NOVI Smart Luggage
***Editors Note: This product is no longer available due to copyright infringement. If you invested in the NOVI Smart case {Tech} for Travel suggests you contact either Kickstarter or Indiegogo***
NOVI claim that their new Aluminium Smart Luggage range is the world’s most advanced.
Some would argue the styling is very similar to that of another luggage brand. There’s no doubt though, that the NOVI is a very aesthetically pleasing piece of luggage.
Features
There are two cases in the new range. A carry-on called Citus and a larger check-in case named Altas. Although they differ in size, the styling and features are the same.
Based on the concept of functional and aesthetic design, NOVI has combined the perfect mix between technology and convenience. NOVI empowers travellers to maximize their experience abroad.
~ NOVI Trip
Security First
It’s all the rage on Smart luggage at present, but it now seems a TSA approved fingerprint scanner is a must-have for cases in 2019. But, the NOVI sets itself apart from others by having a contingency scanner.
Instead of using the physical scanner on the side of your case, you can open the NOVI app and use the scanner on your smartphone.
The scanner is powered by a rather small 700mAh power pack that is removable for airport security. But more importantly, can be replaced by your own larger one.
This would then give the front-facing USB port more purpose and oomph to charge your smartphone or tablet on the go.
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Avoid Airport Fees
A feature that will save you many $$$ at the airport is the built-in digital scale.
Using the app as a display and having your smartphone connected to the case over Bluetooth, turn the case on its side. The NOVI then calculates the weight of your belongings + the case to make sure you never overpack.
Never Lose your Case Again
NOVI state both cases come with GPS Location Tracking, which is a great way to track your lost luggage. But, I feel this is a bit misleading.
There is no mention of a SIM slot or data fees for either model, which suggests it’s more probably Bluetooth tracking. But, this is still a useful feature.
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Usually, with Bluetooth trackers in luggage, you can mark your case as missing, and when another NOVI user is near to it, you are notified. This will provide you with a pinpoint location of where your case is.
To assist you with a more organised case and make use of the internal space, both compartments come with a compression panel and straps.
On each panel is a pocket big enough for a notebook or tablet. Based on the media images, they don’t have enough padding for somewhere I’d keep those devices
Finally, the app will be available on Android and Apple stores once released.
Specifications
Both cases have a premium style and for the (early bird) price they appear to be a great purchase. I’d like to see more clarity around the GPS tracker though.
- NOVI Citus
- Dimensions – 39 x 20 x 50cm
- Weight – 4.1kg
- Capacity – 35l
- NOVI Altas
- Dimensions – 52 x 26 x 72cm
- Weight – 5.9kg
- Capacity – 97l
- 7-Stage Telescopic Handle
- Removable 700mAh Battery Pack
- Integrated Digital Weight Scale
- External USB Port for ‘On The Go’ Charging
How Much Does the Novi Smart Luggage Range Cost?
After a successful Kickstarter campaign, where NOVI raised nearly $400k of backing, they have launched on Indiegogo.
At the time of writing, there is still early bird offers available on both the Citus and Altas.
- Novi Citus Early Bird $149 (RRP $359)
- Novi Altas Early Bird $169 (RRP $399)
As Smart luggage pricing goes, these early bird offers are very attractive! NOVI expects to ship for both models to begin in October 2019.
Join the Conversation
Is the new NOVI range of luggage catching your eye? Is the styling to familiar to other brands? Do you need ‘smart’ in your case?
Comment below or join the conversation on Twitter.