London - Typically, female-focused technology comes in garish pink or has a celebrity endorsement.
A new product by top fashion designer Richard Nicoll, however, promises to buck that trend.
A new-season bag from the label is more than a modern classic. Adding function to form, it also doubles as a phone charger.
The elegant white leather tote contains a pocket that holds a battery-powered back-up power source.
Initially, the device must be charged from the mains using a cable that connects magnetically to the outside of the bag but, once full, it will last two days - much longer than the lifespan of the average well-used smartphone.
The clever feature will allow users to boost Blackberries, iPhones and Androids on the go, avoiding the dreaded dead battery.
More conveniently still, a 'charm' hangs on the outside of the bag and flashes if a call comes in, so your business meeting or appointment isn't interrupted by a ringtone.
No price has been released for the bag, which will go on sale later this spring, but similar (traditional) bags sell for £295 ($467).
British-born Mr Nicoll debuted the gadget at London Fashion Week in conjunction with his sponsor Vodafone.
He told TIME: “We wanted to create a collaborative product that fused fashion and technology.
“The recharging bag is especially relevant for my collection this season, because it’s about the notion of work and all its facets in modern times.”
Mr Nicoll also collaborated with Tusting, the upscale leather goods company, to create the accessory. - Daily Mail