Altia and Infineon Collaborate to Bring Embedded GUI Solutions to IoT Devices with a Streamlined Development Platform

Altia is proud to announce a collaboration with Infineon Technologies to provide graphical user interface (GUI) software solutions to IoT developers using Infineon products. Now a member of the ModusToolbox™ & Friends development program, Altia enables increased productivity with innovative, production-ready software for developers using the Infineon PSoC™ 6 family of microcontrollers.

The PSoC™ 6 family is built on an ultra-low-power architecture, including advanced low-power design techniques to extend battery life up to a full week for battery powered applications. Altia’s DeepScreen code generation solution for the Infineon PSoC™ 6 is highly efficient, leveraging the full feature set of the hardware to deliver top performance and the lowest memory footprint for embedded graphics—enabling designers of smart home applications, wearable devices and other IoT products to design and deploy custom, high impact graphics and a pleasing user experience.

“Altia offers industry-leading software solutions for getting artist’s pixels to production embedded hardware,” stated Michael Hill, Altia’s Vice President of Engineering. “One of the greatest advantages of Altia’s solutions is offering optimized graphics code generation solutions for power and cost-efficient products like the Infineon PSoC™ 6. We’re thrilled to streamline the customer experience with this ModusToolbox™ collaboration so that we can equip IoT innovators with a proven tool set.”

ModusToolbox™ is a sophisticated platform delivering a vibrant ecosystem to develop and deploy IoT devices. Developers benefit from the integration of Altia software as well as other ModusToolbox™ offerings for easy evaluation and development. From the selection process through to production, developers save time and effort since the initial upstreaming integration into ModusToolbox™ has already been done by Infineon and their partners.

“Infineon is constantly expanding its development ecosystem through ModusToolbox™ Software, ensuring product developers have all the tools and pre-integrated embedded software to build fully integrated intelligent systems,” said Danny Watson, Director Software Technical Product Management at Infineon. “Creating a tight integration with Altia, embedded GUI designers can leverage the PSoC™ 6 with its secured, ultra-low power architecture and CAPSENSE™ features to create, design and deploy their next-generation graphical user interfaces. We are excited to team up with Altia to bring embedded GUI solutions to IoT applications in the smart home, smart industry and wearables within ModusToolbox™ Software and tools platform.”

To get started with Altia on ModusToolbox™ for PSoC™ 6, visit this GitHub page. For details about Altia’s GUI development software solutions for Infineon PSoC™ 6, visit www.altia.com.

About Altia

Altia is a software company that provides graphical user interface design and development tools that can be used from concept to final product code. Our GUI editor, Altia Design, offers development teams the capability to implement a model-based development process for clear communication and accelerated user interface development. Our code generator, Altia DeepScreen, supports a vast range of low- to high-powered processors from a variety of industry-leading silicon providers. Altia generates pure C source code that is optimized to take full advantage of hardware resources. Graphics code generated by Altia is driving millions of displays worldwide – from automotive instrument clusters, HUDs and radios to thermostats, washing machines and healthcare monitors. Our mission is to get the best automotivemedical and consumer interfaces into production in the shortest time on the lowest cost hardware.

Altia was founded in 1991. Its customers include automotive OEMs and Tier 1s like Continental Automotive, Denso, Stellantis, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Honda, Renault, Magneti Marelli, Nippon Seiki, Valeo, Visteon and more – plus leading consumer device manufacturers like Electrolux, Whirlpool, NordicTrack and many others.

For more information about Altia, visit www.altia.com or email [email protected].

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Altia ON: 2023 Piaggio MP3

Motorcycle and motorbike companies such as Harley-Davidson, Kawasaki, Piaggio and Triumph trust Altia software to drive the graphics of their most advanced multi-functional displays. Here is a shining example of the safety, style and performance that Altia can deliver—the Piaggio MP3.

This is the most advanced and luxurious model ever produced by Piaggio, the pioneer and leader of the three-wheeler segment. This three-wheeler features a 7-inch TFT display, the largest display in its category. This display functions as the control and connection center for Piaggio’s MIA connectivity system, which allows drivers to access calls, manage playlists and use GPS. Drivers can also customize the display according to their needs and preferences.

Using the instrument cluster, which is clearly inspired by high class cars on the road, riders can manage numerous features including navigation, connectivity and, on the 530 hpe Exclusive version, also the engine maps (Comfort, Eco and Sport) and cruise control, as well as clearly displaying the images of the rear camera while reversing (exclusive to this equipment).

Take a ride on a Piaggio MP3 with this YouTuber to see this gorgeous display in action!

The TFT also integrates the innovative ARAS (Advanced Rider Assistance System) devices, which are based on a 4D imaging radar technology developed by Piaggio Fast Forward. The ARAS devices include the BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) and the LCDAS (Lane Change Decision Aid System), which alert drivers to fast-approaching vehicles and help them avoid collisions. These devices are exclusive to the Piaggio MP3 and make it the first scooter to be equipped with such advanced safety systems.

Delivering innovative UX for embedded displays is Altia’s specialty. Designed into over 100 million cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, medical devices, home appliances and more, we offer production-proven software and services for getting pixel-perfect graphics to production.

Visit www.altia.com/get-started. Let’s get your next GUI on the road together!

Top UX Design Trends for IoT GUIs

“Internet of Things” (IoT) became a hot phrase when the first internet-enabled devices and appliances hit the market. Soon, we’ll just say “things.” An internet connection is becoming a must-have feature for all types of devices.

