AI-powered water quality sensor company TheWaveTalk is ramping up its efforts to enter the European market. During the week of May 12, the company will hold a series of strategic meetings with key players in the European water sector in collaboration with global consulting firm OCO Global. These meetings follow strong industry interest in TheWaveTalk’s sensing technology showcased at major exhibitions including IFAT Munich 2024, ACE24, Aquatech 2025, and ISH 2025. Discussions will focus on practical applications in smart water metering, swimming pool and building water management, and drinking and wastewater treatment. The company aims to build strategic partnerships across co-development, technology licensing, and investment cooperation throughout Europe. PipeTalk™: Smart Water Meter Integration on the Agenda A major discussion point will be the European deployment of PipeTalk™ , The.Wave.Talk ’s flagship sensor platform. Based on a semiconductor chip and non-contact optical sensing technology, PipeTalk™ is a next-generation turbidity sensor that can be embedded directly inside pipelines for continuous water quality monitoring. European smart water meter manufacturers are exploring how PipeTalk™ can be integrated into existing AMI/AMR systems to enhance anomaly detection and enable predictive, data-driven maintenance programs. IQ-5N: Designed for Pools and Smart Building Water Systems The IQ-5N  inline turbidity sensor, engineered for swimming pools and reclaimed water systems in smart buildings, will also be a focal point of the meetings. Equipped with auto-cleaning, self-calibration, and high-precision detection capabilities, IQ-5N offers water treatment and building automation firms a reliable way to optimize operational efficiency and maintain stable water quality. WP Series: Real-Time Monitoring for Point-of-Use and Compact Systems The ultra-compact WP-1000  and WP-4000  turbidity sensors are gaining attention in the POU purifier and small-scale water treatment segments. The meetings will explore how these modules can be deployed across decentralized systems in Europe. With real-time particle detection and biofilm monitoring, the WP series supports both maintenance cost reduction and compliance with stringent hygiene regulations—critical for applications aligned with EU drinking water safety standards. Technology Collaboration and Strategic Investment on the Table Beyond technical integration, the visit includes planned discussions around joint development and strategic investment opportunities. One German water equipment manufacturer is evaluating a customized R&D partnership for sensor integration, while a Dutch smart city platform provider is exploring data analytics collaboration with TheWaveTalk's sensing architecture. With this visit, TheWaveTalk aims to scale the adoption of its semiconductor-based water quality sensors across diverse European applications, reinforcing its position as a global technology leader in the smart water industry.

A New Era of Real-Time Microbial Risk Management Since its founding, TheWaveTalk has pursued a single mission:to enable fully automated, real-time detection of bacteria at drinking water standards (100 CFU/mL), without the need for manual sampling or lab-based culturing.This breakthrough is more than just automation—it sets a new standard for managing microbial risks across industries where water is a critical resource. Why Turbidity Precision Matters for Bacteria Detection Bacterial contamination often coincides with subtle changes in turbidity—especially in its early stages. However, most conventional inline turbidimeters are not sensitive enough to detect below 0.01 NTU. This corresponds to bacterial concentrations exceeding 10,000 CFU/mL, far above the safe threshold of 100 CFU/mL for drinking water. In other words, early detection and preventive response are nearly impossible with current technology. A Paradigm Shift: From Incremental Upgrades to Reinvented Architecture Solving this problem requires turbidity sensitivity that is at least 10 times higher than existing systems.Rather than incremental upgrades, this demands a complete redesign of the optical structure, signal interpretation, and AI-based analysis algorithms.Leveraging its expertise in compact sensors for home water purifiers, The.Wave.Talk has developed an industrial-grade, high-precision inline sensing platform—certified as a National New Technology (NET) in Korea. Optimized for Ultrapure Water Applications This next-generation sensor is engineered for environments where ultrapure water is essential—such as semiconductor fabrication, display manufacturing, and pharmaceutical production.Unconstrained by the limitations of miniaturized hardware, it integrates high-performance optics, advanced image processing, and real-time AI interpretation to meet the exacting demands of these industries. Proven Performance: 0.001 NTU Under Real-World Conditions Internal evaluations confirm that this sensor reliably detects turbidity as low as 0.001 NTU—a sensitivity over 10 times greater than standard commercial turbidimeters. These results were validated not in controlled labs but under real operating conditions, ensuring both reliability and repeatability. TheWaveTalk is already working to push this limit even further—to 0.0001 NTU—laying the groundwork for monitoring contamination at ppb and ppt levels. Addressing Broader Demand for High-Precision Turbidity Monitoring Even when bacterial detection is not the primary goal, the need for accurate, real-time turbidity data is growing rapidly. This sensor meets that demand by ensuring both the data reliability and continuity required for advanced digital water treatment and smart process operations. Lab-Grade Accuracy—Now Available Inline By the end of this year, TheWaveTalk will launch its next-generation inline sensor capable of detecting both turbidity and bacteria in real time.This solution offers the extreme precision required for critical manufacturing environments—along with the seamless integration needed for smart, hands-free quality control.

