Author Archives: Sarang Sheth

Unitree’s Pump MAX: The All-in-One Home Gym Engineered by Robotics Experts

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Whenever I visit any tech expo or fair, I swing by Unitree’s booth to take a look at their incredible robots. With their popular dog and humanoid bots that can do everything from sit to run, jump, wave, walk up/down stairs, and perform complex activities, Unitree’s robots are nothing short of futuristic. Under the hood, the robots run on a highly complex combination of motors, sensors, and algorithms that perfectly execute movements. So when Unitree decided to put these motors, sensors, and algorithms into a compact home gym, you best bet that it’s going to be state-of-the-art.

Although it sounds like an unlikely area for a robotics company like Unitree to venture into, its fitness division (named UnitreeFitness) is a perfect balance to its robotic endeavors. It helps the company fine-tune their hardware in the perfect stress-test environment – exercise. The PUMP MAX is UnitreeFitness’ way of condensing down an entire gym into a compact hub that attaches to a shapeshifting exercise frame. The advanced internal motor provides between 4 to 70 kilos of resistance with half-a-kilo increments, while multiple exercise modes let you work out targeting 90% of all your muscle groups… without spending thousands on a Peloton, or on gym memberships.

Designer: Unitree

Click Here to Buy Now: $499 $899 (44% off). Hurry, only a few left! Raised over $439,000.

PUMP MAX redefines the modern workout experience by putting the gym right on your wall. Imagine having a sleek, multi-functional workout machine that adapts to every fitness goal without taking up half your room. PUMP MAX is compact yet powerful, packed with customizable features that make it your all-in-one home gym solution, ready to cater to beginners and experienced athletes alike.

At its core, PUMP MAX offers a workout experience tailored precisely to your needs. Whether you’re adjusting resistance in small increments or targeting specific muscle groups, this machine adapts effortlessly. Its high-speed motor provides weight adjustments in increments as precise as 0.5 kg, ranging from 4 kg up to 70 kg, so you’re covered for anything from a light burn to a serious strength session. This kind of precision, combined with an innovative design, makes PUMP MAX feel less like a machine and more like a personalized workout partner.

One of PUMP MAX’s standout features is its five distinct workout modes, each designed for a specific training focus. Standard mode brings a familiar gym feel, while concentric and eccentric modes fine-tune muscle engagement, focusing on either lifting or lowering phases of your reps. Constant mode keeps resistance steady, ideal for those looking to push endurance, and Chains mode provides variable resistance, which mimics chain-based weight training. These options mean that PUMP MAX is more than a simple weight system – it’s a high-tech, adaptable fitness experience that gives you the flexibility of an entire gym in one sleek setup.

You might be wondering if one machine can effectively replace traditional gym equipment. PUMP MAX does so by engaging nearly 90% of your body’s muscle groups in one cohesive setup. Thanks to a 2-meter rope and an internal gearbox with dual resistance levels, you get smooth, steady power no matter the weight setting, making exercises for chest, back, legs, and arms feel effortless in their consistency. Every movement, from light reps to heavier resistance exercises, feels fluid, almost as if guided by an invisible trainer who knows exactly how much push you need.

A remote control lets you adjust intensity, switch modes, and activate preset functions on the fly, minimizing interruptions and letting you focus fully on your workout. Plus, the PUMP MAX comes with emergency disengagement sensors built into the system, ensuring you’re protected from unintended movements or risky positions, allowing you to focus solely on your performance without the need for a spotter.

PUMP MAX also offers additional options that make it a truly versatile tool for any home gym setup. If you pair it with a gym bench, you’ve got a full-body workout station that tackles nearly every muscle group in your body. Rack modules are available for those who want seamless integration with their existing setups, making PUMP MAX adaptable to a variety of home gym layouts. It even transforms into a rowing machine, adding cardiovascular workouts into its repertoire, while an optional gym board provides a broader range of exercise positions for ultimate flexibility.

Battery life isn’t a concern, either. Pump Max’s detachable 96.2Wh battery supports over a week of regular use on a full charge, even during intense regimens. Capable of handling between 60,000 to 70,000 kg of training weight on a single charge, this power source combines efficiency with durability, so you’re never caught mid-session without the charge to finish.

And to top it all off, Pump Max connects with your smartphone, bringing app-enabled intelligence to your workout. Track your progress, access personalized programs, and join a thriving fitness community, all in one place. This network of insights and support ensures you’re part of a dynamic fitness ecosystem, where each session is backed by data-driven coaching and encouragement.

The entire PUMP MAX setup (no matter which bundle you opt for), is highly portable – which means it doesn’t eat into your living space the way most home gyms and exercise equipment do (we’re looking at you, Peloton). Setup is a breeze, and once you’re done, winding down takes mere minutes, allowing you to stow away your home gym so it doesn’t look like exercising is your entire personality. The machine adapts to your needs, ensuring you train every part of your body, helping build cardio, strength, and muscle… And not to foreshadow anything, think of it as Unitree’s way of getting you shredded so that when the robots come to take over humanity, you’ll be in fit fighting shape!

