littleBits Brings IoT Innovation to Brick-and-Mortar Retail
The pioneering electronics kit company littleBits is democratizing hardware creation by bringing its Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to physical retail stores. In a major industry move, the company has partnered with RadioShack as its first brick-and-mortar distributor while launching its groundbreaking cloudBit technology.
Retail Expansion and IoT Capabilities
- Select markets launch: August 2014
- Nationwide rollout: 2,000 RadioShack locations by Fall 2014
- CloudBit availability: \(59 standalone module or as part of a \)99 Cloud Starter Bundle
This retail partnership marks the first collaboration between littleBits, PCH (an Irish product development firm), and RadioShack Labs. The move significantly increases accessibility to littleBits’ innovative prototyping systems.
Transforming Everyday Objects into Smart Devices
The cloudBit represents a leap forward in accessible IoT development:
- No technical expertise required: Eliminates need for soldering, wiring, or programming
- Web-enabled functionality: Converts any object into an internet-connected device
- Real-time monitoring: Includes dashboard for remote control and performance tracking
“While major corporations create closed, complex systems, we’re flipping the script,” explains Ayah Bdeir, littleBits CEO. “Our mission is to make hardware development inclusive and accessible to everyone.”
Powerful Integrations Expand Possibilities
littleBits has partnered with IFTTT (If This Then That) to enable seamless integration with popular web services including:
- Social platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram
- Productivity tools: Gmail, Google Drive
- Smart home applications
These integrations allow users to create innovative projects like:
- SMS-enabled doorbells
- Remote baby monitors
- Automated door locking systems
Beyond Hobbyists: Professional Applications
The littleBits platform isn’t just for makers and hobbyists. Startups and agencies like Havas Worldwide are using the system for rapid prototyping and product development.
“We’re fundamentally changing how hardware gets created,” Bdeir emphasizes. “From top-down, corporate-controlled development to open, collaborative innovation accessible to all skill levels.”
The Cloud Starter Bundle provides everything needed to begin IoT prototyping, including six modules, tutorial cards, and connection accessories—democratizing smart device creation for a new generation of inventors.
📚 Featured Products & Recommendations
Discover our carefully selected products that complement this article’s topics:
🛍️ Featured Product 1: Boston Red Sox Active Hoodie
Image: Premium product showcase
Professional-grade boston red sox active hoodie combining innovation, quality, and user-friendly design.
Key Features:
- Industry-leading performance metrics
- Versatile application capabilities
- Robust build quality and materials
- Satisfaction guarantee and warranty
🔗 View Product Details & Purchase
💡 Need Help Choosing? Contact our expert team for personalized product recommendations!
