Author Archives: Sarang Sheth

Best of Conceptual Design – Yanko Design Awards 2023

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At YD, we live by the fundamental belief that there’s nothing more powerful than an idea. Concepts have always enthralled us, because they represent what our future could look like, and that’s where designers come in with their unique skill – imagining this conceptual alternate reality on behalf of all of us. As we come to a grand close to 2023, we look back at some of the concepts that we (and you, surely) loved. These concepts represent some of the most intriguing ideas and visions of the year, like imagining what a proper PlayStation Portable in the modern age would look like, or even the Gen-2 CyberTruck for instance. We’re even crowning one of these concepts as our “Best Concept Design of 2023” for its sheer vision, attention to detail, and the fact that it just ever so slightly made us want to throw money at our screens. Want to know what it was? Want to also see the other concepts that made it to this ‘Best of’ list? Scroll down to find out!

1. MOI3D Gaming Console by Vadim Danilkov (Best Concept Design of 2023)

We loved this console for a few reasons. Aside from the fact that it’s detailed down to the last screw and capacitor (check the video), it’s also a tsunami of absolute nostalgia. The MOI3D is a handheld console concept that’s designed to run any PlayStation CD right back to the 1994 PS One. It comes with all the bells and whistles, starting from a screen on the front and a CD-reader on the bottom to action buttons (including L1/L2 and R1/R2), HDMI out, USB-C charging, a CD tray button, and front-firing speakers. Notably, it lacks a 3.5mm audio jack but more than makes up for it with backward compatibility with games from as long as 30 years ago when the PlayStation first debuted!

Why it’s noteworthy?

The Best Design title doesn’t come easy. We rate our designs on their brief, their output, the level of detail, their originality, and their overall appeal and the MOI3D smashed it out of the park on all levels. The amount of detail is dizzying, and the prospect of being able to play all your favorite PS games on one handheld console is even more exciting!

2. Tesla Cybertruck 2.0 by Dejan Hristov

As the Cybertruck FINALLY begins delivering to customers who first ordered it back in 2019 (if they were ready to pay that tear-jerking new price), we decided it was time to plan for the next big thing. Dejan Hristov’s Cybertruck 2.0 really caught our fancy for its unique design. It was eye-catching and iconic without being polarizing, and still somehow stuck to the Cybertruck’s design language without looking like it was made using origami. The gentle curves do a wonderful job of reflecting light and the world around it, creating the truck’s overall appeal, and if that rear truck bed wasn’t enough storage, this one also sports a frunk that opens like a drawer cabinet!

Why is it noteworthy?

Hristov’s design paints an arguably less polarizing picture of the Cybertruck but retains its overall soul. When Musk made a point that all pickup trucks looked the same, he wasn’t wrong. Hristov carries that torch but creates an EV that looks different without looking ugly.

03. Apple iPhone Ultra by Jimmy Huynh

We all thought Apple would drop an iPhone Ultra this year, but the company delivered something just as good – an iPhone Pro series made from titanium, with USB-C, and an Action button. Sure, it doesn’t look as captivating as this particular concept by Jimmy Huynh, but we love it all the same. As far as this iPhone Ultra concept goes, Huynh retained the Watch Ultra’s aesthetic beautifully, with a gorgeous crown, orange action button, and that nude titanium finish that culminates in those speaker grills at the bottom. Sure, some might find that odd bump on the side unappealing, but we appreciate anything we can rest our fingers against as we hold this phone up.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s been a hot minute since Apple announced any new iPhone range. The Watch got an Ultra debut last year, but Apple’s stuck to the iPhone, SE, and Pro range for years now. Although some say there wouldn’t be much difference between the Pro and the Ultra, we disagree. The Ultra isn’t a creative-aligned iPhone. It’s an iPhone that’s built like a brick. Incredible sturdiness, game-changing resilience, and the kind of software security that would make it perfect for government officials (perhaps even the ones in the CCP)!

04. Nothing Power Bank by Subhav Menon Srivastava

Last year Nothing created waves with its first transparent-bodied smartphone, and while we got the Nothing Phone (2) this year, we were hoping for a few phone-adjacent accessories. A Nothing Power Bank, for example. This transparent portable charger from the mind of Subhav Menon Srivastava has us drooling because of how gorgeous it looks. While most power banks have nothing more than an Li-ion battery and a PCB, Srivastava makes things interesting with printed elements on the outer glass, and an LED display that shows the battery percentage of the power bank. You’ve also got a whopping 10,000 mAh battery on the inside, and a few LED lights that bring the power bank to life when plugged in.

