Tag: Kickstarter

February 6, 2025
Apple AirTag Features Enhanced with E-Ink Display in PhotoTag
PhotoTag is currently raising funds on Kickstarter as a unique option to the Apple AirTag, which is available on Amazon for $23. What makes this tracker stand out is its integrated color e-ink display that users can personalize with their own images.
Practical Uses of PhotoTag
This special feature also serves a practical purpose, as it can show contact details, aiding in the return of misplaced items to their rightful owners. Since e-ink displays don’t use power when displaying static images, the device’s CR2032 battery is anticipated to last up to 10 months. Nonetheless, there’s a downside to the PhotoTag’s design. Its dimensions are 1.77 x 1.38 x 0.31 inches, which makes it notably larger than an AirTag, potentially limiting its usability in certain situations.
Compatibility and Durability
The gadget is rated as water-resistant under the IP65 standard. Additionally, it is compatible with Apple’s “Find My” and Google’s “Find My Device” applications, allowing both iPhone and Android users to take advantage of this tracker. However, it’s worth mentioning that Google’s network may not always be as dependable, with some tests indicating that iPhones have a better chance at successfully locating the tracker.
Pricing and Shipping Information
Currently on Kickstarter, a single PhotoTag is available for pre-order at $29. The expected retail price is likely to rise to $59. Shipping is planned to begin in April 2025. Keep in mind that these prices do not cover import duties or shipping fees. PhotoTag marks the first endeavor of founder Xiang Liu, and potential backers should remember that crowdfunding campaigns carry the inherent risk that the product may never reach the market.
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Tags: AirTag, Kickstarter, PhotoTag
February 5, 2025
Sci-Fi MMORPG Kickstarter: Fund Now to Own a Planet!
Stars Reach is a new sci-fi sandbox MMORPG that offers a tactical and dynamic combat system along with various gameplay options. Players can choose their paths, whether they want to be a cartographer creating and selling maps of planets, a miner gathering raw resources, or a governor overseeing their own planet. The goal of Stars Reach is to change the MMORPG genre, similar to how World of Warcraft transformed fantasy MMORPGs. You can check out the video below for a sneak peek:
Ambitions Behind the Game
The development team at Playable Worlds has ambitious plans for Stars Reach, and they seem quite possible. The project is led by Raph Koster, who has a strong background with classics like Ultima Online and Star Wars Galaxies. Development began five years ago and has already attracted $38 million in funding from investors. However, since the game is still in its pre-alpha stage, this funding alone is not sufficient. The studio has now turned to Kickstarter to gather the necessary resources for the next phase.
Exciting Kickstarter Rewards
Playable Worlds hasn’t disclosed their specific financial goals or expectations for the Kickstarter campaign yet. Nevertheless, they have shared some information regarding the rewards for backers. Supporters can pick from several tiers, with some offering unique benefits, but none of these will disturb the game balance. The perks include:
Every higher-tier reward also includes all the perks from the lower ones, and early contributors can enjoy limited-time discounts. The pricing details for the various tiers are yet to be announced. Those interested in supporting can already follow Stars Reach on Kickstarter, with the campaign scheduled to begin on February 10. Early access is anticipated for late 2025.
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Tags: Kickstarter, Playable Worlds, Stars Reach
January 15, 2025
The Farm 51 Launches Kickstarter for New Post-Apocalyptic RPG
I’m not sure who is approving games that are like Stalker, but I appreciate it. It’s a fantastic time for Stalker enthusiasts. Not only are we anticipating Forest Reigns, but The Farm 51, the minds behind Chernobylite, have launched a Kickstarter for a sequel.
Chernobylite’s Success
The original game, which came out in 2021, has received 82% positive feedback on Steam. It’s about as close to Stalker as you can get without actually naming it that, featuring a spot-on rendition of The Zone called Exclusion Zone. However, it also has its unique features, such as the ability to build bases. True to the spirit of Stalker, players have pointed out bugs and performance hiccups. Still, one thing that nearly everyone agrees on is that the 3D-scanned environments are visually impressive.
