Technology has made it into all aspect of our lives, so why not make it a fashionable accessory? These seem to have been Intel’s thoughts when introducing their latest innovation, a piece of modern technology hidden inside a fashionable accessory called MICA. Built by Intel in collaboration with Opening Ceremony, MICA (My Intelligent Communications Accessory) is intended to solve some of the problems modern day women have, The Verge reports.
Features
MICA will have the same capabilities as the not-so-smart phones of the last few years. According to the feature list published on Intel’v website, it will allow its users to send and receive messages discreetly on the fly, without the need to fumble around their purses to find their phones. MICA will also provide a calendar with discreet, vibration-based notifications. The device will be selective with which calls and messages to filter out – users will be able to specify a VIP list of important contacts to receive notifications from.
MICA will be able to sync with the users’ Facebook and Google calendars, reminding users of their upcoming appointments, and even telling them when it’s time to leave in order not to be late from their next meeting. The access to Yelp’s ratings on the fly will allow them to find nearby shops, restaurants and other establishments.
Maybe the most important feature of the MICA is that it will not require the user to carry a smartphone around to use it. It will not use a Bluetooth connection, as most smart wearables do, but it will connect to AT&T’s wireless network on 3G. Intel has added a two-year wireless contract to sweeten the deal.
The MICA will be able to function up to two days with one charge, and will be rechargeable through a Micro USB cable. Users will be able to remotely lock and access their MICA, and locate it through the internet. Custom wallpapers created by Opening Ceremony will add uniqueness and personality to the accessory.
Design
OK, we are through with the technical wonders crammed inside this fashionable wearable device, but let’s take a look at what’s also important – it’s looks. Opening Ceremony has built a stylish piece of jewelry around the technology provided by Intel’s engineers, using premium materials like 18 karat gold, a sapphire glass touchscreen, and others. One style features black water snake skin, pearls from China, and lapis stones from Madagascar, while the other style features white water snake skin, tiger’s eye from South Africa, and obsidian from Russia.
Price and release date
MICA will become available through Opening Ceremony’s US stores and online early December, just in time for the Holiday shopping season. The retail price for the bracelet will be $495 (which, as I said before, includes a two year AT&T mobile broadband contract). According to Intel’s dedicated webpage the accessory will also be available at Barney’s New York.