Single-purpose wrist, pendant, or pin-on emergency alert devices have been available for decades. Smartwatches paired with smartphones running health and wellness apps are commonplace. In a further step for wearable alert products, Shenzhen-based mobile device manufacturer Omate announced a partnership at CES 2018 with Arkea On Life, a mobile telecare company owned by Crédit Mutuel Arkéa, a French-based banking group. Together Omate and Arkea On Life developed a Wearable-as-a-Service (WaaS) targeted for lone workers, children, and seniors. In North America, the WaaS service will work with Medical Guardian to protect senior citizens. 

The new WaaS gives lone users a secure empowerment platform focused on safety first. The Omate O5LW wearable has an onboard 4G modem, integrated GPS, low-power Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for always-on connectivity; all encompassed in a waterproof IP67 case. The combination of GPS, 4G cellular networks, and Wi-Fi hotspots enables more accurate positioning than any one of the technologies by itself, according to Omate. A single charge of the smartwatch’s battery lasts up to three days. In addition to displaying the time, the watch’s 1.3-inch LCD 240×240 display and integrated speaker and noise cancellation microphone provide appointment reminders, voice messaging, concierge service, activity, and the weather. The watch includes a 2MP camera and a red SOS emergency button. Pushing the red button connects activates Arkea On Life’s Android OS secure location-based software services to connect to a 24/7 Telecare center where operators can receive messages and dispatch emergency help as needed.

Omate’s focus on smartwatches for specific user populations, including children, seniors, and lone workers in segments such as security, public utilities, and transportation meshes with Arkea On Life’s teleservices market. The Omate and Arkea On Life Wearable-as-a-Service will be available through mobile network operators and insurance companies starting Q3 2018.