Great Discounts Available
If you’re interested in trying the first game, it’s currently discounted by 75% until January 28th on Steam.
Chernobylite 2 appears to be sticking with the same formula but will include various enhancements, such as a character customization feature and a change from first-person to third-person perspective. The Kickstarter has already achieved half of its target with 29 days remaining.
What to Expect
The project page describes the game as “a post-apo action RPG game, mixing free exploration of huge and extremely realistic open world, challenging combat, unique crafting, team and base management with non-linear storytelling.”
There isn’t a confirmed release date yet, but the Steam listing mentions a release window of 2025. However, this might depend on how well the Kickstarter performs.
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Link
Tags: Chernobylite, Kickstarter, The Farm 51
January 15, 2025
AceFit Pro: Open-Ear Headphones with Integrated Lighting
New open-ear headphones are now seeking funding on Kickstarter, called the AceFit Pro. These headphones come packed with unique features and are available for pre-order, complete with an early-bird discount. As with any crowdfunding initiative, there are typical risks involved.
Pricing and Availability
The AceFit Pro is priced at $119, which is a 37% reduction from the retail price of $189. Customers can choose from four vibrant colors: green, pink, purple, and white. Additionally, there are several bundle options available, including a dual pack or packages that include other AceFast products. The global delivery is expected to begin in March 2025.
Unique Features
One standout feature of the AceFit Pro is its built-in lighting that offers eight different light effects. A matrix of 40 LEDs allows these open-ear headphones to shine brightly. This design not only adds a stylish touch but also aims to enhance safety during nighttime activities, like walking in poorly lit areas or jogging after dark. The manufacturer claims that the visibility can reach up to 10 meters.
Sound Quality and Design
For audio quality, AceFast has equipped the AceFit Pro with a 3-magnet Super Linear driver, which has a max amplitude of 0.5 mm. The earbuds are lightweight, weighing just 7.6 g, and they stay secure thanks to a 0.7 mm thin and flexible titanium wire that is wrapped in skin-friendly silicone.
Additional Features
Beyond touch controls, the AceFit Pro includes five different sound effects and ENC Noise Cancellation. The battery life is reportedly around 6 hours, but this can be extended by an additional 25 hours with the included charging case that features an integrated display. AceFast also assures users of reliable Bluetooth connectivity, thanks to LDS antennas, which support dual-device connections.
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Tags: AceFit Pro, Kickstarter, open-ear headphones
December 14, 2024
Sony PS5 Gets 30% Cooler with New AI Fan Technology
The SCRY Arctic V2 is an external cooling device that connects to the back of the Sony PlayStation 5, utilizing three small fans along with a heat sink to keep the console cool. According to the manufacturer, the airflow is claimed to be five times stronger, resulting in a reduction of temperatures by "30%," but no specific measurements or detailed data are provided.
Versatile Design
SCRY can function in both portrait and landscape positions. It features white LED lighting designed to enhance the gaming aesthetic. Unlike its first version, the SCRY now includes AI technology for smarter fan control, which is likely a response to numerous complaints about the loudness of the first model’s fans, which were advertised as nearly silent. However, since the PlayStation 5 operates quite quietly on its own and there aren’t widespread reports of overheating issues with the console, the actual benefits of a product like SCRY may be quite limited.
Pricing and Funding
Currently, the SCRY Arctic V2 for the original PS5, along with the Arctic S for the PS5 Slim and Arctic Pro for the PS5 Pro, is being funded on Kickstarter. The cooler is available through an "Early Bird" offer for $39, plus shipping and import taxes. At the time of writing, the project has successfully raised about $58,000 from 668 backers.
Considerations for Backers
Like any Kickstarter campaign, there are risks to consider when supporting such projects. Comments from backers of the first SCRY Kickstarter reveal that some individuals never received their coolers, while others reported the fans were significantly louder than what was advertised. Given the number of negative reviews from previous customers, it is wise to approach this new campaign with some skepticism.
