Swatch and CSEM push ecosystem for small objects
The Neuchâtel-based CSEM is working with Swatch to develop a secure low-power ecosystem for watches and Internet-of-Things (IoT) objects. This partnership focuses specifically on interconnections of microparticles used in Swiss Made watches.
The ecosystem is scheduled to be launched at the end of 2018. Watch insiders speak of a novelty, a holistic approach, in terms of interconnectivity of Swiss Made elements and Internet-of-Things security. Both partners certainly show enough expertise to produce micro-objects.
The Neuchâtel Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique (CSEM) is working on ecosystems for digital miniaturisation. The research centre combines operating systems that are evident for data transmission with development elements that optimise both energy consumption and security aspects.
The Swatch Group also wants to eliminate weaknesses in operating systems for smartwatches and other IoT objects that are still in circulation today. According to Swatch CEO Nick Hayek, today's smartwatches, which run on Apple Watch or Google's Android Wear, are still too clunky and "consume far too much power". In addition, smart devices are insecure.
Nick Hayek, Swatch Group, on small, intelligent Swiss watch objects (Video: YouTube)
Miracle cure for Swiss industry?
If the two partners succeed in developing an efficient operating system, it could be a breakthrough for the Swiss high-tech industry. Nick Hayek is also raving about "vanadium", a miracle product that is set to revolutionize the world of batteries. The vanadium battery developed by Swatch subsidiary Belenos could store 50 to 100 percent more energy than conventional batteries of the same size.
In addition, the lower voltage of those batteries provides more safety because they cannot ignite.
Absolutely secure operating system?
The future, as yet unnamed operating system is supposed to guarantee "absolute data security and comprehensive data protection" because it is being developed autonomously by US software giants. It is supposed to get by with very little power consumption. For communication, Swatch and the CSEM are relying on "ultra low-power Bluetooth". And unlike other operating systems, it should be developed for a long service life - as well as not requiring regular updates.
Furthermore, according to a CSEM press release from February 2017, the watchmaking group not only wants to develop an operating system, but also create its own chips for data processing and transmission, as well as other development tools - together with its research partners. The first products are to be launched at the end of 2018.
CSEM is already working on developing IoT applications with low energy consumption. In the future, however, the focus will be on a complete ecosystem at the smallest level.
