When a Mug Is More Than Just a Mug
Why does an ordinary ceramic mug glow?
What kind of idea made us spend six months embedding a pixel screen into a ceramic mug?
We use mugs every day, yet few people ever question what more they could be. We wanted to break free from this "taken-for-granted" thinking and turn a seemingly mundane object into a medium for creative expression, interactive experience, and even emotional connection.
The result? A ceramic mug with a dynamic pixel screen, capable of displaying customizable graphics and effects.
The Core Question: Screen + Ceramic, Is It Even Possible?
This project started with a very simple yet bold question:
"Is it possible to embed a display screen seamlessly, safely, and durably into a real ceramic mug?"
It sounded a bit crazy—ceramic doesn’t conduct electricity, it’s fragile, it’s fired at high temperatures, and it doesn’t play well with electronics. And yet, this screen needed to be waterproof, heat-resistant, support dynamic pixel display, and be touch-responsive while connecting to an app...
Because the challenge was difficult enough, we knew we had to try.
How Did We Do It?
From initial sketches to the final product, we went through dozens of iterations and complete redesigns. Our team brought together product designers, electronics engineers, ceramic experts, and app developers.
We used 3D printing to simulate screen placement, collaborated with ceramic manufacturers to test heat compatibility, and finally developed an invisible snap-in structure that was both secure and aesthetically clean. With an internal battery, IPX7 waterproofing, and thermal isolation design, the screen works safely in a mug made for daily use.
This is what six months of testing, failing, and refining produced.
Why This Mug Is Different
- Customizable Pixel Art: More than a static display—our mug lets you upload pixel animations, scrolling messages, emoji, or daily quotes through the app. Whether it’s your favorite character, a morning affirmation, or a custom design you made yourself, your mug becomes a reflection of your mood and style.
- Real-Time Temperature Display + Hydration Reminders: The embedded temperature sensor instantly detects your drink’s temperature and shows it on the display. You can also set timed hydration reminders via the app, so your mug gently nudges you to drink water throughout your workday.
- Music-Reactive Lighting: When music is playing nearby, the pixel display automatically responds to the beat with pulsing lights or dancing visuals. It turns your desk into a mini concert and adds ambiance whether you're relaxing or working late.
- Mini Pixel Games: We included a few nostalgic pixel-style games playable right from the mug. Use the touch-sensitive surface to control basic actions while taking a short break from your screen.
- IPX7 Waterproof + 600mAh Battery: With a sealed waterproof enclosure rated IPX7, the mug can be rinsed or wiped without worry. The rechargeable 600mAh battery gives you up to 2 hours of continuous dynamic display, or longer in standby or reminder mode. A magnetic USB charging base makes recharging clean and simple.
Real-Life Use Cases
- At Your Desk: The mug reminds you to drink water and shows off your mood.
- At Home Gatherings: Display pixel art or holiday greetings—it becomes the life of the table.
- As a Gift: Customize a message or animation and gift someone a truly unique piece of tech.
What We Aim to Bring
We're not just building a smart mug.
We want to show that even the most ordinary everyday objects can be made fun, expressive, and interactive through thoughtful design and technology.
We’ll keep improving the app, adding more content templates and interactive features—and we hope to invite our users to co-create with us.