Subthreshold MCU powers smartwatch range

Low power MCU specialist Ambiq Micro says its Apollo platform is being used in hybrid smartwatches from Fossil, Skagen and Misfit. The Apollo platform operates as a central component in the hybrid smartwatches and will handle device operations – including processing sensor inputs and controlling wireless communication.

“Fossil Group is an innovator and leader in the wearables and smart device market, and the inclusion of Apollo in its newly launched hybrid smartwatches is a testament to its desire to meet the power, space and application requirements of its consumer base,” said Ambiq’s CEO Fumihide Esaka. “Ambiq’s partnership with Fossil Group indicates both companies are dedicated to developing the next generation of powerful wearables that meet the demands of both fashion and function.”

Based on the ARM Cortex-M4, the Apollo MCU is said to consume up to 10 times less energy than competitive MCUs due to the use of Ambiq’s Subthreshold Power Optimised Technology. This allows designers to extend battery life, use smaller or fewer batteries or add features.