ShiftWear sneakers features always-on E Ink displays, similar to those found in e-readers. The built-in batteries are designed to last up to 30 days, depending on the type of visuals set. Static images will consume little-to-no power, while animated graphics would be expected to drain batteries much faster, especially with increased complexity or frequency. But the team creating these kicks plans to incorporate wireless charging capabilities, as well as “Walk-N-Charge” technology that lets the shoes charge up with every step.
ShiftWear sneakers are designed to pair with a mobile device running the companion app (iOS, Android, Windows), which will let users browse, download, and program designs for the shoes. Art can be created for personal use or offered up to the marketplace for others to purchase. It’s also worth noting that the displays aren’t front-lit, so images and animations will have limited visibility in low-light conditions.
These sneakers have a gorgeous animated display that you can customize with your phone in seconds.
Power efficient e-paper displays were popularised by the Kindle, but they’ve also been used as a second screen for smartphones and the basis of the first popular smartwatch. Now, a new company called ShiftWear is pioneering another awesome use for e-paper technology: smart trainers.
ShiftWear shoes use a flexible e-paper display to display a black-and-white image that wraps around the bulk of the shoe. You can choose whatever image you like to fit the space, and there’s even the possibility to use animations instead at the cost of battery life. You select and transmit images to your shoes using a smartphone app, so you can change how your kicks look even when you’re on the move. Typical battery life for static images is on the same level as a Kindle; around 30 days.