AMPL Labs today announced the launch of its Indiegogo crowdfunding campaign to support its innovative self-titled SmartBackpack, the first product of its kind to integrate an advanced portable charging system directly into the fabric of a bag.
The SmartBackpack, which is slated for availability in September 2015 and debuted to rave reviews at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show, is an intelligent mobile charging system that can power portable electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets — even laptops — while protecting them with a shock-absorbing core and rain-resistant coating.
The backpack’s SmartSensors communicate battery levels, internal temperatures and more to the AMPL mobile app, helping consumers monitor and control charging inside the bag without having to open a zipper.
The charging system of the AMPL SmartBackpack is comprised of six USB connections, an internal 18.5 watt-hour (Wh) battery that can recharge a smartphone 2-3 times, and supports up to three optional modular SmartBatteries. The SmartBatteries come in two sizes: TabletBoost (which supplies another 18.5Whs and can charge a smartphone and tablet simultaneously) and LaptopBoost (which adds 55Whs and can charge most laptops directly or through the optional SmartInverter module with an AC outlet, sold separately).
The SmartBackpack communicates with the AMPL Mobile App, allowing consumers to manage the charging-priority of their devices, monitor battery levels, internal temperatures, and even be alerted if they’ve forgotten their bag. Users can also check battery levels and other vital statistics on the OLED display on the front of the bag using capacitive touch-sensitive controls.
In addition to providing power to charge devices on the go, the TSA-friendly backpack protects consumers’ portable electronic gear with a lightweight, shock-absorbing bottom sole, and a water-resistant coating on the exterior fabrics.
AMPL Labs has completed the design of the backpack, batteries, and smart-power electronics and has built several working prototypes. With a fundraising goal of $125,000 for the campaign, the company is looking to purchase tooling, build a global supply chain and finance the fixed costs of ramping-up production.
President and CEO of AMPL Labs, Mike Patton stated, “The feedback we’ve received before, during and after the 2015 Consumer Electronics has been overwhelmingly positive. We want to bring this product to life to help consumers to stop worrying about whether their portable and mobile devices have enough power to get them through the day.”
The project features several Perk tiers for consumers looking to support the program, with product-based Perks starting at $50. All Perks are being offered at a significant discount of 25% or more off the suggested retail price. The base AMPL SmartBackpack (with an integrated Lithium-Ion 18.5 watt-hour battery) is discounted to $200 (a 33% savings off the $299 MSRP) for the first 48 hours of the campaign program.
The campaign is set to close on March 3rd.
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