The IoT isn’t only for modern developments like voice assistants, GPS trackers and security systems. It’s also changed how we use our watches, thermostats and refrigerators. While other industries faltered, IoT spending grew 21.5% to $201 billion in 2022 (via IoT Analytics). The IoT is no more a fad than the internet itself—and the competition for market share is only beginning.

What Separates the Best IoT Devices?

The first IoT devices were popular because of their novelty. As the of available IoT devices grows, standards are getting higher. Success in IoT device manufacturing depends on designs that capitalize on these seven trends.

1 – Connectivity

As more types of devices join the IoT, there’s an increased need for them to all work together. Users expect data sharing and interconnectivity across networks. Real-time communication between devices and systems is ideal. When an embedded GUI sends and receives data with the cloud on a schedule, users expect to know how current the information is.

In either case, communication across networks must be seamless. That means embedded GUI developers must understand various protocols and technologies such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Zigbee. Interfaces with broad compatibility will win market share.

2 – Multi-Modal UI

Many IoT devices still need a physical user interface. For example, a smart refrigerator or smart lamp still must work when the Wi-Fi goes down. The following features and capabilities help embedded GUI teams balance UX, aesthetics and battery life:

  • Voice search and voice control for intuitive, hands-free operation
  • Touch-based interfaces for precise control over scrolling, typing or drafting
  • Haptic feedback to provide tactile cues and alerts

Including multiple modalities allows users to control the device according to their needs. Alternative ways of input and output increase accessibility, decrease product failures and empower efficient user experiences.

3 – Simplicity

Users aren’t used to navigating steep learning curves when buying new refrigerators, watches or doorbells. Devices that offer visual representations of only the essential information are simple to use and understand. Clear, concise language and intuitive UI design make a device easy to use effectively without additional training.

Testing and validation ensure that connected GUIs work as intended and meet user needs. Thorough testing also helps squash any bugs or issues that they arise. Altia’s model-based   development enables teams to test with users early and confirm that the GUI is easy to use.

4 – Performance

Even with efficient IoT data processing, too much information can hurt the scalability of the UI. Users don’t want to wait for interfaces to load and respond, so the GUI must be responsive and fast. Efficient data processing also conserves battery and processing power.

Presenting information in graphs or dashboards can help draw simple meaning from massive amounts of data. When showing many events or messages is unavoidable, pagination allows loading the data in manageable parts.

The best devices have GUIs that are optimized for performance and efficiency. For example, the Tandem Diabetes Care T-Slim insulin pump can run for a week on a small rechargeable battery.

5 – Security

As IoT adoption expands, so does the attack surface. Security vulnerability has become one of the most critical challenges for IoT device manufacturers. Security features like machine-to-machine authentication, biometric logins and AI-powered security practices can help.

Awareness and training go a long way, too, but users don’t want to carry the burden of protecting themselves alone. Embedded GUIs should be designed with security in mind, as cybersecurity concerns can destroy a product’s appeal.

Recognizing the Threats

Unauthorized access or manipulation can cause significant harm to the IoT infrastructure and users. Successful hacks compromise user privacy, safety and business operations. Secure GUI design can prevent vulnerabilities such as buffer overflows, injection attacks and other exploits that attackers can use to gain access to the system.

A secure GUI design goes beyond preventing unauthorized access to the system’s hardware, firmware and software. It must also include intrusion detection and prevention mechanisms to ensure appropriate responses to suspicious activities or attacks. Avoiding security incidents spurs user confidence in IoT systems and drives widespread adoption.

Privacy and Security Solutions IoT Devices

Trust is non-negotiable for connected devices, which means embedded GUI teams must steer clear of common IoT security challenges. IoT device manufacturers can build trust with any or all of the following:

  • Automatic security updates
  • Customizable privacy settings
  • Transparency in data collection
  • Two-factor authentication (2FA)
  • Secure communication protocols
  • Enforcement of strong passwords
  • Encryption of sensitive information

Addressing security and privacy concerns is vital during the GUI design phase. Embedded GUI teams should also commit to ongoing efforts to keep the device’s software and firmware up to date, preventing security breaches.

6 – Personalization

Few UX design trends among IoT offerings are more pressing than personalization. Sensors, beacons and adaptable technology make it possible to deliver customized experiences in industries ranging from retail and automotive to healthcare and edutech.

Modern customers expect products to meet individualized needs and personal preferences. This also ushers in a golden age for marketers who want to deliver more impactful experiences. Customizable settings and functions boost satisfaction, loyalty and adoption.

Personalization of features also benefits data collection. Product teams can see how users interact with devices, which guides future enhancements. For now, personalization is considered a premium feature. Soon it will be the cost of admission into the IoT market.

7 – Incorporation of artificial intelligence and machine learning

Collecting data used to be the hard part. Now the challenge is in making sense of mountains of data. Machine learning and artificial intelligence make big data more useful for IoT devices. Advanced analytics will empower everything from preventative security enhancements to predictive maintenance, thus reducing downtime, maintenance costs and energy consumption. ML and AI also serve other UI trends for IoT devices, such as advanced security features, voice control and customization.

Embedded GUI Design for Successful IoT Products

As UX expectations continue to rise, project managers should equip their teams with the skills and resources required to develop connected GUIs. This includes expertise in networking, software development and hardware integration.

Innovation and continuous improvement are the keys to success in the rapidly evolving IoT market. GUI developers and project managers who stay ahead of new trends and technologies will come out on top.

Altia’s end-to-end GUI solutions help developers create embedded displays for the IoT with confidence. Contact our team to get started today.

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