Author Archives: Gaurav Sood

Helix, the first eVTOL aircraft is at CES and all set to begin flying from June 2024

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One day, the future of aviation will be the electric vertical and take-off aircrafts! This is a journey of thought that started over a decade back when the idea of flying cars was in its total frenzy. Manufacturers around the world have since deviated a little, and come up with various concepts/prototypes of eVTOLs aircrafts, with the idea of making short-distance aviation much quieter, with fewer emissions, and potentially safer than helicopters and other forms of flying crafts.

The main reason for the eVTOL lagging behind and not making it into mass production is essentially because of the demands of the Federal Aviation Administration in America. But that hasn’t stopped companies from working through time to prove to regulators that VTOL aircrafts can operate safely. Seems, the reasoning has met sane ears, and the first eVTOL, dubbed Helix, is now at CES 2024, and all set to be produced in larger volumes and shipped starting June 10.

Designer: Pivotal

The lightweight electric VTOL aircraft has been in the works by Palo Alto, California-based company Pivotal for over a decade. After numerous phases, the final aircraft is ready to take-off and land vertically without needing a runway or a pilot’s license to go airborne.

The Pivotal Helix, with fixed rotors and tandem wings, is a single-seat aircraft that can be flown without an FAA pilot certification, but the manufacturing company requires prospective fliers to go through hours of simulator and training sessions to fly the 348-pound eVTOL craft in the USA. Before you intend to shell out your savings to be the first Pivotal customer; you must be 18 years and above, have a body weight of fewer than 220 pounds, and you shouldn’t measure more than 6.5 feet tall, else you may not fulfill the company’s buyer requirement for the Helix.

Even though a pilot’s license is not necessary to fly the eVTOL, FAA requires the aircraft to be flown only above non-congested areas and at a considerable distance from airports. There is no other additional requirement as to why you cannot fly the Helix once it becomes available (and you have close to $200K odd to spare).

To make flying easy, the Pivotal Helix features a wide-angle view from the cockpit, and thriving on the electric engine, it guarantees silent operation. The battery renders 20 miles of range to the Helix, which can charge 100 percent in about 75 minutes using a 240V charger.

Helix scheduled for June, will come in three configurations. The base model with a white carbon fiber exterior, a digital flight panel, and an HD camera for landing will start at $190,000. The model with gloss white and striped carbon fiber exterior, 4K camera with landing assist will set you back $240,000, while the third model with a premium flight deck, customizable interior and exterior will cost $260,000. The first production lightweight eVTOL aircraft in the US can now be pre-ordered via $250 nonrefundable application fee, and a $50,000 booking deposit.

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Sennheiser MOMENTUM Sport earbuds with temperature and heart rate sensor for active individuals debut at CES 2024

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Audiophiles who swear by Sennheiser’s unique audio quality and design have eagerly awaited the next version of the acclaimed earbuds. The waiting is over as the German audio specialist brought the new lineup of headphones and earbuds to CES 2024. These include the upgraded ACCENTUM headphones, MOMENTUM Ture Wireless 4 earbuds and MOMENTUM Sport earbuds.

Each of these newly revealed audio accessories comes with upgrades to the previous versions. Our focus however is centered on the MOMENTUM Sport earbuds. Loaded with their own set of nice features the lifestyle buds are a great option for audio lovers for whom the Beats Fit Pro, Shokz OpenFit, or Jabra Elite 8 Active don’t make the cut.

Designer: Sennheiser

The new pair of IP55-rated earbuds for active individuals refresh Sennheiser’s line-up with a fitness-focused build. The standout feature of the buds is the heart rate monitor and body temperature sensing capabilities. Sennheiser has managed to fit a photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor that seamlessly syncs real-time data with apps including Apple Health, Garmin Connect, Strava or Polar Flow. Including the body sensors in a pair of earbuds makes complete sense as the inner ear is the most stable area of the body during physical activity. This ensures consistent biometrics with a temperature accuracy of +/- 0.3 degrees Celsius and heart rate measurements ranging from 30 bpm to 220 bpm.

