ClawStage is a stationary AI companion designed to bring artificial intelligence into the physical world in a practical, approachable way. Instead of pursuing complex humanoid robotics, the product focuses on a compact, two‑cube structure that can sit on a desk or shelf and act as a persistent, expressive presence in a room. Built on a Raspberry Pi foundation, it combines a rotating display, customizable AI characters, and integration with connected devices to create a bridge between digital intelligence and real‑world interaction.

The concept centers on the idea that many people want an AI‑powered companion, but not a towering robot with an impractical price tag or footprint. ClawStage aims to deliver the feeling of a physical companion through motion, personality, and responsiveness, while remaining accessible in both cost and complexity. It is positioned as a device that can enhance everyday life, support smart home scenarios, and serve as a platform for experimentation and expansion.

ClawStage uses a simple but intentional physical design: two cubes stacked together, with the top cube able to rotate to face the user. The base cube houses the core hardware, while the upper cube features a high‑resolution screen that acts as the "face" of the AI companion. This rotating motion is driven by a voice‑based algorithm and microphone array that allow the device to detect where a person is located and turn toward them, reinforcing the sense of presence and attention.

On the display, an AI character appears as the primary point of interaction. A default character, Miku, is available, but the system is built around deep customization. Through a web‑based workshop, users can define their own characters using prompts, specifying appearance, personality traits, and behavioral tendencies. This approach allows the device to reflect a wide range of identities, from playful and friendly to aloof or reserved.

The character is not limited to visual design. Personality and behavior are also modeled, so a character that is defined as less sociable may occasionally turn away instead of constantly engaging. Voice, on‑screen expression, and physical motion work together to create a more complete sense of persona. The result is a companion that feels distinct and tailored, rather than a generic assistant with a static voice and interface.

At the core of ClawStage is a Raspberry Pi board, chosen for its developer‑friendly ecosystem and broad compatibility with sensors, actuators, and accessories. The team behind the product has experience building Internet of Things devices on Raspberry Pi, and that background informs the platform's extensibility. Many existing components, such as robotic arms and environmental sensors, can be connected and controlled through the system.

This hardware choice enables a powerful capability: natural language control of physical devices without requiring the user to write embedded code. Once a compatible device is connected, the AI can generate the necessary instructions to perform tasks, translating everyday language into specific actions. Previously, a user might have needed to define exact angles and movements for a robotic arm; with ClawStage, the goal is for the AI to understand concepts like a handshake or a wave and handle the technical details internally.

The product also integrates an open cloud architecture and home assistant system, allowing AI models to run locally rather than relying entirely on remote servers. This structure reduces latency and dependence on large‑scale infrastructure, while still delivering advanced capabilities. As noted, "this product… has OpenClaw and also home assistant system integrated into the product. So people don't need to configure it by themselves." The combination of local processing and smart home integration positions ClawStage as both a companion and a control hub.

ClawStage is being introduced through a Kickstarter campaign, with a functional prototype already completed. The team is using crowdfunding to fund the transition from prototype to mass‑production readiness, a process estimated to take about six months. After that phase, the goal is to bring the product to market in the fourth quarter, aligning with the holiday season.

Pricing for early backers is set at $279 USD for the full device. Recognizing that many early adopters are likely to be enthusiasts who already own Raspberry Pi boards, an alternative option is offered: users can bring their own Raspberry Pi and receive a discount of approximately $100, with firmware provided to make the system operational. This approach lowers the barrier for technically inclined users and leverages existing hardware that might already be sitting unused.

The initial audience is expected to include developers, makers, and smart home enthusiasts who are interested in experimenting with AI‑driven physical interaction. Over time, the product is positioned to appeal to a broader consumer base seeking a more expressive and customizable alternative to traditional voice assistants.

ClawStage represents a deliberate shift away from ambitious but impractical humanoid robots toward a focused, accessible form of physical AI companionship. By combining a rotating display, customizable characters, Raspberry Pi‑based extensibility, and local AI processing, it offers a platform that can evolve with user creativity and connected hardware. Its crowdfunding launch, flexible pricing for existing Raspberry Pi owners, and emphasis on real‑world utility suggest a product designed to meet both enthusiast and everyday needs. As part of the landscape of emerging AI devices, ClawStage stands out as a compact, personality‑driven companion that brings artificial intelligence into the physical environment in a tangible, customizable way.

Scott Ertz is a seasoned media professional whose dynamic presence spans broadcasting, journalism, and tech storytelling. As Editor-in-Chief of PLUGHITZ Live, he leads a multimedia platform that blends insightful reporting with engaging live coverage of major industry events. He's best known as the host of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology, a long-running show that demystifies emerging tech trends with clarity and charisma, and Piltch Point, where he collaborates with Avram Piltch to spotlight cutting-edge innovations.

Scott's media journey began with a passion for connecting audiences to the pulse of technology. His work has taken him behind the scenes at CES, Collision Conference, and FIRST Robotics events, where he's interviewed industry leaders and captured the cultural impact of tech in real time. His on-camera style is both approachable and informed, making complex topics accessible to viewers across platforms.

Beyond hosting, Scott is a developer and producer, shaping the technical backbone of PLUGHITZ Corporation's properties. His storytelling is rooted in authenticity, whether he's scripting historical segments or crafting social media narratives. With a background in gaming culture and community engagement, Scott brings a unique blend of nostalgia, innovation, and journalistic integrity to every broadcast. His voice is one of curiosity, connection, and creative leadership.