TheWaveTalk Launches IQ-50, a New In-Line Turbidity Sensor for Water Treatment Plants Introducing IQ-50, an in-line water quality monitoring solution that dramatically enhances the operational efficiency and safety of water treatment facilities. Developed with TheWaveTalk’s proprietary technology, the IQ-50 is a newly launched product expected to receive formal certification (approval number) within the first half of the year. Equipped with an auto-calibration function, it provides continuous, high-precision data without the need for maintenance. This significantly reduces the real-time monitoring burden on water treatment plants and maximizes operational efficiency. Real-Time Water Quality Monitoring with In-Line Design The IQ-50 precisely measures turbidity and is designed for seamless integration into existing pipeline systems with its in-line configuration. It enables real-time monitoring without the need for separate sample collection or external equipment, allowing immediate response to any irregularities. This provides plant operators with a faster and more efficient solution for water quality management, while also reducing maintenance efforts in public and industrial facilities. Smart Water Quality Management with Zero Maintenance With its maintenance-free design, the IQ-50 ensures stable performance without the need for frequent inspections. Its auto-calibration feature eliminates the need for manual calibration, making it an ideal solution for public institutions operating with limited manpower and budgets. Once installed, it continuously delivers reliable data, improving the efficiency of water treatment plant operations. Proven Performance and Reliability — Why IQ-50 is the Preferred Choice TheWaveTalk has been recognized for its technological excellence through accolades such as the CES Innovation Award, collaborations with K-water, and selection as a Super-Gap Startup. The IQ-50 is more than just a water quality monitoring device—it is an essential partner for smart water management and safety. With stricter water quality standards and tighter budgets coming into effect in 2025, the IQ-50 offers the perfect solution for water treatment facilities.

“Wow, this is something we must share with our residents.” From March 19 to 21, TheWaveTalk received an overwhelming response at the 2025 Water Korea exhibition held at KINTEX in Ilsan. Many visitors came to our booth, and the reactions from municipal officials who personally tried out our portable turbidity meter, WaTalk , were particularly memorable. One official even remarked, “It would be great if we could purchase this ourselves and distribute it to our residents,” highlighting the high level of interest on-site. Our other products—such as the ultra-compact turbidity sensor module, the in-line turbidity meter IQ-50 , and PipeTalk™  for smart water metering—also drew significant attention. Many visitors expressed surprise, asking, “Is it really possible to get such precise readings with a device this small and maintenance-free?” Thanks to our custom semiconductor-based sensor, turbidity measurement is now feasible in applications like home appliances and smart meters—areas that have traditionally been inaccessible to turbidity meters. During the event, TheWaveTalk also hosted a giveaway for those who shared their business cards, allowing more people to experience WaTalk  firsthand. Some discussions even led to immediate collaboration opportunities. Visitors commented that handling the product, seeing it in action, and experiencing it firsthand gave them the confidence that “this is something we can use in the field right away.” Meanwhile, we also received positive feedback from our European outreach. Our European partner, OCO Global, showcased our technology at AquaTech Amsterdam  and ISH 2025 , further strengthening our presence in the global market. The semiconductor-based, maintenance-free structure, ultra-precision turbidity measurement, compact size, and scalability amazed attendees and sparked serious conversations around potential collaboration. TheWaveTalk is currently expanding pilot deployments with leading companies both in Korea and abroad. "Following the exhibition, additional meetings with global water industry leaders are underway," we shared, reaffirming our commitment to realizing our vision of Water Quality Everywhere —from households to industrial and public sectors.

