There are already many technologies available to measure bacteria in water.But in real-world operations, the questions people actually ask are surprisingly simple: How soon can I get the results? How accurate are they? What kind of operational burden does this involve? Below, we compare the most widely used bacterial measurement methods by measurement principle , focusing on accuracy, time to results, and cost . Culture Method: The Most Accurate—and the Slowest Source: Medical Tribune The culture method is the most traditional and widely trusted approach to bacterial measurement. A water sample is inoculated onto growth media, bacteria are allowed to grow, and the resulting colonies are counted as CFU (colony-forming units). Because it directly measures living bacteria , this method is still used as a reference standard  for regulatory testing and final validation. The downside is time. Results typically take at least 24 hours , and often 2–3 days . When water quality issues arise suddenly or when immediate process decisions are required, culture methods are simply too slow to serve as a practical decision-making tool. ATP Testing: Fast, but Requires Careful Interpretation Source: Rentalist ATP testing uses the biological reaction of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) to rapidly assess potential contamination. Results can be obtained within tens of minutes , making it popular for on-site screening. However, ATP is not exclusive to bacteria. Organic residues and other biological materials also contribute to the signal. As a result, ATP values reflect overall biological contamination , rather than bacterial counts alone. It is useful for quick checks, but less suitable for precise bacterial management or tracking subtle changes over time. Optical Density (OD): Limited to High-Concentration Environments Source: Linshang Technology OD measurement estimates microbial concentration indirectly by measuring light absorbance. It is commonly used in culture media or high-density microbial environments . In drinking water or ultrapure water (UPW), where bacterial concentrations are extremely low, OD measurements do not provide meaningful signals. For this reason, its applicability in general water quality management or UPW monitoring is very limited. Flow Cytometry: Highly Precise, but Operationally Demanding Flow cytometry analyzes bacteria at the individual cell level, offering exceptional precision and quantification . It can also distinguish between live and dead cells, which is a major advantage. That precision comes at a cost. The instruments are expensive, sample preparation is complex, and operation requires highly trained personnel. For continuous, routine use in typical field environments, the cost and operational burden are significant . A Common Limitation of Conventional Methods In summary, each existing method has clear strengths—but also clear constraints: Highly accurate methods take too long Fast methods lack bacterial specificity Precise methods are expensive and complex to operate As a result, bacterial measurement has often been confined to post-event verification  or periodic inspections , rather than continuous, real-time management. A New Approach for On-Site Water Management What field operators truly need is not the most complex analytical system.They need a way to quickly detect changes , measure without culturing , track trends through repeated measurements , and operate reliably in treated water and UPW environments . To address these needs, TheWaveTalk  is preparing a table-top bacteria sensor specialized for ultrapure water (UPW) monitoring . This device was developed through follow-up collaboration after successfully completing a PoC with LG Display . Optimized for treated water and UPW applications, it delivers quantitative results in approximately 15 minutes at a reference level of 100 CFU/mL . Planned for release in the first half of this year , the system aims to shift bacterial measurement from a periodic “test” into a practical, real-time tool for on-site management and process decision-making .

Siemens CEO Dr. Roland Busch delivered a keynote at CES 2026. At CES 2026 , Siemens CEO Dr. Roland Busch  delivered a keynote outlining how AI and digital twins can be integrated across industrial infrastructure. Beyond factory automation and energy management, water supply infrastructure  was clearly positioned as part of this transformation. Water networks are no longer an exception—they are becoming a core target of digital transformation. In this newsletter, we take a closer look at Siemens’ vision for the future of infrastructure with a focus on water supply , and explore how these ideas are already being implemented around the world. AI and Digital Twins Become the Common Language of Infrastructure At CES 2026, Siemens declared that AI and digital twins are the central technologies of future infrastructure . This is a holistic approach that spans buildings, energy, transportation—and water management. The core objective is to enable better operations with fewer resources . Key technologies applied to water supply infrastructure include: AI-based predictive operations : Automating operational decision-making such as demand forecasting, leak detection, and emergency response Real-time water quality monitoring : Continuous tracking of key indicators such as turbidity, pH, and residual chlorine Digital twin simulations : Pre-simulating pipe network conditions, flow changes, and contamination risks Remote automated control : Immediate remote response when anomalies are detected When these technologies are integrated, water infrastructure evolves from a simple monitoring system into a decision-driven, intelligent water management system . Why Water Infrastructure Needs a Data-Centric Approach Historically, water management systems have lagged behind other sectors in digitalization. While water quality control at treatment plants has been well established, real-time monitoring within residential and consumption areas has remained limited . As Siemens emphasized, for AI to be truly integrated across urban infrastructure, real-time water quality data extending into living environments  is essential. Key enabling factors include: Precision and durability of sensor technologies Installation flexibility enabled by low-power or power-free operation System architectures that support self-diagnostics and remote response In other words, water quality data must go beyond simply “existing”—it must be delivered in a form that operators can actively use for decision-making  for digital transformation to be complete. Treatment2Tap: A Real-World Example of Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring This vision is already becoming reality. In the UK, the Treatment2Tap  project brings together Siemens and other global technology leaders to demonstrate a system that monitors water quality in real time from treatment plants all the way to the tap . Rather than merely collecting data, the project leverages AI to predict water quality anomalies and connect them to automated response systems , making it a leading model for next-generation urban water infrastructure. TheWaveTalk  is participating in this project by providing sensor solutions designed for high-precision water quality monitoring within residential environments . Water Infrastructure Must Now Be Designed Around Operations The center of gravity in water management is shifting—from treatment plants to living environments . This is no longer an era where a single sensor is enough. What matters now is designing end-to-end systems  that connect data to decision-making and real-world response. The future of water supply infrastructure presented by Siemens at CES 2026 is not a distant vision—it reflects a technological shift already in motion. For professionals working in the water sector, now is the time to rethink how water infrastructure can be redesigned through the lens of AI and digital transformation .

