Intel looking for ideas on wearable tech, announces $500,000 grand prize

In January, Intel had announced its ‘Make It Wearable’ challenge that invites the creative minds around the world to move towards a wearable future and making computing ubiquitous.

And now the company says after gathering momentum in Asia-Pacific and Japan, the the Visionary Track of the challenge has now entered the third of the five rounds. Individuals from India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan can submit their ideas to win a cash price of $5,000 and a also a travel package for two to attend the final gala event in San Francisco, says Microsoft. The winners from round two will be announced on May 5.

To participate in the challenge all you have to do is submit a one-minute video describing your idea. The proposals will be reviewed and judged in “five waves on the basis of inventiveness and potential to positively impact the world”. The challenge allows contestants to submit up to ten ideas. To get inspired you can check out some videos of current Visionary Track finalists on the ‘Make It Wearable’ website.

The Development Track is the second component of the ‘Make It Wearable’ challenge and it kicks off this summer after the Visionary Track ends. Here those who qualified through the Visionary Track will have to submit feasible product ideas with a two-minute video. It should involve clothing and accessories that are attached or worn on the body and should incorporate or be enhanced by computer or advanced electronics based on Intel technology.

Intel will choose ten teams as finalists. Finalists will receive monetary support and will be mentored by industry leaders to develop their idea. The final team to win takes home grand prize of $500,000, while the first and second runner up will get $200,000 and $100,000 respectively.