Tag: Kickstarter

  • Milenas: Compact WiFi NAS with 2TB Storage Launches on Kickstarter

    Milenas: Compact WiFi NAS with 2TB Storage Launches on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Milenas NAS is a compact device measuring 3.6 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches and weighing 1.8 oz, with 256MB of memory and 8GB of internal storage, expandable up to 2TB.
    2. It offers data transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps and connects via WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, lacking a traditional Ethernet port.
    3. The device supports SMB protocol for multiple user profiles and shared folders, making it useful for family trips.
    4. Easy setup is provided through a QR code, with automatic backup for photos and videos, and USB connectivity for transferring larger files.
    5. The Kickstarter campaign offers units for about $109 plus shipping, with shipping expected in November, but backers should be aware of potential financial risks.


    A new crowdfunding campaign has launched for a very small network attached storage device. The Milenas NAS is tiny, measuring just 3.6 x 1.8 x 0.6 inches and weighs a mere 1.8 oz. It runs on an MT7628 SoC, although it has a rather limited 256MB of memory. Internal storage is capped at 8GB, but you can add up to 2TB of extra storage depending on the setup you choose.

    Data Transfer and Connectivity

    The manufacturer indicates that the device can achieve data transfer speeds of up to 300Mbps. It connects to networks using WiFi 802.11 b/g/n, but you won’t find a traditional Ethernet port here. Powering the Milenas is done via USB with a requirement of 5V and 1A. Furthermore, this portable NAS supports the SMB protocol and allows multiple users to have their own profiles, while certain folders can be shared among everyone. This feature can be handy, especially during family trips.

    Ease of Use and Features

    No specific app is necessary to operate the Milenas NAS, as devices can be connected using a straightforward QR code. Besides local data transfers, this device supports various cloud storage services. It can also automatically back up pictures and videos from smartphones, for example. For transferring larger files, you can connect the Milenas to laptops using USB. Alternatively, USB Ethernet dongles should function as well.

    The Milenas is compatible with OpenWrt, and the manufacturer claims there are no software support limitations. Currently, backers on Kickstarter can secure a unit for a pledge of about $109, with an additional $15 for shipping. The first units are expected to ship in November. As with any crowdfunding project, it’s important to keep in mind the typical financial risks involved, which could play a significant role here.

    Alternative Suggestion

    If you’re looking for another option, consider the Synology Beedrive available on Amazon.

    Source:
    Link

  • Final Fantasy-Inspired JRPG Raises $300K on Kickstarter, Canceled

    Key Takeaways

    1. Several game projects, including Bend Studio’s live-action project and Studio Camelia’s Alzara Radiant Echoes, have been cancelled recently due to funding issues and rising development costs.
    2. Studio Camelia raised over $300,000 on Kickstarter, but only covered 50% of their game’s development costs, leading to their closure.
    3. Kickstarter backers of Alzara Radiant Echoes are unlikely to receive refunds following the project’s cancellation.
    4. Alzara Radiant Echoes was a JRPG inspired by Final Fantasy, featuring colorful art and turn-based battles, but its demo is no longer accessible due to legal complications.
    5. The situation highlights the risks of ambitious game projects and the potential pitfalls of backing Kickstarter campaigns, as not all promising ideas will succeed.


    Over the last few months, several games that were in development have been cancelled. The latest news comes from Bend Studio, known for Days Gone, which had to let go some of its staff after a live-action project for Sony was scrapped. Even indie studios are feeling the pinch from increasing development expenses. Studio Camelia, which raised over $300,000 on Kickstarter, has now announced they are closing down, effectively ending their first project, Alzara Radiant Echoes.

    Funding Shortfalls

    On their Kickstarter page, the studio mentioned that the funds raised, along with their own savings, only covered 50% of the costs to develop Alzara Radiant Echoes. They were hoping to secure a sponsorship from an “industry partner” to finish the game, but they couldn’t find one. Currently, the project is cancelled, and unless someone else steps in, there seems to be no hope for its revival. Furthermore, backers from Kickstarter are not likely to see any refunds.

