The $299 Rubik’s Cube Replaces Colors With LCD Screens
▼ Summary
– The Rubik’s WOWCube is a 2×2 electronic version of the classic puzzle, featuring 24 color LCD screens and using rotation mechanics to play mobile games.
– It was developed by Cubios in collaboration with Spin Master, the Rubik’s brand owner, and is now available for preorder at $299 with shipping expected before the holidays.
– The device includes sensors for tilt, shake, and tap controls and connects via Bluetooth to a mobile app for accessing an app store with free and paid games.
– Its app store offers a limited selection of customized popular games like Space Invaders and 2048, along with productivity apps such as timers and weather widgets.
– The WOWCube can function as a traditional Rubik’s Cube and includes a reset feature instead of manual sticker realignment, powered by a proprietary charger with up to five hours of battery life.
The Rubik’s WOWCube reimagines the classic puzzle as a modern gaming device, replacing the familiar colored stickers with 24 vibrant LCD screens. This officially licensed 2×2 cube retains the twisting and turning mechanics of the original but uses them to navigate a variety of mobile games. Players can guide a race car by aligning track segments or tackle other challenges, blending physical manipulation with digital entertainment.
Cubios, the company behind the WOWCube, previously showcased an early iteration, but a partnership with Spin Master, current owner of the Rubik’s brand, has resulted in this new officially branded model. Preorders are now open at $299, with shipments anticipated before the holiday season. The device promises up to five hours of battery life and includes a specialized charger designed specifically for the cube.
Beyond rotating its screens, the WOWCube integrates motion sensors that respond to tilting, shaking, or tapping. A companion mobile app connects via Bluetooth, granting access to a dedicated app store. Here, users can download both free and premium titles tailored for the cube’s unique interface. For creators, Cubios provides an SDK to encourage development of custom apps and games.
While the WOWCube’s library is modest compared to major platforms, it features reimagined versions of hits like Space Invaders, 2048, and Cut the Rope, each adapted for interactive screen-based play. The selection also extends to practical tools: timers, animated screensavers, and widgets that show weather forecasts, calendar events, or stock updates.
For purists, the cube still offers a traditional color-matching mode. If you find yourself stuck, a simple reset function realigns the virtual colors, no peeling or repositioning required. The proprietary charging system, though not especially travel-friendly, ensures the device stays powered for on-the-go puzzling and play.
(Source: The Verge)