Why is Real-Time Turbidity Monitoring Essential for Water Purifiers? Most water purifiers widely used in homes and offices lack real-time turbidity monitoring capabilities. While some purifiers are equipped with TDS sensors, these cannot detect bacteria, microplastics, E. coli, or mold.  As a result, many consumers still feel uncertain about the safety of their water, even when using purifiers. Just as the saying goes, "If you can’t measure it, you can’t improve it,"  the water purification industry must prioritize solving this issue. Global Warning: The Need for Reliable Water Quality Data The importance of this monitoring extends beyond household water quality management. Recently, major European companies like Siemens, Ecolab, Suez, Veolia, and Xylem issued a joint statement to EU policymakers, warning that the lack of reliable water quality data  and standardized measurement systems could undermine water resource resilience. From households to the national level, the need for precise, real-time water quality monitoring systems is becoming increasingly urgent. The Wave Talk’s Revolutionary Solution: The World’s First Semiconductor-Based Digital Turbidity Sensor A water purifier functions as a small water treatment plant within the home. In actual water treatment plants, turbidity monitoring is essential; if turbidity exceeds safe levels, water supply is immediately halted. However, due to the high cost and large size of traditional equipment, integrating such turbidity sensors into household water purifiers has been challenging. To address this, The Wave Talk developed the world’s first semiconductor-based digital turbidity sensor . This innovative sensor allows consumers to monitor water quality in real time, detecting impurities with 1,000 times the precision and 100 times the cost efficiency of conventional sensors.  Its compact size enables easy integration into water purifiers. Verified by government testing agencies in South Korea, this sensor has proven its stability and performance, gaining recognition in various markets. We are entering a new era, transitioning from “purifiers with only filters” to true purifiers equipped with both filters and sensors. Cost Reduction and Efficient Management: Smart Water Quality Monitoring Powered by IoT and Big Data Even with identical purifiers, filter contamination rates vary significantly depending on water quality conditions. Traditional purifiers do not account for these differences, resulting in uniform maintenance cycles. This can increase the risk of contamination and lead to unnecessary maintenance costs. The Wave Talk’s digital turbidity sensor not only provides real-time water quality detection but also delivers a transformative impact on maintenance cost reduction. With a maintenance cycle 40 times longer than traditional turbidity sensors , it reduces the frequency of filter replacement. Integrated with IoT and big data, the sensor predicts filter and valve conditions, guiding users to the optimal replacement timing. This ensures safety and convenience for consumers, while offering maintenance cost savings and asset management efficiency for businesses. Expanding The Wave Talk’s Technology to the Global Market The Wave Talk’s digital turbidity sensor has already been successfully implemented in major global appliance manufacturers' water purifiers and is set to be incorporated into various purifier models from global manufacturers by 2025. With increasing demand for water quality monitoring in North America and Europe,  The Wave Talk is rapidly expanding its market presence, leveraging its technical prowess and cost-efficiency. The success of turbidity sensors in purifiers is set to drive innovation across all sectors of the water industry, from potable water to ultrapure water, leisure water, and industrial water applications. “If a turbidity sensor can be used in purifiers, it can be applied across all water industries.” The Wave Talk’s Vision Toward a Global Standard The Wave Talk’s digital turbidity sensor is establishing a new benchmark across the global water industry. The demand for clean, safe water is unwavering, and The Wave Talk’s technology is meeting that demand. We look forward to the day when people will say,  “Was there ever a time when we couldn’t know the quality of our own water?”  Leading this transformation, The Wave Talk is positioned as a pioneer in global water quality monitoring systems.

