The Ripple Maker combines hardware and software to stamp an image or message onto your morning latte, cappuccino or any other foam-topped drink.
As any coffee aficionado will admit, there’s something about a barista charming you with a gorgeous piece of art on the foam of your morning latte. Up until now only the most skilled of baristas were able to craft such masterpieces which range from iconic leaves to cute hearts. However, thanks to a new system from New York-based startup Steam CC, that will all change.
The Ripple Maker employs 3D printing and inkjet technology to adorn the top of your hot beverage with complex designs that could take the form of someone’s name, their face, or even a personalized message to the attractive customer behind you. The machine itself is small, measuring just 8.5” by 10.5,” and connects via Wi-Fi to a library of designs. Users have the option to choose from a menu of themes and messages to stamp onto the milky foam canvas using natural coffee extract, also known as Ripple Pods.
Even suitable for the morning rush, the machine takes all of 10 seconds to produce a selected design on top of any cup up to 7″ high and 4.5″ wide. In addition, the Ripple Maker comes with a mobile app that enables baristas and companies to create custom designs, or upload and edit images straight from their smartphone camera roll. This makes sending a personal image as simple as devising a social media post.
“Latte art is one the most shared images on social media,” explains Yossi Meshulam, CEO of Steam CC. “When you put something beautiful in someone’s hands, they want to share it. That’s how we’re making a ripple on the world.”
It should be noted that, as cool as it may be, the Ripple Maker isn’t aimed at in-home use. Instead, the machine is tailored more towards coffee shops and other commercial settings throughout the world. Among its notable customers already is Lufthansa. So, the next time you fly Business Class, don’t be surprised to receive a personalized message thanking you for choosing the only airline that can whip up a slick design in your espresso.
If you ask us, pair this with some 3D-printed pancakes and you have quite the Maker-iffic breakfast! Priced at $999, Ripples will begin shipping in September 2015. In the interim, watch it in action below!
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