Back at CES 2021, producer Jake encountered a weird device called the “Lovebox” which is now widely available. This product, at first glance, appears to be a simple wooden box, but it harbors a secret inside: a small screen that allows photos and other messages to be sent from to it from anywhere in the world. You can see how it works in my latest review.
Price around $170, the Lovebox is pricey for its limited functionality. But it does have some charm – it’ll be up to you to decide if that charm is worth the price premium. The device works by connecting to WiFi at the recipient’s location. Once set up, you can send messages from anywhere in the world using its smartphone app. When a message is received, the heart on the box twirls, signaling the recipient to lift the lid and view the message.
Setting up the Lovebox requires some effort, as it needs to be connected to the WiFi network where it will be used. This means if you’re gifting it, you’d ideally do it in person to ensure a smooth setup. The accompanying app is straightforward, allowing you to send messages or photos. If the $170 price point isn’t enough, the Lovebox offers a subscription plan for $5 a month, providing additional message templates and of course some AI features. The subscription is not required though.
The only other feature is the ability to twirl the heart on the box, sending virtual hearts back to the sender. This interaction adds a tactile, engaging aspect to the experience. The Lovebox, however, is not without limitations. It lacks interactive capabilities like a touch display, and you cannot revisit old messages on the box itself (though they are accessible via the phone app). Without the subscription the messages are deleted after 30 days.
You can send personalized messages or photos with drawings, text and emoji stickers. even draw or add emojis. When multiple messages are sent, the Lovebox queues them up, displaying each one as the lid is opened and closed.
I tend to be more forgiving with these gift items especially when they work as advertised. Lovebox is not promising any more than they are delivering here so consumers are getting what they paid for. It’s up to you to decide whether or not it’s worth paying that much for the experience!
Disclosure: this product came in free of charge through the Amazon Vine program. I had no contact with the manufacturer, no one reviewed or approved this video before uploading, and no other compensation was received.