Selected for '2025 Dream Play' (LG Display’s Startup Acceleration Program) Developing a Bacteria Monitoring Solution for Ultrapure Water—Essential in Precision Industries such as Display and Semiconductors TheWaveTalk, led by CEO Youngdug Kim, has been selected for ‘2025 Dream Play’ , a startup acceleration program jointly organized by LG Display, TIPS operator Ensl Partners, and the Seoul Business Agency (SBA). Through this program, TheWaveTalk will validate the commercial potential of its ultrapure water monitoring technology, which plays a critical role in display and semiconductor manufacturing processes. TheWaveTalk has developed a cutting-edge technology that combines laser speckle photometry and AI deep learning  to detect bacteria and fine particulate contaminants in ultrapure water in real time . This solution is expected to contribute significantly to improving yield and reducing defect rates in display and semiconductor production lines. In particular, it offers strong potential in highly precise processes such as wafer cleaning, thin-film deposition, and etching , where both quality control and productivity are paramount. The company’s technological capabilities have already attracted attention both in Korea and internationally. In 2024, TheWaveTalk’s rapid detection technology for turbidity and microorganisms in water was awarded National New Technology (NET) certification  by the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards under the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy. Furthermore, the company won a CES 2025 Innovation Award , highlighting the global recognition of both its technological excellence and market readiness. These achievements strengthen TheWaveTalk’s position as a new standard-setter in ultrapure water management and a key solution provider in precision manufacturing. Photo: 2025 Dream Play Kick-Off Event held on March 21 As part of the program, TheWaveTalk will carry out a Proof of Concept (PoC)  to validate its ultrapure water monitoring solution and will present the results at the final evaluation (Demo Day) scheduled for November . This process will serve as a crucial milestone in demonstrating the solution’s practical impact in display and semiconductor manufacturing environments. A representative from TheWaveTalk commented, “This program is an important opportunity to validate the real-world applicability of our technology in precision industries,”and added,“Through our collaboration with LG Display, we aim to accelerate development and establish ourselves as a trusted partner in the global market.” ‘2025 Dream Play’ officially began following its kickoff event in March. With this opportunity, TheWaveTalk plans to further enhance quality and efficiency in precision manufacturing and solidify its role as a key player in the display and semiconductor sectors.

At AquaTech Amsterdam  and ISH 2025 , TheWaveTalk’s European business partner, OCO Global , showcased the company’s groundbreaking water sensor technology, strengthening its presence in the global market. These events provided a valuable platform to explore opportunities for applying TheWaveTalk’s innovations across household and industrial sectors. Innovative Technology That Exceeds Expectations TheWaveTalk’s cutting-edge technology presented at AquaTech and ISH 2025 has introduced a new paradigm in water quality monitoring. Key features that captured industry interest include: Real-time measurement of ultrapure and drinking water compliance standards A maintenance-free semiconductor-based sensor system Accurate detection of turbidity and suspended solids, even in biofilm environments Many industry professionals were initially skeptical of the technology’s precision and real-time capabilities. However, after witnessing the compact size, cost-efficiency, and scalability  of the actual product, their interest and engagement grew significantly. New Technology Certification and Expansion Through Corporate Partnerships TheWaveTalk is currently working with major Korean corporations to obtain new technology certification  and further enhance its ultrapure and drinking water management solutions. In addition, the company is expanding its pilot product deliveries to leading domestic and international enterprises , accelerating its entry into the global market. A company spokesperson stated, “Following these events, we have secured additional meetings with global water industry leaders. From household water monitoring to industrial and municipal water treatment applications, we are committed to realizing our vision of ‘Water Quality Everywhere.’ ” Looking Ahead: Strengthening Global Partnerships TheWaveTalk extends its appreciation to Leonard and Jessica from OCO Global  for their dedication in presenting and promoting the company’s vision and technology. Moving forward, TheWaveTalk plans to strengthen its position in the European market through further discussions and partnerships.

