Honda teases an airbag for your smartphone but the idea isn't that far-fetched

Shawn Knight

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Smartphones (and the cases that protect them) have come a long way over the past several years but even so, a single unfortunate drop, even with a hefty case in place, can result in a cracked screen or worse. But what if your phone had even more protection from gravity… like, an airbag?

That’s exactly what Honda is teasing in this clip. Dubbed the Case N, it’s a rather humorous attempt at solving the issue of cracked smartphone screens. It’s not real of course but the truth is, it may not be that far from reality.

If you recall, Amazon received a patent last year covering various methods to save gadgets from fall damage including, you guessed it, an airbag. An equipped device would use an array of sensors to detect when the phone is in freefall and deploy a protective airbag to minimize damage on impact.

Found is a TechSpot feature where we share clever, funny or otherwise interesting stuff from around the web.

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Airbag? Interesting idea. How long before Apple claim patent infringement of their Windbag attached devices?
 
I like the ski-jump and pocket flip tests. Didn't understand a word of it, except "smartophone", but it was cute. The airbag is a peculiar contraption. But if Nissan can make self-healing cases, then go for it Honda, and make air bar cases to protect phones!
 
Seems like making plastic screens that feel like glass would be much simpler. I'm sure it is already possible, but why would phone companies invest in an idea that will make them lose money? Obviously broken phones need replacing or repairing. Selling an indestructible product is not good for business.
 
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