Tag: Kickstarter

  • Pin Pulse Smart Ring: Can It Accurately Measure Blood Pressure and Sugar?

    Pin Pulse Smart Ring: Can It Accurately Measure Blood Pressure and Sugar?

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Pin Pulse smart ring can be pre-ordered for about $249 as part of a Kickstarter campaign, with expected delivery in August and additional shipping charges.
    2. Crowdfunding projects like this one carry potential financial risks, and backers should carefully consider their investment.
    3. The Pin Pulse claims to offer non-invasive metabolic wellness insights and glucose trend monitoring but is not a medical device.
    4. Measurements such as blood pressure and sleep apnea risk are estimations, while heart rate and blood oxygen levels are likely accurate.
    5. The Pin Pulse features an accelerometer for tracking physical activity and has a battery life of up to seven days, made from titanium.


    As stated, the Pin Pulse can now be pre-ordered at a discounted price. This pre-order is part of a Kickstarter initiative. Backers will be able to grab the ring starting from approximately $249. Additional shipping charges will apply, and the expected delivery won’t happen until August. It’s important to highlight the potential financial risks involved with crowdfunding projects. We are also eager to discover the ring’s actual capabilities in the end. Potential users should think carefully about whether the current excitement justifies their financial involvement. At this stage, we would suggest reconsidering support for the campaign.

    Important Details to Consider

    It’s essential to examine the details of this campaign thoroughly. The Pin Pulse claims to be the first smart ring that captures “non-invasive metabolic wellness insights and glucose trends.” Utilizing optical sensor technology and AI, it can monitor subtle bodily signals and provide warnings for elevated blood glucose levels. However, this is not classified as a medical device. We tend to view such claims with skepticism, especially since testing for prediabetes or diabetes is straightforward and cost-effective, typically achievable through a doctor’s appointment with standard blood glucose tests.

    Limitations of Measurements

    The same caution applies to blood pressure readings. In fact, this measurement is merely an estimation, as is the assessment of sleep apnea risk. Nevertheless, heart rate and blood oxygen levels are likely to be accurately measurable. The device also includes an accelerometer to track physical activity, particularly steps taken. Additionally, the Pin Pulse is made from titanium, and it boasts a battery life of up to seven days.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Revive PC Gaming with Hyper Sentinel Fusion’s Collector Box

    Revive PC Gaming with Hyper Sentinel Fusion’s Collector Box

    Key Takeaways

    1. Game Concept: Hyper Sentinel Fusion is an arcade shooter that combines classic gameplay with roguelite and extraction features, set to release in 2026 on floppy disk.

    2. Funding Progress: The Kickstarter campaign has raised $16,000 of the $20,224 goal, achieving 75% in the first 24 hours, with 31 days remaining.

    3. Backer Rewards: Various tiers of backer rewards include early access, digital copies, and exclusive items such as a Certificate of Authenticity and inclusion in the game’s lore.

    4. Gameplay Mechanics: Players control a starfighter to destroy enemies within procedurally generated structures, collect resources, and strategize for future attempts after failures.

    5. Development Status: The game is 80% finished, with a targeted release date in summer 2026.


    Hyper Sentinel Fusion is an arcade shooter that combines classic gameplay with roguelite and extraction features. It will be released in 2026 on a floppy disk. This game is the new addition to the Hyper Sentinel series created by Andrew and Rob Hewson, a father-son team.

    Funding Progress

    The Kickstarter campaign for the floppy disk version is currently active and has successfully raised $16,000 from more than 300 supporters. It is getting close to the target of $20,224 needed to bring the project to life. With 31 days left, the campaign hit 75% of its goal within the first 24 hours, making it likely that the game will go into production for PC, Mac, Xbox Series S|X, Nintendo Switch, PS5, PS4, and limited floppy disks, featuring an interesting surprise.

    Game Background

    This new game follows the 2018 release of Hyper Sentinel, which was inspired by classic titles from the Commodore 64, like Uridium and Paradroid. Andrew and Rob continue to pay tribute to retro gaming by revisiting the floppy disk origins of these beloved games.

    As stated on their Kickstarter page, “Slide open that floppy shutter to uncover a secret USB stick loaded with this exciting new retro game for the modern era (DRM-free) for PC and Mac, crammed with bonus goodies. It’s just like finding hidden cheat codes of the past.”

    Backer Rewards

    Early Bird Backers who contribute £25 or £30 will be rewarded with everything in the digital package, including Hyper Sentinel Fusion on their chosen platform. For £45, backers will receive all features from the previous tier, in addition to the original Hyper Sentinel on a USB cassette and a digital version for PC.