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 Our 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.

Seoul, South Korea  – THE WAVE TALK recently participated in the Calgary Economic Development (CED) IR event  at the Embassy of Canada in Seoul , strengthening its global partnerships in the field of water technology. At the event, THE WAVE TALK presented its real-time, automatic bacteria monitoring solution , addressing the critical issue of water contamination  in industries such as semiconductors, food and beverage, and public health . Waterborne bacteria pose an invisible yet severe threat, leading to production shutdowns, defective products, financial losses, and public health crises . According to a 2023 ABB survey , contamination of ultrapure water  can result in an average cost of $125,000 per hour  due to factory shutdowns, underscoring the urgent need for faster and more accurate monitoring solutions. Furthermore, recent outbreaks, such as E. coli contamination in Calgary and British Columbia affecting thousands , demonstrate the necessity of real-time detection to prevent widespread health risks. Traditional bacteria detection methods, such as culture testing , offer high precision but are slow, typically requiring 24 to 72 hours  for results—meaning contamination is often detected too late. On the other hand, conventional laser-based methods  provide instant results but lack reliability. THE WAVE TALK’s technology bridges this gap , reducing bacterial detection time to just six hours  while maintaining high accuracy through AI-driven analysis correlated with culture methods . With a commitment to innovation, THE WAVE TALK collaborates with experts across industries to tailor its solutions to diverse client needs. As water contamination continues to pose global challenges , the company remains dedicated to enhancing industrial safety and public health through real-time monitoring solutions . For those interested in collaborations, investments, or partnerships , THE WAVE TALK welcomes further discussions to drive the future of water technology. #WaterTech #Innovation #CED #GlobalPartnership #BacteriaDetection #Calgary #Canada

Why the Water Treatment Industry Should Pay Attention to the Hotel Sector The global hotel market is accelerating its transition toward sustainable management. According to a study by Yanolja, carbon emissions from the travel industry account for approximately 8% of global emissions , with a significant portion originating from tourism businesses, including hotels and resorts . A survey conducted by Booking.com revealed that 71% of respondents prefer making environmentally beneficial choices when planning their trips, and the demand for sustainable accommodations continues to grow. Cities like Vancouver, Canada, and Stockholm, Sweden, are frequently highlighted for their abundance of sustainable hotels. In response, the hotel industry is rapidly evolving to meet these environmental demands and cater to customer expectations. For instance, Toronto’s ‘1 Hotel’ incorporates renewable energy and waste recycling practices to reduce carbon emissions, positioning sustainability as a core business strategy. These cases highlight the potential for collaboration between the hotel sector and the water industry to unlock new opportunities, extending beyond mere trends to create substantial value. A critical shift in the hotel industry’s effort to provide sustainable lodging options is the adoption of advanced water treatment technologies . As water quality is directly tied to guest experience, water treatment systems play a pivotal role in achieving customer satisfaction while aligning with sustainability goals. The Evolution of Hotel Water Treatment Systems source: hotel dive, The L7 Chicago by Lotte hotel fitted each guest room sink with a water filtration system. For example, The L7 Chicago by Lotte Hotel, as reported by Hotel Dive , has installed water filtration systems at every guest room sink, offering purified water in place of plastic bottled water. This system is designed to be cost-effective, easy to maintain, and ensures guests always have access to clean water. As demonstrated by the case of L7 Chicago, the hotel industry is exploring solutions that go beyond basic water filtration to embrace more sustainable approaches. This initiative aligns with the growing customer demand for wellness and eco-friendly lodging experiences. Many hotels are now integrating filtration systems in guest rooms as an innovative solution to reduce plastic waste, enhancing both environmental responsibility and guest satisfaction. Creating New Value with The Wave Talk’s Turbidity Sensor Module By incorporating TheWaveTalk’s turbidity sensor module, hotel water treatment