Click Here to Buy Now: $499 $899 (44% off). Hurry, only a few left! Raised over $439,000.

The post Unitree’s Pump MAX: The All-in-One Home Gym Engineered by Robotics Experts first appeared on Yanko Design.

Unitree’s Pump MAX: The All-in-One Home Gym Engineered by Robotics Experts

Posted on by

Whenever I visit any tech expo or fair, I swing by Unitree’s booth to take a look at their incredible robots. With their popular dog and humanoid bots that can do everything from sit to run, jump, wave, walk up/down stairs, and perform complex activities, Unitree’s robots are nothing short of futuristic. Under the hood, the robots run on a highly complex combination of motors, sensors, and algorithms that perfectly execute movements. So when Unitree decided to put these motors, sensors, and algorithms into a compact home gym, you best bet that it’s going to be state-of-the-art.

Although it sounds like an unlikely area for a robotics company like Unitree to venture into, its fitness division (named UnitreeFitness) is a perfect balance to its robotic endeavors. It helps the company fine-tune their hardware in the perfect stress-test environment – exercise. The PUMP MAX is UnitreeFitness’ way of condensing down an entire gym into a compact hub that attaches to a shapeshifting exercise frame. The advanced internal motor provides between 4 to 70 kilos of resistance with half-a-kilo increments, while multiple exercise modes let you work out targeting 90% of all your muscle groups… without spending thousands on a Peloton, or on gym memberships.

Designer: Unitree

Click Here to Buy Now: $499 $899 (44% off). Hurry, only a few left! Raised over $439,000.

PUMP MAX redefines the modern workout experience by putting the gym right on your wall. Imagine having a sleek, multi-functional workout machine that adapts to every fitness goal without taking up half your room. PUMP MAX is compact yet powerful, packed with customizable features that make it your all-in-one home gym solution, ready to cater to beginners and experienced athletes alike.

At its core, PUMP MAX offers a workout experience tailored precisely to your needs. Whether you’re adjusting resistance in small increments or targeting specific muscle groups, this machine adapts effortlessly. Its high-speed motor provides weight adjustments in increments as precise as 0.5 kg, ranging from 4 kg up to 70 kg, so you’re covered for anything from a light burn to a serious strength session. This kind of precision, combined with an innovative design, makes PUMP MAX feel less like a machine and more like a personalized workout partner.

One of PUMP MAX’s standout features is its five distinct workout modes, each designed for a specific training focus. Standard mode brings a familiar gym feel, while concentric and eccentric modes fine-tune muscle engagement, focusing on either lifting or lowering phases of your reps. Constant mode keeps resistance steady, ideal for those looking to push endurance, and Chains mode provides variable resistance, which mimics chain-based weight training. These options mean that PUMP MAX is more than a simple weight system – it’s a high-tech, adaptable fitness experience that gives you the flexibility of an entire gym in one sleek setup.

You might be wondering if one machine can effectively replace traditional gym equipment. PUMP MAX does so by engaging nearly 90% of your body’s muscle groups in one cohesive setup. Thanks to a 2-meter rope and an internal gearbox with dual resistance levels, you get smooth, steady power no matter the weight setting, making exercises for chest, back, legs, and arms feel effortless in their consistency. Every movement, from light reps to heavier resistance exercises, feels fluid, almost as if guided by an invisible trainer who knows exactly how much push you need.

A remote control lets you adjust intensity, switch modes, and activate preset functions on the fly, minimizing interruptions and letting you focus fully on your workout. Plus, the PUMP MAX comes with emergency disengagement sensors built into the system, ensuring you’re protected from unintended movements or risky positions, allowing you to focus solely on your performance without the need for a spotter.

PUMP MAX also offers additional options that make it a truly versatile tool for any home gym setup. If you pair it with a gym bench, you’ve got a full-body workout station that tackles nearly every muscle group in your body. Rack modules are available for those who want seamless integration with their existing setups, making PUMP MAX adaptable to a variety of home gym layouts. It even transforms into a rowing machine, adding cardiovascular workouts into its repertoire, while an optional gym board provides a broader range of exercise positions for ultimate flexibility.

Battery life isn’t a concern, either. Pump Max’s detachable 96.2Wh battery supports over a week of regular use on a full charge, even during intense regimens. Capable of handling between 60,000 to 70,000 kg of training weight on a single charge, this power source combines efficiency with durability, so you’re never caught mid-session without the charge to finish.

And to top it all off, Pump Max connects with your smartphone, bringing app-enabled intelligence to your workout. Track your progress, access personalized programs, and join a thriving fitness community, all in one place. This network of insights and support ensures you’re part of a dynamic fitness ecosystem, where each session is backed by data-driven coaching and encouragement.