Why is it noteworthy?

Our readers certainly loved the Nothing Power Bank, with 60,000 views on the concept. That pretty much affirms that there’s public demand for the Nothing Power Bank, so if Carl Pei is reading this…

05. Apple Mac Nano by Le KBM

Sometime in 2022 (or probably earlier) a patent surfaced for an Apple keyboard with its own Mac computer built into it. Given that Apple was developing its own silicone line, at the time this made absolute sense. Fit an entire Mac into a keyboard and you had yourself a makeshift Mac Mini with you! Plug a display in and you were ready to go (maybe you’d need a trackpad or mouse too, but you get my drift). Designer Le KBM decided to build out this vision, creating the Mac Nano concept. The concept features a rejuvenated Magic Keyboard with a touchbar on top and an M-series chip inside, giving it laptop-worthy computing power in the format of a keyboard. Hook an iPad or an iPhone to it and you have yourself a renegade Mac with a touchscreen. What’s not to love?!

Why is it noteworthy?

Conceptually, the Mac Nano seems somewhat strange but then again, the Mac Mini was an odd concept too. Why create a portable Mac when the MacBook Pro was already a thing? Well, the Mac Mini sort of found its own place in the Apple ecosystem, and for people looking for an ‘Air’ version of that, the Mac Nano is the perfect choice! Plus, we haven’t seen a ‘nano’ Apple product in a while!

06. PocketMan P1 Handheld Console by Grzegorz Rozwadowski (Twig Studio)

The PocketMan P1, inspired by Teenage Engineering’s raw, industrial design, boasts a sleek metal-first aesthetic with exposed screws. It features essential controls like a D-pad, action buttons, multiple joysticks, and four shoulder buttons. It also offers a USB-C port, a 3.5mm aux jack, and card readers on both sides for game loading. The black-and-white screen gives it a retro touch, possibly with an option for a color display. While currently a concept, the P1 showcases minimalist metallic design, rejecting the need for excessive ergonomics and RGB lighting in gaming hardware.

Why is it noteworthy?

Aside from that nostalgic handheld form factor, there’s a lot to be appreciated about how wonderfully cyberpunk the PocketManP1 looks. When your eyes aren’t immersed in the game, they’ll probably be admiring every inch of the P1’s metallic design while your hands familiarize themselves with every single button, trigger, and joystick.

07. Note Digital+Analog Desk Accessory by Harshit Sahu

Part digital clock/calendar, part whiteboard, and part pinboard, this Note-taking desk accessory has the best of all worlds. It’s essentially a compact whiteboard that can flip over, doubling your writing space. One side features a dotted grid for diagrams, while the other can be plain or carry the same design. Sticky notes can also find their place on this versatile board. What sets Note apart is the addition of a multi-purpose vertical screen on the left side, displaying the time, calendar, and synced appointments from your phone. It even offers functions like a timer, world clock, and music player.

Why is it noteworthy?

“Paper can be simple, and apps can be quick, but not everyone needs all the commitment that these two different note-taking methods sometimes require,” says our Co-Editor-in-Chief JC Torres. This piece of digital stationery may not be a revolutionary device, but its creative integration of analog and digital concepts makes it a focused and efficient tool for specific needs. It simplifies your workflow without overwhelming you with unnecessary features, ensuring that your productivity remains the top priority.

08. Sony Playstation XPERIA by Santosh Palaniappan

This one’s a classic case of “what could have been”. Designed by Santosh Palaniappan, the PlayStation XPERIA is the perfect hybrid between a smartphone and a gaming device, combining the company’s two successful product lines. Featuring a sliding display that reveals gaming controls underneath, along with a triple-camera setup, it offers versatility beyond gaming. Messaging, internet browsing, selfies, movie watching, and social media game streaming become seamless possibilities. The PlayStation Xperia strikes a balance between smartphone and gaming device aesthetics, combining the functionality of a smartphone with the visual appeal of the PS5. Its white and black design with textured grips and the iconic PlayStation symbol microtexture on the rear exudes elegance. Front-facing speakers enhance the media and gaming experience, and sliding the screen transforms it into a handheld console.

