Do we really need a smartphone-enabled version of everything? There must be some point at which such products cross over into absurdity. If there is, a connected suitcase is safely short of it, because I’m very impressed—in theory—with the Bluesmart suitcase, a pullman-style luggage piece that features a digital lock, a battery charger, location tracking, proximity alerts and, most genius of all, a built-in scale. It’s available for pre-order for the not exactly cheap amount of US$399 at bluesmart.com.

Update, 11 Nov 2015: A reader drew my attention to a review of the Bluesmart at travel site thepointsguy.com. The review itself was even-handed, pointing out a number of shortcomings in the tech features and the fact that the bag itself exceeds United Airlines’s size restrictions, but recommending it nevertheless. Unfortunately, it apparently provoked a hostile response from the company’s executives. It’s worth reading if you’re thinking about buying it.