The entire PUMP MAX setup (no matter which bundle you opt for), is highly portable – which means it doesn’t eat into your living space the way most home gyms and exercise equipment do (we’re looking at you, Peloton). Setup is a breeze, and once you’re done, winding down takes mere minutes, allowing you to stow away your home gym so it doesn’t look like exercising is your entire personality. The machine adapts to your needs, ensuring you train every part of your body, helping build cardio, strength, and muscle… And not to foreshadow anything, think of it as Unitree’s way of getting you shredded so that when the robots come to take over humanity, you’ll be in fit fighting shape!

Click Here to Buy Now: $499 $899 (44% off). Hurry, only a few left! Raised over $439,000.

The post Unitree’s Pump MAX: The All-in-One Home Gym Engineered by Robotics Experts first appeared on Yanko Design.

Leica’s New 4K ‘Cine Play 1’ Projector Brings a Massive 300-Inch Screen to Your Home

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You may know Leica for their expensive pro-grade cameras, but did you know the company makes expensive projectors too? Aside from high-end cameras, the company has made in-roads in quite a few industries that rely on optics, like binoculars, televisions, and projectors. Although the brand is most known for building products with a premium price tag, their latest projector, the Cine Play 1 has an unusually affordable price, considering its 4K output and ability to output a massive 300-inch screen to rival most cinemas.

I’ve long been an advocate for projectors. They’re the same price as TVs, while being portable and having the ability to cast displays nearly 5x larger than most televisions. While the Cine Play 1’s $3,795 price tag isn’t really “affordable”, it does feel so when compared to something like Samsung’s 146-inch “The Wall” 4K television that has an eye-watering $220,000 market price. Contrast it with any other leading 4K long-throw projector brand too, and the Cine Play 1 fits well within the $2000-$4000 range for its category.

Designer: Leica

So, what makes it special? For starters, the Cine Play 1’s compact design. We’re talking a sleek 10.3 x 9.5 x 9-inch box that packs a mighty 3,000 lumens, making it versatile enough for various settings—even well-lit rooms. Thanks to its triple RGB laser tech and Leica Image Optimization, colors remain balanced and vivid, while its 4K clarity holds strong even as you scale down to 65 inches. This adaptability makes it ideal for any space, whether you’re hosting a gaming night or screening movies under the stars.

The overall design is a nod to Leica’s strong minimal-metal visual DNA. With a Bauhaus-inspired single-piece aluminum body and glass front, it’s a minimalist piece that complements any space. As an optional add-on, Leica also lets you buy a floor stand that complements your projector with an all-metal design and hidden power connections that route cables through the stand’s central cylindrical pillar, rather than having the cable dangle aimlessly around and ruin your room’s aesthetic.

You’d expect anything with Leica’s brand name to nail the visuals and optics, but the projector does a stellar job with audio too. The Cine Play 1 is built-in 10-watt speakers feature DTS Virtual:X, simulating surround sound to create an immersive audio experience. This means there’s no need to fuss with external speakers; you’re set with crisp highs and rich bass tones right out of the box. User experience features like automatic image alignment save you from the usual trial-and-error of projector placement. And with HDR10+ and Dolby Vision support, Leica wants you to enjoy content in the quality it was meant to be seen.

With built-in WiFi, the projector also lets you stream directly from your favorite apps, turning any surface into a high-quality viewing experience without additional gear or hassles. The inclusion of Apple Airplay, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and multiple ports allows you to stream from smartphones, tablets, laptops, or external drives. The VIDAA smart system gives you quick access to popular streaming apps, while smart home integration lets you control it with just your voice.

Priced at $3,795, the Cine Play 1 is definitely a more affordable entry in the Leica lineup, aimed at enthusiasts who appreciate high-end design but are conscious of budget. And if you’re short on surface space, Leica offers a compatible tripod stand for an extra $495, so you won’t be restricted to a countertop setup. For those ready to elevate their viewing game without a massive home theater overhaul, the Cine Play 1 feels like an intriguing blend of luxury and practicality.

The post Leica’s New 4K ‘Cine Play 1’ Projector Brings a Massive 300-Inch Screen to Your Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Audi Unveils New EV Brand in China Without Its Iconic Four-Ring Logo

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A car’s identity can be attributed to two things – its overall design language, and the logo that sits on the front and back of it, allowing you to identify its ‘marque’. For decades, Audi’s identity could be traced back to the iconic four-ring logo on its front, coupled with its sporty-aggressive design language. Times, however, change, and Audi is embracing that change too. The company just unveiled its first China-specific EV brand in collaboration with SAIC Motor. Dubbed just ‘AUDI’, the brand eschews the four-ring logo for four capital letters, tying both to its German name as well as the way its partner’s name ‘SAIC’ is spelled.