Why is it noteworthy?

With a focus on both gaming and smartphone capabilities, the PlayStation Xperia concept offers a promising vision for Sony’s future product lineup, blending the best of both worlds for tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. It doesn’t compromise on anything a gamer would want in their phone or their handheld console, and let’s be absolutely honest, it looks positively drool-worthy!

09. Ford Mini Bronco by Naoto Kobayashi

Ever seen an off-roader coupe? Well, feast your eyes on the Ford Mini Bronco, a two-door off-roader that we absolutely wish was real. Crafted by designer Naoto Kobayashi, the Ford Mini Bronco boasts a unique design with distinctive pixel-inspired headlights in the front and dynamic taillights at the rear. It’s ideal for a group of two or three adventurers looking to hit the off-road and embrace an eco-friendly lifestyle. This compact EV offers SUV-like excitement without the fuel consumption of larger Ford vehicles. However, it’s important to note that the Ford Mini Bronco is currently just a concept, a vision of what the future of transportation could hold. We can only hope that one day, this remarkable concept will become a reality.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Mini Bronco is a small-format-large-ambitions car that really doesn’t compromise on space or features. The lack of two extra passenger seats means the Mini Bronco has a spacious rear, perfect for storing your outdoor gear. Its short wheelbase and minimal overhangs (on the front and rear) promise enhanced off-road capabilities, and Kobayashi even managed to fit a large-size tent on the top that people can sleep in!

10. Google G Spot Tracking Device by Obi Fidler

Google will help you search for a lot of things, but this is a first! Meet the G Spot, an audacious concept from the mind of Obi Fidler that doubles as Google’s first-ever tracking device. The G Spot is a sleek and compact GPS smart tracker that takes inspiration from Apple’s popular AirTag. This innovative device boasts a conveniently small form factor, making it a breeze to carry around discreetly. What sets it apart is its seamless integration with Google’s robust ecosystem, allowing you to effortlessly track its whereabouts through the Find My Device and Google Maps services… and obviously that name, which I will never tire of saying!

Why is it noteworthy?

This one makes the list just for how much of a belly laugh it gave us as we first saw it online. The entire project is an absolute riot, making fun of what could be Google’s tracking device. Hilariously named the G Spot, this tracking device comes equipped with a tensor chip and a whole lot of double entendres!

The post Best of Conceptual Design – Yanko Design Awards 2023 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Google Chrome’s T-Rex Offline Game gets immortalized in this adorable LEGO diorama

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Back when Google was still a fun company (when Android had easter eggs, and when the company cracked April Fools jokes ever year), users who browsed the web on Google Chrome noticed a nifty hidden gem within the browser’s error message. When the browser couldn’t connect to the internet, it would display a “You are offline” message with a pixelated dinosaur standing amidst desert terrain. Press a key and it would trigger Chrome’s hidden game – an infinite side-scrolling adventure where you would have to get the dinosaur to dodge obstacles by either jumping over them or ducking under them. The game almost instantly became a crowd favorite, allowing people to keep themselves entertained even when offline.

LEGO builder Brick Dangerous decided to give this game the respect it truly deserves by turning it into a LEGO brick set. Comprising 449 pieces (although you could just as easily extend the diorama), the LEGO Ideas submission features the grey dinosaur against its familiar white background, accompanied by a cloud and two cacti.

Designer: Brick Dangerous

The build is pretty straightforward, with a lot of scope for adjustment or even upgrading to extend the scene sideways. It relies on 449 bricks in its current avatar, with no fixed orientation. You can choose to have the T-Rex on land or jumping in air. Want to make a nice stop-motion, that works too!

“This game is very fun, millions of people play it every time there are connection problems, something simple, but addictive,” says the designer, Brick Dangerous. “Luckily this T-Rex did not become extinct with the meteorite!”

This isn’t Brick Dangerous’ first rodeo on the LEGO Ideas forum. The designer has submitted multiple projects on the forum, and two of our favorites, the vintage telephone and the LEGO hourglass, even reached the coveted 10,000 vote mark. However, for reasons undisclosed, LEGO’s internal review team didn’t convert them into retail sets. This T-Rex build looks promising, though… it’s crossed the 1,500 mark and has another 570 days before its deadline ends. Head to the LEGO Ideas forum to vote for this dino before it goes extinct!

