in FIG. 12C, the first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1270 and a second frequency band 1280, based on the crossover frequency 1290, in the ambient-sound listening and playing mode. For example, the first frequency band 1270 may be 0 to 10 kHz, and the second frequency band 1280 may be 10 to 20 kHz.

[0131] According to another embodiment, in an ambient-sound listening and call mode, a cutoff frequency 1230 (e.g., 8 kHz) of the low pass filter (LPF) specified for the corresponding mode may be identified. Similarly to that in FIG. 12B, the first electronic device 301 may activate only a first codec (e.g., the first codec 350 in FIG. 3A) and a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 370 in FIG. 3A). The first electronic device 301 may identify a first frequency band 1210, based on the cutoff frequency 1230.

[0132] According to the above-described method, the first electronic device 301 may reduce the current consumption of the first electronic device 301 by activating only some codecs (and speakers) depending on a specific mode.

[0133] Meanwhile, the crossover frequencies and frequency bands described in Table 1 and FIGS. 10A to 12C are examples, and the technical idea of the disclosure may not be limited thereto.

[0134] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a second electronic device to control a first electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0135] Referring to FIG. 13, according to an embodiment, in operation 1301, a second electronic device (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B) may transmit an audio signal to a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B) including a first speaker (e.g., the first speaker 380 in FIG. 3A) and a second speaker (e.g., the second speaker 390 in FIG. 3A).

[0136] According to an embodiment, in operation 1303, the second electronic device 201 may determine a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker, which are included in the first electronic device 301. For example, the second electronic device 201 may determine a crossover frequency, based on a user input. Alternatively, the second electronic device 201 may automatically determine a crossover frequency according to pre-configured conditions. For example, in the case where a default value (e.g., 10 kHz) of the crossover frequency is specified, the second electronic device 201 may determine the crossover frequency as the default value (e.g., 10 kHz). Alternatively, the second electronic device 201 may determine, depending on output modes, the crossover frequency specified for a corresponding output mode.

[0137] According to an embodiment, in operation 1305, the second electronic device 201, based on the crossover frequency, may determine a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band for the first speaker, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band for the second speaker. For example, the second electronic device 201 may determine the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies, based on a user input. Alternatively, the second electronic device 201 may automatically determine the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the plurality of second EQ frequencies, based on pre-configured conditions.

[0138] According to an embodiment, in operation 1307, the second electronic device 201 may transmit first control information to the first electronic device so that the first electronic device 301 outputs sound for an audio signal, based on the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies. Meanwhile, operations 1303 to 1307 may precede operation 1301. Alternatively, at least some of operations 1303 to 1307 may be performed together with operation 1301.

[0139] FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B are diagrams illustrating a method for a second electronic device to adjust a crossover frequency and an equalizer for a first electronic device according to an embodiment.

[0140] Referring to FIG. 14A and FIG. 14B, according to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may display a screen 1401 for adjusting a crossover frequency and an equalizer on a display (e.g., the display 260 in FIG. 2B).

[0141] According to an embodiment, the screen 1401 may include a first control window 1410 for a crossover frequency, a second control window 1440 for adjusting an equalizer of the first speaker (e.g., a woofer WF), and a third control window 1450 for adjusting an equalizer of the second speaker (e.g., a tweeter TWT).

[0142] According to an embodiment, the first control window 1410 may include a control object 1420 for adjusting a crossover frequency. For example, the control object 1420 may display a currently configured crossover frequency. Based on a user input (e.g., touch input, tap input, or drag input) to the control object 1420, the second electronic device 201 may change the crossover frequency.

[0143] According to an embodiment, the second control window 1440 may include information for adjusting output values of a plurality of first EQ frequencies included in the first frequency band. For example, the second electronic device 201 may adjust output values (or gain) of corresponding frequencies, based on a user input for adjusting the object representing each of the plurality of first EQ frequencies.

[0144] According to an embodiment, the third control window 1450 may include information for adjusting output values of a plurality of second EQ frequencies included in the second frequency band. For example, the second electronic device 201 may adjust the output values (or gain) of corresponding frequencies, based on a user input for adjusting the object representing each of the plurality of second EQ frequencies.