    Those who donate £150 will have their name included in the Fallen Heroes Log Book Lore, receive a Certificate of Authenticity, and also get beta access to play the game on PC before its official launch.

    Floppy Drive Nostalgia

    Given that most modern PCs, with a few exceptions of retro fans, have moved on from floppy drives to digital formats, choosing a floppy-disk-themed USB drive is a clever idea. The USB drive is securely held inside a sliding 3.5-inch case, accompanied by a colorful manual and additional surprises, all packaged beautifully.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    Hyper Sentinel Fusion builds upon its 2018 predecessor. Players will take control of a starfighter and destroy enemies within procedurally generated alien megastructures.

    Players will infiltrate enemy vessels, deploy a Hyper Droid to collect resources and weapons, and track down the Alienoid Cortex before the ship goes boom. If you fail, you return to your Moonbase, where you can spend your hard-earned resources on upgrades and strategize for your next attempt.

    Development Status

    On the development front, Hyper Sentinel Fusion is reported to be 80% finished, and the team is aiming for a release in the summer of 2026.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • YZG-X1 External Enclosure for Two M.2 2280 SSDs, Up to 8TB

    YZG-X1 External Enclosure for Two M.2 2280 SSDs, Up to 8TB

    Key Takeaways

    1. Crowdfunding is used by both startups and established companies to promote new products, not just for funding.
    2. The YZG-X1 is an external enclosure for up to two SSDs, compatible with various M.2 sizes and supports up to 8TB of storage.
    3. The enclosure features active cooling with a fan and an aluminum case to prevent overheating during data transfers.
    4. There are inconsistencies in the product specifications, particularly regarding the peak transfer rate (10 Gbps vs. 40 Gbps).
    5. The X1 can magnetically attach to an iPhone for convenient storage of high-resolution videos and images.


    Crowdfunding can be a great way to gather money for a new product’s development and launch. Yet, it’s not just new startups that use crowdfunding; established companies also get in on the action, even when they don’t really need the funds. They often aim to promote their latest products instead. This current Kickstarter project, however, might come with more risk and offer a product that doesn’t stand out much, as there are already many similar options available in stores.

    Product Details

    The YZG-X1 is an external enclosure designed to hold up to two SSDs. It works with SSDs in the M.2 2280, M.2 2260, M.2 2242, and M.2 2230 sizes, meaning there are few limitations in this aspect. It can handle a maximum capacity of 8TB, giving users the ability to keep a lot of data on hand. To prevent overheating during long data transfers, it features active cooling with a small fan, and the aluminum case helps dissipate heat as well.

    Considerations Before You Back

    That said, there are some inconsistencies in the specs that could be concerning for those considering investing in this campaign. More specifically, the peak transfer rate is cited as either 10 or 40 Gbps. This significant difference could be crucial for users who prioritize speed when transferring large files frequently. According to the given specifications, the enclosure’s dimensions are 3.5 x 2.9 x 0.8 inches and it connects via USB 3.2 Type-C, which corresponds with a transfer speed of up to 10 Gbps. Furthermore, the X1 can magnetically attach to an iPhone, making it easier to save high-resolution videos or images.

    Kickstarter

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Omibo Smart Video Pin: Touchscreen Replacement for Print

    Omibo Smart Video Pin: Touchscreen Replacement for Print

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Omibo Smart Video Pin allows users to easily swap out designs on a digital display instead of buying new pins.
    2. The pin features a 1.8-inch HD circular display, likely using an IPS panel, but visibility in bright sunlight is limited.
    3. It has a relatively short battery life due to its LCD screen, with a 400 mAh battery that lasts only a few hours compared to longer-lasting MiP displays.
    4. The pin includes 2 GB of internal memory and supports an additional microSD card up to 32 GB for storing video clips.
    5. Currently funded through Kickstarter, the pin costs around $39, with delivery expected in May 2026, but there are risks associated with crowdfunding projects.


    Whether to express enthusiasm at a sports match, make a bold impression, or support someone, pins have long been a favorite way to show belonging to a group. The Omibo Smart Video Pin aims to do away with the need for constantly purchasing new pins, as its printed surface can be easily swapped out for a digital display.

    Display Features

    This circular display measures 1.8 inches diagonally and is claimed to provide HD resolution, although the company hasn’t shared more technical specs. Judging by its cost and the demo videos available, it probably uses a typical IPS panel with backlighting. While it looks good indoors, the visibility of this type of screen in bright sunlight is much poorer when compared to a MiP or E Ink display.