    A Glimpse of Potential

    Alzara Radiant Echoes was designed to be a JRPG influenced by games like Final Fantasy. While there is a demo of the game, it may no longer be available. You can still catch a quick look on its Steam page and through a YouTube video. The four-minute video showcases some of the game’s world and gameplay, featuring a unique, colorful art style and turn-based battles. Sadly, due to legal complications, the demo itself isn’t accessible for players.

    The Risks of Ambition

    Although Alzara Radiant Echoes didn’t aim to change the JRPG landscape, it appeared to hold promise. With the success of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, more gamers have started to explore the turn-based RPG genre. This situation serves as a harsh reminder that not every ambitious project will come to fruition and highlights the risks involved in backing a Kickstarter campaign, regardless of how appealing it may seem.

    Source:
    Link

  • Muitavy Desktop Charger: Three Retractable Cables Crowdfunding

    Muitavy Desktop Charger: Three Retractable Cables Crowdfunding

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution features GaN technology and includes three built-in USB-C cables for a tidy workspace.
    2. Each USB-C cable can provide up to 165W individually, or up to 100W when two are used simultaneously, with an additional USB-A port for a fourth device.
    3. The charger comes with a USB-C to Lightning adapter and offers four plug types: US, EU, UK, and AU.
    4. Kickstarter pledges start at $89, a $70 discount from the retail price of $159, with shipping planned for September 2025.
    5. The project has over 600 backers and still has 24 days left in its fundraising campaign.


    The Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution is currently raising funds on Kickstarter. This innovative desktop charger utilizes GaN technology and comes with three built-in USB-C cables, helping to minimize mess in your workspace. As of now, there are over 600 backers supporting the project, with 24 days still to go.

    Impressive Charging Capabilities

    Every USB-C cable from the Muitavy charger can provide up to 165W output when used independently. When two of the USB-C outputs are active at the same time, they can each supply up to 100W. Each cable measures 80 cm (about 31.5 inches) and has a magnetic tip for easy storage when not being used. Additionally, there is a USB-A port available to charge a fourth device. For instance, you can use this port to charge an Apple Watch, and Muitavy offers an Apple Watch Wireless Charger accessory priced at $19.

    Extra Features and Options

    In addition to the three cables and the USB-A port, there is also a USB-C to Lightning adapter included. An SD card slot is mentioned on a complementary adapter, although specifics like data transfer speed are not provided. Users can select from four different plug types: US, EU, UK, and AU. The Muitavy desktop charger comes in a sleek dark gray color and measures 5.7 x 2.8 x 2.8 inches (approximately 145 x 73 x 73 mm).

    Affordable Pricing and Shipping Details

    Pledges for the Muitavy 200W 4-in-1 Charge Solution on Kickstarter begin at $89, which is a $70 discount from the suggested retail price of $159. The company plans to ship its product globally and is aiming for a dispatch date in September 2025. However, as with any crowdfunding initiative, there is no assurance that backers will receive their product within this timeline, or even at all.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • ViewDock: Versatile Docking Station Now Live on Kickstarter

    ViewDock: Versatile Docking Station Now Live on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. The ViewDock is seeking funding on Kickstarter, with early supporters able to purchase it for about $89 after a discount.
    2. Potential buyers should carefully review shipping conditions and understand the financial risks of crowdfunding.
    3. The device dimensions are 13.7 x 6.2 x 9.6 cm (5.4 x 2.4 x 3.8 in) and features a 1,280 x 720 resolution screen.
    4. It connects via USB-C and is compatible with macOS, Windows, and possibly Linux, supporting USB Power Delivery up to 100 watts.
    5. The ViewDock has two USB 3.0 ports and microSD/SD card readers located on the back for a cleaner appearance, but this may make access more difficult.


    The ViewDock is currently seeking funds through a campaign on Kickstarter. At this moment, early supporters can grab a unit for about $89 after applying a discount. However, those interested should thoroughly examine the shipping conditions and be mindful of the financial risks that come with crowdfunding initiatives. Even though the ViewDock likely doesn’t involve much risk related to technology, it’s important to consider that this project is run by a company that is not widely recognized.

