Power Up with a Smart Backpack by AMPL

Winner of two CES 2015 Innovation Awards, this successfully crowdfunded design promises to simplify commuting and traveling. The wearable technology is a device-charging backpack designed by AMPL Labs. Tailoring the experience to the user’s needs, the smart design allows one to monitor and control the system with the accompanying iPhone app. From the app, one can see what is completely charged and adjust the priority to juice up all items simultaneously or establish a queue so that the necessary items are ready at the right moment. The app can read the internal temperature and send a “forgotten bag” message if it seems as though the user has walked away without it, depending on the personal settings. AMPL Labs’ design comes in three models, the most basic of which boasts six USB outlets. The upgrades include accessories such as laptop chargers and spare batteries as well. Regardless of one’s choice, all of the current options come housed in a sporty backpack with layers and pockets designed for holding different devices. The bag is lightweight, shock-absorbent, and water-resistant yet ventilated so that one’s devices will not overheat or get trapped with too much moisture inside the shell. Now available online from AMPL Labs, the SmartBag is priced from $239 and is set to ship in October of 2015.