[0145] Referring to FIG. 14B, when the control object 1420 is moved based on a user input (e.g., touch input, tap input, or drag input), the second electronic device 201 may identify a crossover frequency corresponding to the moved distance or moved position. For example, when the control object 1420 is moved to the right, the crossover frequency may increase. Alternatively, when the control object 1420 is moved to the left, the crossover frequency may decrease.

[0146] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 201 may transmit information about the changed crossover frequency to the first electronic device 301. Thereafter, the first electronic device 301 may change the crossover frequency, based on the information about the changed crossover frequency, and then change the first frequency band and the second frequency band.

[0147] Meanwhile, in the second electronic device 201, when the crossover frequency is changed based on a user input (e.g., touch input, tap input, or drag input), the value representing each of the plurality of first EQ frequencies and the value representing each of the plurality of second EQ frequencies may be changed. For example, when the crossover frequency is changed to 8 kHz, the smallest frequency value of the plurality of second EQ frequencies may be greater than 8 kHz. In addition, when the crossover frequency is changed to 8 kHz, the largest frequency value of the plurality of first EQ frequencies may be less than 8 kHz.

[0148] FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a method for a second electronic device to determine an output mode according to an embodiment.

[0149] Referring to FIG. 15, according to an embodiment, in operation 1501, the second electronic device 201 may determine one mode from among a plurality of output modes. For example, the second electronic device 201 may display a screen for selecting one of the plurality of output modes on a display (e.g., the display 260 in FIG. 2B). The second electronic device 201 may determine one of the modes, based on a user input to the corresponding screen.

[0150] According to an embodiment, in operation 1503, the second electronic device 201 may transmit information about a crossover frequency value, a plurality of first EQ frequencies, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies related to the determined mode to a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B). According to an embodiment, only information related to the determined mode may be transmitted to the first electronic device 301. The first electronic device 301 may change the configuration for processing an audio signal, based on the information received from the second electronic device 201.

[0151] FIG. 16A and FIG. 16B are drawings illustrating a method for a second electronic device to determine an output mode according to an embodiment.

[0152] Referring to FIG. 16A, according to an embodiment, a second electronic device 1601 (e.g., the second electronic device 201 in FIG. 2B) may display a screen 1610 for determining an output mode of a first electronic device (e.g., the first electronic device 301 in FIG. 2B). The screen 1610 may include a mode window 1620 for selecting a specific mode. For example, the mode window 1620 may include a first object 1621, a second object 1622, a third object 1634, and a fourth object 1624. For example, the first object 1621 may be an object for selecting a playback mode, the second object 1622 may be an object for selecting an ANC mode, the third object 1623 may be an object for selecting an ambient-sound listening mode, and the fourth object 1624 may be an object for selecting a call mode.

[0153] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 1601 may select one of the plurality of output modes, based on a user input for selecting one of the first object 1621, the second object 1622, the third object 1623, and the fourth object 1624.

[0154] Referring to FIG. 16B, when a user input for the first object 1621 is identified, the second electronic device 1601 may display a selection window 1630 for determining a detailed mode of the playback mode. The selection window 1630 may include a first selection object 1631, a second selection object 1632, and a third selection object 1633. For example, the first selection object 1631 may be an object for selecting a normal-quality playback mode, the second selection object 1632 may be an object for selecting a high-quality playback mode, and the third selection object 1633 may be an object for selecting an expert mode (or a custom mode).

[0155] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 1601 may select one of the plurality of detailed modes, based on a user input for selecting one of the first selection object 1631, the second selection object 1632, and the third selection object 1633.

[0156] According to an embodiment, the second electronic device 1601 may transmit information related to the selected mode to the first electronic device 301. The first electronic device 301 may change the configuration for processing an audio signal, based on the information received from the first electronic device 1601.