    Power Consumption

    Moreover, LCD screens use a relatively high amount of energy. In contrast, a MiP display without backlight can last several days to weeks, while an LCD’s battery life is only expected to be a few hours; the maker hasn’t stated how long the 400 mAh battery will actually last. Charging happens through USB-C. With 2 GB of internal memory and an optional microSD card (up to 32 GB), you can store hundreds of video clips right on the pin. You can attach the pin to your clothing using either a safety pin or a magnet.

    The Omibo Smart Video Pin is currently being funded through Kickstarter. During this campaign, the pin costs HKD 305 (around $39) plus shipping, import VAT, and customs fees. The expected delivery is set to start in May 2026. Since this is the first Kickstarter project from the manufacturer, there are some risks in backing crowdfunding projects, such as the possibility that the product might not function as promised or may never reach the market at all.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Abxylute N6 and N9C Nintendo Switch 2 Controllers Release Date

    Abxylute N6 and N9C Nintendo Switch 2 Controllers Release Date

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Abxylute N6 controller for Nintendo Switch 2 launches on February 18.
    2. It connects via USB-C and features a 9-axis gyroscope, voice chat button, turbo function, macro support, and adjustable vibration.
    3. The N6 has Hall Effect joysticks with anti-friction metal rings and customizable back buttons.
    4. The N6 will be available in Translucent Black and Indigo Purple; the N9C will only be in Indigo Purple.
    5. The N9 controller will not launch on the same date as it is still in development.


    Last August, Abxylute introduced a new controller for the Nintendo Switch 2, named the N6. This controller takes the place of the Joy-Cons 2 and connects to the Switch 2 through USB-C. After a long five-month wait, Abxylute finally announced the launch date for the controller.

    Launch Date Announcement

    According to an update posted on their Discord channel, the Abxylute N6 is set to launch on February 18. It will be released alongside the Abxylute N9C, which was revealed just a few weeks prior. Both of these controllers will be available on Kickstarter. However, the Abxylute N9, which was also announced with the N6, will not be released on that same date as it is still undergoing development.

    Controller Features

    As previously highlighted, both controllers connect to the Nintendo Switch 2 via USB-C (currently available on Amazon for $499). They are equipped with a 9-axis gyroscope, a dedicated C-button for voice chat, a turbo function, macro support, and adjustable vibration settings.

    Moreover, the N6 features Hall Effect joysticks that come with anti-friction metal rings, offering a stick angle of 23° compared to the Joy-Con’s 18°. It also has two back buttons that can be customized, and the ABXY buttons along with the D-Pad are made from conductive rubber.

    Color Options

    The N6 controller will come in Translucent Black and Indigo Purple colors, while the N9C will only be offered in Indigo Purple.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • How the ARCH Wearable Simulates Walking While Sitting

    How the ARCH Wearable Simulates Walking While Sitting

    Key Takeaways

    1. Increased sitting time can weaken leg muscles, highlighting the need for solutions to promote movement.
    2. The ARCH walking simulator mimics natural muscle movements to improve blood circulation in the legs.
    3. It uses microactuators and sensors to adapt to the user’s vital signs for effective movement.
    4. The device offers a force output of up to 3kg per actuator, providing gentle support for users.
    5. Priced at $594, the ARCH is sold as a single unit to accommodate various user needs and affordability.


    For a lot of people, sitting is just the way they do work or take it easy. While it’s not really bad for health, the amount of time spent sitting is going up. Because of this, leg muscles might not get enough exercise to keep them in good shape. Although it’s simple to stand up and stretch now and then, as a product engineer from ARCH mentioned, there are times when standing isn’t possible, like when you’re driving. This is where ARCH comes in: already backed on Kickstarter, ARCH wants to tackle this problem and others with the ARCH walking simulator.

    How It Works

    By activating the muscle group linked to the Achilles tendon, the ARCH walking simulator imitates natural muscle movements, helping to pump blood back to the heart and out from the user’s legs. The movement is created by a bunch of microactuators, which are managed by sensors that track the user’s vital signs, such as heart rate and tissue oxygen saturation (SpO2). The team claims that this setup allows for a closer match to the user’s circulatory rhythm and circulates blood more often than other products. When questioned about the force produced by the microactuators, the team mentioned they can provide up to 3kg of force per actuator. To give some context, a typical human thumb can exert about 5kg of force, so the actuators are on the gentler end of the force scale.

    Pricing and Availability

    Considering the team has included so much technology in a compact form, it’s not surprising that the ARCH is being launched at a special price of $594 for one unit. Since most people have two legs, it’s a bit strange that the ARCH is sold as a single unit. However, the team explained that this was a thoughtful decision, making it more affordable and versatile. Many tasks, like driving, often use leg muscles unevenly, so this design is also great for those who might have leg problems on just one side. With this kind of careful thought, it’s obvious that the ARCH team aims to create a product that can assist a diverse group of users. For more information, users can check out their complete campaign linked below.