Source: Link
Tags: Kickstarter, PlayStation 5, SCRY Arctic V2
October 11, 2024
Lymow One: Chain Drive Robot Mower Launches with 37% Off
The Lymow One is a new robotic lawnmower that’s currently seeking funding on Kickstarter. What makes it unique is its use of caterpillar tracks instead of traditional wheels for movement. The company claims that this design allows it to easily navigate over large obstacles, including branches and steps. It is also capable of tackling inclines of up to 100% (or 45°).
Performance Specifications
This robotic mower can cover an impressive area of up to 7,000 m² in just one day. It features a mowing width of 405 millimeters and allows for height adjustments ranging from 30 to 100 millimeters. Its dual mowing discs spin at a fast pace of 6,000 revolutions per minute. The maximum power output is rated at a remarkable 1,200 watts, while the continuous power is a more modest 300 watts.
Navigation and Control
Installation is simplified since the Lymow One doesn’t require a boundary wire for navigation. Like many modern robotic mowers, it utilizes GPS-RTK technology, necessitating the setup of a base station. It also comes with an IMU unit and offers the possibility of optical detection. Users can control the mower through an app, and it supports multiple zones.
Currently, backers can order the Lymow One at an introductory price of $1,899, excluding the RTK station. Expected delivery is slated for February 2025. However, as with any crowdfunding project, potential supporters should be aware of the inherent risks, particularly with ambitious ventures like this one.
Tags: Kickstarter, Lymow One, robotic lawnmower
July 14, 2024
Miniproca Mini PC: Foldable Touchscreen, Powerful Processor Unveiled
The Miniproca mini PC has made its debut, featuring a distinctive design and a 7-inch folding, multipoint touch display. The touchscreen can be adjusted to a 90-degree angle, showcasing the device’s adaptability.
Advanced Design and Features
Mini PCs with built-in displays are becoming more common, but the Miniproca Mini PC elevates these standards significantly. Recently introduced on the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter, this mini PC’s versatility makes it ideal for mobile use and confined spaces. It is powered by an AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX APU, with the AMD Radeon RX 680M graphics unit integrated into the APU. While this AMD Ryzen 9 APU debuted in 2022, newer and more powerful models have since been released by AMD.
Specifications and Connectivity
The Miniproca Mini comes with 4800MHz DDR5 RAM options of 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB. Storage choices include 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB M.2 2280 SSD via PCIe 4.0. Equipped with a vapor chamber heat spreader and a 400rpm blower fan, the device maintains efficient cooling even during demanding tasks, making it suitable for moderate video gaming. It supports connectivity through WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.
Ports and Pricing
The front of the mini PC features two USB-C ports, two USB 3.2 Type-A ports, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The back includes a DP 1.4 interface, two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, a Type-C port, dual 2.5G RJ45 wired network ports, and a 19V DC power supply connection.
The Miniproca mini PC is priced at $699 on Kickstarter, with deliveries expected to commence in October 2024. The availability of this model will depend on the success of the crowdfunding campaign.
Tags: AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX processor, Kickstarter, Miniproca Mini PC
July 8, 2024
Bluegen OKPad dual-screen tablet with IPS & E-Ink displays
OKPad, a novel dual-screen tablet from Bluegen, has initiated its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. This innovative gadget features an 8.9-inch IPS LCD display paired with a 7.8-inch E Ink screen, blending the best of both worlds for entertainment and productivity.
OKPad Specifications:
The IPS LCD screen is designed for typical tablet activities, while the E-Ink display, known for its paper-like texture and reduced eye strain, is perfect for reading, note-taking, and sketching. Both screens support touch functionality, and the E-Ink display offers 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, delivering a natural writing experience with the included Wacom stylus.
