In a move that could reshape how smart devices operate at the edge, BrainChip Holdings Ltd (ASX: BRN, OTCQX: BRCHF, ADR: BCHPY) and HaiLa Technologies have announced a partnership focused on making connected sensors much more energy efficient. The collaboration aims to address a persistent challenge in the Internet of Things (IoT) landscape, in particular, how to keep edge devices running powerful AI workloads for years on tiny batteries, without the need for frequent recharging or replacement.
Anyone who has worked with IoT sensors in fields like healthcare, environmental monitoring, or infrastructure knows that battery life is a limiting factor. The more intelligent and connected a device is, the more energy it tends to consume. This often means trade-offs between device intelligence and battery longevity. BrainChip and HaiLa are working to change that equation.
The partnership brings together two complementary technologies. BrainChip’s Akida neuromorphic processor is designed to mimic the way the human brain processes information, making it exceptionally efficient for event-based AI tasks. Meanwhile, HaiLa’s BSC2000 radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC) uses passive backscatter to communicate over standard Wi-Fi networks. This approach allows devices to send data wirelessly while consuming a fraction of the power required by conventional radios.
By integrating these technologies, the companies have created a platform that can handle tasks like anomaly detection and condition monitoring while operating on just microwatts of power. This could mean that a sensor powered by a single coin cell battery would last as long as the device itself, eliminating the need for battery changes.
This development is not just theoretical. The companies are already working with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and ecosystem partners to bring their solution to market. The initial focus is on sectors where battery maintenance is a major pain point, such as medical devices, environmental sensors, and smart infrastructure.
For instance, in a hospital setting, sensors that monitor patient vitals or equipment status could operate for years without battery replacement. In environmental monitoring, sensors deployed in remote locations could continue collecting and transmitting data without the need for regular maintenance visits. Smart infrastructure applications, such as bridges or buildings, could benefit from continuous, real-time monitoring with minimal upkeep.
What makes this collaboration notable is the combination of two power-conscious technologies. HaiLa’s BSC2000 chip is compatible with existing Wi-Fi infrastructure, which means companies can deploy these ultra-low power devices without investing in new networks. BrainChip’s Akida processor brings advanced AI capabilities to the edge, allowing devices to process data locally and only send relevant information, further saving energy.
Patricia Bower, Vice President of Product Management at HaiLa, highlighted the impact of the partnership, saying it enables developers to create sensors that are not only intelligent but also capable of running for years on a single battery. Steve Brightfield, Chief Marketing Officer at BrainChip, emphasized that this collaboration makes intelligent, battery-powered edge sensors a practical reality.
The companies are showcasing their joint solution at Sensors Converge 2025 in Santa Clara, California, an event that brings together leaders in sensing, processing, and connectivity. This is a chance for industry professionals to see firsthand how the combination of neuromorphic AI and backscatter wireless can change the economics and possibilities of edge computing.
As IoT devices continue to proliferate, the need for smarter, more efficient edge solutions will only grow. The BrainChip and HaiLa partnership is a step toward a future where connected sensors are not limited by battery life, opening the door to new applications and business models across industries.
