Intel, the world's biggest chipmaker, introduced wearable computing devices as it looks to expand beyond personal computers, Reuters reported. Some of the devices that Intel Chief Executive Officer Brian Krzanich unveiled on Monday, January 6, were earbuds that can monitor a person's heart rate and a smart headset.
The report said with sales of PC on the decline and with smartphone growth on a downward trend, technology companies are hoping that wearable electronic devices such as bracelets that detect movement and biometric patches are going to become the next big thing in consumer technology. This category is now a major theme in the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas with various firms expected to introduce their own innovations of intelligent and connected devices.
Although Intel is still a leading player in the PC industry, it has been sluggish to adapt its processors for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. Its competitors Qualcomm and Samsung Electronics now dominate this market, the report said.
Reuters reported that Intel has faced challenges in its past attempts to grow beyond PC. The company shelved a project aimed at providing consumer TV services last year. When he replaced former CEO Paul Otellini in May last year, Krzanich formed a new division whose would be to look for future trends in technology and ensure that the chipmaker will not be left behind again.
In his presentation at the Consumer Electronics Show, Krzanich showcased some of the early results of the group's efforts. He also introduced sample gadgets that the firm is pitching to manufacturers of consumer devices. He said, "We're looking at a broad ecosystem of wearables, not just the device or the silicon."
One of the products shown was a miniscule computer built the size of an SD card which would allow clothing and gadget makers to incorporate the platform into their wearable products, the report said.
Join the Conversation