Boston-based company Easier to Use has developed a glove that lets you control your smartphone without taking it out of your pocket.
With this device, called the GoGlove, people can just tap their fingers and avoid having to use their phones manually, according to Fox News. Users will be able to listen to texts or music while running, walking or going on a bike ride.
Ben Harris, co-founder of Easier to Use, came up with the idea for the GoGlove while going down some ski slopes with friends. He said by the time he was done taking his phone out of his pocket, taking off his gloves, changing the song or the volume, and putting everything back, his friends were already at the bottom of the hill. Afterwards, he wanted to find an easier way to use his phone without having to touch the screen.
"We're finding people love being able to control their phone remotely. They're leaving their phone in their pocket or purse and are really able to have the same control of their phone as if it were in their hand," Harris said.
The GoGlove is extremely light so the user can wear it inside thicker gloves in the winter. GoGlove Designer Eric Ely said the glove comes with a Bluetooth module that connects to sensors in the fingertips, with each sensor controlling different functions on the phone when the user taps it. Users will also be able to set functions for each finger by connecting the gloves to the GoGlove app.
"It's a great concept when you're flying down the mountain and a good song comes on and you kind of get in that moment and that makes everything better," Ely explained. "Really we are just trying to make that experience easier to control."
Ely added that the gloves can be easily hand washed, and that you can remove the Bluetooth module from the glove and use it in warmer weather. Users will also be able to control their smartphone with the module by clipping it onto their shirt or bike.
Easier to Use has started a Kickstarter campaign for the GoGlove in order to start producing the technology. The gloves are available now to pre-order for $79, and the company will raise the price to $129 once it is funded. Easier to Use is looking to begin production by this summer and make the gloves available in stores by next year's ski season.