The new brand was announced alongside an EV concept, built with a fast-charging 800V powertrain and two 760HP motors supplying energy to the car’s AWD platform. The car accelerates 0-60mph in just 3.6 seconds, despite its large frame, while, a 100 kWh gives the car a range of 434 miles on a full charge. Exclusive just to the Chinese market, the car is looking at an August 2025 launch, with a price of $42,000 USD.

Designer: Audi

Positioned as a fully electric Sportback, the AUDI E boasts a significant presence on the road with its dimensions: 4,870 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, and 1,460 mm in height, with a generous 2,950 mm wheelbase. Two electric motors on the front and rear axles generate a thrilling 570 kW and 800 Nm of torque, ensuring the iconic quattro four-wheel drive feel. Performance enthusiasts will appreciate the AUDI E’s 0-100 km/h sprint in just 3.6 seconds, and the brand promises that it drives with all the comfort and dynamism that fans expect from Audi.

The vehicles will be built on an Advanced Digitized Platform, a joint effort with SAIC that combines Audi’s premium design and engineering with SAIC’s technological prowess and understanding of Chinese consumer needs. This platform underpins the upcoming lineup, which will hit the market starting in 2025, targeting mid-size to full-size segments. With this collaboration, Audi’s commitment goes beyond creating cars—it’s about creating a distinctly localized driving experience that merges Audi’s luxury touch with China’s fast-paced digital landscape.

At the core of the AUDI E is a 100-kWh battery that supports a range of 700 km (434 miles) on a full charge, measured according to CLTC (China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle) standards. This EV comes equipped with an innovative 800-volt architecture, making charging speeds incredibly fast. Imagine gaining more than 370 km (230 miles) of range in just 10 minutes at a rapid charging station. For users in China, these speeds add significant convenience to daily commutes and long journeys, transforming how they experience charging times and range anxiety.

Stepping inside, the cabin introduces a level of interactivity that blurs the line between digital and physical. The AUDI Assistant, an AI-driven avatar, takes center stage, handling touch and voice controls with effortless finesse. This assistant doesn’t just respond; it interacts with an intuitive design that adds a layer of emotion and feedback, creating an experience that feels like a dialogue. Meanwhile, seamless smartphone integration enables users to bring their digital lives on the road with ease, a must-have for today’s hyper-connected audience.

While the new brand aligns itself with Audi’s established reputation, the rebranding feels like a conscious step into a future defined by both global standards and local resonance. The new, ring-less identity signals Audi’s awareness of the unique needs and preferences of Chinese drivers, opening up a pathway to engage a younger, tech-driven customer base. Personally, the four-ring identity had a unique iconic appeal that transcended language barriers. With the new logo in English, it’s difficult to say if it’ll imprint on the Chinese audience, although I’m sure the German marque’s done a fair bit of planning in advance!

The post Audi Unveils New EV Brand in China Without Its Iconic Four-Ring Logo first appeared on Yanko Design.

Mercedes-Benz W165 Gets a Futuristic Restomod Makeover That Defies Convention

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The Mercedes-Benz W165 holds a legendary status among vintage racing enthusiasts, a machine that represented the peak of German engineering in the 1930s. Built for speed and streamlined for aerodynamic excellence, the W165 was crafted to dominate the European racing circuit, delivering a blend of power and elegance that captivated audiences. Its heritage is one of high performance under sleek, unassuming curves, a symbol of sophistication in a fiercely competitive era. To see it reimagined in a modern restomod is to witness the rekindling of that legacy with a bold, innovative edge.

Revived by Dutch designer Ferry Passchier, this fan-made restomod takes the W165’s iconic silhouette and infuses it with elements that bring it firmly into the 21st century. It’s a tribute to the original’s racing pedigree, yet it doesn’t shy away from introducing contemporary enhancements that push boundaries. With its exposed engine, fluorescent green accents, and subtle yet significant modifications, this version of the W165 embraces the best of both worlds—respecting its origins while pushing into new territory.

Designer: Ferry Passchier

One of the most striking features is the exposed engine, showcased prominently atop the hood. In the original W165, the engine was neatly housed beneath its aerodynamic curves, emphasizing sophistication over showmanship. Here, however, the engine is a statement piece, signaling power and aggression. It’s an unapologetically modern touch that heightens the car’s presence, balancing its vintage allure with a raw, modern edge that commands attention.

Subtle yet vibrant green accents trace through the design—on the wheels, exhaust tips, and cockpit detailing. This choice adds a contemporary flair that contrasts sharply with the metallic body, highlighting the vehicle’s dual nature as both a nostalgic homage and a futuristic reimagining. The green accents serve as visual punctuation, refreshing the car’s appearance without overshadowing its classic form. They’re a smart choice that complements the car’s heritage, while giving it a fresh, unmistakably modern attitude.