systems can reach new heights of efficiency and safety. These sensors enable hotels to monitor water quality in real time, mitigating potential water safety incidents before they occur. Furthermore, the continuous collection of water quality data not only boosts customer trust but also establishes new benchmarks for quality management. TheWaveTalk’s turbidity sensor module is easy to install and maintenance-free. Already set to be mass-produced by 2025 for integration into the water purification systems of a global appliance leader, these sensors provide intuitive insights into water quality trends. They represent a powerful tool for driving innovation in the hotel water treatment market. Enhancing Customer Service with Portable Turbidity Meters TheWaveTalk’s portable turbidity meters offer an innovative solution for hotel staff to measure water quality directly in guest rooms. Designed for simplicity and accuracy, these meters deliver fast results without requiring complex procedures. Their intuitive interface and maintenance-free design make them user-friendly, even for non-specialists. Additionally, the portable turbidity meter syncs with a mobile app for seamless data management, enabling hotels to provide trustworthy water quality management services that enhance customer confidence. Already utilized in South Korea’s department store food courts for monitoring ice for bacteria and turbidity, this product has proven effective and is poised for adaptation in the hotel industry to revolutionize guest experiences. Collaboration Opportunities Between the Hotel Sector and the Water Industry To meet growing customer demands for sustainability and wellness, the hotel industry is increasingly adopting innovative water treatment systems. This trend presents significant opportunities for the water industry, where collaboration with hotels could unlock new value. Integrating TheWaveTalk’s turbidity sensor modules  and portable turbidity meters into hotel water treatment systems can empower hotels to provide safe and reliable water to their guests, thereby improving customer satisfaction while achieving sustainable service goals. Moreover, real-time water quality monitoring and data collection via these sensors can significantly enhance operational efficiency in hotel management. For the water industry, TheWaveTalk’s sensor technology offers breakthroughs in purification and membrane filter management, enabling differentiated products and solutions that secure a leading position in the market. Both the hotel and water industries can shape a sustainable future through TheWaveTalk’s innovative solutions. Partner with TheWaveTalk today to establish new standards for customer satisfaction and environmental stewardship.

Now Everyone Can Measure Water Quality Clean water is no longer a luxury but a necessity. With climate change and environmental pollution intensifying globally, maintaining water quality has become essential for health and safety. Increasing industrialization, stricter environmental regulations, and the rising demand for water monitoring solutions have made real-time water quality assessment indispensable. As of 2023, the global water quality monitoring market was valued at approximately $5.35 billion, with a projected CAGR of 7.1% through 2030. This underscores the growing importance of water management technologies. Additionally, the portable water quality meter market is expected to reach approximately $620 million by 2032. In the past, water quality measurement required experts and expensive equipment. Now, anyone can easily check water quality and take immediate action. It is no longer exclusive to professionals. How Can WaTalk Be Used in Everyday Life? Are you confident about the quality of the water you use daily? With WaTalk , The Wave Talk’s portable water quality monitor, you can instantly check your water’s condition anytime, anywhere. Various Applications Drain Cleaning Services:  Compare water quality before and after cleaning to assess effectiveness! Hotels & Restaurants:  Monitor bacteria levels in ice and drinking water to ensure safe service! Residential & Household Use:  Easily check tap water and filtered water at home! Case Study | Water Quality Monitoring Project with Seoul’s Seongdong District The Wave Talk has partnered with multiple municipalities and organizations to systematically manage water quality in residential areas through the 'Drinking Water Monitoring System.' ✔️ 500 portable water quality monitors deployed across 147 apartment complexes ✔️ Real-time monitoring of underground reservoirs and community facilities ✔️ Residents can borrow monitors to check their household tap or filtered water ✔️ Data-driven policy making (e.g., prioritizing replacement