STMicroelectronics and Bitendo,
Development of the world's smallest focus-free embedded pico-projector for next-generation smartphones
Implement media viewing sharing and image quality enhancement by projecting movies and photos onto a smartphone's small screen

Korea, February 28, 2011 – STMicroelectronics ( www.st.com ), a world-leading semiconductor company and the world's No. 1 supplier of MEMS sensors for consumer electronics and portable devices, and bTendo Ltd, an Israeli projection technology developer, have entered into a development and licensing agreement to jointly develop the world's smallest pico projector for smartphones and various portable consumer electronics devices. The solution being jointly developed by the two companies integrates bTendo's innovative scanning laser projection engine technology with ST's leading MEMS (Micro-Electro Mechanical System) expertise, video processing know-how, and semiconductor process technology.

Recently, many people are storing and using large-capacity movies and photos on advanced smartphones, but they are experiencing inconvenience when watching them with others due to the small display. However, by adding a projection function to mobile devices, you can easily share media content with others anytime, anywhere.

The jointly developed embedded projector solution has a volume of less than 2.5 cm³ and a height of less than 6 mm, and delivers sharp, clear images with focus-free and vivid colors superior to current pico projection solutions. The industry's smallest projection engine, which runs two MEMS-based micro-mirror-actuation elements and an advanced video processing chip embedded in the system's optical engine, is optimized for smartphones by supporting MIPI (Mobile Industry Processor Interface), which ensures low power consumption and rapid, easy integration.

Benedetto Vigna, General Manager and Group Vice President of STMicroelectronics’ MEMS, Sensors, and High Performance Analog business unit, said, “Smartphone users want to enjoy better video on an expanded screen via projection and share media content with others. ST adopted Bitendo’s technology because of the miniaturization, low power, and focus-free capabilities that are important for embedded projection modules.” “ST has long been developing innovative technologies, and through this joint collaboration, we will further expand our MEMS sensor expertise while complementing and strengthening our leadership in MEMS gyroscopes and accelerometers for advanced user interfaces,” he said.

“We are very pleased to be able to bring advanced technology for embedded pico projectors to the industry by partnering with STMicroelectronics, a global leader in MEMS technology for mobile devices. ST’s top-tier semiconductor process technology and design capabilities will enable cost-effective, low-power solutions optimized for personal consumer electronics,” said Dana Gross, CEO of Bitendo.

William, founder and CEO of PMA (Pacific Media Associates), a specialized market research firm.