Now that the Internet has become about as ubiquitous as clothing for billions of people, it’s not uncommon to wonder where the next wave of advances in technology will take place. And yet, clues are already popping up. Since many new life improving ideas are pouring forth to make smartphones the next genius device – capable of replacing the typical laptop computer – it’s safe to assume that portability is the future. With that portability has come the obvious need of portable power, to keep one’s small devices powered up while the individual conducts their business.
Savvy to this need, the new wave has already begun to make inroads, courtesy of those who managed to come up with the idea of mixing clothing and technology. Solar powered clothing and accessories, such as backpacks and computer bags, have now been available for a short period of time. Capable of creating stored power – they charge batteries – while one spends time in the sun between meetings, classes, and other outdoors occasions, this new clothing is revolutionary.
Essentially weaving flexible strands of very thin solar powered material into the clothing or accessory’s outer surface, these products are fully capable of being laundered. Taking about 8-10 hours to charge up a small device like an iPhone or iPod, this new wave of high tech clothing puts a new spin on being green. It also adds a level of convenience that’s hard to quantify, since each person with one of these products becomes their own walking, talking power plant. It’s a super cool technology, except when it’s raining!