• The collaboration aims to create multi-protocol, RF-capable System on Chip (SoC) solutions that offer connectivity with significantly reduced power consumption.
  • The agreement grants HaiLa rights to patents related to backscatter technology, which is enabling the development of innovative IoT devices.

OUR TAKE
HaiLa Technologies has entered into a license agreement with the University of Washington to develop and commercialise backscatter technology aimed at reducing the power consumption of wireless communications. It demonstrates the significance of academic-industry collaboration in driving innovation and sustainability in the development of smart devices. And also the aim of improving performance, battery life, and environmental impact in the IoT landscape.
-Lia XU, BTW reporter

What happened

HaiLa Technologies collaborates with the University of Washington to develop and commercialise backscatter technology to reduce power consumption in wireless communication. According to the agreement, HaiLa is granted rights to some strategic patents related to backscatter technology and will undertake the development and commercialisation of several multi-protocol, RF-capable system-on-chip (SoC) solutions.

“Combining UW’s two decades of academic leadership in backscatter technology with HaiLa’s industry leadership in low-power wireless IoT chips will enable a new generation of standards-based smart devices with unprecedented performance and battery life compared to current Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices,” said Matt Reynolds, the associate professor of electrical and computer engineering at the University of Washington.

Derek Kuhn, President and CEO of HaiLa, stated, “The license agreement with the University of Washington complements HaiLa’s IP portfolio and further demonstrates our commitment to developing the most power-efficient radio technologies for IoT.”

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Why it’s important

The collaboration between HaiLa and the University of Washington intends to create ambient-powered connected devices that eliminate the need for batteries. This is significant as it can lead to a reduction in operational expenses associated with constantly changing batteries, as well as a positive environmental impact by reducing battery waste.

It showcases the importance of bridging academic research with industry expertise. This synergy can lead to the rapid development and commercialisation of innovative technologies that benefit academia and the market.

The license agreement signifies HaiLa’s commitment to developing the most power-efficient radio technologies for IoT and its dedication to reducing operational expenses associated with battery usage and minimising environmental impact. This emphasis on environmental responsibility is crucial in the current technological landscape where electronic devices play a significant role in daily life.