Market: Yesterday the Kickstarter campaign started for a really interesting project called COBI. Even if, given the abundance of crowdfunding projects, one is inclined to dismiss them as castles in the air, COBI could be more and is definitely worth a look.
COBI stands for Connected Bike and is being developed in Frankfurt. First and foremost it is a handlebar mount for smartphones - but this one has it all, because it combines the functions of the smartphone with the demands placed on a modern bicycle. In addition to a front light that is always active and adapts to the prevailing light conditions, COBI also comes with an ergonomic control unit for the handlebars, which can be used to safely operate the smartphone at any time. A rear light will also be available, which will also contain a turn signal in addition to a brake light. All of these functions are only possible because the smartphone's sensors are used: for example, light, acceleration and position sensors.
Of course, COBI also comes with a corresponding app. In addition to the functions that are known from bike computers (such as speed, heart rate, cadence), this also offers features such as integrated navigation or GPS-controlled anti-theft protection. It should also be possible to connect COBI to various e-bike systems and access their functions.
There are still only a few working prototypes, but if the project is successful on Kickstarter, the COBI will probably be available for purchase from mid/late 2015. We are excited to see how the project develops and will keep you up to date on this. More information is available at Kickstarter.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XYr99n5aM0w