Public response to HYPER’s iStick Kickstarter, which is funding a USB and Lightning compatible flash drive usable with Apple Inc.’s (NASDAQ:AAPL) Macs, iPads, and iPhones, was overwhelming, reaching its initial goal of $100,000 in just two hours on the first day after launch. Crowdfunding for the eagerly anticipated project continues, with 27 days still remaining as of today. In response to requests from the public, HYPER has introduced two additional “stretch goals,” funding levels at which exciting additional features not included in the original plans are added.
The first stretch goal was set at $500,000, five times the original funding target for the sleek, double-ended flash drive. HYPER had already rolled out a number of ideas which might have made decent stretch goals, including carrying cases and extension cables. Accordingly, the firm accepted suggestions and picked one that was feasible.
Among the most frequently voiced impossible suggestions according to HYPER were a stretch goal of doubling memory capacity, and USB 3.0 rather than 2.0 connections. The doubling of memory was simply too expensive, and would push the manufacturing costs well above the already locked in retail price, destroying the project and probably HYPER along with it.
Technically, adding USB 3.0 connectivity is possible, but legally, it is not. Apple Inc. (AAPL) gave its official MFi approval to the USB 2.0 iStick. Changing the connector to a USB 3.0 would require a complete redesign, then resubmission for MFi approval. The whole procedure would consume so much time that HYPER would violate the deadlines imposed by Kickstarter, thereby losing the very funding that makes the project possible at all.
Instead, the $500,000 stretch goal was set up to include four digit passcode protection for the device, enhancing data security for the owner. Password protection will be added as a free upgrade later. The $500,000 stretch goal was met two days ago on May 18th, 2014. Current funding stands at $565,403 with over 4,200 people backing the project.
A second stretch goal of $750,000 is now in place. If funding reaches this level, then the iStick flash drive will incorporate Dropbox integration as well, permitting the drive to connect directly to the user’s Dropbox. Use of Dropbox will be fully optional and discretionary on the iStick owner’s part, meaning that there is no need to opt in if security is a concern. One of the most well received Apple (AAPL) related Kickstarter projects is still on track and going strong.