The post Google Chrome’s T-Rex Offline Game gets immortalized in this adorable LEGO diorama first appeared on Yanko Design.

Logitech revamps their popular X Plus Gaming Mouse with a ‘Millenium Falcon’ Edition

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For that extremely small subset of people who thought the Logitech G502 X Plus gaming mouse wasn’t perfect enough, the company’s managed to outdo itself with an even better version of its wildly popular wireless mouse. Now sporting the graphics of the Millenium Falcon from the Star Wars franchise, this new edition of the X Plus gaming mouse will be difficult to look away from. It’s also much more responsive, has a gorgeous tactile feel, and can functionally equip you with all the tools you need to demolish your sworn foes… in a game, obviously.

Designer: Logitech

Click Here to Buy Now

It’s difficult to talk about the X Plus’ features without highlighting the new variant’s design. I’d say the edgy aesthetic of a gaming mouse lends itself rather naturally to a sci-fi spaceship, but this one really takes the cake. The top fascia comes with a white and gray color scheme, punctuated with red accents and a pattern that echoes the iconic Millennium Falcon. Underneath, a hidden rebellion logo sits above the Hero 25K sensor, offering sub-micron accuracy and zero smoothing, filter, or acceleration – as precise and reliable as a Jedi’s lightsaber.

Logitech hasn’t overlooked the ambiance, either. The G502 X Plus Millennium Falcon Edition features 8-zone RGB lighting, capable of displaying a full spectrum of colors with custom Millennium Falcon-inspired animations. These animations, alongside the option for media-driven effects and advanced personalization, are accessible through the Logitech G Hub software. The LIGHTSYNC RGB not only adds a dynamic aesthetic to your gaming setup but also includes power-saving play detection to ensure efficiency.

At its core, the G502 X Plus Millennium Falcon Edition is a high-performance tool designed for the elite gamer. With a range of 100 – 25,600 dpi and a 400 IPS max speed, it promises precision and responsiveness that would make even Han Solo envious. The integration of Logitech’s first Lightforce hybrid optical-mechanical switches means users get the best of both worlds: the swift actuation of optical switches combined with the tactile satisfaction of mechanical ones.

The mouse also includes 13 programmable controls, allowing users to customize their gaming experience fully. For those long gaming sessions, the battery life stands robust, offering 120 hours of constant motion (37 hours with RGB on), ensuring that the only breaks taken are voluntary.

The mouse pairs with computers using Logitech’s pro-grade Lightspeed protocol (a hat-tip to the space-warping lightspeed travel system seen in the Star Wars movies). Designed to work without wires, the Lightspeed system is tournament-tested, with a response time that’s a whopping 68% faster than Logitech’s previous protocols.

To complete the intergalactic experience, Logitech offers the Return of the Jedi Collection XL gaming mouse pads. Whether you choose the Battle of Endor or Darth Vader version, your desk will transform into a battleground of epic proportions.

Priced at $159.99, the Millenium Falcon-edition mouse is a premium offering for those looking to add a piece of the galaxy to their gaming setup… and for an additional $59.99 each, the themed mouse pads can further elevate your space.

Click Here to Buy Now

The post Logitech revamps their popular X Plus Gaming Mouse with a ‘Millenium Falcon’ Edition first appeared on Yanko Design.

Logitech revamps their popular X Plus Gaming Mouse with a ‘Millenium Falcon’ Edition

Posted on by

For that extremely small subset of people who thought the Logitech G502 X Plus gaming mouse wasn’t perfect enough, the company’s managed to outdo itself with an even better version of its wildly popular wireless mouse. Now sporting the graphics of the Millenium Falcon from the Star Wars franchise, this new edition of the X Plus gaming mouse will be difficult to look away from. It’s also much more responsive, has a gorgeous tactile feel, and can functionally equip you with all the tools you need to demolish your sworn foes… in a game, obviously.

