G-Tech has launched a Bluetooth enable backpack capable of streaming your tunes via headphone or an integrated speaker and able to accept calls via a Bluetooth enabled cellphone. The bag also has SmartFabric controls integrated into the strap for controlling the iPod and answering/hanging up the phone. Unfortunately the effort to set up the device and make it work seemed to outnumber the functionality of the device during my short demo.
There is a small Bluetooth adapter in a pocket that plugs in a handful of cables, including the iPod, and syncs with a cellphone. It is also a rechargeable battery powered device that needs to be recharged on a daily basis. Once it was all set up, the system worked well, music played via the integrated speaker or headphones and would pause when a call came in and the audio output would switch to the phone. This bag will be available for consumers around Q2 for $199 and will also be available in messenger bag form.
