NEWS – This week we are bringing you info about six different crowdfunding campaigns that are currently running on Kickstarter and Indiegogo. This week’s campaigns are for people who like to travel, like fidget toys, recycling, and more.
Smark Translator – Your Cross Border Sidekick
blurb by Julian Perry
What is it?
The Smark Translator is a handheld shareable Language translator.
Why is it cool?
I like the Smark Translator because it provides translation in 24 languages right from the device with no need to use an App. It can be used as a shared device by simply separating the 2 modules like in a walkie-talkie mode. It also has a conference mode that can handle multi-lingual translation with several people all at the same time.
Where can I find more info?
The Smark Translator campaign ends on 10/11/18 and they are still working towards their funding goal of $19,108. You can pre-order a Smark Translator starting at $185. After the Smark Translator campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in December 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
The Fidj: App & Smart Device Enabled Phone Spinning Gadget
What is it?
Fidj is a stick on thingy that turns your smartphone into a fidget spinner, art thing, toy.
Why is it cool?
I like the Fidj because it takes fidget spinning to a new level of fun and since it’s only $9, there’s not much to lose buying this conversation starter.
Where can I find more info?
The Fidj campaign ends on 9/10/18 and they have already reached their funding goal of $6,500. You can pre-order a Fidj starting at $9. After the Fidj campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
Plugo: An immersive AR gaming system
What is it?
Plugo is an AR gamepad designed to be used with iOS and Android tablets and smartphones for kids ages 5 to 11 to learn while playing games.
Why is it cool?
I like Plugo because it uses games and physical controls and objects to help teach kids math, vocabulary, navigation skills, construction, and more.
Where can I find more info?
The Plugo campaign ends on 9/15/18 and they have already reached their funding goal of $25,000. You can pre-order a Plugo starting at $25. After the Plugo campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in September 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
Tactical Marker 2.0 – The Classic Sharpie Marker Just Got Better!
What is it?
TM 2 is a holder/cover for Sharpie fine point markers.
Why is it cool?
I think the TM 2 Sharpie cover is cool because it’s a crazy over-engineered and expensive aluminum, brass, or titanium holder for a pen that you can buy for less than a buck. Why is that cool? Because the inventor is making money off this product when it’s a completely unnecessary purchase.
Where can I find more info?
The TM 2 campaign ends on 9/14/18 and they have already reached their funding goal of $3,000. You can pre-order a TM 2 starting at $45. After the TM 2 campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in October 2018. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
Mobius – The World’s Most Eco-Progressive Backpack
What is it?
Mobius is a backpack that is made from 31 recycled plastic water bottles and the padding made from algae. Yes, algae!
Why is it cool?
I think the Mobius is cool because I think recycling is cool. The backpack looks pretty nice too and features a roll-top design that lets the bag’s size and capacity to expand and contract as needed.
They will also plant 10 trees for every backpack that they sell.
Where can I find more info?
The Mobius campaign ends on 9/19/18 and they have already reached their funding goal of $35,000 CAD. You can pre-order a Mobius backpack starting at $77 US. After the Mobius campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in March 2019. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
4-Mation: The Interactive 3D Zoetrope.
What is it?
4-Mation is a Zoetrope. And if you don’t know what a Zoetrope is, it’s a disk or cylinder that shows an animation when it spins.
Why is it cool?
I think the 4-Mation is ultra cool because it can show a 3D animation the spinning disc physical objects attached to it. You have to watch the video above to understand.
Where can I find more info?
The 4-Mation campaign ends on 9/20/18 and they have already reached their funding goal of $10,300. You can pre-order a 4-Mation starting at $283 for a full kit with all the parts. After the 4-Mation campaign ends, rewards are estimated to start shipping in April 2019. Visit their Kickstarter page for all the details.
