Musical shirt unwrapped

Engineers at Infineon Technologies AG are developing a series of products to take advantage of wearable computer technology, including a shirt that plays MP3s.

The technology is based around revolutionary 'smart-textiles' where microelectronic components are directly connected to electrically conducting fabric and sewn into clothing.

This week Infineon demonstrated two products using smart-textiles. The first, my-d, is a smart label which consists of tiny microchips that can store information.

The chip has an integrated antenna to allow the wireless exchange of data to a reader without the need for a separate power supply.

Infineon engineers are currently working with the German Master School of Fashion in Munich, to create a voice-controlled MP3 player that is directly integrated in the fabric of clothing.

A prototype wearable MP3 player uses a speaker-independent voice recognition control system to replace all usual key functions.

The electrical connections between the system, memory, earplugs, microphone for voice control and the fabric keyboard are made of electrically conductive fabric.

Apparently 'smart textile" technology can withstand a washing without being damaged, as the integrated components are encapsulated in robust plastic enclosures.