There’s something really likable about turtles. Aside from being majestic underwater beasts, they seem really chill. Life for these aquatic reptiles involves swimming about in tropical waters, looking for the next patch of algae to munch on. Nothing much seems to phase them.
Perhaps that’s why the Robotaka design team chose to make Smurtle, their new smart speaker stand, look exactly like a turtle.
This cool accessory adds personality to your Amazon- or Google-powered speaker, and keeps the cable out of sight. You can even use it to conceal a battery pack, making your speaker truly portable.
Despite measuring just 1.6 inches across, the Amazon Echo Dot smart speaker isn’t actually portable.
Of course, you can move it from wall socket to wall socket. But for this tiny device, a power cable is essential. The same goes for the Google Home Mini, in spite of its equally diminutive proportions.
But that changes with Smurtle. This fun smart speaker stand lets you hook up your Amazon or Google device to a portable battery pack.
Thanks to some smart design, Smurtle ensures that neither the battery nor the cable is outwardly visible. Furthermore, this self-contained unit is easy to move around and pack for your travels.
Made from recyclable, BPA-free ABS plastic, Smurtle is one funky turtle. Available in four colors, this animalistic stand crouches low on four legs. A smooth matte finish adds a touch of class.
Instead of a shell, Smurtle has a vacant tray that provides a secure home for your smart speaker. You can then easily tuck the power cord inside the stand, or stash a power bank.
Depending on your battery pack, you can use your speaker for up to 12 hours without cable power. Furthermore, it’s even possible to connect your Google Home Mini or Amazon Echo Dot to your phone for data on the move.
When you’re not using the Smurtle stand, it makes a useful tray for other stuff, such as your keys. And as you would expect from a turtle, this product is 100% waterproof.
“The Smurtle gives the Home Mini or Alexa Dot the best of both worlds – a cleverly hidden power cable storage system or the freedom of using your smart speaker with cord free mobility.” — Robotaka on Kickstarter
Being able to take Alexa or Google away from home is a major upgrade. What’s more, this turtle does it in style.
If you don’t like the animal look, Robotaka is also making a cute robot version of the smart speaker stand.
– Kickstarter: Until November 24th
– Pledge: $20 USD
– Delivery: November 2018