The Future of Water Quality Monitoring, All in One Platform From water treatment membranes to swimming pools, home water purifiers, smart appliances, and even ultrapure water in precision industries — reliable water quality monitoring has become essential everywhere. Yet until now, the market lacked ultra-compact, cost-effective turbidity sensors capable of delivering high-precision measurements for years without maintenance. The.Wave.Talk is redefining this landscape by mass-producing next-generation turbidity sensors that work seamlessly across all applications, setting a new standard for water monitoring. In-line Turbidity Meter (IQ-50) Designed for municipal and industrial facilities, the IQ-50 Inline Turbidity Meter integrates directly into pipeline systems for real-time monitoring. Operators no longer need separate sampling processes or external devices — turbidity data is available instantly for immediate response. Its maintenance-free and auto-calibrating design ensures stable performance without frequent checks, making it an ideal solution for public utilities operating with limited manpower and budgets. Long-term field tests confirm that IQ-50 maintains accuracy for over a year without any cleaning, delivering unmatched reliability for continuous operation. Turbidity Sensor Module (WP-4000) Until recently, real-time turbidity measurement at the household level was nearly impossible. The WP-4000 module changes that. Based on custom semiconductors, this ultra-compact sensor can operate over 10 years maintenance-free , while being much more cost-efficient than traditional sensors. This breakthrough addresses a critical issue: studies show that 25% of household water purifiers may degrade water quality by releasing contaminants during filtration. With WP-4000, consumers and manufacturers gain access to real-time water quality data at the tap — ensuring that purified water is truly clean. Add-on Type(PipeTalk™) ※ Under Development Aging water distribution networks, micro-leakage, and biofilm buildup are common challenges in water supply systems worldwide.Currently under development, PipeTalk™  utilizes real-time turbidity data to detect early signs of anomalies within pipelines, enabling predictive and preventative maintenance . By shifting from reactive response to proactive management , PipeTalk™ enables the transition toward smart, preventive water network operations .This represents more than just monitoring — it’s a step toward a sustainable and resilient water management system . In addition, PipeTalk™ provides real-time membrane integrity monitoring for each vessel , detecting abnormalities in membrane filtration units (MF/UF, NF/RO) and minimizing fouling or damage.The system continuously collects data after backwash, filtration, and permeation stages , allowing operators to gain a comprehensive overview of membrane integrity across the entire process  — ultimately maximizing operational efficiency and membrane lifespan. Conventional turbidimeters require regular cleaning, calibration, and skilled operation. In contrast, The.Wave.Talk ’s technology delivers world-class accuracy while operating maintenance-free for over five years. Tested and certified by KOLAS  and verified by government agencies, the system meets drinking water standards with proven precision and reproducibility. Evaluations by leading global home appliance manufacturers  have also confirmed that the sensor maintains stable performance under harsh conditions such as pressure, vibration, temperature fluctuations, and humidity — setting a new benchmark for long-term stability and operational efficiency across both public and industrial sectors. In-line Bacteria Measurement Device ※ Under Development (PoC with LG Display) Building upon its expertise in turbidity measurement, The.Wave.Talk  is expanding into the field of real-time bacterial detection.Through a Proof of Concept (PoC)  with LG Display , the company is developing the world’s first inline bacteria measurement device  capable of simultaneously detecting turbidity and bacteria. This product is based on The.Wave.Talk ’s technology that received NET (New Excellent Technology) certification in 2025  — “High-speed detection of foreign particles and microorganisms in purified water using deep-learning algorithms.” The technology has been officially recognized by the Korean government for both its technical excellence and commercialization potential. The device achieves a detection limit of 100 CFU/mL  and operates 40 times faster than traditional culture-based methods , offering 100,000 times higher resolution  than conventional optical tools.It introduces a new standard for microbial monitoring in industries requiring extreme precision and hygiene, such as semiconductor manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and food production. Traditional bacterial analysis methods rely on culture-based processes that take 24–48 hours  and require trained personnel and laboratory facilities.In contrast, The.Wave.Talk ’s deep-learning–powered technology  can identify bacteria much faster with exceptional accuracy. Validated through KOLAS certification, government testing, and clinical trials at Severance Hospital , the system demonstrated 100% accuracy  and the capability to distinguish bacterial concentrations as low as 0.1%. Compared to FDA-certified systems , it also exhibited superior sensitivity and specificity. Conventional bacterial and particle measurement systems depend on manual procedures, periodic maintenance, and long analysis times (often over 24 hours). The.Wave.Talk ’s sensor is the world’s first to enable real-time, simultaneous, and fully automatic measurement of both bacteria and particles. By combining proprietary optical signal amplification  with AI-based speckle signal analysis , the system reduces maintenance requirements by up to 50 times  and shortens analysis time by 40 times , providing results within 30 minutes. With over 100 patents filed  and 80 registrations completed , this breakthrough technology establishes a new generation of intelligent, efficient, and economically scalable water quality monitoring platforms.