The body retains the iconic streamlined, bullet-like shape of the W165, capturing the aerodynamic efficiency that defined the original. Yet, there are carefully considered updates, such as additional vents around the engine bay, which assist with cooling—an adaptation to handle the increased power of this restomod’s enhanced engine. These modifications seamlessly blend functionality with style, maintaining the car’s classic profile while integrating essential modern engineering.

Inside the cockpit, there’s a fascinating blend of old and new. The seat and steering wheel are updated with modern materials, offering comfort that drivers from the 1930s would envy. It’s still a minimalist cockpit, in line with the original W165’s stripped-down approach—back then, racing cars were bare-bones machines built for speed, not comfort. But here, the upgrades strike a balance between authenticity and usability, allowing a modern driver to experience the thrill of a vintage racecar without sacrificing too much comfort.

The front wheels feature a multi-spoke design that mirrors the classic aesthetic, while the rear wheels sport solid green hubcaps. This mix of designs is both a visual and functional choice—the solid rear wheels likely reduce drag, enhancing performance in a way that honors the car’s racing heritage. It’s an inventive touch that respects the original’s focus on speed while pushing its design into a new, visually engaging direction.

At the rear, dual exhaust pipes sit low and wide, lending the car a mean, track-ready vibe. The original W165 didn’t need this kind of dramatic exhaust configuration—it was all about clean, compact engineering. But today, this restomod isn’t shy about flaunting its capabilities, with those pipes signaling power in a way that’s unmistakable. It’s a design choice that adds attitude and gives you a hint of the performance under the hood.

This restomod of the W165 transcends typical restoration. It respects the car’s racing pedigree, capturing the essence of the original design while introducing bold upgrades that make it feel both nostalgic and new. It’s a meticulously crafted homage that appeals to both vintage car enthusiasts and modern performance aficionados, offering a fresh take on an iconic vehicle.

The post Mercedes-Benz W165 Gets a Futuristic Restomod Makeover That Defies Convention first appeared on Yanko Design.

LG Unveils World’s First Stretchable Display that can Twist, Expand, and Stretch Up To 50% Like Elastic

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Did that display just stretch or is it happy to see me??

We’ve seen folding displays for a decade now, but it seems like LG’s unlocked a magical new display capability – stretchable displays. Their prototype, revealed in Seoul, transforms how we think of screens: it stretches up to 50% more than its original size—quite literally expanding our vision of what displays can do. This achievement puts LG at the forefront of a unique new tech innovation, showcasing a level of versatility previously limited to science fiction.

Imagine a display that can expand from 12 inches to 18 inches, all while maintaining sharp, full-color clarity at 100 pixels per inch. It’s like having a screen that adapts to your needs, flexing and stretching without compromising quality. The potential uses are mind-boggling: think screens integrated seamlessly into irregular surfaces like clothing, or even medical wearables that conform to the human body. It could render folding displays obsolete too – why fold a phone when you can simply stretch it?!

Designer: LG Display

The screen’s specs are impressive for a prototype. It features a 100ppi resolution with full-color RGB, combining durability with flexibility. It stretches up to 20%—much like a rubber band—thanks to a unique silicon substrate, similar to what’s used in contact lenses. This substrate, paired with micro-LED tech, ensures that the display maintains sharp visuals and endures real-world wear and tear. Not only can the display handle heavy impacts, but its structure also preserves picture quality even under the stress of stretching and bending, setting a new standard for resilient, adaptable tech.

The tech under the hood is pretty impressive. Using a unique silicon substrate (the same material often used in contact lenses) LG has managed to significantly improve the display’s flexibility and durability. Coupled with a micro-LED light source capable of surviving extreme environments, this display can withstand up to 10,000 stretches without a dip in image quality. This durability sets it apart from conventional screens, which can be fragile and ill-suited for rugged conditions.

There’s also a unique blend of design and practicality here, particularly in how LG Display envisions the Stretchable screen fitting into various environments. For instance, it could be integrated into a paramedic’s uniform, delivering critical information in real-time during emergencies. Or think of a screen that shifts from a flat display to one with tactile feedback, potentially supporting accessibility features like Braille. By rethinking what displays can do, LG Display’s Stretchable technology points toward a future where screens become embedded into our surroundings and daily routines, merging seamlessly with the objects and clothing we use.

Aside from being able to flex, warp, and stretch, the screen is engineered to handle the elements too, from extreme temperatures to physical impacts. This resilience is vital for potential applications in fields like safety, where wearables could provide critical real-time information. For instance, firefighters could wear uniforms with built-in screens, delivering crucial updates directly on their clothing. Similarly, the automotive sector could see stretchable panels that mold to dashboards, changing shape to offer an intuitive interface for drivers.

Collaborating with 19 other industry and research bodies, LG Display has been working on this project since 2020, advancing not just in product design but in creating a sustainable ecosystem for future technologies. This collaboration with South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy speaks to the broader impact of this display technology—beyond products, it’s about leading the charge in next-generation materials and designs.

