The Mini Gem That Lets Me Have the ’90s Kitchen Trend I’ve Always Wanted

As someone born in the ’90s, I’ve taken great pride in seeing the return of so many trends from the ’90s and even the early 2000s (which I grew up in). One such trend I’ve happily been seeing all over my feed is people putting small TVs in the kitchen again, and after reading this recent story on Apartment Therapy, I took it as a sign to go for it. Of course, finding a mini TV for the kitchen is no easy feat, but then I received an email about a nifty gadget and realized I could fake a mini TV in my kitchen. Here’s how I was able to do it using the Twelve South PowerBug.

The Twelve South PowerBug turns any outlet into a freestanding charging dock. The sleek charging puck wirelessly charges your MagSafe or Qi-compatible phone. All you have to do is plug it into an outlet, then place your phone right on it for hands-free use and charging. There’s also a built-in USB-C port so you can charge another device. It’s ideal for kitchens, nightstands, or even a vanity. It’s available in two colors — white/dune and slate/black — and you can purchase it directly on the website or even shop it on Amazon.

After receiving a sample of the Twelve South PowerBug for testing, I never expected that this simple charger would become such a mainstay in my kitchen. What immediately drew me in about it was its sleek design — no wires or any fussy elements when it comes to charging your phone. All you have to do is plug and charge. (So easy!) But then I realized, by doing so, I was creating a mini TV moment while simultaneously charging my phone. 

Previously, I would lay my phone right on the counter or whip out my laptop to have a show on or some music in the background while I cooked food on the stove or prepped ingredients on a cutting board. Now, all I have to do is plug the PowerBug into an outlet nearby and place my phone right on it. It makes it feel like I have a TV right there and I don’t have to worry about anything getting on my phone or laptop, which is usually right next to whatever I’m doing, because my phone is now elevated and away from the counter or stove.

It’s definitely saved me time from hunting down a rare mini TV on Facebook Marketplace or a thrift store or resorting to an overpriced find online, like this $129.99 one. The PowerBug costs under $50, which to me is worth it for the convenience it provides and sleek, smart design it offers. 

Buy: Twelve South PowerBug, $49.99