Nanoveu Ltd (ASX:NVU) has executed an agreement to deploy its Customskins laminating machines, which are capable of precisely applying phone screen protectors to various mobile devices, in Thailand.
The agreement with a subsidiary of Advanced Info Service (AIS) represents the first commercial activities from Nanoveu’s Customskins vertical.
This vertical is aimed at distributing screen protectors produced by Nanoveu as well as by third parties.
AIS is one of Thailand’s largest publicly-listed telecommunications companies and a major telecommunications network provider in that country.
“A major milestone”
Nanoveu executive chairman and CEO Alfred Chong said: “The deployment of the Customskins machines is a major milestone for Nanoveu, representing the first commercial activity for the screen application device.
“We are thrilled to be able to work with such a prestigious partner in AIS, which is a significant player in Thailand’s telecommunications market.”
Customskins machines are designed to make it faster and easier for smartphone users to install a screen protector on their mobile devices.
Two machines to be supplied
There will be two Customskins laminating machines initially supplied for use in in high traffic retail sites operated by AIS for an initial 60-day trial period.
Depending on customer demand, the intention of AIS is then to extend to full commercial deployment.
Revenue generated by the Customskins machines will be shared between Nanoveu and AIS.
“Ideal location”
Chong said: “The Thai telecommunications market is an ideal location to commence our initial trials, with the market consisting of millions of mobile device users and continually strong mobile device uptake.
"Thailand is also in close proximity to our existing Asian operations ensuring further supply chain synergies.”
High accuracy level
The Customskins machines can equip smartphones with a screen protector, typically made of tempered glass, in just over a minute and with an alignment accuracy of 150 microns.
This high level of accuracy offers a strong business advantage to existing sellers of mobile phone accessories, eliminating the challenging and often frustrating process of manual application of screen protectors.
Additionally, when dust or excess air bubbles become trapped between the phone display and the protective layer during installation, staff tend to discard the entire screen protector and start from scratch using a fresh one.
In addition to supplying and maintaining the machines, Nanoveu will also supply its screen protectors providing an opportunity to distribute both third-party and Nanoveu’s own protectors.
The agreement is for 12 months, renewable annually, and either party may terminate the agreement by providing 30 days’ notice.