Global tech giant Intel acquires Recon

Intel has completed the acquisition of Recon Instruments, maker of Recon Jet smart eyewear for sports and cycling.

Recon said Intel was an "ideal partner", with the tech giant’s CEO Bran Krzanich often voicing the company’s commitment to wearable technology,

Recon’s CEO Dan Eisenhardt (who spoke with BikeBiz late last year) said: "As part of Intel, we’ll have the resources to continue the mission we began with the creation of Recon in 2008, but with a level of efficacy and speed that’s beyond the reach of a pioneer in a new market. We’ll stay right here in Vancouver, and we’ll retain our talent, our brand, and our entrepreneurial spirit.

"Thanks to Intel, however, we’ll gain two very important strengths:

• We’ll have the resources to successfully grow. This growth will extend to our developer relations program, which will help us establish and sustain a strong app ecosystem.
• In addition, we’ll have the opportunity to draw from Intel’s extensive technology portfolio. As the world’s most successful semiconductor company, Intel has valuable technical resources and expertise to bring to the table.

"This acquisition has placed Recon in a uniquely advantageous position. Going forward, we’ll continue leading the smart eyewear category for sports, and we’ll be able to bring our technology and innovation to completely new markets and use cases where activity-specific information, delivered instantly, can change the game. The team and I couldn’t be more enthusiastic."

The move has history – Recon was formerly an Intel Capital portfolio company. Intel assured that the deal will mean no disruption for the brand and supply chain.

Josh Walden, senior VP and GM of Intel’s New Technology Group said: "Customers and retailers of Recon products can rest assured they’ll continue selling, enhancing and marketing their products under the Recon brand without disruption. The team will also partner with Intel’s New Devices Group to develop smart device platforms for a broader set of customers and market segments.

"We are excited to welcome the Recon team to Intel, and we look forward to the amazing experiences we’ll invent together."