of aging water pipelines) Not just in Korea, but globally, WaTalk  is being adopted as a smart water quality monitoring solution. Now, anyone can quickly and easily assess water quality and ensure safe water usage! Why Is WaTalk Revolutionary? Traditional water quality measurement was a domain of experts, requiring expensive and complex equipment with ongoing maintenance. However, WaTalk , The Wave Talk’s portable turbidity meter, is designed for easy use by anyone. Water quality monitoring is no longer exclusive to professionals. With WaTalk, everyone can swiftly and easily check water conditions and take necessary actions. This marks a major innovation in making water monitoring accessible to all. B2B Applications Businesses also benefit from effortless water monitoring, making WaTalk a valuable B2B product. Particularly in the F&B industry, where bacterial contamination in ice machines is a significant concern, WaTalk plays a crucial role in ensuring water safety. Start Your Water Quality Innovation with WaTalk! Upgrade your water quality monitoring with The Wave Talk. Safe water leads to a healthier life.Want to learn more? Schedule a consultation with The Wave Talk experts today and find the best solution for your needs. 👉 Request a Meeting

Urbanization, Water Challenges, and the Rise of Smart Water Cities The United Nations (UN) predicts that by 2050, more than 7 0% of the global population will reside in urban areas. Rapid urbanization intensifies water-related challenges, such as leakage, water quality degradation, and flooding, which are further exacerbated by climate change. These issues place significant strain on urban management systems, driving the need for innovative solutions. Enter the concept of the Smart Water City (SWC) —a forward-thinking approach that leverages advanced Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) like big data and AI to monitor and manage urban water systems in real time. SWC shifts from reactive responses to proactive strategies by continuously tracking pipelines and treatment facilities, detecting anomalies, and preventing issues before they escalate. This paradigm not only enhances water quality and operational efficiency but also offers a comprehensive solution to pressing urban water challenges. Trends in Smart Water Cities Major cities in Europe, such as Barcelona in Spain and Copenhagen in Denmark, have implemented pilot SWC projects. These initiatives use real-time sensors to mitigate river overflow during heavy rainfall and reduce urban water leakage. Meanwhile, several U.S. cities have introduced pipeline condition monitoring systems that use historical water quality data and AI technology to predict maintenance and replacement schedules. International organizations like the International Water Resources Association (IWRA) and the Asia Water Council (AWC) are actively supporting these efforts, providing global standards and key performance indicators (KPIs) to foster the growth of SWC initiatives. Limitations of Traditional Pipeline Management and the Role of Real-Time Turbidity Monitoring Despite the promising potential of SWCs, pipeline management largely remains reactive. Aging infrastructure makes it difficult to identify problems early, leading to severe leakage or contamination that only garners attention after significant damage has occurred. This reactive approach results in high repair costs, wasted time, and increased public concern over safe drinking water supplies. One major reason for consumer distrust of tap water stems from risks associated with pipeline contamination rather than water treatment itself. Aging pipelines and outdated household plumbing often introduce microorganisms and suspended particles, prompting consumers to rely increasingly on bottled water or filtration systems. To address these challenges, real-time sensing and predictive maintenance are critical, with turbidity monitoring playing a pivotal role. Turbidity data measures suspended particle concentrations in water, enabling early detection of leaks or contamination. By monitoring turbidity across pipeline networks, it is possible to pinpoint affected areas, focusing repairs only where needed, thereby significantly reducing overall maintenance costs. Furthermore, this ensures a consistent supply of safe and clean drinking water, alleviating public concerns. A New Era of Pipeline-Specific Water Quality Monitoring 1.Ease of Maintenance and Calibration Extended Maintenance-Free Operation:  TheWaveTalk's innovative miniature turbidity sensor is the world's first to remain unaffected by biofilm buildup. It significantly reduces the burden of periodic calibration and maintenance required every few months with traditional turbidity meters. Automatic Calibration:  With each measurement, the sensors self-calibrate, eliminating the need for manual calibration by technicians. This not only saves resources but also ensures consistently accurate data. 2.Localized Water Quality Monitoring Compact and Modular Design:  Small, easy-to-install sensors can be deployed in pipelines, pump stations, and treatment facilities, enabling granular monitoring previously unattainable with legacy systems. High-Precision Detection:  Capable of identifying minute turbidity changes, the sensors swiftly detect early-stage contamination or leaks, enabling rapid intervention. 