Personal sharing device beams info over UWB

By Ian Williams on Jan 24, 2009 2:28 PM
Filed under Networking

French start-up Leyio has unveiled a portable storage device that allows users to share information between units over Ultra-Wideband (UWB).

The Portable Sharing Device (PSD) allows users to store up 16GB of information which can be quickly transferred between devices with a flick of the wrist.

The high bandwidth of UWB means that a 3MB photo will transfer in a fraction of a second, according to the company, while a video clip will beam across in about 20 seconds.

"Many of us now have a number of different online identities," said Bruno Maurel, chief executive at Leyio.

"The Leyio PSD extends the internet experience to 'real' life in a way that no other device can, allowing you to share all the information you need with others in seconds, even when you're away from your computer. Finally, your online life is accessible offline."

Although UWB is still in its infancy, the radio technology can be used for short-range high-bandwidth communications and is widely considered to be the successor to Bluetooth.

UWB is being considered by many electronics makers for the development of devices like wireless monitors and laptop docking stations.

Leyio's PSD includes a fingerprint scanner to ensure that data is secure, and normal USB drives can be connected to the device to share information. It can be connected to a PC to synchronise data, giving mobile users a safe and simple method of backing up and transporting information.

The device could prove popular among field workers who need to regularly share information without the benefit of network connectivity. It could also be used to share business cards and other contact details, as well as interact with future UWB devices.

Pricing is yet to be confirmed, but the PSD should be hitting shelves in the UK at the end of March.