A Jean Jacket...with a Twist
Marie Donlon | September 26, 2017A team from Google's Project Jacquard, seen in 2015, have developed fabric with special threads that can be used for connected clothing, including a Levi's jacket set to debut. Source: Google
In collaboration with Google, clothing maker Levi Strauss will begin selling a jean jacket with touch controls woven into the fabric.
Called the “Trucker Jacket with Jacquard,” the denim jacket was designed with bicyclists in mind, offering them the use of limited smartphone commands through the Jacquard sleeve cuff that synchronizes with the smartphone.
"As we see it, this isn't just about technology for technology's sake—it's about addressing a real need for our consumers on the go," said Levi vice president of global product innovation Paul Dillinger.
"This garment allows cyclists to literally navigate their rides, and manage other simple tasks, while never having to take their eyes off the road."
Google engineer Ivan Poupyrev said in a blog post that ultimately, "it's a jacket. Like any regular denim jacket, you can wash it (just remove the snap tag), it's durable, designed to be comfortable for cycling and it'll keep you warm on and off the bike."
By swiping or tapping the sleeve of the jacket, users can perform tasks such as reading text messages, controlling music and getting directions.
Priced at $350, the jacket will be available at select stores this week and at the levi.com website on October 2.