The Obama administration this week announced plans to hold a summit next spring to discuss the development of high-tech fabrics.
The Commerce Department and Industrial Fabrics Association International will host the first Smart Fabrics Summit on April 4 in Washington, D.C., to discuss recent advancements, collaboration opportunities and industry challenges.
Smart fabrics are made with embedded sensors or conductive yarns that can track and disseminate data about their wearers or the environment. Google and Levi's announced a high profile partnership earlier this year to develop touch-sensitive denim.
The technology could have broad implications for a wide range of consumers, particularly athletes, first responders, the armed services and health care facilities.
Commerce officials said that the forum would include leaders from the public and private sectors in the technology, apparel and textile industries.