In 2025, TheWaveTalk established a new benchmark in water quality management across drinking water utilities, household water purifiers, swimming pools, and industrial ultrapure water (UPW) environments—driven by maintenance-free turbidimeter and high-speed bacteria detection technologies. Explore how TheWaveTalk is redefining water quality management across drinking water, swimming pools, and industrial applications. Area 1. Innovation in Drinking Water Quality Monitoring Minimal Maintenance Turbidity Monitoring for Water Utilities In 2025, TheWaveTalk achieved significant milestones in the public water quality monitoring market, centered on its TSC-50 / IQ-50 in-line turbidimeters , designed for deployment in public water treatment facilities. TheWaveTalk successfully completed the Performance Sharing Program with the Korea Environment Corporation (K-eco)  and obtained the first-ever Korean Type Approval for a laser-based continuous in-line turbidimeter  (DWMS-TM-2025-6). Successfully completed the Performance Sharing Program with the Korea Environment Corporation (K-eco) and obtained Type Approval. In addition, the technology was registered as K-water Approved Technology  and received Q-Mark Quality Certification , securing its credibility as a public-infrastructure-grade turbidimeter compatible with water treatment plants and national Water Quality Remote Monitoring Systems (TMS) . Today, TheWaveTalk’s turbidimeters are actively operating across water treatment plants and public monitoring sites nationwide, demonstrating stable, real-time turbidity measurement with minimal maintenance requirements—ensuring continuity and reliability in field-based water quality management. 🔎 Installation Status of TSC-50/IQ-50 Treatment2Tap (UK) - Extending Drinking Water Monitoring Across Europe TheWaveTalk is participating in Treatment2Tap – Water Quality as a Service , a next-generation UK drinking water innovation program focused on validating advanced monitoring technologies across European water infrastructure. Treatment2Tap is one of Europe’s largest integrated drinking water projects, covering the entire supply chain—from treatment plants and reservoirs to distribution networks and households. The project is led by Northumbrian Water , with participation from Siemens , the University of Sheffield , and other global utilities and technology partners. TheWaveTalk’s turbidimeters are being tested on a Sheffield pilot pipeline  that replicates real-world water distribution networks, demonstrating high-precision, maintenance-free, real-time monitoring even in large-scale drinking water systems. This project highlights the scalability of TheWaveTalk’s turbidity technology beyond Korea and into European drinking water infrastructure. 🔎 Learn more about the Treatment2Tap project Technology Licensing with a Global Home Appliance Leader TheWaveTalk signed a technology licensing agreement with the world’s leading home appliance manufacturer , accelerating the expansion of its water quality monitoring technology into everyday living environments. Its ultra-compact turbidity sensor technology successfully completed approximately two years of performance, durability, and reliability testing , officially validating its maintenance-free sensor architecture. As a result, the technology has been confirmed as suitable for water purifiers, drinking fountains, and other household applications—enabling continuous, real-time turbidity monitoring through compact, high-precision, low-power sensors designed for residential use. 🔎 Guide to Reliable Water Quality Data with Semiconductor-Based Turbidity Sensors Area 2. Industrial Turbidity & Bacterial Monitoring Innovation Ultrapure Water (UPW) Bacterial Monitoring- Selected as an Excellent Performer in LG Display PoC TheWaveTalk was selected as an excellent-performing company  in an 8-month ultrapure water (UPW) PoC with LG Display , validating its technological competitiveness in ultra-high-precision industrial environments. The solution met the stringent speed, sensitivity, and stability requirements of display manufacturing processes. Based on the evaluation results, follow-up technical collaboration has been officially confirmed . Selected as a Top performer for LG Display PoC Building on this outcome, TheWaveTalk is preparing to launch a table-top high-speed bacterial measurement instrument optimized for UPW applications  in the first half of next year. Through continued collaboration with LG Display, the company aims to enhance quality and process efficiency across display and semiconductor manufacturing environments. 🔎 TheWaveTalk and LG Display successfully complete UPW monitoring PoC Expanding into Industrial Process Water Cooling Water, Cleaning Water, and Beyond TheWaveTalk is currently conducting sample tests and technical discussions with global top-tier cooling tower manufacturers , major domestic F&B companies , and global flowmeter manufacturers , targeting industrial process water applications such as cooling water and cleaning water. Notably, the company continues to receive inquiries for applications where turbidity monitoring was previously considered impractical, opening new opportunities for industrial water quality management. Area 3 Innovation in Swimming Pool Water Quality Monitoring Joint Product Development w/ a Global Top-tier Pool Equipment Manufacturer In the swimming pool sector, TheWaveTalk achieved another major milestone by successfully completing performance tests with a global top-tier pool equipment manufacturer and officially entering a joint product development phase. This collaboration targets a wide range of swimming pool environments—including public, commercial, and private facilities. Enabling Water Quality Monitoring in Residential Swimming Pools (AI generated image) By leveraging maintenance-free operation, automatic calibration, and a modular sensor architecture, TheWaveTalk’s turbidity monitoring technology is designed to be broadly applicable across diverse swimming pool settings. While turbidity monitoring has traditionally been limited to public and commercial pools, this development enables reliable water quality monitoring even in smaller-scale and residential swimming pool environments—extending coverage without compromising performance or operational simplicity. 🔎 A New Standard for Pool Water Management: The Rise of Modular Turbidity Sensors Looking Ahead to 2026 Simpler, Smarter Water Quality Management From public infrastructure to homes and industrial sites, TheWaveTalk continues to expand its technology into every environment where water quality matters. In 2025, the company signed an LOI with a global top-tier water company , received two Ministerial Awards from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy , and won a CES Innovation Award , further validating its leadership in water quality innovation. ✔ Interested in TheWaveTalk’s turbidity and bacterial monitoring solutions? ✔ Looking to discuss applicable environments or potential collaborations? Feel free to contact us at any time. TheWaveTalk delivers optimized, real-time water quality solutions tailored to your environment.

