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First she allowed women to pick up good vibrations using the iPod vibrator and now it’s the blueMotion massager. What are we talkin’ about? Suki Dunham, the co-founder (with husband Brian; both 45 years old and they have been together 26 years) of the New Hampshire-based company OhMiBod, has just laced lacy underwear with digital smartness. The digital sex toy company has come up with blueMotion massager, which slips into the panty. The device can be controlled using an iOS or Android app to send vibrations remotely.
The company found fame in 2006 when it launched the iPod vibrator, which synchronises to songs placed on iPods, iPhones and other smartphones. It was an instant hit. blueMotion is the latest from the company and it’s causing quite a stir at the ongoing Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
A t2 email chat with Suki Dunham (who’s looking for distributors in Asia) about the product that hits the market in March.
How did the concept of the blueMotion massager come about?
Brian and I have been seeing a trend where technology, handheld devices in particular, seem to be driving couples apart. We wanted to create a product that brings couples closer together... utilising these devices as a conduit to encourage intimacy.
What’s your take on the digital age causing a chasm in physical relationships?
We honestly feel that it’s becoming more and more of a problem. Utilising technology is, by its very nature, a “solo sport”. We all need to be thinking about ways to build “bridges of intimacy” across this tech chasm.
In what ways can technology bind couples better?
For a start, we need to admit to ourselves mentally that we’re spending more and more time with our faces glued to tiny screens. Once we acknowledge that we can begin to look at ways to connect. Our OhMiBod range of toys is simply one way of utilising existing technology to facilitate stronger relationships.
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| One Christmas Brian (husband) gave me a vibrator and an iPod for stocking stuffers. I told him that they were my two favourite gifts ever and that we must find a way to put them together — suki dunham |
The product that made the company popular (in 2006-07) was a vibrating sex toy that works when connected to a music player. How is the product still perceived?
Our Club Vibe 2.oh is our most popular toy by far. The remote control has a built-in mic that transmits vibrations directly to the wearable panty vibe. It’s really incredible to “Feel the Music” whether you’re at a club, concert or on your daily commute.
Looking back, what got you and Brian started in the digital sex toy industry?
One Christmas, Brian gave me a vibrator and an iPod for stocking stuffers. I told him that they were my two favourite gifts ever and that we must find a way to put them together!
Was it difficult to explain to your relatives what the two of you were doing?
Not at all. Our mission is to design and manufacture tasteful, quality products that encourage intimacy. Orgasm isn’t a “dirty” word but unfortunately there is a stigma around it, especially when it comes to women. We’re trying hard to break down that age-old stigma and you asking us these questions in a very public format aids in our mission… so thank you for that!
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You were an Apple employee. What made you leave and start OhMiBod?
I loved my time at Apple but I’ve always wanted to design and manufacture my very own products. After my children started growing up a bit, it was time for me to chase that dream.
Your products target women. Anything you would like to create for men?
We get a lot of requests for male toys. We’ll be introducing our male-friendly toys later in the summer. Stay tuned!
Do you use OhMiBod products?
I love wearing our Club Vibe 2.oh out to special events. I also love our new Lovelife line of toys, in particular “cuddle”; it’s really a perfect “fit” for me! One of the benefits I guess of owning my own vibrator company :)
How important are markets outside America to you?
We are just now getting started with our Asian distribution strategy. So if there are any Indian distributors out there who share our passion for bringing these products to mainstream outlets in a female-friendly and sex-positive way, please feel free to reach out.
Which is your favourite gadget and any favourites at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show (besides blueMotion)?
I was walking the show yesterday and came across MyKronoz. Finally a smart watch designed for a woman to wear! I think it’s called ZeBracelet. The products coming out of iHealth are also beautifully designed.
Finally, how can working (and tired!) parents spice up their sex lives with digital sex toys?
It’s not always easy but it’s the most important aspect to any healthy relationship. You simply have to make it a priority in your daily routine! We often carve out time for just the two of us so that we can use toys and really focus on having fun with one another... Date night, quick trips alone (no kids) are key ingredients to our relationship. Oh, and we try, not always successfully, to limit our discussions about “business” :)