Designer: Logitech

Click Here to Buy Now

It’s difficult to talk about the X Plus’ features without highlighting the new variant’s design. I’d say the edgy aesthetic of a gaming mouse lends itself rather naturally to a sci-fi spaceship, but this one really takes the cake. The top fascia comes with a white and gray color scheme, punctuated with red accents and a pattern that echoes the iconic Millennium Falcon. Underneath, a hidden rebellion logo sits above the Hero 25K sensor, offering sub-micron accuracy and zero smoothing, filter, or acceleration – as precise and reliable as a Jedi’s lightsaber.

Logitech hasn’t overlooked the ambiance, either. The G502 X Plus Millennium Falcon Edition features 8-zone RGB lighting, capable of displaying a full spectrum of colors with custom Millennium Falcon-inspired animations. These animations, alongside the option for media-driven effects and advanced personalization, are accessible through the Logitech G Hub software. The LIGHTSYNC RGB not only adds a dynamic aesthetic to your gaming setup but also includes power-saving play detection to ensure efficiency.

At its core, the G502 X Plus Millennium Falcon Edition is a high-performance tool designed for the elite gamer. With a range of 100 – 25,600 dpi and a 400 IPS max speed, it promises precision and responsiveness that would make even Han Solo envious. The integration of Logitech’s first Lightforce hybrid optical-mechanical switches means users get the best of both worlds: the swift actuation of optical switches combined with the tactile satisfaction of mechanical ones.

The mouse also includes 13 programmable controls, allowing users to customize their gaming experience fully. For those long gaming sessions, the battery life stands robust, offering 120 hours of constant motion (37 hours with RGB on), ensuring that the only breaks taken are voluntary.

The mouse pairs with computers using Logitech’s pro-grade Lightspeed protocol (a hat-tip to the space-warping lightspeed travel system seen in the Star Wars movies). Designed to work without wires, the Lightspeed system is tournament-tested, with a response time that’s a whopping 68% faster than Logitech’s previous protocols.

To complete the intergalactic experience, Logitech offers the Return of the Jedi Collection XL gaming mouse pads. Whether you choose the Battle of Endor or Darth Vader version, your desk will transform into a battleground of epic proportions.

Priced at $159.99, the Millenium Falcon-edition mouse is a premium offering for those looking to add a piece of the galaxy to their gaming setup… and for an additional $59.99 each, the themed mouse pads can further elevate your space.

Click Here to Buy Now

The post Logitech revamps their popular X Plus Gaming Mouse with a ‘Millenium Falcon’ Edition first appeared on Yanko Design.

Logitech revamps their popular X Plus Gaming Mouse with a ‘Millenium Falcon’ Edition

Posted on by

For that extremely small subset of people who thought the Logitech G502 X Plus gaming mouse wasn’t perfect enough, the company’s managed to outdo itself with an even better version of its wildly popular wireless mouse. Now sporting the graphics of the Millenium Falcon from the Star Wars franchise, this new edition of the X Plus gaming mouse will be difficult to look away from. It’s also much more responsive, has a gorgeous tactile feel, and can functionally equip you with all the tools you need to demolish your sworn foes… in a game, obviously.

Designer: Logitech

Click Here to Buy Now

It’s difficult to talk about the X Plus’ features without highlighting the new variant’s design. I’d say the edgy aesthetic of a gaming mouse lends itself rather naturally to a sci-fi spaceship, but this one really takes the cake. The top fascia comes with a white and gray color scheme, punctuated with red accents and a pattern that echoes the iconic Millennium Falcon. Underneath, a hidden rebellion logo sits above the Hero 25K sensor, offering sub-micron accuracy and zero smoothing, filter, or acceleration – as precise and reliable as a Jedi’s lightsaber.

Logitech hasn’t overlooked the ambiance, either. The G502 X Plus Millennium Falcon Edition features 8-zone RGB lighting, capable of displaying a full spectrum of colors with custom Millennium Falcon-inspired animations. These animations, alongside the option for media-driven effects and advanced personalization, are accessible through the Logitech G Hub software. The LIGHTSYNC RGB not only adds a dynamic aesthetic to your gaming setup but also includes power-saving play detection to ensure efficiency.

At its core, the G502 X Plus Millennium Falcon Edition is a high-performance tool designed for the elite gamer. With a range of 100 – 25,600 dpi and a 400 IPS max speed, it promises precision and responsiveness that would make even Han Solo envious. The integration of Logitech’s first Lightforce hybrid optical-mechanical switches means users get the best of both worlds: the swift actuation of optical switches combined with the tactile satisfaction of mechanical ones.

