Soham Banerjee is a results-driven Embedded Software Engineer with over 10 years of experience leading innovative projects in firmware development, battery management systems (BMS), and embedded machine learning. His technical leadership at Apple Inc. has powered more than one billion devices, transforming how users interact with wireless audio technology while championing sustainability, energy efficiency, and inclusive design.
Soham specializes in low-level firmware design, power optimization algorithms, on-device ML deployment, and real-time systems. His patented contributions have redefined fast charging, battery longevity, and gesture detection for wearable and audio products. With a proven track record of cross-functional leadership, cost reduction, and patentable innovations, Soham’s work sets the benchmark in embedded systems for consumer electronics.
Education:
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Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (Minors: Computer Engineering)
University of Colorado, Boulder | GPA: 3.94/4.0 | 2015–2017 -
Bachelor of Technology in Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Delhi Technological University (DTU) | GPA: 3.74/4.0 | 2009–2013
Professional Experience:
Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA
Senior Embedded Software Engineer – Audio Products Firmware Team | Jun 2017 – Present
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Lead Architect for battery, power, and charging systems in AirPods and Beats product lines.
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Designed and shipped embedded ML algorithms for real-time gesture detection and battery monitoring on 32-bit processors.
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Replaced hardware components (e.g., buttons and battery ICs) with software-driven alternatives, reducing cost, size, and environmental impact.
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Shaped Apple’s sustainability and accessibility strategy through intelligent power algorithms, health monitoring, and durable firmware solutions.
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Collaborated with teams across hardware, software, AppleCare, and design to drive innovations from concept to product delivery.
Key Achievements at Apple:
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Invented a fast-charging algorithm used across all AirPods models (AirPods Pro, Pro 2, 3, 4) and Beats products, resulting in:
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$1B+ cost savings
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Industry-first 1-hour usage from a 5-minute charge
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Adoption by major competitors (Bose, JVC, etc.)
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Led development of gesture-based AirPods Case interface (AirPods 4), replacing physical buttons:
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Saved $20M+ in initial production
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Increased product durability and accessibility
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Contributed to a provisional patent for gesture technology
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Pioneered firmware-based battery management systems eliminating dependency on hardware BMS ICs across all AirPods
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Defined and executed KPIs for battery longevity, ensuring 80% capacity retention after 2 years
Mahindra & Mahindra, India
Engineer – Advanced Infotronics Team
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Developed real-time drive pattern detection and fuel optimization algorithms for Mahindra two-wheelers.
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Integrated ECU and fuel injection systems for 300cc motorcycles, boosting engine efficiency and lifespan.
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Designed and deployed fleet tracking systems for Mahindra pickups, enabling data analytics and real-time diagnostics.
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Applied machine learning for driving behavior analysis, enhancing vehicle performance and user feedback systems.
Highlighted Projects:
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Fast Charging Algorithm for AirPods
Delivered 30 hours of battery life with patented real-time voltage compensation; adopted across all AirPods. -
Firmware-Only Battery Management
Eliminated need for BMS ICs, scaling to 1B+ units; recognized in patent US-20210099002-A1. -
Gesture Detection System (AirPods 4 Case)
Designed tap-based input for low-power systems, improving accessibility and reducing part count. -
Battery Health & Longevity Initiative
Created software-based monitoring platform and optimized charging algorithms to extend battery lifespan. -
Mahindra Drive Pattern Recognition
Designed embedded ML system to analyze ride patterns and enhance fuel efficiency for Indian motorcycles.
Patents & Publications:
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US111283278 – Optimized Charging for Wireless Audio
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US-20210099002-A1 – Software-Based Battery Management
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Additional patents filed for gesture detection systems and power management
Technical Skills:
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Languages: Embedded C/C++, Python, Shell scripting
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Tools: Git, JIRA, MATLAB, Oscilloscopes, Logic Analyzers
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Tech Focus: Embedded ML, Battery Optimization, Power Management, Audio Firmware, Real-Time Systems