Table of Contents
- Introduction
- The Rise of Retro Reboots
- Meet the Tamawatchi
- Birth of the Idea
- Creating a Tamawatchi
- Functionality
- Collectors’ Perspective
- Alternative Approaches
- Get the Look
- About the Creator
- Conclusion
- Related Content
Introduction
As a culture, we have an intriguing habit of returning to the past. Whether in fashion, music, or technology, we often find ourselves longing for the familiar, the retro. And in the realm of tech, this nostalgic yearning has given birth to a fascinating trend: retro reboots.
The Rise of Retro Reboots
Earlier this week, we witnessed iPod shuffle hair clips making a comeback, echoing a past era in a contemporary context. Now, another retro reboot is gaining traction, a delightful blend of nostalgia and modern tech: the Tamawatchi.
Meet the Tamawatchi
Creator Emma Orhun merged the casing of a vintage Tamagotchi with the face of an Apple Watch, resulting in a product she has aptly named a “Tamawatchi”.
Birth of the Idea
Orhun conceived this idea last summer, and since then, she has shared numerous videos detailing her journey to make this idea a reality. An October TikTok post showcasing her creation amassed over half a million likes, while a March Instagram reel garnered over 78,000 likes, renewing interest in the project.
Creating a Tamawatchi
For those interested in crafting their own Tamawatchi, Orhun recommends pairing a Tamagotchi Connection v3 (a 2006 version of the device) with an Apple Watch SE. To accomplish this, one needs to dismantle the Tamagotchi, remove its electronics, and trim down the interior with a small, handheld power tool called a dremel. This allows sufficient space for the Apple Watch SE, secured within using double-sided tape.
python Copy code
# Sample pseudo-code to create a Tamawatchi def create_tamawatchi(tamagotchi, apple_watch_se): tamagotchi.open() tamagotchi.remove_electronics() tamagotchi.trim_interior_with_dremel() tamagotchi.place(apple_watch_se) tamagotchi.secure_with_double_sided_tape() return tamawatchi
Functionality
Once you’ve created your Tamawatchi, its functionality is somewhat limited. You won’t be able to use the side button or rolling crown to navigate the Apple Watch interface. However, as Orhun stated in one of her posts, you will “reap the rewards of having really good taste”.
Collectors’ Perspective
Tamagotchi collector @tamagotchi.vn stated that they plan to use their custom “iTama” solely for notifications, considering the limited capabilities of the Tamawatchi.
Alternative Approaches
Not everyone is taking the same route to the Tamawatchi. Another creator took a different path, creating a 3D-printed Tamagotchi to house their Apple Watch face.
Get the Look
If you wish to recreate the Tamawatchi aesthetic, vintage Tamagotchis are available on secondary marketplaces like eBay. However, if you prefer to blend the Y2K style with 2024 functionality, silicon cases can be sourced from multiple online sellers, including Rubbie’s Room.
About the Creator
Elizabeth de Luna is a digital culture reporter who covers the impact of the internet on self-expression, fashion, and fandom. Her work delves into how technology shapes our identities, communities, and emotions. Prior to joining Mashable, Elizabeth spent six years in the tech industry, with her reporting featuring in publications like Rolling Stone, The Guardian, TIME, and Teen Vogue.