The mouse also includes 13 programmable controls, allowing users to customize their gaming experience fully. For those long gaming sessions, the battery life stands robust, offering 120 hours of constant motion (37 hours with RGB on), ensuring that the only breaks taken are voluntary.

The mouse pairs with computers using Logitech’s pro-grade Lightspeed protocol (a hat-tip to the space-warping lightspeed travel system seen in the Star Wars movies). Designed to work without wires, the Lightspeed system is tournament-tested, with a response time that’s a whopping 68% faster than Logitech’s previous protocols.

To complete the intergalactic experience, Logitech offers the Return of the Jedi Collection XL gaming mouse pads. Whether you choose the Battle of Endor or Darth Vader version, your desk will transform into a battleground of epic proportions.

Priced at $159.99, the Millenium Falcon-edition mouse is a premium offering for those looking to add a piece of the galaxy to their gaming setup… and for an additional $59.99 each, the themed mouse pads can further elevate your space.

Click Here to Buy Now

The post Logitech revamps their popular X Plus Gaming Mouse with a ‘Millenium Falcon’ Edition first appeared on Yanko Design.

Pininfarina’s latest Electric SUV has a 692-mile maximum range… and a strangely familiar name

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Meet the Polestones 01. Not to be confused with the Volvo-owned EV marque Polestar, this particular brand of electric vehicles comes from China… Shanghai, specifically. The Polestones 01’s design can be credited to the iconic automotive design outfit Pininfarina’s Shanghai branch. The Polestones 01’s design takes on the visage of a Land Rover Defender-esque 7-seater SUV, but boasts a few clever features like dual-axle electric powertrains that get further supplemented by a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine. Clearly designed for outdoor-enthusiasts with range-anxiety, the Polestones 01 has a ‘claimed’ maximum range of 692 miles when supplemented by the petrol engine, and boasts a complete outdoor kitchen built into its tailgate, along with a fold-out gazebo that I genuinely hope becomes a standard fixture in SUVs and Pickups moving forward…

Designer: Pininfarina Shanghai

Let’s cut to the chase: The Polestones 01 isn’t shy about its ambitions. Designed by the renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina, this seven-seat behemoth marries the classic boxy aesthetics with modern technology. With two length options, accommodating either six or seven passengers, it caters to both family outings and adventure-seekers. At its heart lies a range-extender powertrain, a symphony of two electric motors harmonizing with a 1.5-liter turbocharged petrol engine. The result? A robust 350kW of power and 740Nm of torque, capable of propelling the 01 from 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in a mere 5.5 seconds. While its electric-only range stands at 234km (145 miles), invoke the petrol engine, and you’re looking at a staggering 1113km (692 miles) journey.

A comprehensive array of six cameras, five millimeter-wave radars, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and not one, but three LiDAR units stand guard, ensuring a secure and informed drive. This level of detail extends to its suppliers as well; industry giants like Bosch, CATL, Continental, Valeo, and of course, Pininfarina, have all played a part in bringing this vision to life.

But here’s where it gets deliciously interesting: the Polestones 01 features a camper-van style kitchen right in its tailgate. You’ve got a deployable kitchen neatly tucked in the tailgate, complete with an induction cooktop and water dispenser, all shielded by a fold-out gazebo. Inside, the six-seat variant boasts individually reclining seats and a roof-mounted dropdown screen, transforming the cabin into a mobile lounge. Opt for the seven-seater, and you’re treated to a transformational space that converts into a king-sized bed.

The dual-infotainment system separates function from recreation, allowing the driver to focus on the details that matter, and a larger screen for the rear occupants to enjoy a nice movie while on a long roadtrip.

Yet, for all its grandeur, the Polestones 01 doesn’t exist in a vacuum. It enters a market increasingly enamored with the boxy, rugged charm of vehicles like the Land Rover Defender. It joins the ranks of other Chinese contenders like the Tank 300 and Haval Raptor, each vying for a piece of the global automotive pie. However, what sets it apart is that bold blend of classic design, cutting-edge technology, an unapologetic nod to luxury that might just turn heads and shift perceptions of Chinese automotive innovation, and that fold-out gazebo that gets extra points for creativity. As it gears up for its debut, the industry watches with bated breath, wondering whether this blend of old-school charm and new-age tech will resonate with the global consumer.

The post Pininfarina’s latest Electric SUV has a 692-mile maximum range… and a strangely familiar name first appeared on Yanko Design.

This 7-in-1 Titanium Carabiner has an emergency feature that could save your life

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Most carabiners are designed for strength, some have multitools built into them, but the KeyUnity KU02 is cut from a different cloth. Sure it’s made from titanium which bestows upon it high strength and durability, but the KU02 also sports a sharp spear-tip edge that works as an ideal self-defense tool or even an emergency glass-breaker to let you make a quick exit. Yes, it also has two built-in wrenches (one of which doubles as a hex driver) and a keychain holder, but let’s be honest, they aren’t exactly the KU02’s most ‘exciting’ features now are they…

Designer: KeyUnity

Click Here to Buy Now

The first thing that jumps out with the KU02 is that design. It’s carabiner-shaped, but assumes a more tactical form factor thanks to that pointed tip. The entire thing is made from CNC machined titanium with a stone-washed finish, which means you know it’ll be durable for sure. The carabiner’s arm is made from titanium too, and relies on a clever design feature to give it its spring-loaded action. The carabiner can easily be strung along your belt for outdoor adventures, attached to your backpack during travel, or even placed in a tool-kit if that’s how you prefer to organize your EDC.

The carabiner’s pointed tip is where a lot of its appeal lies. Not only does it allow the KU02 to work as a pry-tool, it’s great for emergencies and tactical use too. Wear the carabiner around your finger and the tip becomes like a push-dagger of sorts, allowing you to defend yourself in a sticky situation, or even make a quick escape by punching through glass windows or panes. It isn’t as effective as a tungsten-carbide alloy tip, which can break through eve laminated glass in a single strike, but the titanium tip can definitely cause some damage with sustained attacks.

Other features include the two hexagonal slots on the KU02’s side – one for docking 1/4″ hex bits, and another which serves as an M4 wrench. Together, these form the utilitarian features in the KU02, allowing you to disassemble, reassemble, and repair stuff around you. Jimping around the edges gives your thumb and fingers enough textured gripping power, and when you’re not using the hex tools, the hole serves as a nifty key-ring slot, allowing you to string your keys into the KU02.

Click Here to Buy Now

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This Folding E-Bike from FUELL also boasts an impressive 110-mile range

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As a veteran in the motorcycle industry, Buell’s foray into the world of e-bikes with the Fuell brand has already seen impressive offerings, from the urban-friendly Flluid e-bike to the cyberpunk fantasy motorcycle Fllow. Delving further into the electric segment, FUELL’s latest electric bike is a mind-bending body-bending wonder. Designed to cater to both city commuters and outdoor enthusiasts, the Folld-1 e-bike blends cutting-edge technology with a robust design, setting new benchmarks in the folding e-bike segment.

Designer: FUELL

The e-bike’s highlight is the fact that it folds in half, making it much more convenient to carry around and travel with. The Folld-1 relies on a unibody magnesium alloy chassis, which also conceals the bike’s built-in battery. The use of magnesium alloy not only reduces the bike’s overall weight but also maximizes its durability. The folding design of the Folld-1 makes it a practical choice for urban dwellers who may have limited storage space. It can easily be folded and stored in small spaces or transported in a car trunk for outdoor adventures.

At the heart of the Folld-1 lies a powerful Bafang rear hub motor. This motor delivers a nominal output of 750 watts and 85 Nm of torque, allowing the bike to reach a top speed of 20 mph. Contrary to popular belief, these specs aren’t all about raw power; they also ensure a smooth ride across various terrains, from city streets to more challenging off-road paths. Compliant with European e-bike regulations, the Folld-1 also offers a version with a 250-watt motor limited to 25 kilometers per hour.

The battery is a core component of any electric vehicle, and the Folld-1 doesn’t disappoint in this regard. It’s equipped with a 720-watt-hour battery, boasting Samsung cells, which provide an impressive range of up to 70 miles on a single charge in the lowest assist setting. If you’re using full-assist at maximum speed, you can still enjoy a range of about 30 miles. The battery is removable, which adds a layer of convenience for charging.

