Hasta La Ideas

This small device allows users to talk to, play with and watch their pets when apart, for the reassurance that they are happy and safe at home.

Petcube Play is an indoor camera compatible with both iOS and Android smartphones. It features a built-in laser toy and two-way audio, as well as more advanced features to monitor a pet’s activity.

Petcube Play launched at the Wearable Technology Show in London last month, following a successful crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter last year.

“Our co-founder Alex had a chihuahua with severe anxiety issues and leaving this dog home alone wasn’t really an option” Petcube co-founder Andrey Klen told Dezeen. “Obviously he needed a distraction, and that’s when Alex came up with the idea.”

Play’s laser toy and two-way audio are designed for users to talk and play with their pets at anytime. There is also the option of autoplay if the user is too busy to manually control the device.

The three-inch-wide device also has advanced camera features, including 24/7 video recording and night vision, along with sound and motion detection that notifies users of any prominent movements or disturbances. Petcube believes that collectively these features have the potential to save a pet’s life, should it be in danger in an owner’s absence.

The other major concern for the company is creating devices that look good in a pet owner’s home.

“The thing about many pet products is that they are designed carelessly,” Klen said. “Our design work balances things up.”

“Humans can now enjoy interacting with hardware and software that is easy to use, while our furry friends are benefitting from extra attention they totally deserve,’ he added. “Our cameras blend in modern interior, they are worth parading on a shelf and people feel comfortable with seeing them daily due to the clean aesthetic.”

Petcube Play is available in three colours: matt silver, carbon black and rose gold. The camera is finished with a rubber bottom to ensure it sits securely on any flat surface. An optional tripod can also be used to place the device in a higher position.

Petcube works to improve pets’ lives with technology. Play is the next generation of its original pet cam product, and follows on from Bites, an all-in-one camera with built-in treat dispenser.

New Deal Design has also explored similar terrain, launching the wearable Whistle – an activity-tracking device for dogs that tells owners if their pet is getting enough exercise.

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