EMBRACE+ is a new piece of wearable electronics currently in development, that wirelessly connects to a smartphone and lights up in different colors in conjunction with notifications received on the phone. The idea is that if the phone is tucked away in a bag, or not right near the user, he or she would be able to tell what kind of notification the device has received and whether or not it's something they will need to address immediately.
The bracelet can notify users of all kinds of events that occur on the phone. Some examples of the types of notifications users can receive through the bracelet are as follows:
- Incoming calls (for specific contacts or groups)
- Text messages
- Tumblr
- Skype
- Calendar alerts
- Alarm and timer
- Low phone battery
- Phone out of range
The creators are working to expand the list of supported applications, with plans to add Vine, WhatsApp, Ruzzle, and other apps in the future.
Users can customize the bracelet to light up in different colors for each type of notification. The bracelet can light up in a single color for a specific event, or users can opt to use two different colors for each notification. The number of blinks, duration of blinks, speed interval, brightness, and whether there is a short vibration can also be tweaked by the wearer.
Everything is adjusted using the Android or iOS EMBRACE+ app. It comes with a color wheel that allows a complete range of hues to be used for each notification. It will also offer the ability to save profiles for quick access to certain settings.
The bracelet itself uses optical fibers tucked inside of a transparent core that runs through the whole band. This is coated in a transparent cladding that allows the light to leave the core and shine around the entire device. It also comes in three different shapes, so users can choose one that matches their style.
The creators of the EMBRACE+ are seeking funding on Kickstarter to help with purchasing molds, setting up tooling, and developing the mobile applications that make the whole thing come together. The minimum backing to receive a bracelet in one of the three available styles is US$49.
The Kickstarter pitch below demonstrates the EMBRACE+.
Source: Kickstarter
