Qualcomm reveals plans to launch new Snapdragon Wear chipsets

2021 is proving to be a pivotal year for the growth of the Wear OS ecosystem. Last May, Google and Samsung got the ball rolling with the announcement of a new unified Wear OS platform for smartwatches. On the hardware side, Qualcomm is also getting serious. The San Diego-based chipmaker made a bunch of announcements today to reiterate its commitment to the wearable ecosystem and shared how it plans to help the wearable ecosystem.

In a press release, Qualcomm revealed that it is increasing its investments in chipsets and wearable technologies and plans to roll out new Snapdragon Wear chipsets covering various segments over the next year. However, everything is still pending as no exact details are given on the actual chipsets.

Another announcement Qualcomm made today is the launch of the Wearables Ecosystem Accelerator program, which aims to help OEMs accelerate the development and commercialization of wearable devices.

Qualcomm will play the role of a go-between by connecting wearable hardware / software vendors, component vendors and system integrators with OEMs, ODMs, operators and platform players. The program brings together the main wearable players under one roof to develop collaborative relationships and foster joint business opportunities between member companies. Members can discuss industry trends, conduct training sessions, demonstrate concepts, and team up with other member companies to develop new products.

“We are delighted to announce today the Wearable Ecosystem Accelerator Program and to have an ambitious set of activities. Our goal is to provide a vehicle in the industry where ecosystem partners collaborate to deliver differentiated wearable experiences and inject new energy and innovation into this exciting space ”, said Pankaj Kedia, Global Head of Apparel Segment, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.

Today’s announcement was likely boosted by Google and Samsung who have teamed up to rebuild Wear OS. Qualcomm probably wants to assure its partners and the public that it takes the portable processor segment seriously.

Qualcomm’s Wearables Ecosystem Accelerator program is open to companies developing wearable products based on Snapdragon Wear platforms. Qualcomm will also host the Wearables Ecosystem Summit later this fall, where the company will likely share more details on the new Snapdragon Wear chips.