    ARCH on Kickstarter

    Source:
    Link


     

  • TDM Neo Headphones: Transform into Bluetooth Speaker on Kickstarter

    TDM Neo Headphones: Transform into Bluetooth Speaker on Kickstarter

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dual Functionality: The TDM Neo can transform from headphones to a portable Bluetooth speaker by twisting the earcups, addressing the need for both private and shared audio experiences.

    2. Technical Features: It includes four 40mm drivers, dual amplifiers, adjustable EQ, and supports multiple audio codecs, alongside Bluetooth 6.0 and Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC).

    3. Battery Life: The headphones offer over 200 hours of battery life in headphone mode, but only about 8 hours in speaker mode, with quick charging capabilities.

    4. User-Friendly Design: The battery is user-replaceable and the earcups can be swapped out when worn, enhancing the longevity of the product.

    5. Pricing and Funding: Available for pre-order on Kickstarter at $189, significantly lower than the retail price of $249, with successful funding exceeding $79,000 against a $10,000 goal.


    If you’re looking for headphones that can also function as a Bluetooth speaker, the TDM Neo might be just what you need. Initially introduced at CES 2026, this innovative audio accessory is now up for grabs on Kickstarter.

    Design and Functionality

    At first glance, the Neo resembles standard headphones with its soft headband and comfy memory foam ear cushions. However, it cleverly morphs into a portable Bluetooth speaker when the earcups are twisted in a special way. This is quite different from the JLab Blue XL, which is a Bluetooth speaker styled like oversized headphones.

    TDM claims that the Neo addresses the hassle of switching between headphones and bulky speakers when transitioning from private listening to shared sound. Interestingly, the twisting mechanism is not just practical for using the headphones as a speaker; it also facilitates easy storage, taking up minimal space.

    Technical Specs

    The TDM Neo is equipped with four 40mm drivers, dual amplifiers, and an adjustable EQ. It supports various audio codecs, including SBC, AAC, LC3, MSBC, and CVSD. Weighing in at 330 grams, it also features Bluetooth 6.0, Bluetooth Multipoint support, Google Fast Pair, and a Find Me option. Additionally, there is an aux port and a USB-C port. Although it lacks Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), the specs indicate it has Environmental Noise Cancellation (ENC) that utilizes four microphones for clear voice calls.

    The headphones boast a battery life exceeding 200 hours, but this decreases to around 8 hours when used in speaker mode. Quick charging is available, with just a 5-minute charge providing 8 hours of playback in headphone mode. TDM mentions that the battery is user-replaceable and users can also swap out the earcups when they become worn.

    Pricing and Availability

    You can pre-order the TDM Neo on Kickstarter at an early bird price of $189, which is a notable reduction from the retail price of $249. At the time of writing, TDM has garnered over $79,000 from backers, far surpassing its $10,000 target. Shipping is expected to begin in July 2026.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • New 4K Projector with RGB Laser and 3,300 ISO Lumens Discounts

    New 4K Projector with RGB Laser and 3,300 ISO Lumens Discounts

    Key Takeaways

    1. AWOL will launch a new 4K laser projector on Kickstarter starting February 10, with significant discounts for early backers.
    2. Backers can potentially save up to $2,500 by pledging $50, bringing the projected cost down to $1,999.
    3. The projector features 3,300 ISO lumens, an Ultra Short Throw (UST) design, and can create a 100-inch image from just 19 inches away.
    4. It has a low input lag of 1ms and supports VRR and ALLM, making it suitable for gamers.
    5. Alternatives like the Wemax Nova Pro are available for those seeking different options.


    We have mentioned AWOL, the manufacturer, several times in the past, and not all of it has been good. At the CES event, they showcased new projectors that will be funded through crowdfunding starting on February 10 on Kickstarter. AWOL is offering some significant discounts for the first day, although they have not revealed the exact pricing yet. Still, those interested in backing the project can potentially save up to $2,500 by pledging $50, which is said to bring the cost of the 4K projector down to $1,999. It’s crucial for backers to be aware of the shipping details and to think about the financial risks associated with crowdfunding ventures.

