Kipubs

Kipubs are a distinctive class of miniature portable audio players that first appeared in the early 2010s as an affordable alternative to larger, more expensive portable music devices. The term combines "Kipo," a reference to the device’s compact, thumb‑sized shape, with "pubs," implying the device’s use as a personal or "pubic" play unit. Kipubs were developed by the Beijing‑based startup SoundWave Tech, which aimed to democratize music consumption in densely populated urban environments. The first commercial model, released in 2012, featured a 1.8‑inch OLED display, Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity, and up to 40 hours of battery life with its rechargeable polymer‑based cell.

Kipubs gained popularity among students and commuters, particularly in Asian countries, where the small form factor fit easily into backpacks, wallets, and hand pockets. Their inexpensive price point—typically between $30 and $50—made them a preferred choice over larger, pricier MP3 players. In 2015, SoundWave Tech expanded the lineup to include a waterproof version for beach use and an enhanced version with a 3.5‑mm headphone jack. However, no major manufacturer ventured beyond the basic design, and interest ultimately waned with the rise of integrated smartphone apps and streaming services.

Today, Kipubs are largely considered a niche product, with hobbyist collectors occasionally seeking out early production models for their retro appeal. Some enthusiasts appreciate the device’s simplicity and the tactile experience of manual volume and track control, a feature that has largely disappeared from modern smartphones. While the Kipub never reached mass-market dominance, it remains a notable example of early 21st‑century attempts to make music consumption more portable and affordable.