New start-up Bluesmart set to launch ‘smart carry-on suitcase’

The Bluesmart case has a range of technologically-driven functions

New luggage technology company Bluesmart is to launch what it claims is “a world first” with a “smart carry-on suitcase”. Among the key features is that the suitcase connects wirelessly to the owner’s smartphone (see below).

The company will be at TFWA World Exhibition next week to discuss the new venture.

This week Bluesmart reached and exceeded its initial US$50,000 goal on crowd funding site Indiegogo. Now that funding is secured, production will begin on the high-tech suitcase, with early adopter Indiegogo backers receiving their units by July 2015.

Bluesmart products carry a built-in a battery charger that allows the user to charge two devices simultaneously, including laptop, tablet or smartphone. It also features a built in digital scale, allowing the owner to cross-reference their travel arrangements with the maximum carry-on weight limit.

Protected compartments are said to keep valuable electronics secure, damage-free and readily accessible for removal at security.

A Bluesmart mobile app syncs with the suitcase to provide up to date information about travel such as airports visited, miles travelled and time spent in a particular country as well as proximity alerts and GPS tracking.

The company has raised US$50,000 in crowd funding with more arriving

Bluesmart Co-Founder Brian Chen said: “The Indiegogo community has felt the pains and hassles of travelling and responded by helping us to reach our goal and make Bluesmart a reality. We are astounded by the response so far, and thrilled to make travelling convenient and work harmoniously with your electronic devices.”

The key features include:
● Digital Lock: lock and unlock the suitcase from the phone app. Proximity sensors automatically lock the bag when it is separated from the user.
● Digital Scale: see the exact weight of the suitcases on the app and whether it’s approved by the airline to carry on.
● Distance Alerts: receive notifications on smartphones via SMS to avoid loss or theft.
● Location Tracking: with GPS technology Bluesmart tracks the location of the suitcase and helps the user find it when lost or re-routed.
● Trip Stats and Data: see trends in travel habits (miles travelled, airports visited, time per state/country) and sync with other services for smart notifications and reminders.
● Battery charger: recharge electronic devices up to six times while on the go.

“Finally we can cut out the personal travel assistant, and conveniently pack it into your smart phone and carry-on luggage,” said Co-Founder Tomi Pierucci. “We are confident moving forward to be at the very forefront of the technology travel market.”

For more, go to the company’s website.

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