Google has purchased a 6.3 percent stake in Himax, the company responsible for manufacturing Google Glass for Google, and the cash injection will be used to expand capacity at the company.
Other investors in Himax include the likes of Intel, and Google also has a further option to acquire a further 8.5 percent stake in Himax at a later date.
Strategic Partnership and Investment
“Google is a preeminent global technology leader. We are delighted to receive this investment and to form a strategic partnership with Google,” stated Jordan Wu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Himax. “Beginning the second quarter of this year, we had already begun expanding capacity to meet demand for our LCOS product line. This investment from Google further validates our commitment to developing breakthrough technologies and state-of-the-art production facilities. We look forward to leveraging this investment and our collective expertise with Google to create unique and transformational LCOS technologies for many years ahead.”
The partnership between Google and Himax is a significant move in the tech industry, highlighting Google’s commitment to advancing its wearable technology. Himax’s expertise in Liquid Crystal on Silicon (LCOS) technology is crucial for the development of Google Glass, a product that aims to revolutionize the way we interact with digital information. The investment will not only help Himax expand its production capabilities but also accelerate the development of more advanced and efficient LCOS displays.
Implications for the Future of Wearable Technology
Google Glass represents a bold step into the future of wearable technology. By integrating a head-mounted display with internet connectivity, Google Glass allows users to access information, take photos, and communicate in a hands-free manner. This technology has the potential to transform various industries, including healthcare, education, and entertainment. For instance, surgeons could use Google Glass to access patient information and medical records in real-time during operations, while educators could provide immersive learning experiences through augmented reality.
The investment from Google also underscores the growing importance of wearable technology in the tech landscape. As more companies explore the possibilities of wearable devices, the demand for high-quality components like LCOS displays is expected to rise. Himax, with its advanced production facilities and innovative technologies, is well-positioned to meet this demand and play a pivotal role in the evolution of wearable tech.
Moreover, the option for Google to acquire an additional 8.5 percent stake in Himax indicates a long-term strategic interest. This potential increase in investment could further solidify the partnership and ensure a steady supply of cutting-edge components for future iterations of Google Glass and other wearable devices.
It will be interesting to see what happens with the two companies, Google are investing heavily in Google Glass and are obviously hoping that it is going to become popular. The success of Google Glass could pave the way for more widespread adoption of wearable technology, influencing how we interact with the digital world on a daily basis.
Source Engadget
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