Furby, Meet iBuKu

The smartest of smartphone cases, iBuKu Pets are poised to please with user-friendly interface and eco-friendly aims

Whether looking to improve battery life, camera resolution, or general sleekness, many of us are easily enticed by the newest smartphone upgrade. A recent study from Recon Analytics shows that Americans upgrade their cellphones every two years on average—in other words, outdated devices are collecting dust in cabinets and landfills alike. 

And while most developers are preoccupied with making apps and device accessories to supplement the newest of the new, Michigan-based company Arbor Cube has, thankfully, focused on reviving the old.

The company’s brainchild, the iBuKu Pet, is a colorful, soft encasement (made from BPA-free foam) compatible with iPhones and iPod Touches in a variety of dimensions. Attractive enough for a nightstand and safe enough to be thrown around, the gadget is well-suited to its target audience, aged three to 12. What’s more, the “huggable” case sports a built-in nightlight, alarm clock, wireless battery charger, video camera, and music player. 

You can pre-order the first wave of iBuKu pets here, though Arbor Cube representatives have said that further enhancements are on the way. Upcoming incarnations might even enable the pet to grow and learn alongside its trusty owner. Talk about an upgrade! —Lucie Alig

Photo courtesy of: Arbor Cube