16Lab announced on September 17 to unveil a working prototype of a Ring-like wearable computing device exclusively at an invitation-only event in Tokyo.

16Lab is developing a wearable computing device as a platform in order to make users' lives more convenient, focusing on intuitive solutions which can capitalize on the strengths of wearable devices. There are a variety of users' daily actions which can be supported by computers without the need of a display and a well thought-out software portfolio that will lead users to use the ring device all day long. It can be used as a gesture controller, an alert tool, non-contact keys and an e-wallet.

16Lab has been focusing its deepest effort on "functionality with greater reliability" in order to make the ring device extremely reliable and safe as a wearable communication platform, which requires much safer level than traditional mobile devices. In particular, since the ring device has an ultra small scale body, truly top level global technologies are being utilized in the development process. In order to deliver higher safety and greater satisfaction to users in general, 16Lab has been teaming up with reputable industry partners in production and design.

Among technology partners, Alps Electric, the co-developer of 16Lab, has an extensive know-how on wireless technology and downsizing. In addition, 16Lab is strongly supported by an array of top-level partners, including a battery manufacturer, a semiconductor producer and a specialty chemical maker. Many key components are specifically custom-made for the ring device.

In terms of design, a truly well-experienced designer and a laureate of the three most prestigious international design awards, Manabu Tago, leads the design management of 16Lab. A main supplier of the ring body is a metallic-processing company which employs one of the highest technologies in ultraprecision cutting and polishing. They have a long history supplying watch cases to one of the luxury watch brands.

16Lab is now preparing for pre-order sales of the ring device as a developer kit for the remainder of 2014. Prior to an announcement of the product specification, 16Lab is arranging an opportunity to unveil the working prototype to the public in October at the ANY TOKYO.

Press releases in 6 languages are available at http://16lab.net .