Η Google and Levi Strauss have announced a smart jacket that will allow the wearer to answer phone calls, use Google Maps, listen to music and more, right from the sleeve of their connected jacket.
The announcement was made at Google I/O last Friday, where Levi said the jacket would be available in spring 2017, while a version beta is planned for fall 2016.
Of course nobody mentioned how much the smart jacket would cost.
For this particular product we have a collaboration of Google's Advanced Technology and Projects (ATAP) department with Levi. Companies use it technology Project Jacquard announced last year. The technology is about connected fabrics and clothing.
Google said it plans to work with more apparel companies and sports and clothing companies.
In video demo posted on Friday, a cyclist checks calls from his sleeve while cycling through the city.
A closer look at the Levi / Google Jacket in this vid pic.twitter.com/ztT26wzKfF
— @seanhollister@mastodon.world (@StarFire2258) May 20, 2016
A Jacquard sensor inside the sleeve of the jacket will allow connectivity, with tactile feedback and LED. The "jacket" is charged via USB.
It can also be washed in the washing machine, as long as you naturally remove the sensor.