    Technical Specs Overview

    Moving on to the technical aspect, the Kickstarter page has already shared some key specifications. This 4K laser projector is said to deliver 3,300 ISO lumens. Additionally, the images provided show that it is a UST (Ultra Short Throw) projector, meaning it can be placed quite near to the wall or screen. From a distance of around 19 inches, it can already create a 100-inch image. AWOL claims that the input lag is impressively low at just 1ms, and it supports features like VRR and ALLM, which are essential for gamers. The projector also boasts an RGB laser configuration, promising bright and vivid colors. 3D playback is in development too, but users will need to have 3D glasses for that feature.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Abxylute 3D One Handheld PC Now Shipping After 2-Month Delay

    Abxylute 3D One Handheld PC Now Shipping After 2-Month Delay

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shipping for the Abxylute 3D One handheld PC began on February 3rd, with an initial batch of 80 units for backers.
    2. The second batch of orders is in production, but will not ship until after March 3, following the Chinese New Year.
    3. The device features a 10.95-inch 2.5K display with glasses-free 3D technology and supports around 50 optimized games from Steam.
    4. It is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, 32GB RAM, and includes a 1TB SSD, with detachable controllers and a magnetic keyboard option.
    5. The price for new customers to pre-order is $1,599, following a Kickstarter campaign price of $1,499.


    When the Abxylute 3D One handheld PC was introduced on Kickstarter in November 2025, it was supposed to start shipping to backers in December. Sadly, that timeline got pushed back. Almost two months later, Abxylute has finally confirmed that shipping has commenced.

    Shipping Updates

    As noted in an update on their Discord channel, Abxylute stated that shipping started today, February 3rd. Just like they mentioned back in November, the initial batch consists of only 80 units, which will go to backers who have already made their payments. Depending on the chosen shipping method, recipients should expect their deliveries to arrive within a week at the soonest.

    Production Plans

    Abxylute has also informed everyone that the second batch of orders is already in processing, with production schedules being set up. However, these units are not anticipated to ship until after the Chinese New Year festivities, which wrap up on March 3.

    Specifications of the Device

    The Abxylute 3D One is a large handheld PC featuring a 10.95-inch IPS display with a 2.5K resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz. What makes this handheld special is its glasses-free 3D technology, enabling users to enjoy games in 3D. Abxylute claims that around 50 titles from Steam have been optimized natively for a 3D experience, while other games, videos, and images are converted into 3D in real-time.

    Equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V and 32GB of LPDDR5X RAM, along with a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, the Windows 11-operated Abxylute 3D One comes with detachable controllers similar to those of the Nintendo Switch 2, which can be purchased on Amazon for $499. It also includes an integrated kickstand and can function as a laptop when a magnetic keyboard is attached.

    Pricing Information

    When it was first announced last year, Abxylute set the price at $1,799, but those who pre-ordered during the Kickstarter campaign could get it for $1,499. Now that the campaign is over, interested customers can still pre-order it from the Abxylute website, though it is now priced slightly higher at $1,599.

    Source:
    Link


     

  • Shargeek 300 Power Beast Accessory Launching Soon

    Shargeek 300 Power Beast Accessory Launching Soon

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Shargeek 300 power bank will launch on Kickstarter on February 10, 2025, with early bird offers starting in December.
    2. It has a maximum combined output of 300W, featuring two USB-C ports that can charge two laptops at 140W each.
    3. The power bank is airline-safe with a 24,000 mAh (86.4 Wh) battery and supports PD 3.1 fast charging.
    4. Users can monitor battery life and charging details on a smart display, which also features customizable RGB lighting.
    5. Pledges for the Shargeek 300 are expected to start at $149; the retail price has not yet been announced.


    The Shargeek 300 power bank is set to debut soon through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. This device, branded as “the next gen power beast,” was introduced in May 2025. Interested customers can register for an early bird offer starting in December.

    Impressive Power Output

    As indicated by its name, the Shargeek 300 power bank boasts a maximum combined output of 300W. It features two USB-C ports that can provide up to 140W of power, allowing users to charge two laptops simultaneously. Additionally, it includes a USB-A port and a 140W DC output, with support for PD 3.1 fast charging.

    Airline-Safe and Convenient

    The Shargeek 300 is promoted as safe for airline travel, housing a 24,000 mAh (86.4 Wh) battery. This battery can be recharged at a rate of up to 140W, and users can check the remaining battery life on the smart display, which also provides other charging details. A standout feature is the customizable RGB lighting effects. The power bank is constructed with an aluminum body that has two transparent sections, one of which showcases the display.

    Launch Date and Pricing

    Sharge has announced that the Shargeek 300 will launch on Kickstarter on February 10th. Pledges are anticipated to begin at $149, although the retail price has not been disclosed. For comparison, the previous model, the Shargeek 170, which has a 24,000 mAh capacity and a total output of 170W, is priced at $169 (currently $135.90 on Amazon).

    Source:
    Link