Next-Generation Turbidimeters Until now, most industry experts would have answered: “That’s impossible.” The reason is clear. Conventional inline sensors cannot detect subtle turbidity changes below 0.01 NTU, and bacterial detection is only possible at very high concentrations. Because of these technical limitations, using turbidity sensors to proactively identify risks in ultrapure processes has been virtually unthinkable. But TheWaveTalk has broken this paradigm by developing an ultra-precision turbidity sensor capable of detecting even the slightest changes—down to 0.0001 NTU—in real time.  The way ultrapure water management is done is about to change. The Breakthrough Technology: CSMS™ At the heart of this innovation lies TheWaveTalk’s proprietary CSMS™ (Chaotic Scattering Material and Structure) . By amplifying laser light pathways through the sample, CSMS™ captures even the faintest scattering signals that conventional sensors fail to detect. “It all comes down to the ultra-fine turbidity range” – The performance gap TWT Sensor (Blue): ✅ Responds precisely down to 0.0001 NTU ✅ Differentiates even minute changes caused by trace contaminants in ultrapure water Laboratory-grade precision turbidimeter (Red): 🚫 Flattened response below approximately 0.02 NTU 🚫 Unable to distinguish in the sub-0.01 NTU region Optimized for Ultrapure Industries ✅ Semiconductor & Display:   Maintaining nano-process yields and preventing micro-contamination ✅ Pharmaceutical & Biotech:   Sterility management and bioreactor contamination prevention ✅ Fine Chemicals:   Real-time detection of ultra-low particle and bacterial contamination Pushing the Limits of Detection Even Further TheWaveTalk has already surpassed industry limits with its 0.0001 NTU precision. Yet, we are not stopping here—we are preparing the next leap forward with even more advanced LoD (Limit of Detection)  capabilities.

Turbidity: The Core Indicator of Water Quality Turbidity—the cloudiness caused by fine particles or impurities suspended in water—is one of the most critical indicators of pool water quality. It determines not only how “clear” the water looks but also affects hygiene, safety, and operational efficiency . As turbidity rises, disinfectant efficiency declines, filtration load increases, and underwater visibility decreases, creating potential safety hazards. Many countries recommend maintaining pool turbidity within 0.5–5 NTU  for optimal clarity and safety. More importantly, turbidity is recognized as the earliest indicator of water quality anomalies . Changes in turbidity often precede bacterial growth, organic buildup, or declining filtration performance. This makes real-time turbidity sensing the most direct and reliable tool  for proactive water quality management. Modern turbidity sensors are no longer just instruments for clarity—they have become predictive devices  that detect invisible signs of contamination before they escalate. ※ Reference: Mike Sadar, “ Turbidity Measurement: A Simple, Effective Indicator of Water Quality Change ,” Hach Hydromet Application Notes , 2017. The Barriers: Cost and Maintenance Despite its importance, turbidity monitoring remains underutilized in many facilities due to three key challenges: High equipment cost:  Precision instruments are often too expensive for small or mid-sized pools. Complex maintenance:  Optical sensors are easily affected by biofilm, scale, or bubbles , requiring frequent cleaning and calibration. Dependence on specialists:  Many facilities lack the trained personnel to maintain continuous, reliable operation. As a result, many operators rely on manual inspections or periodic sampling , leaving a gap between measurement and real-time control. Technology Innovation: Semiconductor-Based Modular Sensors To overcome these barriers, TheWaveTalk  has developed a semiconductor-based miniature modular turbidity sensor . By integrating the latest advances in miniaturization and semiconductor fabrication, turbidity measurement is evolving from a standalone instrument  to an embedded sensing component  within broader systems. Key technological advantages: No biofilm cleaning required:  Optical structure minimizes contamination and maintenance. Auto-calibration:  Maintains long-term stability without manual recalibration. Low-cost semiconductor design:  Enables mass production and cost efficiency. Compact form factor:  Easily integrates into inline systems, circulation loops, or smart devices. In short, TheWaveTalk has redefined the paradigm with a “maintenance-free miniature turbidity sensor.” This innovation