This device wants to turn TV addiction into healthy habits

Drive

Drive is a novel solution that aims to turn users’ TV addiction into healthy habits. Currently raising funds at Indiegogo, the device plugs into electrical outlet and from there to a TV set. It connects to the in-home wireless network to communicate with a cloud-based component and a companion app (Driveware) designed to push users towards exercising more.

With Drive, users have to earn their TV time by exercising regularly. The system connects to Fitbit and Apple Watch to determine the amount of walking, and based on that information – allows or blocks screen time. This screen time could include regular TV, TV-connected video games, and video streaming on connected devices; while the amount of exercise is defined by the user himself/herself — Drive is there to keep them accountable.

Now, you may wonder what happens if you unplug the Drive? Yes, you will be able to watch TV like nothing has happened or almost as nothing has happened. The Drive cloud service will take notice that you have disconnected Drive and will “punish” you accordingly. In fact, on the fourth time you do this, Drive will stop functioning altogether, and you’ll have to pay a penalty of $60 to turn it on again. Also, if you defined contacts to keep watching your progress in Drive, they will get a message informing them of your failure.

Beyond exercising, Drive could also be used to limit TV time for children, and to make them do the chores, homework or whatever you deem necessary.

Drive is available in few different options, supporting one or more TVs, with prices ranging from $69 to $179.