The Leoht Tote could put an end to rummaging in the depths of your handbag for your phone, only to discover the battery is almost dead. Dubbed "the evolution of the handbag" it comes with in-built lithium ion battery and LED lighting, two USB ports and wireless recharging capabilities – and it looks good, too.
Recognizing that many women carry their "entire world in their handbag," Leoht (pronounced lay-oat), a wearable/ fashion technology startup company in New York, has taken to crowdfunding to bring its attempt to seamlessly blend fashion and functionality to market.
The Leoht Tote features a 6,000k mAh hidden rechargeable battery which the company says lasts up to 30 days on standby and recharges wirelessly when placed on its charging plate or via the microUSB port while on the go.
The battery has an expected shelf life of roughly two to four years, however it isn't readily accessible, so if it does need replacing you'll have to return the bag to Leoht who say they'll happily replace the battery.
Two USB ports allow you to charge multiple devices simultaneously, while the external Power Panel houses the on/off button, battery indicator, and a microUSB port for portable charging.
Interior and exterior LEDs are a nice touch, making it easy to find keys, purse or your phone in the dark. The bag also has a hidden compartment called The Alcove for keeping valuables and private items out of sight.
It doesn't pack solar panels, like the Solar Handbag and the Sun Trap, but Leoht Tote is definitely one of the more elegant offerings that attempt to merge fashion and technology.
The Leoht Tote weighs around 2 lb (900 g) when empty, and at 11 x 16.2 x 6.75 in (27.9 x 41.1 x 17.1 cm) (H x W x D) with a 7.5 in (19 cm) drop from the top of the strap to the bag opening, there's plenty of room for laptops, tablets, and other essentials.
The Leoht Tote is currently the subject of a Kickstarter campaign looking to raise US$100,000, with $149 the minimum pledge to claim a bag in slate (solid) black. A cognac color and press (deboss) finish are also available at higher pledge levels, with those pledging $5,000 or more able to get one in their choice of color. Deliveries are slated for October 2015 (with shipping currently limited to Canada, the United States and the United Kingdom) – if all goes to plan.
You can watch the pitch video below.
Source: Leoht