Other notable features include a Shimano Altus 8-speed gearset, Tektro HD-E 350 hydraulic disc brakes, and a foldable rear rack capable of holding up to 22 pounds of gear. These components not only provide a reliable and safe riding experience but also enhance the bike’s utility​​​​. For those who prefer not to pedal, the Folld-1 comes with a convenient throttle control. This feature allows the rider to cruise effortlessly without pedaling, adding to the overall convenience and ease of use of the bike​.

The Folld-1 is currently priced at $2,495, with an introductory offer reducing it to $1,995. This pricing positions the Folld-1 as an affordable option in the e-bike market, undercutting even its non-folding Flluid e-bikes by a significant margin.

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This LEGO Ramen Bowl looks so realistic it’ll make you salivate

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This might be taking the “microplastics in our food” theme a little too far, but damn does that ramen look good!

Made from ‘ingredients’ rather than bricks, Micdud’s LEGO Ramen Bowl is just about as realistic as LEGO could ever get. The bowl was designed as an entry into LEGO’s Ideas forum, where the brick-building company encourages users and fans to design their own LEGO creations and share them with the world. The most popular creations (which collect 10,000 votes from the global LEGO community) get turned into box-sets for us to buy, as we saw with the LEGO Polaroid that got turned into a box-set just last week. With 3,431 votes and counting, Micdud’s LEGO Ramen Bowl may just hit retail status too!

Designer: Micdud

“The model was designed, as a fully customizable construction, thanks to a wide selection of ingredients,” says LEGO builder Micdud. It all starts with the construction of the basics: a “bamboo” roll-out pad, a “ceramic” bowl with subtle details, chopsticks (hidden in a decorated “paper” wrapping) and a special chirirenge spoon.

The beauty of the LEGO Ramen bowl is that, unlike most LEGO creations, each bowl is unique given that you assemble it entirely based on your preferences. you start with a ladle-full of the dashi broth (available in three colors or flavor intensities) before adding the noodles, chashu bacon roll, egg (regular soft-boiled or marinated), and other toppings like panko-coated shrimp, squid, nori seaweed, cooked shrimp (which uses the brick separator piece), different mushroom varieties, Naruto Maki fish cakes, pak-choi cabbage, and finally corn and chives.

The vibrant colors of the LEGO bricks add a mouth-watering pop to the brick-based dish, making it look virtually edible. The bowl, chopsticks, and rollable bamboo mat look positively gorgeous too, and aside from a bottle of Kikkoman soy sauce, this could honestly pass off as a meal! Do beware around small children, though, since this bowl contains tiny parts that may be a choking hazard.

If you loved Micdud’s LEGO Ramen Bowl, head to the LEGO Ideas forum to cast a vote for it!

The post This LEGO Ramen Bowl looks so realistic it’ll make you salivate first appeared on Yanko Design.

These iPod Wallpapers for your iPhone give it a wonderfully retro-style Lock Screen!

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22 years ago, Steve Jobs held in his hand what would quite literally be the turning point of his company. The iPod made its first debut in October 2001, and it’s difficult to picture what Apple would look like without it. Such has its cultural effect been on society that if you’re a millennial with an iPhone, chances are you probably owned (or tried desperately to convince your parents for) an iPod. However, if you missed that boat (or even if you just miss having an iPod right now), Oliur and Shane Levine’s wallpapers have you absolutely sorted. The iPod Wallpapers Pack turns your iPhone lock screen into a makeshift iPod with the popular music player’s display conveniently showcasing the date and time as well as your iPhone lock screen widgets. No, it won’t control music playback. Yes, we wish it did!

Designers: Oliur & Shane Levine

Click Here to Buy Now: $14

Turn your iPhone lock screen into a 6th Gen iPod Classic!

The $14 wallpaper pack comes with 12 different iPod Classic variants to choose from, including color varieties as well as themed and grungy iPods that kids bedazzled with stickers and other paraphernalia. All the images are high-definition, which works exceptionally well on your iPhone’s AMOLED retina screens…

Click Here to Buy Now: $14

The post These iPod Wallpapers for your iPhone give it a wonderfully retro-style Lock Screen! first appeared on Yanko Design.