06/23, 11:30pm
Key can be used to find car, check diagnostics
NXP Semiconductor has unveiled a new product, labeled KeyLink Lite, that serves as a bridge between NFC-enabled vehicles and smartphones. Using short-range communication and encryption, the key securely transfers data between vehicles and mobile devices. In one possible application, the key stores GPS location data as a user exits their car. When the time comes to find the car, the user can bring the key close to their smartphone and quickly use a maps app to find the proper location.
more
06/16, 3:45pm
Sony Ericsson to use NXP chip for NFC in handsets
NXP Semiconductors issued a press release on Thursday that reveals Sony Ericsson plans to introduce an NFC-capable handset, as the phone maker will use the PN65 chip in future handsets. The chip consists of the NFC radio controller, embedded secure element and NFC software. Sony Ericsson, whose phones use the Android operating system, hasn't pushed for NFC support, despite Google's inclusion of the needed software hooks in the later versions of its OS.
more
01/26, 3:50pm
Philips to cut 6,000 jobs
Philips Electronics said it will cut its global workforce to the tune of 6,000 because it posted the first quarterly loss in about six years, according to a Monday report. At the same time, the company stopped the buy-back program of its shares. The 1.47 billion Euro ($1.9 billion) loss in the fourth quarter of 2008 is partly due to a write-down of Philips' Lumildes diode light business as well as the downgrading of its shares in NXP Semiconductors and LG Display. Net losses for 2008 amounted to 186 million Euros (nearly $242 million).
more
