By developing the world's smallest humidity and temperature sensor and optimizing specifications for the mobile market in the process, Sensirion has made a decisive contribution to the advancement of sensor technology in smartphones. The sensors can be mass-produced, rigorously following the maxim "smaller is better" with regard to size, energy consumption and price. The sensor measures a minuscule 2 mm x 2 mm x 0.8 mm and requires a supply voltage of 1.8 volts.

But even the best of sensor is only as good as its software. That's why Sensirion offers customized integration software for each device to ensure correct determination of the ambient temperature by compensating for the heat generated by the phone. The previous models of the sensor and software are already established in the markets. In developing the new sensor and software, we have been able to combine our many years of expertise on humidity and temperature sensing with the experience gained in the integration of sensors into existing smartphones on the market. 

Ambient sensing, in particular measurement of humidity and temperature, enables the phone to sense its environment, opening up a whole range of new applications that go far beyond a mere mobile weather station. A comprehensive assessment of this data would allow the cosmetics industry, for example, to provide useful skin care tips and suggest products perfectly suited to a specific environment. The possibilities are even greater when the data from multiple users is evaluated. The building control system in a smart building can be augmented with data from the smartphones located in the building. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning can then be better adapted to the needs of the people in the building, increasing their comfort while optimizing energy consumption. Through their smartphones, the people become part of an active system. By collecting data from smartphone as part of an overarching system, a smart holistic system can be supported. Smart buildings and smart cosmetics are just two examples of a whole range of possible solutions.