[0157] A first electronic device 301 according to an embodiment may include a communication circuit 310, a first codec 350 and a second codec 360, a first speaker 380 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the first codec, a second speaker 390 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the second codec, a processor 220, and memory 330 configured to store instructions. According to an embodiment, the instructions may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device 201 through the communication circuit. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to acquire, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to process, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and process, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to output sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

[0158] The first codec and the second codec according to an embodiment may be configured to process different frequency bands for the audio signal from each other.

[0159] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to acquire, from the second electronic device, first EQ information about a plurality of first equalizer (EQ) frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to adjust outputs of the audio signal for the first EQ frequencies, based on the first EQ information, through the first codec. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to adjust outputs of the audio signal for the second EQ frequencies, based on the second EQ information, through the second codec.

[0160] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to change, in a case where the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on the changed crossover frequency.

[0161] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to change the plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band, based on the change in the first frequency band. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to change the plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band, based on the change in the second frequency band.

[0162] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to receive, from the second electronic device, information about a first mode among a plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to identify, based on the information about the first mode, the crossover frequency specified for the first mode.

[0163] The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to receive, from the second electronic device, information about a second mode among the plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. The instructions according to an embodiment may be configured to cause, when executed by the at least one processor, the first electronic device to activate, based on the information about the second mode, only one of the first codec or the second codec.

[0164] According to an embodiment, the first speaker may include a woofer and the second speaker may include a tweeter.

[0165] The first electronic device according to an embodiment may be implemented as true wireless stereo (TWS) earphones.

[0166] In a method of operating a first electronic device 301 according to an embodiment, the first electronic device may include a first speaker 380 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a first codec 350, and a second speaker 390 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a second codec 360. The operating method of the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include wirelessly receiving an audio signal from a second electronic device 201. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include acquiring, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first codec and a frequency band corresponding to the second codec. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include identifying a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include processing, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and processing, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may include outputting sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

[0167] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include acquiring, from the second electronic device, first EQ information about a plurality of first equalizer (EQ) frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include adjusting outputs of the audio signal for the first EQ frequencies, based on the first EQ information, through the first codec. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include adjusting outputs of the audio signal for the second EQ frequencies, based on the second EQ information, through the second codec.

[0168] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include changing, in a case where the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on the changed crossover frequency.

[0169] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include changing the plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band, based on the change in the first frequency band. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include changing the plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band, based on the change in the second frequency band.

[0170] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include receiving, from the second electronic device, information about a first mode among a plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include identifying, based on the information about the first mode, the crossover frequency specified for the first mode.

[0171] The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include receiving, from the second electronic device, information about a second mode among the plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal. The method of operating the first electronic device according to an embodiment may further include deactivating, based on the information about the second mode, one of the first codec or the second codec.

[0172] A second electronic device 201 according to an embodiment may include a communication circuit 250, a display 260, and a processor 220. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to wirelessly transmit an audio signal to a first electronic device 301 through the communication circuit. According to an embodiment, the first electronic device may include a first speaker 380 configured to output sound, based on a signal received through a first codec 350, and a second speaker 390 configured to output sound, based on a signal received through a second codec 360. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to determine a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to determine, based on the crossover frequency, a plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in a first frequency band for the first speaker, and a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in a second frequency band for the second speaker. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to transmit first control information to the first electronic device so that the first electronic device may output sound for an audio signal, based on the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies.

[0173] The first control information according to an embodiment may include information about the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies.

[0174] The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to display information about a plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal on the display. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to transmit, when a first mode is selected from among the plurality of output modes, second control information including information about the first mode to the first electronic device.

[0175] The second control information according to an embodiment may include information about the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies related to the first mode.

[0176] The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to display information about the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, and the plurality of second EQ frequencies on the display. The processor according to an embodiment may be configured to adjust at least one of the crossover frequency value, the plurality of first EQ frequencies, or the plurality of second EQ frequencies, based on a user input to the display.

[0177] A non-transitory recording medium according to an embodiment may store instructions configured to cause, when executed by at least one processor included in a first electronic device 301 including a first speaker 380 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a first codec 350, and a second speaker 390 configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a second codec 360, the first electronic device to wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device 201, acquire, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first codec and a frequency band corresponding to the second codec, identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency, process the audio signal, based on the first frequency band, through the first codec, process the audio signal, based on the second frequency band, through the second codec, provide the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker, and provide the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker, thereby outputting sound for the audio signal.

