From the smartwatch to smart garments, Google is working on a way to make even your pants technological advancements. The idea is called Project Jacquard and it could change how we wear and use our clothes.
Here’s what you need to know:
1. Google and Levi’s are Teaming up to Work on the Project
Who better than Levi’s to help work on this project? A manufacturer known for making sturdy, reliable jeans may now be able to answer phone calls or make note of certain locations. There is no date yet for when these will be available to the public or a price.
2. The Project Uses Conductive Yarn
Project Jacquard
Project Jacquard uses conductive yarns in combination with cotton, polyester or silk to create a smart but comfortable fabric. The yarns can also easily be sewn on an industrial loom.
3. The Yarn Creates Sensor Grids Within the Clothing
Project Jacquard
The yarns are woven into certain areas in the cloth so the user can access them. The grids are discreet.
4. The Next Step is to Embed Small Electronics
Project Jacquard
The yarns need something to connect to and react with, so the company adds small electronics that wirelessly transmit messages to your phones. The website says these will be very small and hard to notice if you’re not wearing the pants.
5. These Pants can be Used to Answer Your Phone
Project Jacquard
The most exciting thing about Project Jacquard is how you’ll be able to use the garments. Swipe by your thigh to silence a phone call during a meeting, or tap on a button to record the location of a store you want to go in later. They really could be the pants of the future.