The display wing of LG debuted this unique piece of innovation at the Seoul Fashion Week by integrating the displays into clothing and fashion accessories like bags. Although just a proof of concept for now, commercialization is on the horizon, with LG Display targeting a more refined prototype by the end of 2024. The implications for industries like gaming, healthcare, and fashion are significant. This technology could turn any surface into an interactive display, from a jacket sleeve to a car dashboard. I just wish LG’s mobile division were around to put this magical screen to use!

Images via LG Display Newsroom

The post LG Unveils World’s First Stretchable Display that can Twist, Expand, and Stretch Up To 50% Like Elastic first appeared on Yanko Design.

Game-changing Carbon-Nanofiber Heated Blanket warms you in a Minute with 96% Energy Efficiency

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The clocks are rolled forward, the post-Halloween holiday festive feeling is here and Mariah Carey is beginning her journey to hitting the top of her charts with her quintessential Christmas single. It’s officially winter, and instead of cranking up the heater this season (and worrying about an astronomical power bill), here’s an alternative that sounds like something out of a sci-fi novel but actually isn’t – a body-heating blanket that uses a carbon nanotube fabric and infrared heating to keep you warm.

Meet the Jartoo, an electric blanket that isn’t anything like the one your grandparents used. Relying on one of the most comfortable, energy-efficient materials on the planet, the Jartoo blanket is lined with a high-performance carbon nanotube fabric that heats evenly and efficiently in under a minute. The blanket has 6 heat settings and relies on a mere 70 watts of power. That’s about as much as a ceiling fan consumes, or around 96% less power than your traditional heater or AC uses.

Designer: Jartoo

Click Here to Buy Now: $139 $299 ($160 off). Hurry, only 85/500 left! Raised over $90,000.

Designed to look and feel like a sophisticated, soft, plush blanket that you’d want to wrap yourself in, the Jartoo is nothing like those stiff, weirdly wiry electric blankets from decades ago. While most electric blankets were designed to be placed under you, this one is designed to be wrapped around you, which means you can wear it in bed, in your work chair, or even your sofa. The velvet exterior feels luxuriously soft, while the blanket’s heating tech works like magic.

The magic of the 60-second heating comes courtesy of the Jartoo’s use of Apalos™ FlexHT Carbon Nanotube Film—a technology more often found in aerospace. Carbon nanotubes get their name from the tube-shaped graphene cylinders suspended within the material. Known for its high-strength and incredible energy efficiency, CNT is a perfect choice for the blanket. It heats evenly, heats rapidly, and still remains much more flexible (and safe) than say a copper-wire heating element.

Apalos™ FlexHT Carbon Nanotube Film technology

Most electric blankets use heating elements woven into the blanket’s fabric, but the Jartoo relies on something much more sophisticated –  Far-Infrared (FIR) heating. If you’re not familiar, FIR technology heats objects directly rather than the surrounding air, creating a warmth often described as “sun-like.” This isn’t just cozy; it’s practical, delivering a soft, radiating heat without hot and cold zones, like you’d feel with older electric blankets. The entire heating process takes a mere minute, getting you from shivering cold to toasty and cozy in seconds.

Carbon nanotubes’ energy efficiency doesn’t just translate to a warmer blanket, it also means better warming with lower energy consumption. Specifically, the Jartoo blanket operates at just 70 watts, making it 60% more energy efficient than typical electric blankets and nearly 97% more efficient than a heater that operates at over 1500 watts. Plus, it runs on a safe 24V low-voltage system, meaning it’s a low-risk option for everyone in the family, including kids.

To cater to different preferences, the Jartoo offers six adjustable heating modes. Ranging from a cozy 95°F to a toasty 131°F, the blanket allows for customized warmth depending on what you need, whether it’s a light layer of warmth on a chilly morning or full heat on a particularly snowy night. You can set it to turn off automatically with a timer, configured by a remote—so there’s no need to worry about leaving it on while you’re dozing off.

With the toasty warmth also comes comfort. The Jartoo is made with a blended velvet fabric, designed to be soft against your skin while standing up to daily wear. The velvet is spill-resistant, which means it can take on the daily ritual of sipping coffee or tea while snuggled in your blanket. However, if you’re extra clumsy, the blanket is machine-washable and doesn’t require any special treatment or wash cycle. Perfect for households with kids, pets, or just people who like a clean blanket.

The Jartoo blanket comes in a 50″x60″ size, which is perfect for a single person. It’s designed to not just be used in bed, but even on your sofa as you curl up to watch a movie, or while you’re working at your WFH setup. The blanket is accompanied by a remote control, a GaN plug-adapter to power the blanket, a charging cable for the remote, and a warranty card for your Jartoo. If an entire blanket feels like way too much of a commitment, the Jartoo comes in a small heating-pad-sized unit too, perfect for physiotherapy, dealing with cramps, or just using as a foot-warmer!

