If you are a lover of pop culture, and your personal space is adorned with Pokémon, Star Wars, Marvel, or Mario-themed products and devices, then, well you’re at the right spot. There’s something about pop culture designs that spreads a sense of joy and amusement through you, adding a whimsical quirkiness to even the most mundane of spaces. And, we’ve curated a collection of fun yet functional pop culture designs that cover some of your favorite movies, characters, and shows! From AI-generated Star Wars timepieces to furry Sonic The Hedgehog-themed controllers – this list of adorable and playful products has something for all pop culture lovers out there!
1. Star Wars Timepieces
Designed by our Editor-In-Chief Sarang Sheth, these imaginary timepieces are inspired by various characters from the Star Wars Saga. Every year, the 4th of May is celebrated as Star Wars Day, and these watches were created on Midjourney’s AI art generator as an ode to this day. The first one is an homage to the Storm Trooper with its slightly cloudy transparency and ceramic surfaces, while another one has a Darth Vader theme featuring the iconic Sith lord’s helmet.
Why is it noteworthy?
All the timepieces were created using Midjourney’s latest versions 5 and 5.1, functioning as accurate and impressive homages to the Star Wars series. All the pieces perfectly represent certain characters and their trademark characteristics – ranging from Darth Vader and his helmet to Yoda with his green skin and brown cloak
What we like
- There are various kinds of timepieces ranging from a wrist watch to pocket watch and even a table clock
What we dislike
- They’re conceptual AI-generated designs, so we don’t know how well they will translate into tangible products
2. Brooklyn 99 LEGO Build
One of my all-time favorite shows is Brooklyn 99, and LEGO creator Ben Fankhauser has built an adorable build featuring the entire 99th precinct, amped with all the rooms and characters from the show. The detailed set includes almost everything from the bullpen to the captain’s office and even the printer room!
Why is it noteworthy?
The entire set was built with great attention to detail, and the most precise aspect of the precinct’s floor was recreated. Some secret details were added as well! Fankhauser says the set is full of Easter eggs! Holt’s office even has his pet corgi – Cheddar.
What we like
- Accurate representation with hidden details for added excitement
What we dislike
- The iconic briefing/meeting room is not included in the build
3. SmartAir Minions Routers
The SmartAir Minions Routers were one of the key highlights at CES 2024 for us. We didn’t go searching for them, but when we did come across them, we were completely floored, because at first glance they look like plush little toys, but only a further investigation reveals that they’re adorable WiFi routers!
Why is it noteworthy?
The WiFi routers are available in two models, and they resemble two main characters – short and cute Bob, and tall and goofy Kevin. The Bob-shaped router offers dual-band WiFi connectivity, while the taller Kevin provides triple-band internet – 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz.
What we like
- The routers provide an excellent blend of wide coverage and high speeds
- They eliminate dead zones, providing WiFi connectivity to every corner of your home
What we dislike
- Kids may mistake them for toys and play with them, bringing down your home network
4. Squid Game Security Camera
Inspired by the dark South Korean series Squid Game, this security camera is the perfect addition to the home for every pop culture lover! It is designed after the workers who monitor the activities of the players on CCTV monitor. These creepy creatures can now be placed in your home, keeping your living space and you, safe and secure.
Why is it noteworthy?
The rotating lens of the camera is positioned where the eye would be, offering 180-degree views of the surroundings, ensuring complete security. The camera has a unique feature to ensure no hacking attempts can be made – it has a privacy mask that physically blocks the FOV when the camera is not being used.
What we like
- Has its own light illumination that can be adjusted by the user
What we dislike
- It is a conceptual design, so we’re unsure how well it would translate into a tangible one
- The relevancy of the Squid Game theme may be in question, so may not resonate with users
5. Dune: Part 2 Xbox Controller
Microsoft unveiled a Dune edition controller in collaboration with Warner Bros and Legendary Pictures to promote the release of the movie. The unique controller has a levitating feature, which essentially means that the controller rests on a stand that floats, although we’re unsure how this is achieved, but we guess magnets were used.