    Dimensions and Display

    With dimensions of 13.7 x 6.2 x 9.6 cm (5.4 x 2.4 x 3.8 in), the ViewDock includes a built-in screen that has a resolution of 1,280 x 720 and a display size of 10 x 8 cm (3.9 x 3.1 in). It operates similarly to an external monitor, giving users the ability to choose what appears on the display. For example, applications such as system resource monitors, chat interfaces, or media players can easily be dragged to this secondary screen.

    Connectivity and Compatibility

    The ViewDock connects to a main device through USB-C and works with macOS, Windows, and possibly Linux systems. It also allows for USB Power Delivery up to 100 watts. On its rear side, the device is equipped with two USB 3.0 ports, in addition to microSD and SD card readers. While placing the I/O ports on the back helps maintain a tidy look, it also means that accessing the ports can be a bit more challenging.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Fossibot F107 Pro: Durable Phone with Night Photography Discount

    Fossibot F107 Pro: Durable Phone with Night Photography Discount

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fossibot F107 Pro is available for preorder at $399 via a Kickstarter campaign, with shipping expected in July 2025.
    2. The phone features a high-quality camera system, including a 200 MP main camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide and macro lens, and a 32 MP front camera.
    3. It has a large 28,000 mAh battery with 66-watt fast charging and a flashlight with up to 372 lumens brightness.
    4. The device is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra processor, with options for 12 or 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of internal storage.
    5. The F107 Pro meets military standards (MIL-STD-810H) and has IP69 and IP69K ratings for water and dust resistance.


    Fossibot has launched a selection of tough phones through outlets like Amazon. Recently, they added to their lineup with the Fossibot F107 Pro, which is currently up for preorder at a price of $399 via a Kickstarter campaign. The shipping is projected to start in July 2025. As with all crowdfunding projects, it’s crucial for potential backers to thoroughly check the shipping details and understand the financial risks involved. Nevertheless, the risks tied to this campaign seem to be relatively low.

    Camera Capabilities

    One standout feature of the F107 Pro is its camera system, which is said to provide high-quality color photos even in total darkness. However, its actual performance in everyday use is still unknown. The device boasts a 200 MP main camera, a 50 MP ultra-wide and macro lens, and a 32 MP front camera. With dimensions of 190.1 x 90.6 x 39.95 mm (7.48 x 3.57 x 1.57 in), the hefty body contains a 28,000 mAh battery that supports 66-watt fast charging, along with a flashlight capable of producing up to 372 lumens.

    Performance and Features

    The F107 Pro runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Ultra processor and comes with options of either 12 or 16 GB of RAM, plus 512 GB of internal storage. Other important features include a fingerprint scanner located on the right side, 5G connectivity, and two SIM slots, one of which can also fit a microSD card. As per the official specifications, this robust phone meets the standards of MIL-STD-810H, IP69, and IP69K.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Order Modular Smartphone with Earbuds, Smartwatch & Flashlight Now!

    Order Modular Smartphone with Earbuds, Smartwatch & Flashlight Now!

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Oukitel WP300 is available for pre-order on Kickstarter for $399, with shipping expected in July.
    2. It features a modular design, allowing the use of a lamp module and a display module, making it suitable for outdoor activities.
    3. The smartphone has impressive specifications, including a MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, up to 12GB of RAM, and a 108-megapixel main camera.
    4. It is MIL-STD-810H certified, includes a 16,000mAh battery with reverse charging capabilities, and features NFC and a side-mounted fingerprint sensor.
    5. The WP300 is expected to be available on Amazon in the future.


    We’ve already shared information about the Oukitel WP300, and as we mentioned earlier, the phone is now ready to buy. The Chinese company is offering it through a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter priced at $399, with expected shipping in July. Essentially, this is a pre-order deal in disguise since Oukitel is a well-known player in the rugged smartphone market and also sells its products on Amazon.