The tablet includes a 360-degree hinge, enabling smooth transitions between different modes. You can fold it like a traditional laptop for work or presentations, set it in tent mode for comfortable reading, or flip the screens entirely for a dedicated E-Reader experience.
Versatile Design and Performance
The OKPad is equipped with a durable 7000mAh battery, expandable storage, and a dedicated button for easy switching between displays. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 series processor, supported by 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage, which might seem modest for a device launching in 2024.
The tablet also features an 8MP rear camera and a 2MP front camera to cover basic photo and video needs. Running on Android 10, the slightly older operating system could be a deliberate choice for better software optimization with the E-Ink display, as eReaders often lag in adopting the latest Android updates. The age of the processor might also restrict future software upgrades.
For connectivity, the OKPad includes WiFi 5 and Bluetooth 4.2. The device sports a sturdy aluminum alloy body, stereo speakers, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
Pricing and Availability
Bluegen’s Kickstarter campaign for the OKPad offers several pricing tiers: the Super Early Bird special at $199 for the first 100 backers (50% off), followed by the Early Bird price of $249 for the next 200 backers (around 38% off), and a Kickstarter Special at $299 (about 25% off). Each tier offers significant savings compared to the regular price of $399. The company anticipates starting shipments in August 2024.
Tags: Dual-Screen Tablet, Kickstarter, OKPad
December 29, 2023
Kickstarter Unveils Retro Gaming Watch with Mini Handheld Console Feature
A distinctive gaming wearable named the Retro Gaming Watch has been unveiled by an American start-up.
This innovative gadget, which resembles a miniature Game Boy SP, can be worn on the wrist and opened to enjoy classic games. Seeking financial support for the device, Jason Rogers, the creator of the Retro Gaming Watch, has initiated a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign.
Innovation on Your Wrist
Beyond a mere timepiece, the Retro Gaming Watch serves as a compact gaming console. When not in gaming mode, the watch’s screen can be rotated to unveil a miniature console. It comes equipped with both hardware and software to replicate vintage games. This device provides a unique gaming experience that can be savored while on the move.
Technical Specifications and Attributes
Although primarily intended for gaming, the Retro Gaming Watch also operates as a functional watch. It showcases a small display for essential watch functions and a 1.54-inch 320 x 320 pixels internal LCD boasting a 60Hz refresh rate, specially optimized for gaming. Featuring four action buttons, a D-Pad, a magnetometer, an accelerometer, and a single speaker, the watch is a blend of versatility and entertainment.
Internally, the Retro Gaming Watch is fueled by a Renesas/Dialog DA14706 chip housing a 160MHz application processor. Additionally, it integrates two ARM Cortex-MD processors dedicated to sensors and Bluetooth connectivity. The device impressively hosts a 2D GPU, 1.5MB of internal memory, and 8MB of external QSPI RAM. Noteworthy is its Efinix T20 FPGA, facilitating the creation of custom video game hardware with unique cores to emulate popular 8- and 16-bit consoles. This positions the Retro Gaming Watch as an ideal platform for playing emulated classic games, with the FPGA handling most processor tasks.
Battery Life and Price Points
When utilized as a smartwatch, the Retro Gaming Watch offers a battery life of up to two days. Nonetheless, for 2D gaming sessions, users can expect a playtime ranging from 2 to 4 hours.
Regarding pricing and availability, funding for the Retro Gaming Watch is currently pursued through a Kickstarter drive. Early supporters can secure their unit for as low as $159. The leading supporters are slated to receive their watches by November 2024.
Shaping the Future of the Retro Gaming Watch
The trajectory of the Retro Gaming Watch will be shaped by the success of the Kickstarter campaign. A successful campaign is likely to result in a machined steel body for the device. Conversely, inadequate funding may lead to the production of the console with an injection-molded plastic body. For backers pledging $350, beta testing opportunities are open, with the estimated delivery of the watch set for March 2024.
Tags: Kickstarter, mini gaming handheld, retro gaming