While the tech world moves fast, diversifying the field is still slow to become a reality.
Although the number is on the rise, Black talent in the tech world is increasing at a slow rate, recording just a 1% increase in seven years.
To support Black-owned tech companies, here are five gadgets to give to a loved one.
- Gen One Sweater: Valued at $499, this sweater by Spatial Labs is known as one of the first “wearable internet clothes” as it’s embedded with chips. Using technology, the product tracks its own history, offering the wearer information on its origin and the value of the product at the time of use. Created by entrepreneur Iddris Sandu, the product was made by the company to raise awareness on fast fashion and to promote clothing made using sustainable practices.
- NSPRE Solars Smart Eyewear: Priced at $99, these smart glasses offer both eye protection and a listening experience for the wearer. Created by tech entrepreneur Chaymeriyia Moncrief, this company’s NSPRE Solar Smart Eye-wear protects against blue light while also providing a built-in Bluetooth function. Featuring both the Bluetooth and a mic function, the glasses provide eye comfort while also giving the wearer the ability to connect their devices to listen to music.
- House of Marley Smile Jamaica Wireless 2.0 Earbuds: Created by the Bob Marley estate, the Smile Jamaica Wireless 2.0 earbuds are made of sustainable material. Priced at $29.99, the product and the brand advocate for comfortable listening products created by sustainable products. The Smile Jamaica Wireless 2.0 earbuds are made of 99% recycled polyester and eco-friendly silicone. Packaged in a 100% recyclable package, the earbuds last for roughly nine hours and are rechargeable.
- Sparkee Charging Device: Created by the Black-Woman owned company, Sparkee, the mobile charging device offers multiple ports for up to three devices to charge at a time. The charging device is portable and is considered the first-of-its-kind, with a battery pack that attaches to the back of the phone for wire-free charging. The product is able to recharge by putting it on a base and is reliable for providing users with about two full charges. While the product is not yet released, it is available for preorder for $89.
- Jrumz Expression Plus Custom Bluetooth Hybrid In-Ear Monitors: Created by the Jrumz company, the Expression Plus Custom Bluetooth Hybrid In-Ear Monitors are uniquely made to fit the shape of each user’s ears., offering comfort and sound isolation at the same time. The in-ear monitors have about a 48-hour battery life and also include a built-in microphone. Created by audiologist Dr. Lana Joseph-Ford, Jrumz is the first Black-woman owned earphone company in the U.S.