enables affordable, real-time monitoring  even in small facilities and residential pools where traditional devices were impractical. A Market Shift Toward Automation and Integration Globally, the pool industry is rapidly adopting automated water quality management .To improve operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and user safety, integrated systems now combine pH, chlorine, ORP, and turbidity sensors  into unified control platforms. As automation expands, demand is rising for compact, low-cost, and auto-calibrating sensors , designed for seamless integration into filtration or control units.Solution providers are also moving beyond hardware—offering data-driven analytics and operational services , forming the foundation of smart pool management platforms . Where Robotics Meets Water Quality To date, no commercial pool-cleaning robot has featured a built-in turbidity sensor.This has largely been due to sensor size, cost, stability, and maintenance limitations . With TheWaveTalk’s miniature turbidity module, those barriers are gone.Its biofilm-resistant optics, auto-calibration function, and maintenance-free operation  allow for integration into cleaning robots. Future robotic pool cleaners could evolve from simple cleaning tools into smart autonomous systems —detecting contaminated areas, optimizing cleaning routes, and adjusting operation based on real-time turbidity data.This represents the first step toward a fully integrated model  that unifies mechanical cleaning and intelligent water management. Proven Reliability and Commercialization The.Wave.Talk ’s semiconductor-based turbidity sensor has already passed multi-year validation with a global home appliance leader , leading to a technology licensing agreement.This demonstrates that its accuracy and stability are verified not only in laboratories but also under real-world operating conditions . TheWaveTalk: Redefining the Standard for Water Quality Management The.Wave.Talk ’s modular turbidity sensor redefines traditional instruments—once seen as expensive and maintenance-heavy —into a compact, affordable, and integrable solution . With maintenance-free design , auto-calibration , and real-time data connectivity , the sensor is emerging as a core component of next-generation smart water management systems . This technology empowers pool operators to efficiently manage filtration backwash timing, detect circulation blind spots, and optimize chemical dosing—all through continuous data-driven insights. By pioneering semiconductor-based water sensing , TheWaveTalk  is leading the democratization and digital transformation  of pool water management—setting a new global standard for maintenance-free, real-time water quality monitoring.

TSC-50/IQ-50 is being adopted in testbeds at major water treatment plants and industrial sites both in South Korea and abroad. By setting a new standard in turbidity monitoring, it is gaining attention in the market as an innovative technology that minimizes maintenance burden. ✅ Turbidimeters On-site Installation Photos ✅ Installed and Operating Sites (As of Dec. 19, 2025) Country Region Category Application Quantity United States - Testbed Global Enterprise 1 Republic of Korea Capital Region Commercial Sale Tele Monitring System 2 Republic of Korea Gwangwon Region Commercial Sale Water Treatment Plant 4 Republic of Korea Jeolla Region PoC Water Treatment Plant 1 Republic of Korea Jeolla Region PoC Steel Mill 1 Republic of Korea Gyeongsang Region  K-Testbed Water Treatment Plant 3 ※ Including planned installations (as of December 19, 2025). ✅ Key Features of TSC-50/IQ-50 Inline Turbidimeters Fully certified by the Korean EPA : Officially approved for use in municipal water systems in South Korea Field-tested and deployed : Installed in domestic water treatment plants as part of real-world testbeds and operational use Superior measurement stability : Maintains turbidity accuracy even under ( Proven RSD < 5% in certified third-party tests)) : Severe pulsation Aeration (bubbles) Biofilm buildup Low maintenance design : No need for frequent light source replacement, unlike traditional inline turbidity meters Outperforms global competitors : Demonstrated up to 10× better stability  in harsh flow conditions during certified testing Ready for global expansion : Collaborations with U.S. utility partners scheduled. North American EPA certification process to follow. Interested in deploying TSC-50 / IQ-50 in your facility? Discover how maintenance-free, high-stability turbidity monitoring performs in real-world conditions.

