Author Archives: Sarang Sheth

Foldable Game Boy console lets you go from Classic to Nintendo Switch-style Landscape gaming in seconds

Posted on by

Flip Phones? How about we introduce an era of Flip Consoles!

Meet the Game Boy Flip, an audacious fan-made console concept that features a flip-type gadget with joy-cons. In its shut mode, you’ve got a handheld device that can be used to play Game Boy Advanced or Color games, but open the foldable and you’ve got a larger screen for a more immersive landscape-style game a la Nintendo Switch. I don’t see any cameras on this device but slap a couple and you quite literally have a flip phone that can be used for stuff other than just gaming… not bad, huh??

Designer: Abdelrahman Shaapan

The idea of a foldable gaming console seems like an absolute winner, truth be told. Flip phones are currently in a spot where they’re searching for a problem to solve – but the Game Boy Flip has no such problem. It’s a dedicated gaming device that takes its reputation seriously, offering multiple gaming modes ( we counted as many as three).

The first is just straight-up handheld touchscreen gaming. Use it in the closed mode for more retro old-school games, or open it up for a more expansive contemporary console experience. The dual touchscreens are perfect for immersing yourself in games, although there are arrow buttons on both the left and right side just in case you want some analog action.

If touchscreen gaming isn’t your jam (and a lot of bonafide gamers would feel so), the Game Boy Flip comes with snap-on Joy-Cons that let you play games with advanced controls, just like you would a GBA or Nintendo DS. The closed-display format offers the perfect size and aspect ratio for such games, making it perfect to relive old classics from years ago.

However, open the console up and you’re presented with a modern-day beast. The Joy-Cons snap to the open-screen device, now giving you a larger landscape display that’s perfect for newer games like the ones on the Switch. In fact, I’d go a step further and say the Game Boy Flip looks better than the Switch just given how slick and gorgeous that bezel-less screen is.

The only real difference is that the Joy-Cons don’t exist independently. They’re part of an armature that holds the phone in between (sort of like the Razer Kishi or the Backbone controller) with a USB-C jack plugging into the device to create a ‘wired’ connection, so you can’t detach the Joy-Cons and play with them independently the way you would on a Switch. However, that isn’t really what this concept is all about – it’s more about providing a novel template for the clamshell-style foldable phone, turning it into a Game Boy from the future that’s backward compatible, allowing you to play old classics on a small screen, and modern-day titles on the larger, landscape screen.

Now sure, this is just a fan-made concept of a Nintendo device that will probably never exist… but if anyone there can build a controller prototype for the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6 or even the Xiaomi Mix Flip, I’m sure there’s definitely a gamer market out there willing to rock a flip phone just for the experience of being able to play games on it effectively!

The post Foldable Game Boy console lets you go from Classic to Nintendo Switch-style Landscape gaming in seconds first appeared on Yanko Design.

Revolutionize your Coffee Brewing with this Ultra-Minimal Grinder with 48 Grind Profiles + RPM Settings

Posted on by

I’m not a coffee nerd, but I’m a ritualist. I love the idea of brewing your beverage of choice (tea or coffee) the intended way. With tea, it’s a fairly fixed routine that I seldom deviate from, and for coffee, although I go through the entire ritual of ensuring the temperature and brew times are perfect, I imagine my coffee would taste significantly better if I ground my own beans instead of using the pre-ground ones I picked up at my local barista. But with so many grinders on the market, finding one that balances performance, ease of use, and design can be a grind in itself. The Grinista Coffee Grinder aims to check all those boxes. It’s sleek enough for any modern kitchen and packed with features that will appeal to beginners and pros alike. If I was any more of a coffee person I currently am, I’d probably already have added this to cart – and it isn’t because of how gorgeously minimal it is.

Designer: Grinista

Click Here to Buy Now: $169 $398 (58% off) Hurry! Only 117 of 400 left.

The first thing you notice about the Grinista is its minimalist look. It’s not one of those kitchen gadgets that scream for attention. Instead, it quietly blends into its surroundings, all smooth lines and matte finishes. No unnecessary embellishments—just clean, functional design – sort of something from the minds at Braun back in the day. The grinder has a plain, matte-finish black outer body, with perfect cuboid forms and a large circular knob that breaks the visual monotony. The knob is matte black too, although Grinista will sell you a light/dark wood knob too, making the grinder look even more Scandinavian in its overall aesthetic. It’s the kind of appliance you don’t mind keeping out on your countertop, which is good because once you see how convenient it is, you’ll want it within arm’s reach. And, despite its minimalist appearance, it doesn’t sacrifice functionality in the name of style. That simplicity extends to how easy it is to wipe down after use, avoiding any lingering coffee dirt.

