Google is one of the few tech giants who have made a foray into fashion, merging its technology with iconic fashion pieces.
Project Jacquard, out of Google’s ATAP lab (Advanced Technology and Projects), is a collection of conductive threads for weaving touch-responsive textiles like clothing, tablecloths, rugs, or anything else made of fabric.
Back in 2017, Google partnered with Levi’s to launch the Jacquard smart jacket, which allows users to “answer calls, play music and take photos right from their sleeve.”
Google continues to find new uses for its Jacquard tech and this time, they have incorporated it into the new Samsonite Konnect-i backpack.
This means that Google fans are now able to wear their love for the tech giant’s products on their backs.
What Does This Smart Backpack Do?
The Konnect-i backpack with Jacquard by Google is an everyday bag that can be connected to the wearer’s smartphone.
It allows the wearer to remotely control their phone via taps and swipes, with gesture recognition technology weaved right into the strap.
Users on the go will still be able to receive alerts and carry out tasks on their smartphones swiftly.
These abilities and alerts include tasks related to audio, such as play and pause, and communication, including receiving phone calls and texts.
The smart features also make navigation easy, through functions such as estimating arrival times and next directions. Dropped pins and saved locations are also available.
Brush up, down or double tap on the left strap of the Konnect-i backpack to activate Jacquard by Google as you move around. Gestures are also easily customisable via the mobile app.
The tech works by having a small micro-USB-charged Bluetooth device slot into the backpack’s strap.
The battery life of the Jacquard tag lasts between 10 and 14 days, depending on the usage.
Cop Or Drop?
Besides its smart features, the backpack itself is ideal for everyday use. Samsonite is known for its functional and comfortable backpacks, and the Konnect-i backpack is no different.
Several foam layers form supportive shoulder straps, while a padded back panel offers both reinforcement and relief during long trips.
The inside of the backpack also features organisational sections, including a padded laptop (fitting up to a 15.6” laptop) and tablet compartment
There are two versions of the backpack, one “slim” at US$199.99 (S$271.89) and the other “standard” sized at US$219.99 (S$299).
Both the slim and standard backpacks are also water repellent and finished with a subtle reflective trimming in a matte silver tone.
The backpacks have just launched today, and will be exclusively available on Lazada for three weeks from 6 October 2020.
Featured Image Credit: The Keyword and Techcrunch