QBracelet: The Intersection of Fashion and Technology

James Kernan's Innovative Wearable Tech Offers Stylish Solution to Battery Anxiety

James Kernan's inspiration for the QBracelet came from a personal frustration with his phone's battery life. During a summer spent in San Francisco, Kernan found his phone dying repeatedly. As someone who values both fashion and technology, he saw an opportunity to create a solution that was both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The result was the QBracelet, a wearable tech product that eschews the typical black rubber or plastic for a sleek, metallic design.

What sets the QBracelet apart from other wearable tech is its attention to detail in material selection and design. All components and electronics are hidden inside the clasp, allowing the wearer to sport the bracelet without revealing its technological function. The materials and processes used to create the metal and finish of the QBracelet are the same as those used in luxury watches, further elevating its aesthetic appeal.

The creation of the QBracelet involved extensive research and prototyping. Kernan and his team studied the internal electronics of existing products on the market, 3D printed models to test fit and appearance, and experimented with different metals and sizes. The final product dimensions vary based on size, with a battery capacity of 1160mAh.

The QBracelet is operated by connecting devices directly to the bracelet via a connector within the clasp. It is available in matte black, polished and matte silver, and polished gold. The design process, which began in Silicon Valley in August 2013 and concluded with the launch for pre-order in August 2014, was marked by numerous challenges, including the creation of a curved battery. However, Kernan's determination and the expertise gained throughout the process allowed for these obstacles to be overcome.

The QBracelet's design is a nod to the minimalism of the Mod era, with clean lines and a fluid surface devoid of distinguishing marks. It represents a significant advancement in the fusion of technology and fashion, setting a high bar for future wearable tech designs. This innovation did not go unnoticed, as the QBracelet was awarded the Golden A' Wearable Technologies Design Award in 2015, a testament to its outstanding and trendsetting design.