Operating the Grinista is refreshingly straightforward, which is rare for a machine with such high-end capabilities. The digital interface is intuitive and well-thought-out. Instead of squinting at confusing dials or fumbling with awkward settings, you’re met with a clear and simple digital display. You can easily adjust the grind size, set the timer, or weigh your beans directly on the grinder—no need for a separate scale cluttering up your workspace.

Look at it and you’re greeted with a blockish design featuring a rotary knob on the front, and a backlit LED display right beside it… but hidden inside is the Grinista’s most underrated feature – its companion scale. Most home grinders don’t include this feature, so it’s nice to see Grinista streamlining the process. The Grinista’s grinding basket (or hopper) pops out, and you can place it on the small digital scale included with your brewer to save both time and effort, while having absolute precise control over your coffee-brewing process. Once weighed, pick the basked up and pop it back within the Grinista. The grinding basket stores a single dose worth of beans (40g which makes up to 3-4 cups), which means you can store the rest of your beans in an air-tight container to keep them fresh, using exactly the amount you need each time.

Inside, Grinista boasts a 64 mm flat burr powered by a 5Nm torque motor, which grinds the beans with the precision that coffee purists demand. Whether you’re grinding for a pour-over or an espresso shot, the burrs make sure the coffee particles are consistent, allowing for better extraction. The result? A smoother, fuller taste in every cup. Add to that the ability to set a grind timer, and you’ve got a machine that’s capable of handling everything from a quick morning cup to a full batch of coffee for entertaining guests.

The knob on front lets you cycle through grind-sizes, depending on whether you want a coarse grind for a French Press or a fine grind for an espresso-maker. Grinista’s 48 adjustable grind settings, or “gears,” give you the freedom to fine-tune your grind size to perfection. Paired with the adjustable RPM (controlled by a second knob at the back), you can slow things down to get a more controlled grind without generating too much heat, which is a common culprit in ruining the flavor of freshly roasted beans. This kind of detail is usually reserved for more commercial-grade equipment, but Grinista manages to bring that precision into a home-friendly machine.

Cleaning is typically the dreaded chore of any grinder owner, but Grinista makes it easier than most. Its magnetic assembly allows for quick disassembly, allowing you to wipe down the machine between uses. Coffee oils and static can sometimes cause coffee grounds to stay stuck around the dispenser spout – but an ‘Auto Powder Knocking’ button vibrates the spout, clearing out any clumps of coffee powder that could get stuck in the machine.

Perhaps one of the most user-friendly aspects of the Grinista is its universal compatibility with portafilters. Compatible with your standard 58mm portafilter, the Grinista’s powder cup lets you quickly get brewing your coffee once it’s ground. Just place your portafilter over the cup and tip it over. The coffee empties directly into your portafilter and can be tamped and taken straight to your machine. Alternatively, if you’re using a French press, a moka pot, or a pour-over, just pour the grinds directly into your setup from the powder cup.

All in all, the Grinista Coffee Grinder feels like a thoughtfully designed tool for people who take their coffee seriously but don’t want to deal with overly complicated equipment. It combines a streamlined design with features that give you real control over your grind, all without turning your kitchen into a barista’s workshop. Between the built-in digital scale, the powerful flat burr, and the easy maintenance, it covers all the bases for a truly satisfying coffee-making experience. And while it doesn’t shout for attention, the Grinista quietly makes your mornings a little better—one grind at a time.

Click Here to Buy Now: $169 $398 (58% off) Hurry! Only 117 of 400 left.

The post Revolutionize your Coffee Brewing with this Ultra-Minimal Grinder with 48 Grind Profiles + RPM Settings first appeared on Yanko Design.

AirPods Pro 2 can now function as Hearing Aids after FDA grands Apple approval

Posted on by

Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 have taken another significant step forward in redefining personal tech by earning FDA approval to function as over-the-counter hearing aids. This announcement comes as no surprise given Apple’s continued focus on integrating health-related features into its devices. At $250, the AirPods Pro 2 are positioned as a cost-effective solution compared to traditional hearing aids, which often cost thousands of dollars.

Apple is also helping users become more aware of their hearing health through an integrated, clinically validated hearing test. Conducted right from the AirPods Pro 2 paired with an iPhone, the test takes just five minutes. Users simply respond to tones at varying volumes and frequencies, making it a quick and accessible method to check for early signs of hearing loss. The results are then stored securely in Apple’s Health app, where users can track their hearing health over time and share the data with healthcare providers if needed​. Given that 80% of adults in the U.S. haven’t had their hearing checked in the last five years, according to Apple’s findings, this feature could play a crucial role in detecting hearing problems earlier.

