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Freescale technology powers award-winning sound and navigation with GEORGE® audio system

Audio system provides elite performance and allows full control of iPod® features through wireless remote

AUSTIN, Texas – May 12, 2008 – Freescale Semiconductor is providing advanced wireless and processing technology for the award-winning GEORGE® audio system from Chestnut Hill Sound, a manufacturer of digital audio systems for iPod® users.

The GEORGE audio system combines quality sound, AM/FM radio, alarm system, and most importantly, an ultimate remote control. In 2007, Consumer Reports recommended GEORGE as a Quick Pick among iPod® speakers; placing it first in sound quality for table top devices and among the top three based on overall scores (sound quality and versatility). In addition, the GEORGE audio system won MacWorld Best of Show and Product of the Year, PC Magazine's Editor's Choice award, Laptop magazine's Editor's Choice and Playlist's 2007 Plays of the Year, among others.  

The GEORGE audio system uses two Freescale MC13191 wireless transceivers, based on the 802.15.4 protocol, that provide low cost wireless connectivity with extended remote battery life. In addition, the audio system uses Freescale's 32-bit RISC-based i.MX application processors featuring16MB of built-in RAM that provide ultra-fast access and use of system functions. The processing power enables high quality performance from the audio system and application updates via a USB port, allowing customers to maximize their consumer audio dollars.  

“We needed the right mix of power and ease of use to really set GEORGE apart from other iPod systems,” said Steve Krampf, CEO of Chestnut Hill Sound. “Freescale's technology offered the right combination of exceptional functionality, versatility and ease of use that our device required.”

The removable front panel control doubles as a remote with knobs and buttons that act like an iPod® click-wheel for scrolling through songs. The built-in high-resolution, backlit digital display provides information like an iPod® screen. The remote allows users to scroll or jump to a specific song or artist, view upcoming songs, change playlists or browse music collections. The sophisticated RF wireless technology enables users to scroll and select iPod® features on the remote even though the device is out-of-view. It is designed to work within a range of 30 feet from its home base, making this the ideal audio system for consumers to use at home or in the office.

“Whether you want to listen to alternative rock, jazz or country, with the GEORGE audio system every song choice is yours to make,” said Brett Black, manager of Freescale's Wireless Connectivity Operation. “We're proud to offer technology that enables Chestnut Hill Sound to give control to the customer.”

About Chestnut Hill Sound
Based in Newton, Mass., Chestnut Hill Sound is defining digital audio for the home by providing breakthrough solutions for a new generation of listeners. The company has created the world's first central platform for the playback of digital audio content. Its flagship product GEORGE is the only digital audio system that enables users to easily access, fully control and conveniently listen to their iPod music collections.

CHS was founded by audio and technology pioneers seasoned in developing and producing professional and consumer digital audio systems, computer software and building and managing early-stage technology companies. For more details, visit www.chillsound.com

About Freescale Semiconductor
Freescale Semiconductor is a global leader in the design and manufacture of embedded semiconductors for the automotive, consumer, industrial, networking and wireless markets. The privately held company is based in Austin, Texas, and has design, research and development, manufacturing or sales operations in more than 30 countries. Freescale is one of the world's largest semiconductor companies with 2007 sales of $5.7 billion (USD). www.freescale.com

Media Contacts:
 
Americas
Andy North
Freescale Semiconductor
(512) 996-4418
andy.north@freescale.com

Emilie Harris
Lois Paul & Partners
(512) 638-5321
emilie_harris@lpp.com

Asia-Pacific
Gloria Shiu
Freescale Semiconductor
(85-22) 666-8237
gloria.shiu@freescale.com

Europe, Middle East and Africa
Laurent Massicot
Freescale Semiconductor
(33-16) 935-7712
laurent.massicot@freescale.com

India
Sanjeeth Boloor
Freescale Semiconductor
(91-80) 4149-4685
sanjeeth.boloor@freescale.com

Japan
Masako Tanikawa
Freescale Semiconductor
(81-3) 5437-9128
masako.tanikawa@freescale.com

Reader Inquiry Response
Freescale Semiconductor
P.O. Box 17927
Denver, CO 80217 USA

Freescale and the Freescale logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. in the U.S. and other countries. All other product or service names are the property of their respective owners. © Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. 2008