    Modular Design for Adventurers

    The WP300 features a modular design, allowing it to use both a lamp module and a display module. This makes it perfect for outdoor activities like camping. Just like the display module, the camping light can be worn on a wristband, effectively turning it into a smartwatch. This device also has an extra function as it can function as an earbud or headset for phone calls. Overall, this Oukitel smartphone is very adaptable and can replace multiple gadgets.

    Impressive Specs

    Regarding specifications, the WP300 measures 6.98 x 3.24 x 0.92 inches and comes with the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 processor, offering up to 12GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. The 6.8-inch screen has a resolution of 1080 x 2460 pixels and a refresh rate of 120Hz, while the main camera features an impressive 108 megapixels. This Android device holds a MIL-STD-810H certification, has NFC, a side-mounted fingerprint sensor, and a massive 16,000mAh battery. It supports reverse charging up to 18 watts and can act like a power bank. We anticipate that the WP300 will also be available on Amazon in the future.

    Source:
    Link

  • Lofty Steam: Solarpunk Survival Game Funded 350% on Kickstarter

    Lofty Steam: Solarpunk Survival Game Funded 350% on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. Successful Kickstarter Campaign: Autonomica reached its $150,000 funding goal within 24 hours and has raised $601,962 from 7,017 backers with only a week left in the campaign.

    2. Genre Blending: The game combines elements from multiple genres, including survival, farming simulations, base-building, FPS, extraction shooters, and life/dating simulations.

    3. Unique World Exploration: Players will explore a strange, open-world environment with unconventional features, such as a sun that sets in reverse and glowing forests, while gathering resources and forming bonds with locals.

    4. Comprehensive Building Mechanics: Autonomica features a modular building system allowing for creative base construction, with over 100 crops and various livestock to manage, catering to different play styles from hands-on to automated farming.

    5. Multiple Game Modes: The game includes challenging survival and creative modes, along with unlocked additional features like underwater exploration and mech suits, all presented in a low-poly Solarpunk aesthetic.


    Autonomica, an indie game that’s currently in the works and is set to be published by Crytivo, quickly hit its Kickstarter funding target of $150,000 within just 24 hours. As of now, with only seven days left in the Kickstarter campaign, Autonomica has successfully gathered $601,962 from 7,017 contributors. Although Crytivo has not disclosed a specific release date yet, they have ambitious plans for a launch on PC via Steam, Xbox Series, and PS5.

    A Blend of Genres

    While Autonomica is primarily a survival game, it embraces a variety of features and mechanics from different genres, such as farming simulations, base-building and management, FPS, extraction shooters, and even life and dating simulations. Players step into the role of a logistics expert who crash-lands on what seems to be an alien planet after being caught in a supernatural storm.

    Exploring the Uncanny World

    The strange world appears familiar yet contains elements that are puzzling. For instance, the sun sets in reverse, the forest glows with an otherworldly light, and the island is home to peculiar phantoms that wander the hills at night. As you delve into this unusual environment, you’ll gather resources, form bonds with the locals, and establish a home base. The game’s open-world design encourages extensive exploration, and the development team assures that there will be no loading times or enforced rest mechanics to impede your journey.

    In-Depth Building Mechanics

    The base and home construction in Autonomica appears to be quite comprehensive, utilizing a modular building system that fosters a high degree of creativity. The developers have set ambitious targets concerning agriculture, farming, and factories, which are crucial elements of the game. Players are expected to grow over 100 different crops and raise various livestock, with distinct animals located in their own unique regions and biomes. Additionally, Autonomica allows players to choose how they want to manage their farms: they can adopt a hands-on approach similar to Stardew Valley, or they can go for a more automated system akin to Satisfactory.

    Modes of Play

    Much like its predecessors, including Minecraft, Autonomica presents both a challenging survival mode and a creative mode that lets players build and explore at their leisure.

    Following the achievement of its funding goal, backers have unlocked extra in-game features such as underwater exploration, mech suits, and aquaponic farming. Overall, Autonomica showcases a low-poly Solarpunk style, featuring somewhat cartoonish visuals combined with a generally optimistic aesthetic.