[0178] The electronic device according to various embodiments may be one of various types of electronic devices. The electronic devices may include, for example, a portable communication device (e.g., a smartphone), a computer device, a portable multimedia device, a portable medical device, a camera, a wearable device, or a home appliance. According to an embodiment of the disclosure, the electronic devices are not limited to those described above.

[0179] It should be appreciated that various embodiments of the present disclosure and the terms used therein are not intended to limit the technological features set forth herein to particular embodiments and include various changes, equivalents, or replacements for a corresponding embodiment. With regard to the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used to refer to similar or related elements. It is to be understood that a singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the things, unless the relevant context clearly indicates otherwise. As used herein, each of such phrases as "A or B," "at least one of A and B," "at least one of A or B," "A, B, or C," "at least one of A, B, and C," and "at least one of A, B, or C," may include any one of, or all possible combinations of the items enumerated together in a corresponding one of the phrases. As used herein, such terms as "1st" and "2nd," or "first" and "second" may be used to simply distinguish a corresponding component from another, and does not limit the components in other aspect (e.g., importance or order). It is to be understood that if an element (e.g., a first element) is referred to, with or without the term "operatively" or "communicatively", as "coupled with," "coupled to," "connected with," or "connected to" another element (e.g., a second element), it means that the element may be coupled with the other element directly (e.g., wiredly), wirelessly, or via a third element.

[0180] As used in connection with various embodiments of the disclosure, the term "module" may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may interchangeably be used with other terms, for example, "logic," "logic block," "part," or "circuitry". A module may be a single integral component, or a minimum unit or part thereof, adapted to perform one or more functions. For example, according to an embodiment, the module may be implemented in a form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0181] Various embodiments as set forth herein may be implemented as software (e.g., the program 140) including one or more instructions that are stored in a storage medium (e.g., internal memory 136 or external memory 138) that is readable by a machine (e.g., the electronic device 101). For example, a processor (e.g., the processor 120) of the machine (e.g., the electronic device 101) may invoke at least one of the one or more instructions stored in the storage medium, and execute it, with or without using one or more other components under the control of the processor. This allows the machine to be operated to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction invoked. The one or more instructions may include a code generated by a complier or a code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Wherein, the term "non-transitory" simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device, and does not include a signal (e.g., an electromagnetic wave), but this term does not differentiate between where data is semi-permanently stored in the storage medium and where the data is temporarily stored in the storage medium.

[0182] According to an embodiment, a method according to various embodiments of the disclosure may be included and provided in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read only memory (CD-ROM)), or be distributed (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) online via an application store (e.g., PlayStore ™< ), or between two user devices (e.g., smart phones) directly. If distributed online, at least part of the computer program product may be temporarily generated or at least temporarily stored in the machine-readable storage medium, such as memory of the manufacturer's server, a server of the application store, or a relay server.

[0183] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include a single entity or multiple entities, and some of the multiple entities may be separately disposed in different components. According to various embodiments, one or more of the above-described components may be omitted, or one or more other components may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., modules or programs) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, according to various embodiments, the integrated component may still perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components in the same or similar manner as they are performed by a corresponding one of the plurality of components before the integration. According to various embodiments, operations performed by the module, the program, or another component may be carried out sequentially, in parallel, repeatedly, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order or omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0007]FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an electronic device 101 in a network environment 100 according to various embodiments. Referring to FIG. 1, the electronic device 101 in the network environment 100 may communicate with an electronic device 102 via a first network 198 (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or at least one of an electronic device 104 or a server 108 via a second network 199 (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may communicate with the electronic device 104 via the server 108. According to an embodiment, the electronic device 101 may include a processor 120, memory 130, an input module 150, a sound output module 155, a display module 160, an audio module 170, a sensor module 176, an interface 177, a connecting terminal 178, a haptic module 179, a camera module 180, a power management module 188, a battery 189, a communication module 190, a subscriber identification module ...

