1997-02-05 , ID-9703

Gratkorn, Biel - SWATCH AG, the world's largest watch maker, has successfully integrated the MIFARE^® contactless smart card technology of Philips Semiconductors / Mikron into the SWATCH ACCESS^® watch.

The Swatch Access with MIFARE^® technology is targeted to active people with high consciousness of fashion, quality and brands. Target applications for the watch with integrated smart card are public transport, sport events, tourism, access to and service in recreation areas, stadiums and amusement parks. Service providers, event managers and system integrators can use
the SWATCH ACCESS^® with MIFARE^® technology as replacement or as additional option to regular cards.

With an estimated market share of 70-80%, Philips Semiconductors / Mikron's technology platform MIFARE^® is today the world's leading contactless smart card technology. It features a 8Kbit multiapplication memory, high security with mutual authentication and RF channel encryption, and a high speed rf communication with more than 100kBaud. Cards, terminals and services with the MIFARE^® technology are available around the world from numerous system houses. With its focus on speed, security and multifunctionality, the new Swatch Access with MIFARE^® technology extends Swatch's existing portfolio to high security payment functions.

SWATCH AG is the world's largest quality watch maker with numberless models and designs. Swatch is the clear market leader within the young and active generation. Up to now, Swatch has sold more than 200 million of highest quality watches all over the world.

Philips Semiconductors with its Austrian subsidiary Mikron GmbH is the world-wide leader in ICs for contactless smart cards and RF identification. The business focus is on silicon and components for contactless smart cards and RF transponders, used in automatic fare collection, industrial applications, access control and car immobilizers.

MIFARE^® is a registered trademark of Philips Semiconductors

SWATCH^® and SWATCH ACCESS^® are registered trademarks of Swatch AG.