The technology behind this innovation leverages the AirPods Pro 2’s H2 chip. Users can perform these hearing tests right from the iPhone. Once the user completes the hearing test, the AirPods Pro can automatically adjust audio settings to amplify sounds specifically tailored to their hearing profile. This means that whether you’re in a conversation, listening to music, or on a phone call, the AirPods Pro 2 will enhance the sounds that matter most to you, making interactions clearer and more accessible. Unlike traditional hearing aids, which can be costly and often come with limited sound quality, the AirPods Pro 2 offers a more affordable and seamless solution. Apple’s tight integration of hardware and software ensures that users benefit from pro-level sound quality in every aspect, from listening to music to engaging in real-world conversations.

The FDA’s approval followed a clinical study involving 118 participants who experienced mild to moderate hearing loss. According to the results, the self-fitting feature of the AirPods Pro 2 provided comparable benefits to professionally fitted devices, with no adverse effects reported. This breakthrough is part of a broader regulatory shift in the U.S., which, starting in 2022, allowed for over-the-counter hearing aids. This effort was driven by a desire to provide more affordable options for the approximately 30 million Americans who suffer from hearing impairments. With regulatory approvals from bodies like the FDA, the hearing aid functionality will be available in over 100 countries, including the U.S., Germany, and Japan, Apple says.

Despite its potential, using AirPods Pro 2 as hearing aids does come with limitations. Traditional hearing aids are designed to be worn for extended periods, offering maximum comfort and effectiveness. While AirPods Pro 2 are known for their comfort, they are still consumer-grade earbuds with a limited battery life lasting just a few hours rather than entire days. Their primary function remains entertainment, and they may not be suitable for people with severe hearing issues. Moreover, this functionality will only be available in the AirPods Pro 2 model, not the more affordable $130 or $180 versions of AirPods 4, which also launched recently.

Nonetheless, this is a critical development for accessibility in personal technology. Compared to traditional hearing aids, which can range from $2,000 to $10,000, Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 offer a solution at a fraction of the cost. Although Apple is not known for affordable budget-friendly products, its disruption of this market underscores the need for more affordable health tech options.

The post AirPods Pro 2 can now function as Hearing Aids after FDA grands Apple approval first appeared on Yanko Design.

Upgrade your iPhone 16 Pro with TORRAS’ Shatterproof Screen Protector with the World’s Thinnest Black Border

Posted on by

The iPhone just launched the day before yesterday and if you’re lucky enough to have ordered one, trust me – there’s nothing more heartbreaking than seeing your brand-new phone get a scratch on the screen. Honestly, this feeling even applies to older iPhones. As much as Apple touts its phone’s Ceramic Shield display, it’s still fairly breakable (and very expensive). That’s where TORRAS’ $29.99 screen protector comes in handy. The GlassGo X is shatterproof, has an anti-fingerprint coating, and attaches to your phone using TORRAS’ 2-step process that produces perfect, bubble-free results. Pair it with the company’s Ostand 360° Spin Phone Case and your iPhone 16 Pro gets the best of all words – all-around protection as well as convenience in the form of a 360° grip and stand.

Designer: TORRAS

Click Here to Buy Now: $23.99 $29.99 (Use coupon code “yanko1620” to get 20% off on the screen protector). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours.

The GlassGo X Screen Protector comes crafted from military-grade shatterproof glass. I usually find myself cringing at the use of phrases like military-grade, but the glass has a remarkable 9H hardness and is inherently shatterproof… which means it absorbs any impact without showing signs of wear and tear. Despite the extra protection, TORRAS has nailed the balance between durability and touch sensitivity by finding the sweet spot when it comes to materials and thickness, keeping the smooth interaction you expect from your iPhone.

Sporting narrower black borders, the GlassGo X compliments the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro’s immaculate minimal-bezel display. It’s designed to be as invisible as possible while giving you 100% screen coverage. No awkward gaps around the edges—this protector covers every inch of your display. Plus, it’s got an anti-fingerprint coating, so you won’t be constantly wiping off smudges.

One of the best parts? The 2-step installation makes applying it a breeze. Gone are the days of air bubbles that ruin the perfect look. TORRAS has engineered a setup that allows air to escape easily, giving you a flawless, bubble-free fit. And, with two protectors in each package, you’ve got a backup just in case you encounter problems installing the first phone. Or if you’ve bought an additional phone for your partner, it’s nice to have a ‘twofer’.