TheWaveTalk has successfully completed its participation in the 7th cohort of the 2025 Dream Play open innovation program, jointly hosted by LG Display, ENSL Partners, and the Seoul Startup Hub (SBA). The program focused on validating and exploring the commercialization of our deep-learning–based ultrapure water monitoring solution. Over the past seven months since the Kick-Off in March, The.Wave.Talk collaborated with LG Display to complete a Proof of Concept (PoC) on high-speed bacterial detection in ultrapure water. As a result, the company was selected as a top-performing startup and secured a formal pathway for follow-up collaboration with LG Display. A Core Technology for Yield Improvement in Precision Manufacturing AI-generated image inspired by the product used during the PoC TheWaveTalk’s ultrapure water monitoring solution combines laser speckle–based optical measurement with deep-learning analysis to rapidly detect bacterial presence. This capability is critical for improving yield and reducing defects in display and semiconductor manufacturing. Throughout the PoC period, LG Display validated the technology’s performance, accuracy, and operational efficiency in a real precision manufacturing environment. The results confirmed the solution’s strong potential to enhance quality control and productivity. The technology has already received Korea’s New Excellent Technology (NET) certification in 2024 and was recognized globally with a CES 2025 Innovation Award. Follow-Up Collaboration Toward a New Industry Standard Photo from the final evaluation of the ‘2025 Dream Play’ 7th cohort / Photo by ENSL Partners During the final evaluation held on November 11 at LG Science Park in Magok, Seoul, TheWaveTalk was selected as one of the top-performing teams. This milestone lays the groundwork for positioning our deep-learning–based ultrapure water monitoring solution as a new standard in precision manufacturing. A representative from TheWaveTalk commented: “The successful PoC with LG Display is an important milestone demonstrating the practical value of our technology in precision manufacturing. Through continued collaboration, we aim to accelerate development and grow as a leading partner in ultrapure water quality management.” TheWaveTalk will continue working with LG Display to advance quality and efficiency in manufacturing processes and expand its impact across the global display and semiconductor sectors.

Why Are Public Water Fountains Being Ignored? The use of public water fountains and coolers is declining worldwide. Major cities like New York, London, and Tokyo have all seen a drop in their utilization rates. The biggest reason behind this trend is the growing distrust in their hygiene and maintenance. Meanwhile, the consumption of bottled water continues to rise, exacerbating environmental concerns such as plastic waste and the detection of harmful substances like microplastics. Studies show that a single 350ml bottle of water can contain up to 58 billion microplastic particles , and certain bottled waters may release harmful chemicals like formaldehyde depending on storage conditions. Despite these risks, many people still prefer bottled water over public drinking fountains. Why is this the case? Looking into the accessibility and maintenance of public water fountains provides some answers. In Seoul, for example, there are approximately 26,491 public drinking fountains, but only 7% of them are accessible for daily public use, excluding schools and public institutions.  Similar issues are reported in New York and London, particularly in tourist and suburban areas where access to public fountains is even more limited. Moreover, the lack of clear information about the cleanliness of these water sources discourages public use. This problem extends beyond mere perception—it reflects the broader issue of trust in public water systems. Hidden Hygiene Issues in Water Fountains and Coolers Water fountains and coolers provide a convenient way to access clean drinking water in public spaces. However, maintaining them in a hygienic state is a challenge. Both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the European Union (EU) emphasize strict hygiene management for public drinking water facilities.  Still, in many cases, ongoing maintenance is neglected. One of the top reasons people avoid public water fountains  is hygiene concerns. In a survey, 32.1% of respondents  stated that they do not use them because they worry about cleanliness. This means that the concern is not necessarily about the quality of tap water itself but rather the maintenance and upkeep of the fountains and coolers. Here are the primary hygiene concerns affecting water fountains and coolers: Difficulties in detecting contamination  – Water quality issues often go unnoticed until after contamination has occurred. Bacterial growth and contamination risks  – Stagnant water increases the likelihood of bacterial proliferation. Trust issues regarding water quality  – Even if there are no actual problems, public perception of poor hygiene persists. These concerns are not limited to public water fountains but also apply to office coolers and filtration systems used in corporate and institutional settings. So, how can these issues be addressed? Water Quality Monitoring for Water Fountains To resolve these issues, TheWaveTalk has developed the world’s first high-performance turbidity sensor that can be embedded in appliances.  Traditional turbidity sensors are bulky, require regular maintenance, and need periodic calibration. In contrast, our smart sensors feature a compact modular design, allowing easy installation in water fountains and coolers without the need for ongoing maintenance. What Makes TheWaveTalk's Sensor Unique? Real-time water quality monitoring  – Continuously detects suspended particles in water to ensure cleanliness in fountains and coolers. No maintenance required  – Unlike conventional turbidity sensors, ours operates stably for extended periods without needing regular cleaning or recalibration. Potential for bacterial detection  – Our turbidity sensors correlate closely with bacterial concentrations, meaning they can provide alerts if contamination is suspected  due to rising turbidity levels. Award-winning technology  – Recognized with the 2025 CES Innovation Award in Digital Health , our ultra-fast bacterial monitoring technology sets a new standard in water safety. Easy integration  – Its ultra-compact modular design  makes it easy to incorporate into various water fountains and coolers. Shaping the Future of Water Fountains and Coolers with Global Standards Currently, our bacterial monitoring technology is not yet directly integrated into public water fountains and coolers. However, our turbidity sensors can serve as an early warning system for water quality issues.  For instance, when turbidity levels exceed a certain threshold, the system can trigger a “Contamination Alert,”  warning users of potential bacterial presence. This approach enhances hygiene standards for drinking water facilities, encouraging greater trust and usability among the public. Research is ongoing to develop real-time bacterial monitoring technology for tap water, which will further refine public water system management worldwide. A Strategic Choice for the Future of Water Management With increasing public demand for clean drinking water , real-time monitoring and smart filtration systems are becoming essential rather than optional in the water industry. Our next-generation turbidity and bacterial sensors overcome the limitations of existing technology , providing a safer and more efficient way to manage drinking water. Leading companies are already adopting these innovations to reduce costs and improve public trust.  As you consider your water management strategy, we strongly encourage you to explore our solutions as part of a sustainable water quality initiative. Enhanced water safety and improved consumer confidence can elevate your brand value and position your company at the forefront of the industry. Don't miss the opportunity to lead the future of water management.

