Way back in 2015 we were first introduced to Google's ATAP project to develop a digital technology that could be embedded in clothing. The concept was to produce a material that could be embedded in clothing to turn those articles into an input interface able to respond to touch and gestures. Earlier this year we got word that Google had convinced Levi's to partner with them to produce a product employing the Project Jacquard technology. After all this time, the result is finally hitting the market with the release of the Levi's Commuter Trucker Jacket with Jacquard.
For the most part, the new Levi's Commuter Trucker Jacket looks just like any other Levi's denim jacket. The only outward appearance that anything is different is a “snap tag” located on the cuff. It is very subtle and has to be removed when the jacket is washed. The Jacquard Threads are woven into the denim fabric and when combined with the snap tag, can be wirelessly connected to your smartphone.
For now, the potential uses include the ability to play, pause, or skip music tracks and inquire about song information on some platforms; get navigation information like the next direction, estimated time of arrival or the current time; and some messaging features like notifying you of incoming calls or text messages and get the text messages read to you. Besides the information being delivered to you via wireless headphones, the snap tag can provide visual feedback via a light and haptic feedback.
All of the controls for these different functions can be configured using the Jacquard app. Users can configure swipes and taps that can be assigned to the Jacquard Threads.
As revealed last spring, the price for the new jacket is $350. It will be going on sale this Wednesday at select shops and then through the Levi's web site and additional locations in the U.S. next week.
source: Google ATAP
The ‘snap tag’ looks curiously like those security tags stores attach to garments to prevent theft. A glorious look for your shopping trip.