We’ve covered TORRAS’ Ostand cases in the past, and the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro series get their own 360° cases too, with a slim, built-in ring that pops out as well as rotates on an axis (a remarkable feat of engineering that we covered in-depth at CES this year). Designed for durability, style, and practical use, it features a curved back and rounded corners that provide all the protection in a streamlined form factor without any of the bulk. Speaking of streamlined, the cases also have a cutout for Apple’s Camera Control sapphire-crystal button with a flowing cutout design that makes the user interaction seamless. The real kicker, though, is the 40% stronger magnets within the ring, which hold on to MagSafe accessories and Qi2 chargers like an absolute pro.

The Ostand case comes in four color options—Nude, Black, Clear, and Grey—so you can match it to your style. Whether you’re going for a minimal look or something a little more rugged, TORRAS has you covered. Pair it with the GlassGo X and you’ve got top-tier protection without adding bulk or interfering with your phone’s sleek design.

Click Here to Buy Now: $23.99 $29.99 (Use coupon code “yanko1620” to get 20% off on the screen protector). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours.

The post Upgrade your iPhone 16 Pro with TORRAS’ Shatterproof Screen Protector with the World’s Thinnest Black Border first appeared on Yanko Design.

Renault releases Limited-Edition R17 Restomod with a Minimalist Cyberpunk Makeover

Posted on by

The Renault R17 Restomod brings a fresh take on a classic piece of French automotive history with its modernized design that fits well into contemporary urban settings. The original R17, first produced in the 1970s, was known for its angular design and sporty appeal. Now, Renault has partnered with French designer Ora ïto to reimagine this iconic coupe, blending retro style with modern technology and electrification. The result is a striking restomod that respects the past while fully embracing the future in a tasteful way that more and more EV companies are doing, like Hyundai with its Ioniq for example.

Designer: Renault X Ora Ïto

The original Renault R17 stood out with its wedge-shaped design, wide stance, and a distinctively sharp rear end—details that made it a fan favorite. The restomod keeps these iconic elements intact but gives them a modern twist. The design update focuses on cleaner lines, sharper details, and a more aggressive stance, making the R17 Restomod look like a natural evolution of the original.

Up front, the car sports sleek LED headlights that fit perfectly into today’s design landscape. These lights, combined with an updated front grille, offer a modern look while still paying homage to the car’s 1970s aesthetic. The restomod sits on contemporary wheels that reinterpret the old-school alloys, giving the car an updated yet still familiar appearance.

Ora ïto, a well-known French designer celebrated for his minimalist approach, brings a sleek and refined touch to this project. His philosophy of “simplexity”—the blending of simplicity and complexity—is evident throughout the R17 Restomod. He’s managed to pare back some of the busier details of the original car, resulting in a design that feels polished without losing its retro charm.

The exterior’s crisp lines give the car a futuristic feel, while touches like the classic coupe silhouette and the iconic rear louvres remind you that this car is deeply rooted in history. The restomod balances both vintage and modern elements, creating a cohesive design that resonates with both old-school Renault fans and new buyers looking for a unique ride.

Underneath the R17 Restomod’s sharp new exterior lies one of the most significant changes—a fully electric powertrain. This transformation turns the classic Renault coupe into an eco-friendly vehicle that’s built for the future. The shift to electric isn’t just a nod to sustainability; it completely alters the driving experience, offering smooth, instant torque and a more refined, quiet ride.

Inside, the changes are even more noticeable. The cluttered dashboard of the original is replaced by a minimalist design, where leather and brushed metal take center stage. A digital instrument cluster and a modern infotainment system bring the R17 squarely into the 21st century, but the interior still feels like a proper nod to its roots.

Renault has confirmed that the R17 Restomod will be available in limited quantities, making it a rare find for collectors and automotive enthusiasts alike. These kinds of limited-run projects often attract significant attention, especially when they bridge iconic history with cutting-edge design and technology. The price remains under wraps, but it’s not like any of us will get our hands on this limited-edition piece of art anyway…

The post Renault releases Limited-Edition R17 Restomod with a Minimalist Cyberpunk Makeover first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Brilliant 5-in-1 Laptop Case + Stand will have you throw out every other laptop accessory you own

Posted on by

There’s no other way to describe the Trinity Laptop Sleeve than to use the words ‘sheer genius’. A simple origami-inspired sleeve, the Trinity shapeshifts into 5 different forms, going from a portfolio cover to a vertical stand, a 15° angled dock, a 30° angled dock, or even a handheld carry-case. No hinges, no fancy mechanisms. Just some really great design thinking and flawlessly simple execution.

