# Passcode-Storing Fabrics The University of Washington's Magnetized Fabric Stores Data By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2017-11-15 | Tech Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/magnetized-fabric References: [psfk](https://www.psfk.com/2017/11/clothes-made-from-a-data-storing-fabric-will-remember-your-passcodes.html) & [smartfabrics.cs.washington.edu](http://smartfabrics.cs.washington.edu/) A group from the [University of Washington](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/thermal-earring) is exploring the future of technology, security and wearables with a new, non-electronic magnetized fabric that is capable of storing data. While there have been plenty of [smart wearables](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/programmable-clothing) unveiled over the past few years, this innovative fabric sets itself apart because it does not run on batteries or electronics, but instead harnesses the power of conductive thread. One of the tests run by the group involved storing passcode data for an electronic door lock. As the fabric is magnetized, it will never lose the stored data from washing, drying or ironing. Although the technology are currently being explored in its fabric form, there could be other implications for other wearables like [jewelry and accessories](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/minimalist-ai-jewelry). ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 1.4/10 - Popularity: 10% | Activity: 25% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 70% men, 30% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Multimedia](https://www.trendhunter.com/multimedia) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Non-electronic Magnetized Fabrics:** The development of non-electronic magnetized fabrics opens up opportunities for disruptive innovations in the field of smart textiles and wearables. - **Conductive Thread Technology:** The use of conductive thread in fabrics presents disruptive innovation opportunities for various industries, including fashion, healthcare, and sports. - **Data Storage in Wearables:** The ability to store data in wearables, without the need for batteries or electronics, has the potential to disrupt the wearable technology industry and enable new applications. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Smart Textiles:** The emergence of non-electronic magnetized fabrics can disrupt the smart textiles industry by offering new functionalities and applications. - **Fashion:** The utilization of conductive thread technology in fabrics can revolutionize the fashion industry by introducing technologically enhanced garments and accessories. - **Healthcare:** The integration of data storage capabilities in wearable devices can bring disruptive innovations to the healthcare industry, enabling personalized monitoring and diagnostics. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Stretchable Sweat-Activated Yarn Batteries](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/yarn-battery.md) - [Multi-Channel Wristband Prototypes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wristband-prototype.md) - [NFC Chip-Embedded Vintage Clothing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mntge-and-dukes-cupboard.md) - [Adhesive Small Tracking Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/tagvault-fabric.md) - [Battery-Free Health Wearables](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/uci.md) - [Thermal Stress-Monitoring Apparel](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/mij-technology.md) - [Connected E-Paper ID Badges](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/smart-id-card.md) - [Offline Password Manager Devices](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/atlancube-passwordpocket.md) - [Experimental Programmable Clothing](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/programmable-clothing.md)