Samsung has unveiled something completely unexpected: a pair of shoes. Dubbed the Shortcut Sneaker, this new footwear is the result of a collaboration between Samsung Netherlands, marketing agency Cheil Benelux, wearable technology company Elitac Wearables, streetwear brand Bruut Amsterdam, and sneaker designer Roel van Hoff.
And it’s not just a straightforward collaborative pair of shoes either, as the Shortcut Sneaker actually comes with the special ability to control a paired Samsung smartphone through motion controls, but there is a twist. Rather than simple gestures, it wants you to dance for it.
The Samsung Shortcut Sneaker comes equipped with motion sensors embedded in the soles, and is designed to detect five distinct foot movements. Each movement triggers a specific action on the paired Samsung phone, such as making a call or playing music. For instance, you can quickly give mom a call by clicking your heels twice.
Samsung revealed that its development team ensured the motion controls were highly accurate by having participants perform the triggering dances repeatedly. Doing so allows the Shortcut Sneaker algorithm to recognise each movement precisely.
Gerben van Walt Meijer, Marketing Manager for Mobile Experiences at Samsung Netherlands, described the Shortcut Sneaker as a futuristic innovation that enriches life through fun and efficient technology. The design of the sneakers, inspired by the Samsung Galaxy and outer space, was crafted by Roel van Hoff, featuring materials and colours reminiscent of meteorites and supernovas.
Unfortunately, the new Shortcut Sneakers are not for sale, though Samsung is offering six units exclusively through the Samsung Members loyalty program in the Netherlands. Members must join by 9 July 2024 to enter the drawing, with winners announced in mid-July.