Advancing Real-Time Sensor Monitoring for the Future of Drinking Water Safety The Wave Talk is currently collaborating with Siemens and the University of Sheffield as part of the UK’s next-generation water innovation program, Treatment2Tap – Water Quality As A Service . Through this initiative, our semiconductor-based optical sensors are undergoing advanced field-simulation testing for potential deployment across the UK drinking water network. What is Treatment2Tap? Treatment2Tap aims to create an industry-transforming operational model in which real-time water quality is monitored across the entire network—from treatment plants and storage facilities to customers’ taps. Once deployed, it is expected to become Europe’s largest integrated sensor network for water quality and leakage management . The initiative is led by Northumbrian Water  and was selected through OFWAT’s Breakthrough 2: Catalyst innovation program , supported by a consortium that includes: Siemens The University of Sheffield Welsh Water South East Water Scottish Water Anglian Water And other technology + utility partners Visit to the UK: Meeting the Research Team (Left) w/ Dr. Husband , (Right) w/ Dr. Roman Recently, our CEO Youngdug Kim  visited the University of Sheffield to review testing progress and potential pathway for integration. We were honored to exchange ideas directly with leading experts, including Professor Joby Boxall , a globally recognized authority in water distribution systems and leader of one of the world’s most advanced water research facilities. What makes the Sheffield facility unique is its full-scale pilot pipeline network , designed to replicate real drinking water distribution systems. Unlike typical laboratory settings, this environment enables rigorous and practical evaluation of equipment and sensors under real-world conditions. Why The Wave Talk’s Technology Matters Our sensors are currently undergoing validation at this facility under the supervision of the research team, including Dr. Roman  and Dr. Husband . During the evaluation, our partners highlighted the distinctive advantages of our technology: 🔹 AI semiconductor-based (Sensor-On-A-Chip) technology 🔹 Ultra-compact, low-power architecture suitable for dense network deployment 🔹 High-precision turbidity measurement 🔹 maintenance-free operation These attributes are critical for large-scale deployment in real distribution systems, where continuous maintenance is not feasible. Driving the Future of Water Quality Intelligence Through this collaboration, The Wave Talk and its partners aim to redefine how utilities monitor and manage drinking water quality—moving from periodic sampling to live, continuous intelligence . As Treatment2Tap progresses, we look forward to deepening our collaboration with Siemens, the University of Sheffield, and UK water utilities to build a safer, smarter global water infrastructure. We believe real-time sensing is not just the future—it's the new standard for protecting public health.

TheWaveTalk has recently signed a supply agreement with several waterworks facilities in the Gyeonggi region for its TSC-50/IQ-50 in-line turbidimeters. This deployment is particularly meaningful, as the TSC-50/IQ-50 is now being formally installed inside water quality monitoring units used for Korea’s TMS ( Tele-Monitoring System ). Installation in TMS Water Quality Monitoring Units ※ Model Name Update Notice — TSC-50/IQ-50 To ensure consistency with the official type approval records, the previous model name “IQ-50” has been unified under the official name TSC-50/IQ-50 . All future communications—including newsletters, brochures, and press releases—will use this standardized naming. Korea’s First Type-Approved Laser Scattering In-line Turbidimeter : Optimized for Long-term, Minimal-maintenance Operation The TSC-50/IQ-50 adopts a laser-based scattering method, offering substantially lower maintenance requirements compared to conventional turbidimeters. Comparison Table Category Conventional Products TSC-50/IQ-50 Light Source Replacement Cycle 1,000–2,000 hours (tungsten) 10,000 hours (laser) Cleaning Interval Every 1–3 months 2 years (Up to 5 years) Pulsation Interference Yes (requires damping equipment and adjustments) No (no additional device required) Bubble Interference Yes (requires bubble removal device) No (no additional device required) Installation Space Occupies significant space due to separate indicator, sensor, and additional components Approx. 60% reduction compared to conventional setups (integrated indicator–sensor structure) It is designed to eliminate the effects of flow pulsation and air bubbles without any additional attachment or accessory , ensuring stable and accurate measurements in real-world conditions. For large-scale deployments across multiple sites, maintenance workload often increases significantly. However, with extended light-source replacement intervals and a long cleaning cycle, the TSC-50/IQ-50 dramatically reduces operational burden. This makes it highly suitable for wide-area installation environments, providing both stable long-term performance and superior maintenance efficiency.