NYU Students Create “Vape-o-Gotchi” at Hackathon Event
In a unique blend of nostalgia and modern habits, two New York University students have developed a device that merges the classic Tamagotchi digital pet with vaping technology. Dubbed the “Vape-o-Gotchi,” this innovative creation emerged from NYU’s “Stupid Hackathon,” an event designed to foster unconventional ideas.
Rebecca Xun and Lucia Camacho, the masterminds behind the Vape-o-Gotchi, drew inspiration from online discussions and personal experiences with vaping. Xun, who transitioned from smoking to vaping, saw an opportunity to gamify nicotine use management.
Initially conceived as a deterrent to vaping, the project took an unexpected turn during development. The team shifted to an “evil-mode” approach, humorously encouraging vaping to sustain the digital pet’s health. This pivot showcased the duo’s adaptability and creative problem-solving skills.
The device’s creation leveraged Xun’s software expertise and Camacho’s hardware proficiency. At its core, the Vape-o-Gotchi employs a simple electronic concept to measure vape usage, with software tracking the pet’s health based on vape voltage.
Despite not being an actual Tamagotchi, the project faced several technical challenges. The team experimented with various vape models and utilized hobby electronics and 3D printing for construction. Post-Hackathon improvements have addressed initial design issues, though challenges remain in waterproofing, durability, and aesthetics.
Looking ahead, Xun and Camacho are considering developing a “good” mode to discourage excessive vaping, potentially transforming the Vape-o-Gotchi into a more polished, marketable product. They are also contemplating open-sourcing the project to allow others to replicate and improve upon their design.
The Hackathon experience left a lasting impact on the creators, with physical tolls from intense testing and mixed feelings about the project’s outcome. As they recover and contemplate next steps, the Vape-o-Gotchi stands as a testament to innovative thinking at the intersection of technology and public health concerns.
