Betting on wearable technology like smartwatches as the “next frontier”, global chipmaker Intel is hosting the third round of its $5,000 ‘Make It Wearable’ challenge in the Asia Pacific, including India. Announced earlier this year by CEO Brian Krzanich, the competition seeks ideas from individuals on how the wearable technology can be used to change people’s lives. It will see inventors from India, Japan, Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan showcase futuristic concepts and the winners of will receive $5,000 prize and a travel package for two to the final gala event in San Francisco.

“We believe wearables are the next frontier in evolution of computing to become more personal and connected. The challenge complements the technology Intel is rolling out to make wearable’s possible and meaningful for people’s everyday lives,” Intel South Asia Director (Corporate Affairs Group) Ashutosh Chadha said. “We are extremely pleased to see the response we have got from India and feel that this is testimony to the growing wave of innovation emanating from the country,” he said.

In the Visionary Track round, entrants are invited to submit a one-minute video along with a description of their idea. The concepts will be reviewed and judged by an Intel panel in five waves on the basis of inventiveness and potential to positively impact the world, the company said, adding that they can submit up to 10 concepts. The Development Track is the second component of the challenge, where submissions for innovative and feasible product ideas for devices, clothing and accessories that are attached or worn on the body can be submitted.

The idea should incorporate and be enhanced by computer or advanced electronics that are based on Intel technology and submissions need to include a two minute video on the product, the business case and core technology requirements. “It’s the small things that make big differences. Intel’s Make It Wearable is a new opportunity to challenge the creative minds of India, begging the question, what will you invent ? “Chadha said.

Judges will look at ideas that augment technology usage through aesthetics, battery life, security or privacy and that adds to Intel’s vision of innovative tech that is personal, connects and enriches people’s lives.  After the second stage, 10 teams will become finalists and enter the incubation process where they will create a refined design and business plan. Finalists will receive monetary support and mentoring from industry leaders in their respective fields to get their ideas off the ground via prototype designs.