3.Real-Time Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance Cloud Integration:  Sensor data integrates seamlessly into SCADA systems or IoT dashboards, providing continuous visibility into pipeline conditions. AI-Powered Predictive Analytics:  Historical turbidity patterns and failure data are processed through big data and AI algorithms to predict potential failures, enabling preemptive repairs and cost savings. Expected Benefits and Recommendations 1. Water Quality Stability: Real-time monitoring and rapid response mechanisms ensure the delivery of clean and safe drinking water to citizens. 2. Operational Efficiency: Targeted repairs minimize the need for large-scale interventions, reducing resource waste and budget overruns. 3. Sustainability: Lower leakage rates and energy consumption make urban water management systems more resilient to climate change and population growth. 4. Pipeline-Specific Management: The ability to monitor individual pipeline sections provides comprehensive data on network conditions, facilitating systematic and predictive maintenance strategies. International bodies like IWRA and AWC emphasize the importance of real-time sensing and predictive maintenance as the cornerstone technologies for SWC projects. Tailoring KPIs to specific urban needs and leveraging advanced sensors like TheWaveTalk’s maintenance-free and high-precision models can transition cities from reactive to proactive, intelligent water management systems. Ultimately, integrating these technologies will revolutionize pipeline operations, fostering public confidence in tap water and building sustainable, efficient urban water systems for the future.

TheWaveTalk, a developer of digital turbidity and bacteria sensors based on custom semiconductors, announced on the 24th that it has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with a global water company. The LOI holds great significance as it demonstrates worldwide recognition of TheWaveTalk's innovative technology. The LOI outlines the scope and schedule for verifying TheWaveTalk's turbidity and bacteria detection technologies, leaving open the possibility of a strategic alliance for product purchase and development. TheWaveTalk has developed a turbidity sensor that is 10 times smaller, 40 times longer-lasting, and 100 times more cost-efficient compared to existing sensor technologies. Additionally, its bacteria detection sensor, certified as a New Excellent Technology (NET) in Korea, has garnered attention as next-generation water quality sensor technology capable of real-time measurement of standard bacteria levels (100 CFU/mL) in purified water. Currently, TheWaveTalk has successfully piloted the production of its turbidity sensors for water purifiers manufactured by the world's top home appliance company, with plans to begin full-scale production in 2025. The company is also engaging in NDA agreements and supply tests with major global water purifier companies in the United States, Europe, and India. Kim Young-Dug, CEO of TheWaveTalk, stated, "This LOI signifies meaningful collaboration with a global leader in technology and markets. Through this cooperation, we have confirmed our potential for global market entry and will continue to grow with innovative technologies that meet world-class standards." Cho Kyung-Man, Vice President of TheWaveTalk, added, "The LOI with the world's leading water quality monitoring company is a recognition of our turbidity and real-time bacteria measurement technologies, which require no maintenance or calibration —technologies they do not possess. We aim to drive the digital transformation of the water industry, from last-mile solutions like water purifiers to first-mile applications in municipal and industrial water." Meanwhile, TheWaveTalk is actively pursuing investments and global technology exports to maximize corporate valu e , following the establishment of a stable revenue base in the domestic water purifier and water treatment plant markets. The company plans to lead the digital transformation of the water industry and achieve sustainable global growth through its innovative technologies.