Verizon Partners with Bug Labs

On Wednesday, wireless carrier Verizon and Bug Labs have announced a strategic relationship aimed at enabling product designers, software engineers and other people top come up with innovative new wireless devices that could connect to the wireless carrier's network.

According to the wireless services provider, devices that use the Verizon approved Bug Labs’ modules, and which connect to its network via pre-approved Verizon Wireless Broadband Access cards won't have to be submitted to testing before hitting the carrier's airwaves.

“The BUG platform is a natural addition to our open development program, and it’s an innovative option for developers,” Aparna Khurjekar, executive director of business solutions for Verizon Wireless, commented.

“Verizon Wireless continues to open its network to support a vibrant ecosystem of both software and hardware developers, and we’re delighted to be working with Bug Labs to help us achieve that mission.”

Bug Labs brings forth its BUG platform, which is an open-sourced hardware platform comprising a series of hardware modules that can be combined for the creation of new devices.

A collection of discrete hardware modules, 3G modems, and associated software that can connect to Big Red's network form the BUG platform, which has at its core the BUGbase, a powerful palm-sized computer with embedded WiFi and Bluetooth capabilities.

Further more, the solutions can be used for the creation of more integrated and cost-efficient, high-volume production models that would result in cost and time savings when it comes to market availability.

According to the wireless carrier, the BUG platform is evolving at all times, and it includes new hardware modules that enable an increased flexibility.

“Verizon Wireless has a demonstrated commitment to innovation, and we’re excited to combine our open product development platform with the nation’s best wireless broadband network,” said Peter Semmelhack, founder and chief executive officer of Bug Labs.

“With the BUG platform, developers can explore whole new categories of wireless devices and bring them to market quickly and cost effectively by accelerating development, deployment, production and certification.”