Brooklyn-based creative tech firm Hapiko announced the launch of its new product, Stickerbox — described as the first AI-powered voice-to-sticker printer built specifically for children. The device enables kids to verbally describe an image, such as “a dinosaur on a skateboard” or “a Viking ship sailing through outer space.” Then it prints a high-quality black-and-white sticker that children can colour and customise. The product works without a smartphone or laptop, offering independent, hands-on play.
Hapiko also revealed that it has raised a $7 million funding round led by investment firms Maveron and Serena Ventures, the latter founded by tennis champion Serena Williams. The company’s stated mission is to create “creativity-first” AI experiences for children that promote safe, tactile play rather than passive screen time.
Stickerbox is designed to encourage children to move away from passive consumption and instead engage in open-ended, imaginative play. By speaking their ideas aloud, children bring their imaginings to life in sticker form, then can decorate their surroundings or engage in creative projects. The thermal printer uses ink-free technology, a BPA- and BPS-free paper supply, and no camera or continuous data collection — all features aimed at supporting safe, private use by children.
Hapiko emphasises that its AI and system architecture were built “from the ground up” with children’s safety in mind. The company highlights one key selling point: minimal data collection, no built-in camera, permission-based audio listening, and built-in moderation filters to ensure age-appropriate imagery.
The company says the product is now available in the United States on stickerbox.com at a list price of US$99.99.
With the funding in place, Hapiko plans to scale its production and expand its reach in the children’s creative toys and AI category. The investment is positioned as a signal that investors see value in merging AI with real-world play experiences for children — leveraging technology without increasing screen time.
KEY QUOTES:
“Stickerbox is one of the first products to make AI feel magical for kids and grounded for parents. It’s an exciting glimpse of what creative play will look like for the next generation.”
Jerry Lu, Partner at Maveron
“There’s nothing like a child’s imagination, how it sees the world and turns the everyday into magic. We built Stickerbox as a springboard for that creativity: real stickers, no rules, just endless imagination manifested.”
Arun Gupta, CEO of Hapiko
“As both an investor and a mother, I’m passionate about tools that empower children to create and express themselves safely. Stickerbox shows how technology can enhance childhood creativity – not replace it.”
Serena Williams, Founder of Serena Ventures
“We designed our AI system with intention. Every decision, from privacy to prompt safety, was made to give families peace of mind while inspiring kids to think bigger.”
“We’re starting with stickers because they’re the perfect bridge between imagination and the real world. But this is just the beginning. Kids have so much creative potential, and we’re really excited to see where things go when they’re given safe tools made just for them.”
Robert Whitney, CTO of Hapiko