As a laptop user myself, I have two stands (one with a cooling fan, and another made of metal). I also happen to have a separate laptop sleeve, a laptop bag, and I’m currently on the market for a laptop stand that I can use to stash my laptop vertically on my workplace to cut the visual clutter. I’ve described 5 products in just the last two sentences, all of which exist as separate entities, perform separate roles, and aren’t connected to each other. The folks at SleekStrip very casually changed that. The Trinity is an incredibly simple laptop sleeve that lets you carry, dock, or prop up your laptop. Its patented design is made to hold slim laptops (working with all Apple MacBook models from recent years), protecting it from bumps and scratches while you carry it around either independently or inside a laptop bag. When the time comes to use the laptop, you can either open up the Trinity and dock your laptop vertically (sort of like the Nintendo Switch), or use the Trinity as an angled laptop stand.

Designer: Stella Chang Chien of SleekStrip

Click Here to Buy Now: $63 $80 (21% off). Hurry, only 3/45 left!

The Trinity was made for the minimalist who appreciates a bit of multifunction. You don’t NEED to own a bulky laptop stand along with a separate case, dock, etc. With just clever thinking and a bit of inspiration from the art of origami, it’s entirely possible to build a product that serves all those purposes – and serves them well. The fact that the sleeve has 5 functions in 1 would justifiably have you wonder whether it actually compromises somewhere, but truth be told, it really doesn’t. Each feature, be it the sleeve itself, or the dock, or the stand, is immaculate. When carrying your laptop, the Trinity gives it ample protection. When in vertical dock mode, it has enough space for proper airflow. And when used as an angled stand, the Trinity gives you not one, but TWO angle options (with the second one also providing a wrist-pad to rest your hands while typing).

Constructed with a hard shell exterior, the Trinity sleeve provides robust protection against bumps and scratches. The inner lining, made from soft, anti-slip vegan leather, ensures that the laptop stays secure and scratch-free. Additionally, the sleeve incorporates inner foam bumpers that absorb shocks and facilitate better heat dissipation when the laptop is in vertical stand mode. The outer shell is crafted from premium water-resistant vegan leather, offering a sleek, durable surface that can withstand daily wear and tear while maintaining an elegant appearance.

Embedded magnets allow for seamless transitions between the Trinity’s various modes. These magnets are strategically placed to enable quick and easy adjustments, whether you’re switching to a vertical stand to save desk space or adjusting the tilt for more comfortable typing. This level of convenience, combined with the product’s minimalist aesthetic, makes the Trinity sleeve a compelling choice for those who prioritize both form and function in their workspace.

The Trinity sleeve comes in two sizes – for 13-14 inch and 15-16 inch laptops. The smaller sleeve is offered in three colors — Midnight Black, Pebble Gray, and Slate Blue, while the larger 15-16 inch version is exclusively available in Midnight Black, reinforcing its sleek and professional look. Despite its multifunctional design, the Trinity sleeve remains lightweight and portable, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go professionals who need to maintain a tidy and efficient workspace wherever they are.

Click Here to Buy Now: $63 $80 (21% off). Hurry, only 3/45 left!

The post This Brilliant 5-in-1 Laptop Case + Stand will have you throw out every other laptop accessory you own first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple turned the Voice Memos app into a Makeshift Recording Studio for Artists

Posted on by

Just like the company practically redefined the calculator with Math Notes for the iPad Pro, Apple’s turned a humble voice-note app into a blessing for musicians who use it to record samples, hooks, and lyric ideas.

Apple’s latest update to the Voice Memos app is bound to capture the attention of musicians, especially those who often rely on their iPhone for quick recordings of new sparks of inspiration. With iOS 18 and the iPhone 16, Apple has introduced key features that greatly enhance the functionality of this simple recording app, making it a more useful tool for creative professionals. The ability to layer tracks within the Voice Memos app turns the otherwise basic app into a ‘sonic doodle-pad’ for creating layered multitrack compositions. Previously, musicians would have to open a separate digital audio workstation (DAW) to layer vocals and instruments together, which required time and technical know-how. Now, with this update, musicians can record an instrumental track, such as guitar or piano, and then layer vocals over it without leaving the app. This simple feature is particularly useful for singer-songwriters, allowing them to develop ideas more organically without the distraction of switching between apps. Recording two tracks simultaneously may sound limiting for professional production, but for quick idea generation and song structure building, it’s a practical improvement. Musicians can also mix the two tracks within the app, adjusting volume levels to ensure that vocals and instrumentals are well-balanced.

