The BMA456 and BMA423 MEMS sensors. Source: BoschBosch Sensortec has unveiled a new family of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) acceleration sensors for wearables such as fitness trackers.
The sensors, dubbed BMA456 and BMA423, include an optimized step counter integrated directly into the sensor without the need of an external microcontroller. Bosch says this helps reduce system cost and power consumption as well as accelerating time-to-market.
The sensors can also be used with gesture recognition such as tilting of the wrist and can detect activities such as running, walking and standing still.
The sensors are housed in a compact package measuring 2.0 x 2.0 mm, small enough to fit into tight spaces for wearables such as fitness trackers, smartwatches and hearables.
The BMA456 and BMA423 MEMS sensors will be available through distributors beginning in August.