Why is it noteworthy?
The controller features a custom finish accentuated by the movie logo and symbols. The controller is also partnered up with a Dune-themed Ornithopter Stand which offers a whole feel. It has an alluring and vibrant feel, making it a true collector’s item.
What we like
- Gives off the impression that it is floating
What we dislike
- It is a one-off collector’s piece, so need to get your hands on it quickly
6. Samsung Eco-Friends Collection
Samsung has patterned up with a South Korean accessory maker to create the Eco-Friends collection. The line is quite eco-friendly, in comparison to the usual plastic-based accessories that you find in the market. They’re designed for the new Samsung devices like the Galaxy S23 line, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Buds 2 Pro, and the Galaxy Watch 5.
Why is it noteworthy?
The accessories are made from 40% Post Consumer Materials. These materials usually include recycled plastic and vegan leather. The designs feature popular characters and shows like Star Wars, Hello Kitty, Spongebob, The Simpsons, and Pokémon. There are also some fun designs by younger artists.
What we like
- Eco-friendly alternative to the plastic-based accessories found today
What we dislike
- Only limited to Samsung’s newer models
7. Elemental Coffee Machine
Meet the Elemental Coffee Machine – a unique coffee machine that combines the elements of Star Trek and Apple! The innovative coffee machine has a sleek silhouette featuring an espresso group head with an intuitive modern touch interface. The form of the machine is quite clean and minimalist, making it super easy to use.
Why is it noteworthy?
The coffee machine’s UI is a tribute to ‘okudagrams’ – a nickname given to the interactive displays found on control panels in 23rd and 24th-century starships as seen in Star Trek. The panel was added here to eliminate the long time it takes for filter coffee to brew, while also creating a fun experience.
What we like
- Has a MacBook reference in the compartment as it looks much neater
What we dislike
- Users may find the control panel unnecessary and may find it difficult to adjust to the machine’s form
8. Smart Minion Projector
This adorable Smart Minion Projector takes an otherwise mundane gadget to a whole new level. The geometric cylinder merges the elements of IP with the functionality of the product, while the yellow is the bright pop of color needed to transform the projector into complete Minion mode!
Why is it noteworthy?
The projector features a single camera, automatic focusing motor, and TOF feature face recognition which ensures the picture is clear at all times. A smart eye protection function can be added as well, making the project truly updated, and well-equipped to meet your movie-watching needs.
What we like
- Compact and cute upgrade to the typical projector
What we dislike
9. Starfield Xbox Controller & Headset
Last year at the Xbox Games Showcases 2023, Microsoft launched the Starfield Xbox controller and Starfield headphones to promote its sci-fi RPG dubbed Starfield. The controller is inspired by the ship’s controls as seen in the game and amped with transparent pad triggers and bronze rumble motors. The headset also has similar accents.
Why is it noteworthy?
The devices have a retro aesthetic which is defined as NASA-Punk in the DNA. The designs are quite clean, with the controller’s side and back grips resembling the panels of the spaceship. The gamepad can be easily used for various devices like Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Windows PC, Android, and iOS.
What we like
- Futuristic retro appeal combined with excellent functionality
What we dislike
- The controller doesn’t come equipped with a rechargeable battery
10. Sonic The Hedgehog Xbox Controllers
A collaboration between Microsoft and Paramount Studios led to a Sonic the Hedgehog Xbox controller and the Xbox Series S which is embossed in a black hue with the big iconic golden ring around the vent. Sonic and Knuckles have been featured on the front, and the controllers are also super cute!
Why is it noteworthy?
The controllers are furry! They are covered by a layer of furry-colored hair, one is blue like Sonic’s hair, while the other is red, mimicking Knuckles’ fur, creating unique controllers, and honestly unlike anything we’ve seen on the market.
What we like
- A must-have design for the Sonic fans
- Innovative take on controllers
What we dislike
- Not meant for people whose palms get sweaty easily
