Brief
In a world where data privacy is paramount, hundreds of thousands of Apple Watches are destroyed monthly due to data security challenges. This environmental and economic waste presented a critical problem: how can we extend the life of these sophisticated devices while ensuring complete data protection?
Design that Makes a Difference: Hear the Story Behind the Innovation
Process
Working with Cypherblk, npd meticulously approached the challenge through collaborative innovation. We developed a universal device designed to work across all Apple Watch sizes and versions, working closely with global suppliers to understand precise operational requirements. Our team engineered a solution that completes data wiping in under 30 seconds – a crucial benchmark for competitive processing. By collaborating directly with the Cypherblck software team, we ensured seamless hardware-software integration that would transform device lifecycle management.
Result
The result is a revolutionary device that prevents two watches from going to landfill every minute. We transformed one-year consumer buying cycles into 3-5 years of usable product life, creating a sustainable approach that recovers expensive, rare elements and enables comprehensive device reuse. Our solution doesn’t just solve a technical challenge – it reimagines how we think about electronic device management.
We couldn’t be more grateful for our partnership with npd. Nathan Partington. Alex Anderton, and team brought vision, creativity, and precision to helping us take on one of the complex challenges surrounding smartwatches: solving mechanical design barriers that limited our software’s ability to achieve its mission. From beautiful design through development and into manufacturing, npd has stood shoulder to shoulder with us – helping transform TimeShield from concept into reality. Their unique ability to merge design excellence with manufacturing expertise has been instrumental in creating a universal, fast, and truly innovative solution. We place tremendous value on this partnership and wholeheartedly recommend the team at NPD. They are trusted collaborators, innovative problem-solvers, and partners our entire organization is proud to work alongside. Together, we’ve built a solution that not only secures Apple smartwatches but also ensures they continue their journey in the circular economy – extending lifespans, preserving precious resources, and redefining what responsible innovation looks like.
Andrew Kroeger Co-Founder @ CypherBlk