Click Here to Buy Now: $139 $299 ($160 off). Hurry, only only 85/500 left! Raised over $90,000

The post Game-changing Carbon-Nanofiber Heated Blanket warms you in a Minute with 96% Energy Efficiency first appeared on Yanko Design.

Award-winning Sunflower-inspired Fire Pit Mixes Art with Utility and Transforms Your Patio

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Shift Studio’s Sunflower fire pit redefines concrete fire pits with a modular twist, moving away from the bulky, one-piece molds traditionally used. Instead of casting the entire pit in a single, heavy mold, Sunflower’s modular design features smaller, repeatable concrete segments supported by a sturdy internal metal frame. This new approach not only makes each piece easier to cast, finish, and handle but also allows for on-site assembly, simplifying installation and adding flexibility. It’s an innovative break from the limitations of traditional concrete casting, where design is usually constrained by weight and the impracticalities of handling one large piece.

Designer: Shift Studio

The modular setup also opens up a world of creative possibilities. Each “petal” piece of concrete is distinct, enabling customizable combinations in color, tone, material, and finish. This setup gives Sunflower a unique aesthetic versatility, allowing homeowners to tailor the fire pit’s look to suit their personal style or the vibe of an outdoor space. It’s easy to imagine a configuration where each petal has its own shade, creating a gradient that enhances the fire pit’s organic, flower-inspired design. If a petal gets damaged, it can be replaced independently, which is a practical advantage not seen in traditional single-mold fire pits.

When Sunflower is lit, it truly comes to life. The metal frame holds the fire at the center, while the concrete petals channel light through the openings, casting shapes that resemble rays of sunlight. This interplay of light and shadow produces a mesmerizing, almost sun-like pattern that radiates warmth and creates a visually captivating experience. The segmented design not only looks beautiful but brings a tactile, hands-on quality to concrete, transforming the traditionally industrial material into something intimate and engaging. This setup encourages people to gather around, inviting quiet moments of reflection or shared conversation around the fire.

What makes Sunflower especially compelling is how it balances rugged concrete with an organic shape that feels connected to nature. The flower-inspired form, with petals circling a central flame, fosters a sense of unity and invites interaction in a way that’s rare for such functional pieces. Functioning not only as a fireplace but essentially also as a centerpiece, the Sunflower is designed to draw people in and evoke a sense of calm. Plus, with its modularity, Sunflower becomes a customizable, evolving piece that can be adapted to different settings, seasons, or moods.

A winner of the Red Dot Award: Design Concept for the year 2024, Shift Studio’s Sunflower reimagines concrete fire pit design, blending artistry with utility in a way that’s refreshingly adaptable. Its modular structure supports flexibility in both design and function, turning a simple outdoor fixture into a customizable, eye-catching element.

The post Award-winning Sunflower-inspired Fire Pit Mixes Art with Utility and Transforms Your Patio first appeared on Yanko Design.

Best Design Apps for the Creative Industry

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Did you know that over 70% of designers report using multiple tools in their workflow? The world of design is not just about creativity; it’s also about efficiency and innovation. From industrial design and 3D modeling to interface design, graphic design, and even AI-powered designing, an array of applications exists to cater to every niche within the creative industry.

Here’s a look at some of the best design tools available today—each one a powerful ally in your quest for creative excellence—while providing insights into how they can elevate your projects from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an aspiring creator, this list should have something in it for everybody across the creative gamut.

Figma – Best for Interface Design

Figma has made a name for itself as one of the top tools for UI and UX designers, thanks to its real-time collaboration capabilities. The company that was notably ‘almost’ acquired by Adobe managed to carve out a spectacular niche within the digital creative industry in very little time. With cloud-based operation, Figma allows teams to work simultaneously on projects, offering features like component libraries, responsive design tools, and easy prototyping. Its web-based approach eliminates the need for downloads, which makes it ideal for team-based workflows.

Figma is commonly used in UI/UX design, with its free tier making it accessible to freelancers and small teams. Professional paid plans start at $15 per seat per month, unlocking additional features like team libraries and enhanced sharing capabilities. With its user-friendly design and robust functionality, Figma has become the go-to platform for designers focused on creating intuitive user interfaces and user experiences.

Why We Picked It?

Figma’s ease of use, and integration of incredibly powerful tools right into a web browser make it absolutely perfect for most individuals as well as large teams. The app feels extremely familiar once you open it, if you’re used to a general Adobe-style workflow. It takes next to no time mastering the inner workings, and the internet is FILLED with tutorials to help you unleash your creative vision.

