Wearables
Smartwatch platform reduces power consumption
Broadcom has introduced a smartwatch platform that reduces power consumption for Android Wear devices. The platform offers OEMs more features, including GPS with sensor hub processing and wireless charging support. Broadcom will showcase its innovations for the mobile and carrier ecosystem at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, 2nd to 5th March.
Integrated processor is one-stop-shop for wearables
Toshiba has extended its ApP Lite family with two application processors for wearables, the TZ1031MBG and TZ1011MBG single package IoT solutions. Interest in services that monitor the duration and level of physical activity has exploded, which has increased demand for wearables such as activity monitors, smart watches, bracelets and spectacles, which promote exercise, improve nutrition and help prevent diseases related to lifestyle.
Clip-on HUD provides session info for swimmers
STMicroelectronics has announced its contribution to helping both casual weekenders and top-tier athletes keep their eyes on the prize while engaging in one of the world’s most popular activities. ST’s leading-edge technologies have enabled an innovative HUD monitor for swimmers from Instabeat that tracks, stores, and projects key information including heart rate and swimming speed on the goggles.
Designing proper circuit protection for wearables
As consumers become increasingly dependent on wearables, circuit designers are tasked with incorporating advanced circuit protection technologies that safeguard the device as well as the user. Without proper protection, the device’s sensor circuits, battery-charging interfaces, buttons or data I/Os could be irreparably damaged by ESD that is often caused by close interaction with the user.