Chikaku

Chikaku is a Japanese hardware and communication technology company that has developed a house-shaped device designed to help elderly family members stay connected with their loved ones. The device transforms a TV into an intuitive video calling system, addressing the communication barriers faced by Japanese seniors who struggle with smartphones and have limited internet access. Unlike intrusive monitoring cameras, the device features a discreet built-in camera that detects presence and enables family members to check on relatives and initiate video calls with a single button press. With a built-in SIM card, the device requires no WiFi setup, making it accessible for elderly users. Future updates are planned to enable remote medical care. The product won an iF Design Award in 2024.