Self-Tracking Suitcase Passes $1M On Indiegogo
[Philip Lelyveld comment: Given that the internet of things is rapidly coming, this product could have a very short window of first-mover advantage. It cries out for standardization, so airlines could be issued one-time unlocking keys and we could go back to locking our luggage.]
From wearables to moveables, the rise of the sensornet rolls on: a Bluetooth-connected suitcase which keeps tabs on where in the world you’ve traveled and tracks its own location using GPS so you’ll never have to leave the lost luggage department with a crestfallen face has passed $1 million raised on the Indiegogocrowdfunding website.
Other smart features stuffed into an otherwise relatively ordinary-looking 34L, 21.5″ x 14″ x 9″ suitcase are a digital, proximity-triggered lock which can secure the case when it’s out of range of your phone for peace of mind. The proximity feature can also trigger in-app alerts when you and your case are parted to combat forgetfulness or theft.
There’s also a built in digital scales that apparently lets you view the weight of the packed case via a companion app — so you don’t go overboard on hand luggage limits. And a quick access pouch for accessing your electronics devices so you can easily unbox them at security.
At the time of writing their campaign has raised just over $1,003,500 from almost 4,500 backers with eight days left to run, so they have more than enough pre-order cash pledged (considering they were only looking to raise $50,000) — albeit they still need to nail down the manufacturing process and build the companion iOS and Android apps. So there’s plenty to keep them busy. As with all crowdfunded hardware projects it pays to expect delays.
Indiegogo pre-orders convinced by the Bluesmart concept can pick up the case for $235, which is around half what its makers say they expect the full retail price to be next year.
See full story here: http://techcrunch.com/2014/11/17/bluesmart-indiegogo/?ncid=tcdaily