U.S. — According to sources, a new reusable water bottle now requires the user to sign into their Google account in order to open it.
The water bottle runs on the Android operating system and features a 3.5" screen that can inform drinkers when their bottle is open, ask for a password to protect the content of their liquids, and send them text messages confirming how many mL of water remain inside — but only if users log in to their Google account.
Without a valid login, the bottle will be completely unusable.
"This is the water bottle of the future," explained Smartbottle CEO Vishek Digglins. "You just have to set it up once, teach it to recognize your lips, and screw off the lid while saying 'OK Google, let's drink!' It couldn't be more simple."
The product has been mired in controversy ever since a pair of backpackers died of thirst after being unable to open the water bottle while they were out of cell range. A spokesperson for Smartbottle claims those bugs have been ironed out.
The SmartBottle retails for $139.99 and will require a $5/month subscription fee.
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