Intel’s button-sized Curie module transforms any object into a smart, wearable gadget

Intel showed off its plans to jumpstart the wearable gadget industry with a new button-sized module called Curie during a keynote event at the 2015 International CES today.

The low-powered module can make things like jewelry, clothing, and other accessories into smart, wearable devices, Intel explained. Basically, anything that’s larger than a dime can now become connected when the Curie module is integrated. The module also includes Intel’s Quark SE SoC chipset, Bluetooth low-energy radio, sensors and battery charging, the company said.

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“We made them so small they are like a button on a coat,” Intel CEO Brian Krzanich said as he literally took a button from his coat and held it up. “I’d like to introduce you to Curie.”

The overall idea here is that Intel is attempting to take care of many common elements involved with building a wearable gadget, thus freeing retailers and other manufacturers to focus on building the device itself — not fidgeting with the tech that’s powering it. That said, wearables are still an up-and-coming area of the gadget industry that consumers have yet to fully embrace.

Intel said it plans to partner with luxury brands on connected wearable products featuring Curie integration, including high-end sunglasses and activewear company Oakley and watch maker Fossil.

Intel Curie is expected to start shipping in the second half of 2015.