Qualcomm recently announced its intention to purchase Bluetooth-focused wireless chip manufacturer CSR. CSR has long been a pioneer in the Bluetooth space, and has significant traction in the wireless accessories, automotive, and wearable device markets. Bluetooth has become the de facto standard for wireless connectivity in smartphones, tablets, wearables, and many other products and devices. CSR’s portfolio also includes wireless audio processing chips, such as those used in Apple’s Beats headphones and many brands of wireless speakers.

In the press release, Qualcomm CEO Steve Mollenkopf said, "The addition of CSR’s technology leadership in Bluetooth, Bluetooth Smart1 and audio processing will strengthen Qualcomm’s position in providing critical solutions that drive the rapid growth of the Internet of Everything, including business areas such as portable audio, automotive and wearable devices."

Qualcomm’s acquisition spree continues on back of its recent purchase of Wilocity, a wireless chip manufacturer specializing in WiGig, which promises long distance wireless connectivity with very high data rates. The two acquisitions indicate that Qualcomm is expanding its reach into the IoT space as well as developing new capabilities in its more established smartphone and wearable segments.