For sound quality, the MOMENTUM Sport comes with a 10mm transducer to deliver a punchy bass and vivid soundstage. To prevent occlusion effect or pressure in the ears, the earbuds boast an acoustic relief channel. One gripe that runners or active individuals always complain about the sports earbuds is the footstep thunder, body sounds or heavy breathing noises. The earbuds come with ear tips and fins for a secure fit and flaunt a semi-open design for passive transparent mode. There’s also the ANC mode for focus periods and the anti-wind mode for windy outdoor conditions.

The IP54 rated wireless case provides 18 hours of playback on a single full charge and with the 6 hours on the buds themselves, users can expect a full day of listening without a hitch. We believe these could be the values with ANC on and for listening without ANC enabled this can be stretched further. For 10 minutes of charging time, the buds can play for 45 minutes on the fly. Users can tweak the sound profile and toggle other settings via the Smart Control app.

For those who believe in the quality of Sennheiser audio, the Sport earbuds will be available on April 9 for a price tag of $330 in black, green and graphite color options.

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Belkin auto-tracking Stand Pro swivels iPhone 360 degrees with your movement during video calls, recordings

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Apple iPhone already does some great things. Belkin believes there is a way it can add some prowess to the phone’s video and FaceTime capabilities. To that accord, the accessories manufacturer is bringing Belkin Stand Pro to CES 2024. This motorized dock for the iPhone 12 and upward is made to swivel 360 degrees and track users’ movement while the camera is on.

There have been numerous iterations of iPhone dock we have seen in our time. Right from the days docking stations played incredible music and now those that wirelessly charge the smartphone and render it with incredible utility: case in point, the rotating functionality the Belkin Stand Pro brings to the iPhone.

Designer: Belkin

The Belkin Stand Pro is offered with a cylindrical base that can rotate 360 degrees. From the base extends a MagSafe-equipped motorized arm which holds and charges the iPhone. The arm can extend 90 degrees, up and down, for more convenience.

The Stand Pro is essentially designed for tracking your movement, for instance, you are cooking in the kitchen and the iPhone playing the video recipe tutorial rotates wherever you go; picking spices, or walking to the fridge. When you don’t want the iPhone to track your movement, you can turn the tracking off from the onboard button. The LED indicator built-in indicates when the tracking is on or off.

The iPhone pairs to the Belkin dock with NFC and allows you to open apps including camera, FaceTime, Instagram, WhatsApp and more. Once the app’s working, the Stand Pro automatically rotates the docked iPhone to keep you in frame all the time using iPhone’s recognition technology without having to add additional third-party app. This makes the Belkin Stand Pro the first iPhone accessory to use Apple’s DockKit framework.

Priced at $179.99, the Belkin dock functions as a wireless charger with up to 15W fast wireless charging when plugged into a 30W USB-C charger. For filming away from the direct power port, the Stand Pro also features a battery that can do the task for up to five hours on a single charge.

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Withings BeamO is a compact health monitor that combines thermometer, stethoscope and ECG in one

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Withings is bringing a new health gadget to CES 2024 that’s going to garner a lot of attention given its utility. Called the BeamO, this all-in-one diagnostic health monitor for home use is set to shake up the telemedicine space. Just like every year, the French consumer electronics giant known for its gadgets catering to the ‘worried well’ has revealed this medical-grade tool that builds on the popularity of the contact-less thermometer.

The USB-shaped 4-in-1 multiscope is capable of keeping a tab on the vitals of your heart, lungs and temperature. The scope of consumer adoption for the device can be ascertained from their press release that states, “Once, body temperature was the only health scan routinely taken at home. BeamO will revolutionize the measurement of the core vitals carried out during medical visits from the comfort of one’s own home. This crucial data will provide a vital overview of overall health or warning signs of potential areas of concern.”

Designer: Withings

The thermometer of the future will do advanced temperature readings and also give the user the ability to keep an eye on the functions of the heart or lungs. All this from the comfort of your home to provide an overview of the health and any early warning signs of a silently building problem. Under normal circumstances, a person would have these checkups a couple of times a year, but with the Withings BeamO, that’s set to change.

The medical-grade gadget is loaded with ECG, photoplethysmography (PPG), oximeter, thermometer and stethoscope sensors for all the in-depth check-ups. Things included in the scope of measurement beyond the usual measurements include 1-lead electrocardiogram, cardiac sounds, SpO2, respiratory sounds, heart murmurs, lung wheezing and desaturation. On the sides, it comes with electrodes for EKG readings to detect atrial fibrillation.

It is loaded with a standalone display to get quick readings and you can The best thing is, that this medical device keeps track of data of 8 users via the accompanying app. Withings BeamO is currently seeking FDA approvals and is slated for launch in June 2024 for a price tag of $250. Given its ability to combine all majorly required functions for which you would otherwise purchase different devices, the device seems well worth the price.

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Sony redesigns sports earphones with an ‘off-ear’ rendition to ensure comfortable running experience

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The running community is used to the regular wireless earphones with ANC and splash-proofing. For the first time, there is a company that thinks the runners – and those involved in active sports – need a specially tailored pair of earphones, which is a little more. And who better to do that than Sony!

The masters of good sound and design excellence have revealed the Float Run (available on Amazon), which forgoes the traditional in-ear design for an off-ear style that allows the earbuds to rest outside the ear while holding snug with a clip-on, over-ear extension and a flexible neckband.

Designer: Sony

Those who remember bone conducting earphones would recognize the design instantly. Sony Float Run is engineered to be worn outside the ear, somewhat like the bone conducting ones that are clipped to the ear lobe. I have used this type of earphones; the sound and efficacy are not compromised but there is a pain point, they tend to release the sound outward so people around can hear what you are listening to.

How much has Sony figured that out and plugged the pain point is going to clear up only with use – we were not able to find clear evidence to this – but what we are clear about is that the Float Run is a comfortable fit and delivers high-quality sound to the listener.

The speakers of the Sony headphones are designed to float in front of the ears so you can enjoy comfort and convenience while running. Since the ears are not stuffed with the buds, the runners or sportspersons do not feel pressure in the ear, even after prolonged usage. The interesting aspect of the Sony device is that it allows you to hear the ambient sound naturally when you are wearing them.

The sound from the outside is naturally heard, so it can be safely worn while walking on the trail, running on the road, or pumping your muscles in the gym. If the sound from the outside is allowed in, the earbuds have to maintain a good speaker standard. To that end, the Float Run come with large, 16mm driver that allows excellent sound, thick base, and treble; though slightly higher volume than usual may be necessary.

Provided with IPX4 Splash Protection, the Sony earphone, which runs for up to 10 hours on a single charge, would allow you to enjoy music when you are sweating or running in a sudden shower. The Float Run weighs only 33g and is powered through the USB Type-C connector. If you like the idea of an earphone that doesn’t make your ear feel constrained, you can think of taking these home for usage during sports, including running.

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This bottle opener will satiate a motorhead’s frenzy and slay others with its supercar-esque design

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It wouldn’t be an exaggeration to say that we at Yanko Design are ardent fans of high-quality EDCs that do more than the purpose they’re designed to serve. Of course, the first look at the new Bottle Opener 3.0 from Discommon Goods suggests it doesn’t do anything other than the little purpose of opening a beer bottle in a snap; but who cares when it can satiate the frenzy of a motorhead and slay the others with its supercar-esque design.

It is a given; a device that can open metal caps from glass bottle in one quick pop is a worthy opener. But Discommon Goods is more serious with its bottle openers, which are meant to be functional art pieces you can put on the table in the middle of a party and kickstart conversations. The Bottle Opener 3.0 is a fitting embodiment!

Designer: Discommon Goods

This bottle opener that looks as good as it works is a delightful companion for all of us who take cars and beer seriously. Then, as the company states, the opener is “designed in an ultra-sexy shape” that nods the hips and curves of the finest supercars on the block.

Think then this as not only a functional EDC but a piece of sculptural art. While there is everything that the design can offer with the evident thumb impression for comfort when flipping the cap open, the Bottle Opener 3.0 is not for kids to play with.

