3M Launches Android Kernel Patches - Analyst Blog

3M Electronic Solutions Division, a part of 3M Company MMM, recently introduced Android kernel patches for its multi-touch display and systems products. The latest offering from 3M is perfectly timed as it will allow developers to create new applications as well as scale the existing applications to match its entire range of multi-touch display products.

In a bid to achieve maximum coverage with the Android OS (operating system), 3M has introduced multi-touch kernel patches for Android 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich), 4.1-4.3 (Jelly Bean) and 4.4 (KitKat). Additionally, 3M introduced a series of Linux kernel patches to enable developers to create high-performance multi-touch applications on the Linux OS.

With the new kernel patches, Android developers will be able to make full use of 3M's multi-touch technology on devices with displays varying from 15 inches to as large as 46 inches. These will create new multi-user, collaborative applications based on the flexibility of the Android OS along with ultra-fast touch response and the high touch threshold of up to 60 simultaneous touches.

Higher proliferation of smart phones and tablets coupled with the increased usage of high-speed data services has increased the demand for better display systems and multi-touch technology. 3M remains focused on inventing new products while maintaining its competitive edge globally in the segment. The popularity of the Android OS on smart phones and tablets will fuel the demand for such applications on larger displays and is likely to augment 3M's revenues.

3M, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a diversified technology company with manufacturing operations spread over 70 countries. The company aims to deliver innovative security solutions to businesses and governments worldwide, thus maintaining the security of people and documents.

3M currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). Other stocks that look promising and are worth a look now are Federal Signal Corp FSS, having a Zacks Rank #1  (Strong Buy), Honeywell International Inc. HON and United Technologies Corp UTX, both carrying a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy).