To get more children interested in coding, a Swedish startup called imagiLabs is launching a smart keychain and app that teaches children to learn to code in a fun, gamified way.

The imagiCharm smart keychain is a little smaller than a makeup compact, with an eight-by-eight matrix of 64 LED lights. It’s meant to help users visually customize designs with lines of Python code input into the imagiLabs mobile app.

The imagiLabs app teaches the basics of coding, so you can learn to make creative images like flowers, animated color gradients, animals and emoji. The app connects to the imagiCharm via Bluetooth, so you can display your project on the go with your keychain.

In the imagiLabs app, you can view other users’ projects — some involve scrolling text, while others are solid blocks of color, hearts and shapes. One user even coded an animated Pikachu. You can leave positive comments on other people’s projects, and try to re-create their creation for yourself.

Under the Learn tab, the app walks you through coding a heart. imagiLabs uses gamification to help users understand how a line of code relates to the picture you’re making. The lessons cover turning on the pixels, assigning and making colors for your project. When you complete a lesson, you level up.

“Coding is a superpower,” Dora Palfi, imagiLabs’ CEO, said. “You’re getting these superpowers that you can use to create things and solve problems.”

Palfi demonstrated how imagiCharm works over a video call. When she “woke” the device, the imagiCharm’s interface opened its eyes, which stirred nostalgic memories of the early Tamagotchi. Palfi connected her phone to the Charm via Bluetooth and uploaded a code project. Almost instantly, the imagiCharm displayed the picture. Any changes she made in the code from her phone translated to the Charm, and updated the image on the keychain.

The imagiCharm ships globally, and can be bought individually (US$78) or in a two-pack (US$148). The company also offers a premium imagiCharm (US$98) and a premium two-pack (US$171). The premium Charms include 12 hours of learning content that users can access via email.

Palfi said the company is working on hosting coding competitions where users can try and win a Charm. imagiLabs is also exploring working with companies to sponsor Charms for children who might not be able to afford them.

The imagiCharm and its app are meant to be a mix of fun and challenge with an emphasis on positivity and learning as a community, Palfi said. The instant feedback can also help you learn and course correct quickly.

The community is the backbone of the whole project, Palfi said. Users encourage and compliment each other’s projects in the comments sections, and program digital “gifts” for each other. There’s a sense of excitement when others try out your project. It’s a welcoming space where it’s easy to learn, and feel comfortable doing so.(SD-Agencies)