Discommon Goods opener has a nice chrome finish which makes it hard and durable. The company notes that the Bottle Opener 3.0 is “heavy.” So, if you accidentally drop it on the floor, the opener “is ready” to make a “dent” in the “floor.” This is something to be embraced in the $79 bottle opener for a select few only. For me, the weight is insignificant. The look is paramount, and this guy checks all the boxes in that department. I though cringe an option to hang it on the keychain! ­­­

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Urbanista reveals second generation headphones and earbuds that solar charge for infinite playtime

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When venturing out to buy wireless headphones or earbuds, the primary consideration is their battery backup. This one feature holds high merit for those who travel a lot. A pair of cans or buds that can be free from this constraint, or at best, have limitless battery power at their disposal is the way to go and solar-powered function makes this possible.

Urbanista hooked on to this idea with their impressive Los Angeles headphones and the Phoenix TWS earbuds. Then adidas followed suit with their solar-powered RPT-02 SOL headphones. For audio lovers who want to stay away from the hassle of charging their headphones or earbuds time and again, these products make complete sense.

Designer: Urbanista

Riding on the success of the over-ear headphones and the Phoenix earbuds, the Stockholm-based company has announced the second generation of both these audio products. Just for the record, both of them are currently in development and expected to launch sometime in mid-2024. The good news is, they are going to cost slightly less than the first-generation versions. Los Angeles headphones will carry a price tag of $179 (vs $199 for the original version) and $129 for the Phoenix earbuds compared to the $149 of the earlier version. For those who are eager to have a first look, the audio accessories by Urbanista will be demonstrated at CES 2024.

Similar to the predecessors (the current versions on sale), they employ the latest version of Powerfoyle solar charging material to charge the batteries. They absorb natural sunlight as well as light from artificial sources indoors to charge the battery. The amount of charge will depend on the intensity and duration of exposure to light but it will be impressive, offering at least a week of non-stop listening to infinite music if you live in places that have a good share of sunlight all year round. In case they run out of juice, the conventional method of charging them via the USB-C ports is also there.

The Los Angeles headphones typically will give ample juice for four hours of listening daily on a 10-hour low-light charge with 50 days before another charge is needed. The second-generation Phoenix on the other hand will offer around 16 days of playtime with similar parameters.

They come with better-designed components for improved efficiency, so we can expect them to stay charged for longer. The design of both is more streamlined and the Active Noise Cancellation is now adaptive meaning it applies the ANC depending on the amount of noise in the ambient environment.

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Renault 5 E-Tech is a retro-futuristic electric revamp of R5 hatchback from the 70s

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When we talk of cult favorite hatchbacks that rocked the scene back in the 70s, Renault was right up there with the best thanks to the R5. Now, the French carmaker has reincarnated the iconic sports car in a retro-modern avatar they call the Renault 5 E-Tech. All set to make its debut at the Geneva International Motor Show in February 2024, the modernized version carries the same fun and styling in an environmentally friendly iteration.

The obvious differences between the two include more rugged wheel arches. Boxier body frame and a flowing soft-top roof. Other changes come in the form of the original bonnet air intake morphed into a charging port. Of course, to stay abreast of the latest automotive trends, the LEDs illuminate the logo on the bonnet and accents on the front section!

Designer: Renault

The electric car is a five-door version of the classic sports car that dominated the scene for nearly five years. This newer version will be powered by a 100-kW electric motor that delivers 136 horsepower and has an impressive range of 400 km on a single full charge.

The electric car debuted back in 2021 as a concept from the brand with no surety about its future as a production-ready version. In fact, last year Renault joined forces with Pierre Gonalons (French designer/interior architect) to create the Renault 5 Diamant. Fast forward to 2023 and it is breaking the scene as a viable four-wheeler that is all set to steal the show. According to Renault, the 5 E-Tech will be assembled in their Douai plant in France. The car is all set to roll off the production lines next summer in Europe for an estimated price tag of around $27,636.

If you are already interested, the Renault 5 E-Tech can be pre-booked right away. Renault also has plans to come up with the Super5 and R5 Turbo versions sometime in the future depending on the consumer response to this current announced model.

