Rollable Connected Chess Board - Square Off

We have been reporting on Square Off’s presence at CES for several years – beginning with the connected chess company’s participation in one of our startup competitions. The company, headquartered in Mumbai, has been consistently developing its technology to enable users to enjoy a real chess game against opponents worldwide, most recently with the introduction of their modular gaming system, Swap.

At CES today, they revealed a forthcoming rollable system, enhancing the portability of their products. Naturally, this design involves some trade-offs – the automated piece movement is no longer included to facilitate a board that can be rolled up and easily carried in a backpack. This automated movement was a key element of the technology’s initial appeal.

This new system will still utilize Square Off’s established AI and connectivity features, enabling players to compete with others globally. Considering the ongoing challenges with in-person gatherings and the increased popularity of chess spurred by Netflix’s hit series “The Queen’s Gambit,” this appears to be a strategic moment for the company to release a new product.

This time, the company will not be relying on a crowdfunding platform for the launch. Square Off anticipates making the product available around March, with a price point of $199.