AbraMath
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Software development |
| Founded | 2008 |
| Founder | Steven L. Priedel, Maria H. Gara |
| Headquarters | Las Vegas , United States |
Key people | Steven L. Priedel (managing member), Maria H. Gara (managing member), Steve Sheraton (contractor, producer, inventor), Steve Charney (video host, radio personality, author, magician) |
| Products | iOS, Android, Palm OS, and Windows applications; magic-themed "gimmix" accessories |
Hottrix is a software development firm specializing in creating applications for platforms such as iOS, Android, Palm OS, and Windows. Their software designed for the iPhone and iPod Touch has earned commendations from outlets including CNN, Newsweek, Time, and technology writer David Pogue of The New York Times. The company’s offerings have also been subject to disputes concerning intellectual property rights.
In addition to software, Hottrix sells physical "gimmix" accessories intended to enhance their magic-themed app experiences.
Background
Operating out of Las Vegas, Nevada, Hottrix was established in 2008 by Steven L. Priedel and Maria H. Gara. A significant number of their "tricks" are developed by Steve Sheraton, a Swiss-born magician and inventor recognized for the "e-spresso" virtual espresso trick originally created for the Palm Pilot.
Key team members include:
- Steven L. Priedel – managing member and magician
- Maria H. Gara – managing member and magician
- Steve Sheraton – contractor, producer, and inventor
- Steve Charney – video host, radio personality, author, and magician
Recognition
In 2008, Hottrix’s iBeer application achieved placement among Apple’s "Top Paid Apps (Overall)" as well as the "Top Paid Entertainment" categories on the App Store. CNN Money identified iBeer as an essential app, while Condé Nast Portfolio lauded Hottrix’s magic software, describing iBeer as an ideal gift choice.
Intellectual property
In October 2008, Hottrix initiated a lawsuit seeking US$12.5 million against Coors Brewing Company, accusing them of infringing on Hottrix's copyright through their iOS app iPint, which allegedly copied the features of iBeer. As a result of Hottrix’s legal action, Apple removed the iPint app from its US App Store.
App Store apps
The following magic trick apps are accessible via the App Store.
HottrixPhone
This application simulates phone conversations with famous personalities using prerecorded audio clips, including celebrities such as Elvis Presley and Barack Obama. Users can also customize by adding additional figures.
iBeer
iBeer imitates a device screen filling up with different beer varieties accompanied by realistic sound effects. When the device is tilted, the virtual beer shifts naturally and users can "drink" it, which triggers a burp sound effect. The app secured positions in Apple's December 2008 lists for "Top Paid Apps (Overall)" and "Top Paid Entertainment."
iBug
iBug presents a digital insect that responds to user interaction by enlarging and emitting laughter when the device is shaken.
iMilk
Similar in concept to iBeer, iMilk offers different milk flavors such as chocolate and strawberry. It includes a paid trick feature along with a magic button that produces money-related illusions.
iMunchies
iMunchies gives the impression that the device is filled with snacks like candy, nuts, and popcorn, allowing users to mimic pulling treats out of the device through sleight-of-hand techniques.
iSoda
Following the pattern of iBeer and iMilk, iSoda features various soft drink options including cola, energy drinks, and sparkling water.
Jarheads
The tricks Jarhead Bob, Jarhead Tim, and Jarhead Ned involve dungeon lab specimens immersed in potent juice. When tilted, the heads roll their eyes; shaking turns the juice into blood; further tilting causes it to drain similarly to iBeer.
Magic Wallet
Magic Wallet is similar to iMunchies but features coins from various currencies rather than snack items.
Premier apps
Offered solely through Hottrix's Premier App Shop:
- iHypno, a card trick application recognized in The Wall Street Journal as a legitimate alternative to the Apple iTunes Store.
- MindBeam
- MB: Euro
- Snapshot
Simulated apps
These illusions operate as video files on the iOS media player:
- iBugClassic
- iCharger
- iFireplace
- iGoldfish
- iGoyfish
- iRescueCall
- iSnail
- iVegas
- iYuleLog
- MMS-3D
List of Android OS applications
- iBeer
- iMilk
- iChocolate
List of Palm OS applications
- AbraMath
- AbraPick
- e-spresso
- NerdAlert