    Balancing Expectations

    The game makes some ambitious promises regarding the content it aims to deliver, attempting to blend genres that already possess intricate concepts. While the developer has significantly surpassed the initial funding goal, and Crytivo has experience in social simulation, resource management, and survival games, Autonomica seems to be an accumulation of prior experiences. However, it’s hard not to remain doubtful and not think of titles like No Man’s Sky when reviewing the Autonomica roadmap.

    Source:
    Link

  • Anker eufyMake E1 3D-Texture UV Printer Launches on Crowdfunding

    Anker eufyMake E1 3D-Texture UV Printer Launches on Crowdfunding

    Key Takeaways

    1. The eufyMake UV Printer E1 is a 3-in-1 printer designed for small businesses and personal use, allowing users to create textured prints on various materials up to 5 mm in height.

    2. Early bird pricing starts at $1,699, offering a savings of $800 compared to the standard price of $1,899; the Kickstarter campaign runs until June 12th, with deliveries starting in July.

    3. The printer features a print area of 400 x 300 mm and a resolution of 1,400 DPI, offering three modes: Flatbed, Rotary (for cylindrical items), and UV DTF Laminating.

    4. An accompanying app provides templates and AI design tools, with an optional subscription for commercial use rights and additional features.

    5. Unique ink cartridges will be sold online and on Amazon; the printer includes a 1-year warranty, with some parts requiring return for repairs.


    The eufyMake UV Printer E1 has launched on Kickstarter. This innovative 3-in-1 3D texture printer, from Anker’s sub-brand, is tailored for small enterprises or personal use. It enables users to personalize items with designs reaching up to 5 mm (about 0.2 inches) in height. You can print on various materials such as metal, glass, acrylic, and wood, creating textures that can resemble paint brushstrokes or a leather finish.

    Early Bird Pricing

    Those who want to be among the first to get the E1 UV Printer can make an early bird pledge of $1,699, which includes the E1 UV Printer along with the Ink and Cleaning Cartridge Kit, valued at $2,499. This offer allows for an $800 savings. Limited quantities are available; after that, the standard pledge will be $1,899. Additionally, backers who placed a pre-order deposit will benefit from cash back on their purchase. Other items available for sale include the Ink and Cleaning Cartridge Kit for $299, a single Ink and Cleaning Cartridge priced at $42.99 for 100 ml, a Rotary Printing Attachment for $399, and a Laminating Machine also for $399. The Kickstarter campaign is set to continue until June 12th, with deliveries starting in July.

    Specifications and Features

    The eufyMake E1, a winner of the 2025 iF Design Award, functions as a piezo ink-jet printer with a print surface area measuring 400 x 300 mm (approximately 16 x 12 inches) and boasts a print resolution of 1,400 DPI. It offers three print modes: Flatbed, which is the default; Rotary, requiring an attachment for printing on cylindrical items like mugs; and the UV DTF Laminating Machine, an additional accessory for sticker production. Furthermore, the printer includes a JetClean Smart self-cleaning feature.

    In the app that accompanies the printer, you’ll discover a variety of templates and AI tools to enhance your design work. However, keep in mind that there is an optional subscription that unlocks commercial use rights, expands cloud storage, and offers discounts on materials. The printer’s dimensions are 590 x 250 x 407 mm (around 23.2 x 9.8 x 16.0 inches), and it weighs 20 kg (approximately 44 lbs). Although it comes equipped with a filter and filtering fan, the company recommends opening a window to help eliminate lingering odors.

    Future Availability

    EufyMake mentions that their unique ink cartridges will be available for purchase on their online store, and they will also be listed on Amazon in the near future. The product includes a 1-year warranty, but customers might have to send back parts, like the printhead, to the company for repairs.

    Source:
    Link

  • Runk 2.0 Power Bank with NFC and GPS Tracking for iOS & Android

    Runk 2.0 Power Bank with NFC and GPS Tracking for iOS & Android

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Runk2.0 is a compact power bank, measuring 0.9 x 1.9 x 2.9 inches and weighing 2.5 oz, with a capacity of 3,000mAh.
    2. It can charge an iPhone 15 by approximately 55% and offers a 20-watt output for standard quick charging needs.
    3. The power bank features location tracking compatible with Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device for easy retrieval.
    4. It includes an NFC tag for functionalities like opening smart doors and sharing contact information.
    5. The Runk2.0 is currently available for pre-order on Kickstarter for $49, with potential financial risks for backers.