Claims

1. A first electronic device (301) comprising: a communication circuit (310); a first codec (350) and a second codec (360); a first speaker (380) configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the first codec, and a second speaker (390) configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through the second codec; at least one processor (320); and memory (330) storing instructions, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first electronic device to: wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device (201) through the communication circuit; acquire, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first speaker and a frequency band corresponding to the second speaker; identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency; process, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and process, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band; and output sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

2. The first electronic device of claim 1, wherein the first codec and the second codec are configured to process different frequency bands for the audio signal from each other.

3. The first electronic device of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first electronic device to: acquire, from the second electronic device, first EQ information about a plurality of first equalizer (EQ) frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band; adjust outputs of the audio signal for the first EQ frequencies, based on the first EQ information, through the first codec; and adjust outputs of the audio signal for the second EQ frequencies, based on the second EQ information, through the second codec.

4. The first electronic device of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first electronic device to, change, in a case where the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on the changed crossover frequency.

5. The first electronic device of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first electronic device to: change the plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band, based on the change in the first frequency band; and change the plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band, based on the change in the second frequency band.

6. The first electronic device of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first electronic device to: receive, from the second electronic device, information about a first mode among a plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal; and based on the information about the first mode, identify the crossover frequency specified for the first mode.

7. The first electronic device of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the instructions, when executed by the at least one processor, cause the first electronic device to: receive, from the second electronic device, information about a second mode among the plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal; and based on the information about the second mode, activate only one of the first codec or the second codec.

8. The first electronic device of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first speaker comprises a woofer and the second speaker comprises a tweeter.

9. The first electronic device of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first electronic device is implemented as true wireless stereo (TWS) earphones.

10. An operating method of a first electronic device (301), the first electronic device comprising a first speaker (380) configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a first codec (350), and a second speaker (390) configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a second codec (360), the method comprising: wirelessly receiving an audio signal from a second electronic device (201); acquiring, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first codec and a frequency band corresponding to the second codec; identifying a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency; processing, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and process, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band; and outputting sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising: acquiring, from the second electronic device, first EQ information about a plurality of first equalizer (EQ) frequencies specified in the first frequency band and second EQ information about a plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band; adjusting outputs of the audio signal for the first EQ frequencies, based on the first EQ information, through the first codec; adjusting outputs of the audio signal for the second EQ frequencies, based on the second EQ information, through the second codec.

12. The method of any one of claims 10 to 11, further comprising: changing, in a case where the crossover frequency value is changed, the first frequency band and the second frequency band, based on the changed crossover frequency; changing the plurality of first EQ frequencies specified in the first frequency band, based on the change in the first frequency band; and changing the plurality of second EQ frequencies specified in the second frequency band, based on the change in the second frequency band.

13. The method of any one of claims 10 to 12, further comprising: receiving, from the second electronic device, information about a first mode among a plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal; and based on the information about the first mode, identifying the crossover frequency specified for the first mode.

14. The method of any one of claims 10 to 13, further comprising: receiving, from the second electronic device, information about a second mode among the plurality of output modes related to the output of the audio signal; and based on the information about the second mode, deactivating one of the first codec or the second codec.

15. A non-transitory recording medium storing instructions, when executed by at least one processor included in a first electronic device (301) comprising a first speaker (380) configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a first codec (350), and a second speaker (390) configured to output sound, based on a signal processed through a second codec (360), cause the first electronic device to: wirelessly receive an audio signal from a second electronic device (201); acquire, from the second electronic device, information indicating a crossover frequency between a frequency band corresponding to the first codec and a frequency band corresponding to the second codec; identify a first frequency band for the first speaker and a second frequency band for the second speaker, based on the crossover frequency; process, through the first codec, the audio signal based on the first frequency band and process, through the second codec, the audio signal based on the second frequency band; and output sound for the audio signal by providing the audio signal processed through the first codec to the first speaker and providing the audio signal processed through the second codec to the second speaker.

Images