Lenovo Showcases Smart Glass Wearable, New IoT Platform

Lenovo showcased new smart glass wearable technology as part of a strategy to broaden its market reach by backing third-party development of Internet of Things (IoT)-related devices.

The PC makers’ new NBD platform, with the NB standing for “New Bench,” will back IoT innovators with Lenovo resources—funding, manufacturing, software and access to sales channels and services. The initial three product categories under Lenovo’s NBD banner are aimed at the Chinese market and include smart glass devices from collaboration with Vuzix and Ceyes, smart air purifiers and a smart wireless router.

“We have always said innovation will differentiate Lenovo,” said Peter Hortensius, Lenovo chief technology officer (CTO). “We think we bring something unique to the table—a proven track record in innovation, a strong presence in the China market, great relationships with channels there. It is natural for us to try to leverage these advantages to bring new technologies to market. This will drive growth,” he said.

The M100 smart glass, which deploys Google (GOOG) Android 4.0.4 and features a 1GHz dual-core processor, will be available to to developers for $1,298 in August or September. It is aimed at industrial users in the machinery, logistics and medical markets. A second glass device, made with Ceyes, is targeted at the Chinese consumer market. Both devices run Chinese operating systems and are optimized for the Internet in China.

In addition, Lenovo will offer three new smart air purifiers jointly made with Luftmed, a German manufacturer. The units are configured to be controlled by a smartphone through the cloud. And, Lenovo and D-Team, a China-based company, will offer a smart router operated remotely from a mobile device.

Lenovo Senior Vice President Chen Xudong told IDG News that Lenovo is venturing into third-party device development to expand its markets.

“Right now there are too many kinds of devices you can develop for the Internet of Things. It's too rich. Not one company can do it all," said Chen. "We hope to use Lenovo's advantages to combine with innovators. This platform can help them quickly start selling products, and create a supply chain for the market."