    The Runk2.0 is a new power bank that has some unique features and is currently raising funds on Kickstarter. It’s designed to be extremely small, which means its capacity is also on the lower side. Specifically, this mobile charger is about 0.9 x 1.9 x 2.9 inches in size and weighs only 2.5 oz. The power bank includes a handy carrying loop, allowing users to attach it to a backpack or luggage. This loop can also function as a charging cable.

    Capacity and Charging Performance

    The stated capacity is 3,000mAh, meaning that it likely won’t fully charge many of today’s smartphones. Nonetheless, it can offer a helpful boost of battery in emergencies or times when a phone runs low on power. Runker claims that the Runk2.0 can charge an iPhone 15 by approximately 55%. While it doesn’t support USB PD for ultra-fast charging, the 20-watt output should work well for standard quick charging needs. The power bank itself can recharge at 9V and 2A, which equals 18W.

    Tracking and NFC Features

    Another cool aspect of the Runk2.0 is its location tracking capabilities, as it works with both Apple’s Find My and Google’s Find My Device on Android. This means you can track your power bank’s location no matter what device you’re using, as long as compatible devices are nearby. This should generally be the case in urban areas and various other locations.

    Moreover, there’s an NFC tag included in the power bank, which can be handy for opening smart doors or easily sharing contact information through a digital business card, for example. As part of the Kickstarter initiative, supporters can secure a Runk2.0 power bank for a contribution of $49. It’s important to keep in mind the usual financial risks that come with crowdfunding, meaning backers might lose their money if the product doesn’t reach the market.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • FlexTab: Ultra-Thin AMOLED Tablet and External Monitor Combo

    FlexTab: Ultra-Thin AMOLED Tablet and External Monitor Combo

    Key Takeaways

    1. The FlexTab is a versatile device that can function as a portable monitor, tablet, or laptop with an optional keyboard.
    2. It features a 13.2-inch AMOLED screen with a high resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels and a refresh rate up to 120Hz.
    3. The device is powered by a Rockchip RK3576 chip and offers options for 8GB or 12GB RAM and 256GB or 1TB of storage.
    4. It includes multiple connectivity options, such as mini HDMI, USB 3.1, and USB 2.0 through Type-C ports.
    5. The FlexTab weighs under a pound, is only 0.12 inches thick, and is available for pre-order starting at $639, with shipping expected in July 2025.


    A new hybrid gadget named the FlexTab is now seeking support on Kickstarter. This innovative device can function as a portable monitor, a tablet, or even transform into a laptop with the optional keyboard. Additionally, it supports a stylus for more versatile use.

    Impressive Specs

    The FlexTab is equipped with a 13.2-inch AMOLED screen, boasting a resolution of 2880 x 1920 pixels and a refresh rate that can reach up to 120Hz. It achieves remarkable color precision, specifically a Delta E of under 1. The device features a 3:2 aspect ratio and can reach a peak brightness of 1,000 nits. Inside, it is powered by a Rockchip RK3576 chip, with options for either 8GB or 12GB RAM and 256GB or 1TB of internal storage. While the manufacturer remains relatively unknown, it seems the FlexTab operates on the Android system.

    Connectivity and Design

    One standout aspect of this AMOLED tablet is its ability to function as an external display, allowing image signals to be sent through mini HDMI or wirelessly. It also includes USB 3.1 and USB 2.0 connections via modern Type-C ports. The FlexTab is impressively slim at just 0.12 inches thick and weighs under a pound. It is powered by a 5,000mAh battery and can be pre-ordered with a pledge starting at $639. Shipping is slated to begin in July 2025, though potential backers should keep in mind the usual risks associated with crowdfunding, as there’s a significant chance that the product may never reach the market.

    Source:
    Link