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Mercedes Benz Vision iMobility combines style and functionality for ultra-relaxed commutes in urban landscape

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The future of level 5 autonomous mobility is largely going to revolve around relaxation and the whole experience of getting from point A to B.  Inspired by the protective shell of turtles, the Mercedes Benz Vision iMobility concept emphasises efficiency and resilience in a smooth curvy design. The form factor in particular is a combination of style and functionality, creating a bridge between cutting-edge automotive technology and the organic beauty of nature.

The designer imagines this vehicle to dot the landscape of four-wheelers in the year 2050 where cars communicate with the traffic systems, other vehicles and urban environment to optimize routes and bump-up safety. A time when autonomy, connectivity and sustainability are the driving force of innovation. Richard states, “Vision iMobility isn’t just a means of reaching a destination; it’s a dynamic and adaptive space that caters to individual needs.”

Designer: Richard Huang

The nature-inspired details don’t end there as the headlights get the reminiscence of a dwarf arrowhead flower. The front-open design of the vehicle makes it easy for the occupant to enter the cozy relaxing interiors and the compact shape gives the iMobility flexibility in tight urban spaces. Running out of juice in this electric vehicle is out of the question as it can be charged wirelessly just by parking on the readily available charging junctions.

Since we are talking about complete autonomy, there’s no need for driving hardware like a steering wheel, brakes or accelerator. The interior space is rather a personalized oasis for laying back, gaming in VR or simply exploring different realities in metaverse worlds. The small size no a limitation as there is enough tactically designed space for sleeping in comfort. In fact the interior is flexible enough to be arranged for different scenarios. Mercedes Benz Vision iMobility truly becomes an extension of the personal space for self-expression and fulfillment of the rider.

Richard has mustered up the idea of this compact autonomous vehicle for east Asian workforce who have to deal with demanding work cultures, long working hours and intense competition. I believe this EV could be the perfect personal transportation for individuals living in any urban space.

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Wear your attitude with Cybertruck-inspired Future Warrior OLED watch from Benly Design

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Elon Musk’s darling, the Tesla Cybertruck, cannot be left out of the news, or can it? Turns out not! After inspiring campers, pick-ups, and tents, the ultra-futuristic Cybertruck, way ahead of its time in terms of design and appearance, has now stirred the horology world.

Carrying the same distinctive geometric shape and a powerful metallic touch to it, the Future Warrior OLED digital watch from Benly Design embodies the sense of coolness and futurism. At first glance itself, the shape of the watch reflects the Cybertruck image, impersonating the distinctiveness. The cool look and the automotive styling of the watch make it a desirable timepiece.

Designer:  Benly Design

The Benly Design’s watch is priced at $110, pretty affordable for its absolute uniqueness, which sees the watch display divided into two sections within its zinc alloy casing. The bottom half features an OLED panel angled toward the wearer, and the top section has a visible circuit board with an LED backlight.

The angled digital OLED display is a nifty design tweak, it permits the wearer to see the time without twisting the wrist. The display comes alive when the arm is raised so viewing time is easy, without clicking a button or tapping the display, through the mineral glass overlay.

This at-a-glance electronic watch with a nice, visible OLED backlight display, can be your everyday partner unlike those smartwatches that run on batteries or the manual-wound counterparts. The Future Warrior doesn’t require power for charging every day, it comes with a solar panel to keep it going for years without fail.

Complementing the angular zinc alloy case of the watch is the accompanying sandblasted stainless steel strap with buckle clasp. The watch case measures 19mm thick and has a 39.9mm width. By that measurement, the watch is ideally sized for smaller wrists as well, and along with time function, it also has 12/24H, stopwatch, alarm, temperature, humidity, date and day features.

The Benly Design Cybertruck-inspired timepiece is waterproof up to 30m. To that accord, it is suitable for swimming in shallow water or taking it for a cold shower. Making a bold statement with its design and material usage, the eye-catching watch can make for a cool gift to someone who loves wristwatches especially, if you are not a big motorhead with a wristwatch fanaticism yourself.

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