Introduction
On May 21, 2026, Kounet, a company under the Kokuyo Group providing e-commerce services, will unveil a new laptop bag called the "Kounet x Elecom ZEROSHOCK Smooth Access Front Pocket Laptop Bag." This innovative product is the result of a collaboration between Kounet and Elecom, employing the inclusive design process known as "HOWS DESIGN."
Background of the Product
As hybrid work environments have become the new normal, professionals increasingly rely on easily transportable laptops for their daily tasks. According to Kounet's research, one of the top priorities for consumers when selecting a laptop bag is shock resistance to safeguard their devices from unexpected drops. Elecom's "ZEROSHOCK" series has gained considerable popularity for its outstanding protective features and has been well-received on Kounet's e-commerce platform.
The new laptop bag brings together the top-notch shock resistance of the "ZEROSHOCK" series with the principles of Kounet's inclusive design philosophy. The development process placed significant emphasis on ease of accessibility, involving workshops with lead users who have upper limb disabilities. These sessions included behavioral observations and interviews, allowing the team to thoroughly analyze barriers that were often overlooked in traditional laptop bags, such as the difficulty of opening zippers and accessing items inside. The aim was to create a product that could be effortlessly used by everyone, regardless of their physical condition or surrounding environment.
Insights from Elecom's Development Team
According to Tsukasa Kono, Team Leader of the Fabric Accessory Division at Elecom, collaborating with Kounet on the inclusive design initiative "HOWS DESIGN" was an enriching experience. The insights gained from working closely with users with upper limb disabilities were invaluable in refining the product. Alterations based on their feedback took approximately two years, resulting in practical features like ring-shaped zipper pulls and smoothly rounded zipper paths that require minimal effort for opening and closing. Careful attention was also paid to the depth and angle of the front pocket to enhance item retrieval ease. Kono expressed hope that this product would significantly contribute to users' comfort in their work.
Key Features of the New Product
1.
Robust Shock Resistance of the ZEROSHOCK Series:
The bag utilizes Elecom's Low-Rebound Polyurethane material, renowned for its exceptional shock-absorbing capabilities. This structure offers all-round protection for laptops during transit, easing fears associated with hybrid work setups.
2.
User-Friendly Ring Zipper and Rounded Shape for Easy Access:
The product includes a unique ring zipper designed for easy handling. The rounded zipper path minimizes resistance, allowing smooth operation without requiring excessive force. Users can easily open or close the bag with a single motion.
3.
Spacious Main Pocket Compatible with Large Laptops and Easily Accessible Front Pocket:
The main compartment is designed to accommodate laptops ranging from 14.1 to 16.4 inches. The front pocket is designed for optimal storage of peripherals, ensuring quick access and visibility of the contents, making it user-friendly when reaching for necessary tools.
Details of the New Product
- - Product Name: Kounet x Elecom ZEROSHOCK Smooth Access Front Pocket Laptop Bag
- - Release Date: May 21, 2026
- - Price:
- Single Unit: ¥4,480 (tax included)
- Set of 3: ¥11,850 (tax included; ¥3,950 per unit)
- - Where to Buy: Available through Kounet's e-commerce site.
- - Product Specifications:
-
Compatible Size: For laptops between 14.1 and 16.4 inches
-
Materials: Shock-resistant polyurethane (ZEROSHOCK variant), polyester
-
Weight: Approximately 535g (including shoulder strap)
-
Color: Black
-
Single Unit
-
Set of 3
For further information about the development story behind the Kounet x Elecom ZEROSHOCK laptop bag, visit
this link.
About Kounet
Kounet is dedicated to creating valuable experiences for all working individuals through technology and creativity. They provide an e-commerce platform that accommodates varying business sizes, from large corporations to small enterprises. Their services include the convenient online purchasing system "Benri Net" and the long-standing Kounet platform, which continues to receive wide support from users.