Semiconductor maker Broadcom has introduced a new specification that enables connected devices to communicate over Wi-Fi without an access point or computer. The technology promises to open the doors for low-cost wearable gadgets that can exchange data via smartphones and tablets.

Wireless Internet Connectivity for Embedded Devices (WICED) Direct, as the solution is known, has already been made available for select OEMs. Broadcom revealed that “emerging segment leaders” are in the process of developing blood pressure monitors, glucometers, smart watches and other devices that leverage WICED Direct to collect user data.

“The value of a wearable device lies in its ability to connect to a smartphone or the Internet with minimal impact on battery life,” stated Rahul Patel, the vice president of marketing for Broadcom Wireless Connectivity Combos. “As the market gains momentum, Broadcom is actively widening business opportunities in this growing space by offering the breadth of IP and customized components that enable creative new smart wearable devices to be connected.”

ARM, one of Broadcom’s most prominent partners, is also jumping on the Internet of Things bandwagon. The British chipmaker recently acquired Sensinode, a Finnish startup that develops software for connected devices. The company specializes in making energy efficient network protocols for embedded sensors and other low-power devices.

The deal represents a milestone development for ARM, which has gained an edge over Intel in the mobile market thanks to its low-cost chips. The vendor hopes to leverage Sensinode’s technology to extend its dominance over the rapidly growing Internet of Things.

Networking behemoth Cisco is approaching this trend from the security angle. The company paid $2.7 billion for cybersecurity firm Sourcefire to accelerate “accelerate the realization of our vision for a new model of security across the extended network,” as founding CTO Martin Roesch put it.