Kickstarer has been the starting point for so many cool innovations over the last six years. 2014 was a big year for Kickstarter too – we saw the most funded project of all time pull in over 13 Million dollars in funding. Now we’re not just reporting on the most successful campaigns from last year here, we’re reporting on the coolest products to come out of the crowdfunding mega machine in 2014.
Lix 3D Pen
If you’re not familiar with 3D printing yet, this pen could blow your mind. The Lix Pen allows you to create and draw three dimensionally into the air. No need for paper, you just need a base then you are creating. The pen heats a plastic filament and it is charged by USB which means you can take it anywhere with you. Unlike traditional 3D printers, you won’t be able to create bowls, cups and solid objects, but it has mass appeal to designers, artists and anyone who just loves to create. The Lix 3D Pen brings the 3D world into the palm of your hand at an affordable price of around $140.If someone told you they had invented a new personal music player, you’d probably tell them they’re dreaming. If that person is Neil Young, you sit up and pay attention. The old rock ‘n roll master has put a new twist on things by producing music listening experience that sounds like you’re in the studio with the artist. A string of big name artists including Tom Petty and Eddie Vedder have described it as the best listing experience outside of a studio. Unique in shape and size, the Pono is available now for $400. The jury may still be out on how revolutionary this product actually is, but the Kickstarter hype surround the Pono has been huge.
Coolest Cooler
The most successful Kickstarter campaign ever. I WANT ONE. OK, so this isn’t really a tech product, but admit it, you want one too. There isn’t much technical explanation required, it’s a simple idea that makes you wonder why it was never invented sooner. You can cool your drinks, mix cocktails, play music through the waterproof bluetooth speaker and charge your devices where ever you go. There are too many features to list here, but if this isn’t perfection, I don’t know what is. 13 Million dollars pledged by 62,000 backers can’t be wrong. If you didn’t back the campaign you will have to wait to get your Cooler until later this year.
FlyKly Smart Wheel – Electronic Bicycle Wheel
As the makers say “It’s cycling, just better”. When you add the smart wheel to your bike you have the power to roam where ever you want to. The wheel is a lightweight peddle assist mechanism that is controlled from your smart phone. The units 250W motor is powered by Lithium batteries that have the capacity to carry you at speeds of 16 mph and a range of 25 to 60 miles. Through the app you have the ability to measure speed, distance travelled, battery levels and all while monitoring your input and output along with the battery’s recharge levels.
