ThinkPad notebooks to be equipped with OPTIGA TPM chips

Lenovo’s ThinkPad notebooks based on the 6^th Gen Intel Core Processor family use the OPTIGA TPM SLB 9670 chip which is specifically designed to increase the data security of laptops and tablet PCs. Sensitive data such as security keys, certificates and passwords can be stored in the TPM chip separately from the main processor and are hence better protected against hacker attacks. The TPM chip complies with the internationally recognised security standards of the Trusted Computing Group (TCG).

Lenovo already uses Infineon’s embedded Secure Element (eSE) chips for its smartphones Lenovo X3 and Lenovo Vibe P1. The chips protect the security-critical functions of the mobile devices. This includes transfer of sensitive payment credentials when using the phones for contactless payment at points of sale as well as mobile ticketing in public transportation.

The latest IHS reportforecasts a sharply rising demand for embedded security solutions (Embedded Digital Security Report 2016). Overall, the total market volume is expected to increase from 1.36bn units in 2015 to nearly 2bn units in 2020. This growth is driven primarily by the IoT. Based on 2014 figures, IHS acknowledges Infineon as leader in embedded security with a market share of more than 31% in terms of unit shipments.

In addition to Lenovo, Infineon also supplies other industry giants such as Microsoft, Hewlett Packard and Samsung with embedded security. The OPTIGA product family provides different levels of security for electronic systems. The range comprises complex IT-infrastructures with many servers and computers to single systems consisting of the device and the suitable accessory, such as a MP3 player and headphones. The OPTIGA security chips are embedded in the electronic devices and authenticate the individual elements of the system. As security requirements vary depending on the application, Infineon offers different product families: OPTIGA TPM for example protects system integrity of connected devices and IT networks whereas OPTIGA Trust helps to protect electronic components and replacement parts from product piracy.