3D Graphics for Wearables with Think Silicon

As wearables become integral to daily life, achieving a balance between power efficiency and advanced functionality is vital. Think Silicon, a pioneer in embedded graphics, is pushing boundaries with 3D graphics technology tailored for low-power environments.

From 2D to 3D: A Natural Evolution

Think Silicon’s journey started with 2D raster graphics, ideal for the limited hardware of early wearables. By mastering vector graphics, the company enabled higher-quality visuals on small, round screens typical of smartwatches. The leap to 3D wasn’t just ambitious—it was a calculated progression built on scalable, backward-compatible GPUs.

Why 3D Graphics Matter in Wearables

3D graphics open new possibilities for user interaction, enhancing the functionality and appeal of wearable devices. Imagine a smartwatch that doesn’t just display numbers but offers interactive 3D avatars to guide workouts or realistic maps for navigation. Beyond smartwatches, this technology is driving innovations in augmented reality (AR) and mixed reality (MR) applications, from technician support to virtual product previews.

The Technology Behind the Leap

At the heart of Think Silicon’s success are the Nema and Neox GPUs. Designed from scratch for low-power embedded systems, these GPUs offer real-time 3D rendering while consuming minimal energy. For developers, the solution is seamless—all APIs are backward-compatible, ensuring easy transitions from 2D or vector-based applications to 3D environments.

Applications Across Industries

While smartwatches remain the focus, Think Silicon’s 3D solutions are poised to impact other markets, including AR glasses and IoT devices. The ability to combine low power with high graphical fidelity is key for expanding 3D graphics into diverse applications.

Live Demo: Neox GPU in Action

A live demo showcased the Neox GPU delivering smooth 3D graphics at 11 frames per second on an FPGA running at just 40 MHz. This remarkable performance highlights how Think Silicon achieves efficiency without compromising quality, setting a new benchmark for wearable technology.

Future-Proofing Wearable Tech

With scalability, backward compatibility, and real-world applications in mind, Think Silicon offers a future-ready solution for electronics design engineers. Their approach ensures that 3D graphics become an accessible and valuable feature, reshaping the wearables industry.

Learn more: https://www.think-silicon.com/