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Google, Levi's partner to create smart jacket

Posted at 7:59 AM, May 23, 2016
and last updated 2016-05-23 11:03:48-04

Staring at a map on your phone while you’re riding your bike is never a good idea.

So, what if you could leave your phone in your pocket and just let your jacket be your guide?

Levi's and Google have partnered to develop a jacket aimed at helping commuters on their daily travels. 

It's called the Levi's Commuter Trucker Jacket. The technology integrated into fabric is a product of Google’s "Project Jacquard."

Jacquard threads—which are woven into the jacket-- are conductive and able to recognize simple touch gestures.

Levi's says in a blogpost the jacket is able to connect to a wearer’s smartphone, and the special fabric allows people to swipe or tap at the sleeve to perform different tasks. 

With just a touch, the wearer can do things like adjust music volumes, get directions, and even dismiss incoming phone calls, according to the company.

The jacket was a year-long effort and it's expected to be made available for order in the spring of 2017.