As our world of traveling continues to open up, Samsonite remains at the vanguard. The latest product is Konnect-i Backpack, a partnership between Samsonite and Jacquard by Google — two innovative leaders in their industries. This backpack connects with your smartphone and allows you to make commands such as pausing/playing music, and receiving phone calls/texts with swiping motions.

The Konnect-i Backpack with Jacquard by Google makes moving around the city streets easier than ever, the accessory allows users to perform actions and receive alerts while on the go. These abilities and alerts include tasks related to audio, such as play, pause, next track and what’s playing, and communication, including receiving phone calls and texts. The smart feature also makes navigation easy, through functions such as estimating arrival times and leading on directions. Dropped pins and saved locations are also available. The Bluetooth technology-infused backpack can also receive alerts for rideshares. Not stopping there, the app can activate a phone’s camera and trigger a photo countdown, offer a summary of the day, and ask Google Assistant questions.

Jacquard by Google allows you to cut through the digital clutter with a simple gesture allowing you to stay connected, not distracted. All through the things you love, wear and use every day. Brush up, down or double tap on the left strap of your Konnect-i Backpack to activate Jacquard by Google as you move around. To customize your gestures, visit the Jacquard by Google app on your smart phone and choose from actions like call and text notifications, selfie, navigation and music controls. For an added level of interaction, the LED light on your left strap will light up according to the alerts you’ve set.

“Since 1910 we haven’t stopped evolving. Innovation has always been a priority, and this product partnership is so powerful because it seamlessly integrates technology into a backpack,” said David Oksman, Head of Marketing, Samsonite USA. “Instead of being distracted by technology, you can enjoy the world around you with our Konnect-i Backpack. And on top of that, the sleek design of the backpack looks great.”

Slim

There are two versions of the Konnect-i Backpack available − a Slim Backpack, which is complete with a vertical zipper, and a Standard Backpack, which is finished with a horizontal zipper. The exterior design of both versions is inspired by modern simplicity − making it ideal for everyday use and suitable for matching with smart-casual work outfits. The black-colored backpacks are made from a polyester water-repellent, easy-care fabric coated with a Teflon backing.

Standard

Each backpack is finished with a subtle reflective trimming in a matt silver tone. In both the Slim Backpack and Standard Backpack, comfort and function play an important role. Several foam layers form supportive shoulder straps, while a padded back panel offers both reinforcement and relief during long trips. The tech-infused travel companion also features a smart sleeve, with debossed PU logo, for easy handling when traveling in tandem with a suitcase. An easy-access front pocket completes the exterior highlights. Boasting interiors that are just as functional, the inside of the Konnect-i Backpack features organizational sections, including a padded laptop and tablet compartment (fitting up to a 15.6” laptop). A wide-open front pocket allows for effortless packing.

Slim

While the Konnect-i Backpack with Jacquard by Google Technology is engineered with smart innovation, it is simple enough to be used by all travelers. Onboarding instructions within the Jacquard App will walk users through easy-to-follow setup instructions for pairing the Jacquard Tag with a mobile device.
To customize gestures, users can visit the Jacquard app on any Android or iOS phone and choose from actions like call and text notifications, selfie, navigation and music controls. Additionally, multiple Google support channels are available to assist consumers with questions regarding the app, help setting up the jacket, troubleshooting and other issues.

Standard

The Konnect-i Backpack is now available online at shop.samsonite.com.