Advanced processing isolates the vocal from the background sound, delivering a clean, professional result without requiring additional apps or headphones. This integration offers a simple, intuitive way for musicians to build multi-layered recordings directly on their phones, a leap forward for on-the-go production. The iPhone 16 lineup also introduces new audio processing technologies powered by Apple’s A18 chip. With this boost in processing power, the devices can handle real-time audio adjustments more efficiently. Apple’s new AI software, Apple Intelligence, plays a role in optimizing the sound recording experience, ensuring every track captured through Voice Memos or other apps benefits from smart noise reduction and dynamic range adjustments. While these features may not be as obvious to casual users, they represent significant improvements for anyone serious about audio quality.

Another helpful addition is transcription, which converts voice recordings into text. For songwriters, this feature can make the creative process smoother by providing a way to quickly view and edit lyrics. Rather than having to manually type out or remember lyrics after a recording session, users can now see their words appear directly in the app. The transcription function is easy to use; after recording, users tap on the three dots next to their recording and choose the “View Transcript” option. They can then make edits to specific sections, replacing only the parts they want to change. This integration of audio and text simplifies the workflow for lyricists, allowing them to focus more on refining their craft and less on the technicalities of documenting ideas.

I wouldn’t be surprised if this feature saw further innovation over the years. Sure, Apple’s added more mics for better recording chops, and a dual-track ability to the voice-notes feature. A year from now, they could turn it into a multitrack app with the ability to cut/edit/loop samples, probably within the app. Given that the iPhone doesn’t have a Logic Pro app, expanding the Voice Memos feature to become a makeshift DAW sounds wonderful. Who knows, they could revamp Garage Band too, allowing you to make entire album demos right on your smartphone. Sounds too good to be true, sure, but who knows what the future holds?!

The new iPhones are set to hit the market on September 20, with prices starting at $799 for the base model and $999 for the Pro. It’s unclear whether the new Voice Memo features will come to older iPhones given the reliance on the A18 chip. Given that Apple Intelligence will be made available to the iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max, one could assume that at least last year’s flagship Pro models should get this new set of app-based features.

The post Apple turned the Voice Memos app into a Makeshift Recording Studio for Artists first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Retro Open-front CD Player also has an Ambient Lamp, FM Radio, and Bluetooth Speaker

Posted on by

They say history always repeats itself. Vinyls are making a comeback right now, which means in a few years cassettes and CDs will make a resurgence all over again, and when compact discs do enter the mainstream, you’re going to be glad you had this cute CD player from Semetor. Spotted on the floor at IFA 2024, the K8 is a playfully retro CD player that embraces the design aesthetic of European appliances in the 50s. Designed with an open top that allows the CD to sit on its platter like a vinyl on a gramophone, the K8 comes with a few translucent typewriter-inspired buttons that let you control music playback. But wait, it’s 2024, and just being a CD player obviously won’t cut it… which is why the K8 also has an FM radio, a Bluetooth-enabled wireless speaker, and even an ambient lamp built into its adorable design.

Designer: Semetor

The K8 isn’t a cutting-edge CD player… but it’s cute. It has the adorable demeanor of one of lofree‘s older products, with its retro aesthetic that’s brought about by its rounded form and use of pastel shades. What instantly grabs your eye first is the open-top CD player. While most players usually conceal the CD within a casing, this one does not. You see the CD spin as you play music, and the disc’s radial spectral finish looks absolutely gorgeous.

Playback is easy. For running a CD, just hit the CD button on the panel, and use the controls below to play/pause, or skip tracks. A BT/FM button lets you toggle the Bluetooth player or FM radio. Backlights in the button glow to let you know which mode you’re in, and a seven-segment LCD screen on the bottom allows you to see things like track number (for CDs) or radio station (for FM). A gold-plated ‘gear’ on the right side lets you switch on or off the K8.

If all that wasn’t enough, the K8 also packs a warm glow-light for ambient lighting. Hit the button on the top right and a halo around the CD player lights up. It isn’t enough to light a room, but it does bestow a warm wash of golden light in the immediate vicinity, perfect for late-night listening. Pair it with a nice soft jazz CD and you’re absolutely set!

The post This Retro Open-front CD Player also has an Ambient Lamp, FM Radio, and Bluetooth Speaker first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 5 Impressive (And A Little Weird) Tech Devices and Trends We Saw at IFA 2024

Posted on by

The thing with technology is that oftentimes it’s designed for scenarios that may not necessarily be common. Technology can sometimes be ‘weird’ until it becomes so popular that its weirdness wears out – like seeing enough people on the subway wearing the Apple Vision Pro. Your mind accepts new things as reality after a while, but up until that moment, things seem unique and eye-catching. That’s the beauty of events like IFA, where you’re much more likely to see a flying car than you are in the real world (and to be honest, I did). In fact, here are 5 unique pieces of innovation I spotted at IFA and why they may not be unique for too long. With how rapidly the world is changing, these designs may just become a new normal moving forward… but until then, let’s appreciate them for how ahead of their times they are.

