About TECO
Established in 1993, TECO is a pioneering research group at KIT’s Institute of Telematics advancing ubiquitous and wearable computing through intelligent embedded systems, embedded AI, and novel human-computer interaction.
In close collaboration with industry, TECO drives innovation and fundamental research in real-world domains such as HealthTech and Industry 4.0, delivering open-source platforms including OpenEarable and EdgeML.
Founded at KIT as a pioneer in ubiquitous computing.
Research projects across the TECO portfolio.
People advancing ubiquitous computing.
Featured platform
The world's first fully open-source AI platform for ear-based sensing applications.
Learn moreResearch
OpenEarable is an open-source, AI-enabled platform for ear-based sensing applications with true wireless audio. The modular and reconfigurable platform is packed with a variety of high-precision sensors, designed for both development and research applications.
edge-ml is an embedded-first machine learning framework designed to help developers build models for microcontrollers faster and more robustly. As a browser-based, end-to-end solution, it simplifies the entire ML pipeline into a few simple steps: recording data, labeling samples, training models, and deploying validated embedded machine learning directly on the edge.
EarXplore is an evolving, interactive database that organizes and visualizes research on earables. It helps the community explore existing studies, uncover trends, and shape the future of earable technology.
Heatables investigates the use of near-infrared (NIR) and infrared (IR) optical stimulation within the human ear to modulate thermal perception and comfort. The project explores the auditory canal as a novel physiological and perceptual interface for personalized thermal regulation.
An open-source hardware extension of the OpenEarable 1.3 platform that enables multifunctional biopotential sensing (EEG, EMG, EOG) in the ear, paving the way for new applications in HCI and wearable health.
UltrasonicSpheres creates localized ultrasonic audio zones in space, audible only when wearing OpenEarable 2.0. As users move between zones, they automatically hear the corresponding audio — with spatial direction preserved and no sound leaking into the environment. The system enables natural, hands-free, location-based audio experiences using off-the-shelf speakers and open-source earables.
Transfer
Validaitor is a TECO research spin-off developing a comprehensive auditing and certification system for AI. Funded by the BMBF’s StartUpSecure KASTEL program, it ensures AI systems are trustworthy and compliant.
AskUI provides AI-powered automation by controlling operating systems rather than individual applications. By bringing vision to code, it enables developers to automate any use case across all platforms seamlessly.
Liftwise is a German startup providing an AI-powered fitness system for gyms. It uses a smart sensor armband and NFC technology to offer real-time technique feedback, automated tracking, and gamification.
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