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Bringing Intelligence to the Edge: The Grinn–Synaptics Partnership

At Grinn, we believe intelligence at the Edge is critical to the future of IoT and AI. By processing data locally, devices become faster, more secure, and more efficient. That’s why we’ve partnered with Synaptics, a leader in AI-native SoCs, to launch the Grinn AstraSOM-1680, a compact System on Module powered by the Synaptics Astra™ SL1680 processor. Together, we’re providing developers with a powerful, practical platform to accelerate innovation across IoT, vision, voice, and multimodal applications.

Real World Deployment with License Plate Recognition

One of the clearest examples of this platform’s potential is a smart license plate recognition system we recently deployed. Two cameras capture entry and exit lanes, and a CNN model running on the Astra NPU grants access within seconds, all in a 10x10 cm enclosure with no cloud dependency.

Here’s what we achieved: 

  • 7.5x faster inference speeds using the NPU
  • Frame rate boosted from 12 fps to 90 fps
  • Reduced latency, lower power, and enhanced privacy 

For a deeper dive into this deployment, read the full case study.

Beyond Vision: Voice and Multimodal AI: 

The AstraSOM-1680 goes beyond powering vision systems. It enables voice-driven and multimodal applications that enhance how people interact with technology. Devices can process language instantly, systems can recognize intent and context, and platforms can combine vision and voice for more natural interaction. From smart homes to industrial applications to healthcare, the AstraSOM-1680 makes multimodal AI at the Edge a reality. 

Future-Ready and Scalable 

While today’s AstraSOM-1680 targets mid-to high-performance applications, this is only the beginning. As Synaptics expands the Astra processor family, Grinn will deliver SoMs optimized for lighter IoT devices as well as platforms capable of running transformer models and LLMs directly at the Edge.

By combining Synaptics’ silicon expertise with Grinn’s system design, we’re lowering the barrier to Edge AI adoption. With the AstraSOM-1680, developers can accelerate time to market and build AI devices that are both powerful and efficient.

 

This is just the start of what developers can achieve with AstraSOM-1680.

Download the Grinn–Synaptics Whitepaper to explore the platform in detail. 

Robert Otręba

As a co-founder, CEO, and board member at Grinn (since 2008) he brings a robust background in technology and electronics design, playing a key role in propelling company towards dynamic growth and innovation. He has a proven track record of strategic planning, leadership, and crisis management coupled with as extensive experience in managing innovative Software/Hardware solutions. Robert holds a Master’s degree from Wroclaw University of Science and Technology and continues to push the boundaries of technological innovation and business excellence.

Read more by Robert Otręba
AI Edge Computing
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