If you've ever used noise-canceling headphones, you know that the sound quality is definitely a consolation prize. But, what if you wanted to listen to music in proper quality and not have to deal with background noises like airplane sounds or road noise? Well, the Mu6 headphones are here to help eliminate that problem. With sound quality in mind, Mu6 was designed to be an active noise canceling headphone with great sound reproduction. This means it is perfect for travel and the music lover.

In addition to great sound, the headphones have got some unique capabilities. For example, if you are in a situation where the noise cancelation is turned on, but someone needs your attention (such as a flight attendant), simply put your left hand to your ear and you can hear all around you. In fact, it uses the built-in microphones to amplify only human voices, while lowering the volume on your music, making it easy to hear. If you need ambient sound for a longer period of time, you can turn on the Transparency Mode, which allows you to hear your whole environment, which is perfect for crossing a street.

One of the most impressive features of the Mu6, however, is the optimized sound experience. Similar to being in a doctor's office, you follow through a series of hearing tests to determine your personal hearing profile. From there, the headphones are able to adjust the equalizer to your exact hearing, making the music sound the way it did for the producers. You can also adjust the equalizer for different genres of music.

In addition to all of the exciting sound-related features, Mu6 also comes with a very styling and unique magnetic charging base. Simply put the headphones to the top of the stand and the magnets will pull it in to charge. When you're ready to leave, just pick them up and go. If you don't want to take the charger with you, you can also charge via a USB cable. All of this is included in the box.

The Mu6 headphones are currently available on Indiegogo through December 7, 2018, with perks starting at $149.

Daniele is a student at Florida Polytechnic University who is studying Computer Science with a concentration in Cyber Security. In High School, she was introduced to the science and technology world through the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), a robotics foundation where students of varying ages can compete through tasks that their robots perform. With help from mentors she met through FIRST, she became interested in programming and developing. Today, Daniele is a special events host for F5 Live: Refreshing Technology and PLuGHiTz Live Special Events and a co-host for both The New Product Launchpad and FIRST Looks.

If you have been to a luxury hotel recently, you might have noticed that the bedside alarm clocks have gotten a lot more interesting. Most offer a large, dimmable display, with a multitude of charging options, making it easy to keep all of your devices charged. Now, Kube Systems is bringing that luxury to the home.

The Kurrent is a home version of one of their popular hotel alarm clocks. With two built-in charging cables, two USB ports, an optional Qi charging plate and an outlet on the top, this alarm clock can make sure you're on time, and keep 6 devices charged, all at once.

The company's Indiegogo campaign runs now through October 12, and has public perks starting at $85 for early birds. Our viewers are getting a special perk, offering the clock and Qi charging plate for only $99 (rather than the publicly available $115).

Whether you like to hike, mountain bike, rock climb or participate in other outdoor activities, one thing that is always a problem is cell service. And while you might not be looking to make a call, you could be wanting to use a GPS to navigate a trail or mark waypoints along your journey.

That's where BackCountry Navigator XE comes in. This off-road GPS offers the ability to download maps to your phone to allow you to navigate easily even when you are out of service area. One of the coolest features is, to save you storage space on your phone, you can customize exactly what parts of the map you want to download, so you don't have to have a whole state, like with most GPS systems.

The BackCountry Navigator XE, which is the second product in the family, is available now on Kickstarter through September 28, with perks starting at only $10 for a year of service.

Today, listening to music is almost the national pastime. With services like Spotify and Amazon, there nearly any song you might want to listen to is available at your fingertips. But, what about when you don't want the hassle of using your fingertips? Some platforms have voice activation, but it still requires that you carry another device.

Vinci is a new take on the headphone that can eliminate the extra device. Featuring built-in touchscreen and storage, these headphones allow you to do many of your daily tasks without ever interacting with a phone or media external player. You can store music directly on the device, but you can also connect to Wi-Fi and stream music directly to the headphones. You can also take touch out of the equation as well, with built-in voice commands.

Vinci is available on Kickstarter through December 22, 2016. Backer levels start at just $99 for the headphones. You can also win a pair through our giveaway contest before the backer rewards will ship.

Daniele is a student at Florida Polytechnic University who is studying Computer Science with a concentration in Cyber Security. In High School, she was introduced to the science and technology world through the Foundation for Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST), a robotics foundation where students of varying ages can compete through tasks that their robots perform. With help from mentors she met through FIRST, she became interested in programming and developing. Today, Daniele is a special events host for F5 Live: Refreshing Technology and PLuGHiTz Live Special Events and a co-host for both The New Product Launchpad and FIRST Looks.

For athletes, listening to music is often an essential part of the experience. Whether running or cycling, a good soundtrack can keep you moving, even when you want to give up. The problem, of course, is that many traditional headphones can become uncomfortable for some people, especially while moving around.

That is where Audionoggin comes in. Rather than placing speakers on or in your ears, these are mounted to a hat or helmet. This prevents the normal rubbing between the device and your ear, making the experience more comfortable. It also adds a degree of safety because you are capable of hearing what is happening around you, preventing an accidental run-in with a vehicle or other obstacle.

The Kickstarter campaign runs through November 18, 2016, and has a variety of backer levels available.