Video player looks like a 1-inch TV from the ’60s and is wondrous, pointless fun

Imagine a gathering of whimsical mice around a television set, and you might picture the TinyTV 2 by TinyCircuits. This charming device stands on four slender legs, featuring a classic brown finish that invites viewers to engage with its warm, vibrant stories. With a screen size of just 1.14 inches diagonally, the TinyTV 2 encapsulates a nostalgic vibe reminiscent of simpler times. It's a portable, rechargeable gadget designed to play pre-loaded videos, complete with dials that enhance its vintage appeal. One dial controls the volume while another allows users to scroll through their video playlist, both producing a satisfying click as they rotate. The TinyTV 2 feels like a celebration of fun in an era dominated by advanced, AI-driven televisions. As larger and more complex screens flood the market, this quaint device serves as a heartwarming nod to the past. TinyCircuits, the Ohio-based company behind this gadget, specializes in tiny, open-source electronics aimed at fostering creativity within the maker community. Their mission is to inspire joy and encourage STEAM learning. The company first gained attention with the Arduino-based TinyDuino Platform, which they successfully launched via Kickstarter in 2012. The TinyTV 2 builds on the legacy of its predecessor, the TinyTV DIY Kit, which debuted three years earlier at a price of $75. In 2022, TinyCircuits took to crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo to introduce the TinyTV 2, alongside an even smaller version known as the TinyTV Mini, measuring just 0.6 inches. Currently, the TinyTV is available for purchase on their website for $60, alongside other innovative products such as Thumby, a miniature programmable keychain reminiscent of a Game Boy.