1. Bodyfriend Quantum Robot Massage Chair

Comfort never looked this strange – meet the Quantum from Bodyfriend, a robot massage chair designed to be your personal physiotherapist. The world’s only massage chair with independently moving legs, the Quantum gives you a soothing massage while stretching your limbs and preventing joint stiffness. It’s ideally designed for people with mobility issues (i.e., the elderly), but as an ‘elderly’ 33-year-old, this was heaven-sent for my millennial lower back pain.

The Quantum’s XD-PRO thermal module and Finger Moving Massage Module combine to deliver an impressively lifelike touch. Rather than simply kneading your muscles with broad strokes, the chair makes subtle, carefully measured movements—80 in total, each at 1.25mm intervals. 81 air pockets and heat therapy zones get you up to a toasty 50°C, massaging you at the intensity you choose. Meanwhile, you’re quite literally in the lap of luxury thanks to the Bang & Olufsen audio units packed into the side that caress your mind with soothing audio. You might look a tad bionic while in the chair, but you’ll come out feeling absolutely zen. Don’t get too zen though, the Quantum chair costs a whopping $15,000.

2. EcoFlow Solar-Panel Power Hat

You could be stuck on a desert island with just a phone and this hat, and you’d be good. Behold the EcoFlow Power Hat, a sun-hat with solar panels embedded into the rim. Aside from providing you with shade on an incredibly sunny day, the hat comes with USB-A and USB-C ports, allowing you to juice your devices. It charges a phone in under 4 hours; and the best part, it’s IP65 water resistant too, so you could keep your head shielded and batteries at max capacity even in the rain. The entire hat weighs a mere 13 ounces, folds for easy travel, and comes in 2 sizes, fitting most heads. Say hello to an entire era of ‘wearable’ chargers.

3. Lenovo Auto-Twist AI PC Concept

Center Stage on the MacBook just got shown the stage exit. Instead of having a wide-angle camera that can zoom in on subjects within its frame as you move around, Lenovo’s Auto-Twist AI PC actually has a motorized screen that moves up and down, and rotates 360° to track you. Think laptop screen with its own gimbal. Powered by 3 high-torque DC motors, the screen can practically follow you around as you present on video calls, or even go into laptop or tablet modes with voice commands. When you’re done working after an exhausting day, a voice command lets you shut your laptop screen hands-free… although it isn’t as satisfying as slamming the screen shut in protest or celebration. Does your laptop NEED an AI-powered subject-tracking screen? Don’t bother asking that question because after building phone bracelets and transparent ThinkBooks, there’s really no stopping Lenovo’s bizarre but beautiful R&D team…

4. TCL 50 Pro Nxtpaper 5G Phone

You know what’s unique in today’s world? Having a phone that lasts an entire week on a fully charged battery. And no, I’m not talking about that bonkers thick phone from Energizer with an 18,000mAh battery. I’m talking about this sleek number from TCL. Although the company isn’t known for their phones, they’re definitely trailblazers in the display department, which is why all the innovation in this phone lies in its unique display. Meet the TCL Nxtpaper display, a gorgeous screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and a matte finish that feels luxurious to the touch. The screen, however, has a secret in the form of a mechanical switch that lets you go from full color into ink paper mode, effectively turning your smartphone into a low-power e-reader of sorts.

The color display magically transitions into a monochrome one with a high contrast you usually see on devices like the Kindle. This does two things – firstly, it makes the phone perfect for reading documents or cutting visual clutter to focus on text… but secondly, it radically increases your phone’s battery life from a day-long to nearly a week-long. In fact, you’ll see the battery life mentioned in clear numbers right on your home screen. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, TCL made the impossible happen!

