This Smart Umbrella Predicts the Weather and Alerts You When You Leave It Behind

An umbrella is the last thing you want to be stuck without in the middle of a downpour, and the cost of all those "emergency" umbrellas you buy in a pinch really adds up. If you've been guilty of forgetting your umbrella at home, work, or in the umbrella stands of numerous coffee shops around town, this high-tech version may be just what you need.

Oombrella is a smart umbrella with built-in sensors that collect temperature, pressure, humidity, and light data in real time. The information is processed and shared with other users in the area, ensuring everyone has the most accurate and up-to-date results. If it predicts that it's about to rain, the device sends an alert to your smartphone reminding you to bring the umbrella along. And if you forget your umbrella in a place like a store or restaurant, oombrella sends you a notification via Bluetooth before you can stray too far.

The umbrella's smart tech is reflected in its futuristic appearance. The opalescent canopy is constructed from an exclusive material that, according to one of the designers, "makes you feel you are holding an aurora borealis in your hands." If you're looking for something a little less flashy, versions are also available in plain black or white.

This isn't the first umbrella to combine new technology with classic design. One model projects images across its canopy interior, while another was built to expel water with a single shake. If you've already invested money in one of these umbrellas or something equally awesome, you don't need to give it up to experience the oombrella's benefits—the connected, weather-sensing capsule can be purchased separately, which means you can attach it to the handle of any umbrella you own.

The project is currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, where it's already raised over half of its $65,549 goal. An oombrella can be reserved for a pledge of $77, and the compact capsule for $32.

Images courtesy of oombrella.