Chinese computer giant, Lenovo has recently announced its new Internet of Things (IoT) vehicle - the New Business Development (NBD) - and unveiled its first wave of three innovative smart devices - smart glasses, smart air cleaner and smart router.
The equity participation- and collaboration-based NBD will serve as a vehicle where partner startups can leverage Lenovo’s resources including software, hardware, sales channels and services for the development of IoT services.
Lenovo is already collaborating with a number of technology firms in developing the prototypes - M100 smart glass with US-based Vuzix and another unnamed “new glass” with Ceyes Company. The company is also working with LUFTMED Company, a Germany-based company on a series of new air purifiers - LUFTMED D300, LUFTMED D600 and the new air X330. In addition, it has also teamed up with D-Team Inc on the development of newifi, a smart router.
"We have always said innovation will differentiate Lenovo. We continue to drive innovation both in terms of our own product development and in terms of sparking it with interesting partners. 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. NBD represents our approach to attacking this opportunity.”
- Peter Hortensius, Chief Technology Officer of Lenovo