5. HONOR Magicbook Art 14 (with Magnetic Camera)

We’ve seen laptops try to fight thick bezels in the past. Some have just ditched the webcam entirely (like my Acer ROG Strix G15), others opted for the notch (a la MacBook), while Honor’s always tried to be different. Their previous version of the MagicBook put the camera inside a faux pop-out key in the keyboard… something that later turned out to be less popular because of the weird chin-facing angle. However, Honor’s decided to counter that with an idea that it explains is better. Instead of tucking the camera away inside the keyboard, Honor’s Magicbook Art 14 tucks it underneath the keyboard. Look on the side (near the ports) and you’ll find the camera tucked away inside the chassis. Pop it out and it’ll magnetically snap on top of the screen (where webcams deserve to be), giving you an instant webcam just when you need it. No Bluetooth, no connectivity issues, nothing. The webcam uses magnets to align perfectly, and pogo-pins to transmit video at 1080p. Flip it over and dock it in place and the webcam becomes a front-facing camera, or flip it back for a traditional selfie-style webcam. The webcam doesn’t have any batteries inside (making it super thin and lightweight), which means you can just pull it off the top of your screen when you want privacy. Just don’t lose it, because Honor doesn’t sell the webcam separately.

The post Top 5 Impressive (And A Little Weird) Tech Devices and Trends We Saw at IFA 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Maserati and LEXGO Showcase Powerful E-scooters with built-in Apple Find My technology at IFA 2024

Posted on by

Maserati has long been synonymous with high-performance cars, but now it’s taking its love for speed and style to the streets in a more accessible way—through two wheels. Teaming up with electric mobility specialists LEXGO, Maserati has expanded its name into the world of e-scooters with two sleek models: the Armonia and the Lampo, which we spotted on the floor of IFA at Berlin this year. If that pairing alone doesn’t grab your attention, the scooters come packed with premium features, including Apple’s Find My technology, merging high-end design with smart functionality.

These e-scooters are designed to cater to city dwellers who want more than just a basic ride to work. Think of it as your everyday commute with a side of prestige—after all, the iconic trident logo isn’t just for show. With Maserati branding comes a certain level of expectation, and both the Armonia and Lampo deliver by blending Italian design aesthetics with urban mobility needs.

Designers: Maserati & LEXGO

Armonia: Style and Simplicity

The Armonia scooter lives up to its name, translating to “harmony” in Italian. Designed for the everyday commuter with a taste for elegance, the Armonia doesn’t just look good—it’s built to last. The frame is made from magnesium alloy, a material chosen for its strength, durability, and lightweight. This makes the Armonia not only stylish but also highly portable. The foldable design further enhances its convenience, perfect for urbanites who need to stow it away in tight spaces like apartments, offices, or public transport.

Powered by a 400W motor, the Armonia reaches a top speed of 25 km/h, keeping it compliant with European regulations while offering sufficient power for inner-city commutes. The 36V battery gives it a solid range of about 60 kilometers, making it ideal for quick daily trips. With a sharp, easy-to-read display, riders can easily monitor speed and battery levels while navigating the city streets.

Lampo: Lightning Fast

If you’re looking for something with more bite, the Lampo (which means “flash” in Italian) takes the stage. Unlike the Armonia, the Lampo packs two 1000W motors (one in each wheel), giving it a top speed of up to 60 km/h. This is no leisurely ride—it’s built for those who want both speed and style in their urban transport. Whether you’re accelerating through traffic or hitting steeper inclines, the Lampo delivers a punchy performance.

The Lampo’s dual suspension ensures that this power doesn’t come at the cost of comfort. Whether you’re navigating bumpy city roads or uneven terrain, the suspension smooths out the ride, keeping you comfortable even at higher speeds. Additionally, the Lampo is equipped with turn signals and a dual hydraulic braking system. And like the Armonia, the Lampo is also foldable, so you can easily tuck it away when not in use.

With a 52V battery, the Lampo extends your range to about 100km in single drive, or 70km if you use both motors in tandem. It’s a blend of function and excitement for riders who want the Maserati experience on two wheels.

Apple’s Find My: The Tech Edge

In a nod to modern convenience, both the Armonia and Lampo come equipped with Apple’s Find My technology. Lose your scooter in a crowded parking lot? No problem. Just pull out your iPhone, open the Find My app, and you’ll know exactly where your ride is. Sure, the e-scooters can be locked with a virtual password, but in case an unwitting thief decides to take off with your ride after spotting the Maserati logo on them, Find My helps you track precisely where your two-wheeler is.

Smart Helmet: Safety Never Looked So Good

Maserati and LEXGO didn’t stop at just scooters. They’ve also introduced the Smartee-1 smart helmet to round out the package. The helmet comes with built-in LED lights that sync with your scooter, whether it’s a taillight that automatically shines on braking, or turn lights that glow when you indicate before turning, or even the headlight that adds to your visibility while driving. The Smartee-1 is IPx5 water-resistant, and comes with a sleek design that’s won a Red Dot Design Award for the year 2024.

The post Maserati and LEXGO Showcase Powerful E-scooters with built-in Apple Find My technology at IFA 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.