Most of us find it impossible to spend as much time with our pets as we would like, so marketing any remote-controlled tech gadget that helps make them feel less alone when we’re not at home is always welcome. Virtual care can never replace in-person care, but at least in part it will alleviate our absences.
Petcube is a device that connects to the Wi-Fi network and allows dog and cat owners to interact with them remotely through their smartphone, be it iPhone or Android. Communication is bidirectional : the person can talk to their pet and also, thanks to a microphone that incorporates the gadget, listen to it.
It emerged a few months ago, but now two new models are launched that are improved versions of the invention. Both have two audio channels –for talking and listening–, a camera that records at 1080p , 4x digital zoom and night vision –so you can see what is happening even in the dark of night. Thanks to the advanced features of its camera, you will be able to see, talk and have fun with your pet anytime, anywhere.
On the one hand, there is the Petcube Play, which promotes play and exercise as the original device did (although this new version is much smaller). It incorporates a laser point that you can move by remote control with the help of your mobile – specifically through the Petcube application – and it will allow you to play with your pet (it seems designed especially for cats).
On the other hand, there is the Petcube Bites , with a candy dispenser that you can also operate remotely with the app, and that replaces the laser to play. In this way, you can take care of, train and reward your pet (in this case, the invention seems more aimed at dogs) when you are away. If you are going to be too busy at work, you can also program the dispenser to deliver treats to your pet at specific times; You even have the option of leaving personalized messages recorded for the moment the cookies are released. Also, you will receive a notification when you need to replenish the food.
The price of Petcube Play and Petcube Bites, which are seeking funding on the crowdfunding platform Kickstarter – in fact, 15 days before the deadline, their creators had already far exceeded the $ 200,000 they needed to start the project. -, it is 119 dollars (about 105 euros) the first and 149 dollars (about 132 euros) the second. The units will be shipped to their buyers in January 2017.
We leave you a video so you can see how both inventions work:
