For more information, contact:
Marlene Bourne, Principal Analyst
Phone: 480-695-0521
Device Drivers
a Major Hurdle to Growth of MEMS Sensors in Cell Phones
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., March 6, 2006 - Cell
phones have long been targeted as a major end-use application
for MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical Systems) sensors, and
accelerometers in particular, but widespread integration
hinges on the development of device drivers, not the sensors
themselves, according to Bourne Research (http://www.bourneresearch.com). The
market research firm reports that MEMS suppliers have had
it relatively easy selling sensors into markets such as
automotive (the mainstay of the industry to date), since
those customers typically write their own code for device
drivers. However, consumer electronics is turning
out to be an entirely different ballgame.
"At this point, it appears that cell phone manufacturers
are still not convinced that MEMS sensors are worth spending
the money necessary to create the device drivers needed,
mostly because there's uncertainty about whether consumers
will like MEMS-enabled features enough to pay more for
them," says Marlene Bourne, Principal Analyst with Bourne
Research. "As a result, handset manufacturers currently
expect a total solution, one which MEMS sensor suppliers
are unable to provide, nor can they do so on their own. Partnerships
will be required, but those have their own issues."
Bourne Research reports that the need for device drivers
provides an opportunity for those who specialize in embedded
software development; however, partnerships with MEMS suppliers
may be difficult to put into place - for both start-ups
and large semiconductor players alike. Given the
potential system-wide impact of MEMS sensors on cell phones,
and the number of device drivers required to accommodate
all of the possible functions, it's a tough challenge;
and there's a lot at stake for MEMS suppliers - integrating
sensors into just ten percent of all cell phones shipped
annually would be a major coup for the industry. But
by taking a look at the matter from a slightly different
angle, Bourne Research has identified two approaches that
may very well be the best solution for all parties involved.
Issues affecting the integration of MEMS
sensors into cell phones, and potential solutions, are
one of many topics covered in The Bourne Report, a unique
new series of market research reports from Bourne Research. The
Bourne Report offers insightful business intelligence on
the emerging technology marketplace, with a focus on MEMS
and Nanotechnology. To subscribe to The Bourne Report,
or for more information about Bourne Research, please visit:
http://www.bourneresearch.com or
contact Marlene Bourne at 480-695-0521 or marlene@bourneresearch.com .
About Bourne Research
Bourne Research is a trusted source of market intelligence,
with a specialized focus on MEMS (MicroElectroMechanical
Systems), Nanotechnology, and the convergence of both. Its
founder, Marlene Bourne, is a highly respected industry
analyst with more than a decade of experience following
the development of emerging technologies, and is internationally
recognized as one of the leading experts on MEMS .
