Silicon rectangles embellished with circular suctions have become the hottest commodity for avid technology users. My first sighting of this adhesive phone mount was in my AP English Language class earlier this week. I spotted my classmate’s phone at the corner of my eye and was immediately intrigued by the unique gadget attached to its case. Lucy Lu (11) explained, “My Octobuddy serves as a convenient phone mount that I can carry around to take photos with friends.”
Our interaction moved me to explore the inspiration behind the creation of this so-called “Octobuddy” and its core purpose.
The creative genius behind Octobuddy is Michael Ark, an entrepreneur who experienced a near-death incident before developing his hit product. Ark was venturing throughout Siberia and fell victim to the harsh effects of hypothermia. After he was fortunately rescued, he was sparked with a sense of urgency to pursue his business aspirations.
A year later, Ark made the best mistake of traveling to Indonesia during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was confined within his hotel bedroom when he began developing his product design. Ark was inspired by the sighting of locals placing suction cups on their mopeds, and he embarked on the manufacturing process when he returned to the United States. He claims to have dedicated at least six months towards constructing the very first Octobuddy prototype (The Story of a Brand).
Almost half a decade later, Octobuddy has received an overwhelming amount of attention and traction from influencers and technology geeks. Our TikTok feeds are constantly overflowing with “Get Ready With Me” and “Outfit of the Day” videos that appear to be filmed on a busy sidewalk or in the comfort of one’s home. However, not many viewers are aware of the suction hero that is working overtime behind the scenes. Octobuddy can adhere itself to almost any flat surface, whether it be a mirror, wall, or store window front.
The Octobuddy has taken the TikTok influencer nation by storm. TikTokers such as Emilie Kiser and Alix Earle can be seen filming with their Octobuddies to produce TikTok content on a daily basis. Kiser shares that the Octobuddy has helped her overcome her fear of filming in public, especially amongst the busy streets of her hometown. She ensures that the adhesive phone mount is not just a “silly purchase” due to its portability and simple function (Elle). The Octobuddy can also accompany travelers and frequent fliers, who may wish to stick their phone onto the seat in front of them to display a movie or show. As for myself, an Octobuddy would serve as the best companion for study sessions or workout routines.
Michael Ark can attest to the fact that some of our simplest yet useful inventions are developed from the oddest experiences. So, what are you waiting for? Go add a colorful Octobuddy to your Amazon cart, so you can live efficiently with purpose.
