Google and Levi’s First Smart Jacket

Meet The Jacket That Keeps You Connected And on The Move: A Glimpse Into the Future of Fashion and Technology

In a world where fashion and technology are merging like never before, Google and Levi’s have introduced a groundbreaking innovation: the Levi’s Commuter Trucker Jacket with Jacquard by Google. This smart jacket brings together the best of both worlds, offering style, functionality, and connectivity all in one garment. Designed primarily for urban commuters, the jacket represents a significant leap forward in wearable technology.

What is the Levi’s Smart Jacket?

The Levi’s Commuter Trucker Jacket, released in 2017, is the result of a collaboration between Levi Strauss & Co. and Google’s Advanced Technology and Projects (ATAP) group. The jacket integrates Google’s Jacquard technology, which is essentially a fabric-based touch interface, allowing the user to control their smartphone and other devices directly from the sleeve of their jacket.

The primary function of the smart jacket is to enable commuters—especially cyclists—to stay connected and control their devices without reaching for their phone. By simply swiping or tapping the jacket’s sleeve, users can access a range of controls such as adjusting music volume, getting directions, or answering calls, all hands-free.

How Does It Work?

The magic lies in the Jacquard Tag, a small piece of technology inserted into the jacket’s cuff. This tag connects to your phone via Bluetooth and pairs with an app that allows users to configure the jacket's various touch gestures.

Here are some of the key features of the smart jacket:

• Touch-sensitive sleeve: The sleeve is embedded with conductive fibers, which enable various gestures (swipes and taps) to be recognized and transmitted to your smartphone.
• Customizable gestures: Using the Jacquard app, you can configure gestures to perform specific tasks such as changing songs, getting directions, reading out messages, or dismissing calls.
• LED and vibration alerts: The jacket notifies you of incoming calls or messages with subtle LED lights and vibrations in the sleeve.
• Connectivity: The jacket connects to your smartphone through Bluetooth, making it compatible with Android and iOS devices.

Smart Features Tailored for Commuters

The Levi’s Commuter Trucker Jacket is ideal for urban cyclists and those who spend a lot of time navigating city streets. Instead of fumbling for their phones while biking, users can swipe the sleeve to do things like:

• Change music tracks while riding without stopping.
• Receive turn-by-turn navigation prompts that are delivered audibly via connected headphones.
• Dismiss incoming calls or text messages on the go, without taking their hands off the handlebars.

Design and Functionality

Levi’s retained its iconic Trucker Jacket aesthetic, ensuring that the smart version stays true to the brand’s stylish and durable reputation. The technology doesn’t interfere with the jacket’s classic design. When not in use, the Jacquard Tag can be removed, and the jacket is washable like any other piece of clothing.

This balance between functionality and design is one of the key highlights of the product. The jacket looks like any other piece of stylish denim wear but is packed with smart features that enhance everyday life.

The Future of Wearable Tech

The Levi’s Commuter Trucker Jacket represents a broader shift towards functional fashion. By integrating tech into everyday clothing, Google and Levi’s have opened the door to possibilities that blend convenience, utility, and style. As more companies experiment with smart fabrics and wearable devices, we are likely to see more clothing items that not only protect us from the elements but also keep us connected in a seamless way.

Image of the Levi’s Commuter Trucker Jacket

• Video demo of the Smart Jacket in action: Watch the official Google Jacquard x Levi's video demo here on YouTube to see how the jacket works in real-life situations: Google Jacquard Demo.

• Another detailed product review: The Verge.

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As fashion and technology continue to merge, it’s clear that the Levi’s Commuter Trucker Jacket is just the beginning of what could be a revolution in wearable tech. The ability to stay connected, informed, and entertained without sacrificing personal style is something consumers are increasingly looking for, and Levi’s, in partnership with Google, has delivered exactly that.