What We Like

  • Real-time collaboration, ideal for team workflows
  • Web-based, no download required

What We Dislike

  • Limited offline functionality
  • Some advanced features are locked behind the paid plan

Canva – Best Web-App-based 2D Software

If Figma was for interfaces and workflows, Canva is for everything else 2D. A popular name in the creative industry, Canva has become one of the most widely used design tools for social media, presentations, and marketing materials. With a vast library of templates, fonts, and elements, Canva simplifies graphic design for those without formal training. Its drag-and-drop functionality is especially appealing for marketers and small business owners who need professional visuals quickly.

While Canva offers a free version, the Pro plan at $15 per month unlocks additional features like premium assets and brand kits, as well as Canva’s AI features. Canva’s ease of use and accessibility make it a go-to for digital marketing and content creation across industries.

Why We Picked It?

Canva’s device-agnostic approach to design makes it an incredibly easy and powerful tool for anyone. You can start working on a project on your phone, and then fine-tune the same project on your laptop or desktop. The app gives you access to hundreds of thousands of assets (some of them behind a paywall), and even supports working and exporting in popular sizes and formats.

What We Like

  • Huge library of templates and assets, great for non-designers
  • Drag-and-drop interface that’s easy to learn

What We Dislike

  • Limited flexibility for advanced graphic design projects
  • Pro version needed to unlock many premium assets and features

Spline – Best Web-App-based 3D Software

The 3D counterpart to Canva’s popularity, Spline is a relatively new entry in the 3D design space, offering designers the flexibility to create interactive 3D designs directly in their browsers. With a straightforward user interface and features like parametric modeling, lighting, animation, and even GenAI tools, Spline is user-friendly and accessible even for beginners.

Spline’s web-based nature makes it ideal for quick prototyping and presentations, especially for web designers aiming to add interactive 3D elements to entire websites (their Instagram is a hotspot for creativity). Spline offers a free version with limited features, while the Starter plan, at $12 per month, provides enhanced capabilities. Spline’s accessibility and ease of use are game-changers for those looking to experiment with 3D designs, games, and websites without complex software or even a line of code.

Why We Picked It?

3D modeling on a web browser was unheard of a couple of years ago. The most you could do was preview a model – but build, edit, AND render on a browser?? I’d like to say Spline was one of the first to really pioneer the idea. Their browser-based app won’t replace your traditional 3D modeling setup… but Spline is slowly getting there. Besides, it makes things so much easier for interactive web designers and game designers that it feels like magic!

What We Like

  • Web-based, making it accessible from anywhere
  • Easy-to-use interface for quick 3D modeling and interactivity
  • Powerful GenAI features

What We Dislike

  • Limited features compared to more advanced 3D modeling software
  • Still developing in terms of advanced capabilities and tools

Vizcom – Best AI-powered Visualization Tool

Vizcom leverages AI to turn sketches into highly realistic renderings within seconds, making it invaluable for concept artists and product designers. By using machine learning, Vizcom enhances quick sketches with photorealistic details, significantly speeding up the concept-to-presentation process.

Perfect for early-stage design visualizations, Vizcom allows artists to experiment with various styles and materials without the need for extensive manual rendering. Vizcom offers a free basic plan, while premium plans start at $49 per month, making it a great AI-assisted tool for rapid visualization and ideation.

Why We Picked It?

Sure, there are a lot of GenAI tools out there – but none as good as Vizcom when it comes to applying GenAI directly on your sketches. Visit Vizcom’s Instagram page to get a sense of how good it is and you’ll struggle to find a tool that even matches half its capability. It will render your sketches, turn them into basic 3D, and give you the ability to ideate alongside the AI, showing the true future of industrial design.

What We Like

  • AI-powered visualization generates high-quality renderings quickly
  • Affordable for individuals and small teams

What We Dislike

  • Primarily focused on concept and visualization, limited for detailed modeling
  • Requires an internet connection, which can be a drawback in remote or low-bandwidth settings.
  • Quality of output may vary depending on the complexity of the sketch

Gravity Sketch – Best Metaverse 3D Software

Gravity Sketch brings 3D modeling to VR (with an iPad app too), offering an immersive experience that’s particularly suited for designing within the metaverse and virtual environments. Users can draw in 3D space, walking around their creations and manipulating shapes in real time. This VR-first approach offers a unique level of creativity and interactivity that conventional 3D software can’t match.

Gravity Sketch is used by automotive and industrial designers who benefit from seeing their designs at scale. The software is notably free for individual users (something that Gravity Sketch announced in 2021) making it accessible for students and casual users experimenting with VR design, with a dynamic paid structure for teams and enterprises.

Why We Picked It?

Gravity Sketch was the first ever mainstream 3D modeling software for the metaverse, and to this day remains the gold standard when it comes to building in 3D, while immersed in 3D. You can create designs by waving your hands in mid-air, making curves, adjusting surfaces, and moving objects/layers around. This truly feels like what the future of industrial and automotive design should be!

What We Like

  • Immersive VR-based 3D modeling experience
  • Ideal for creating designs within the metaverse and virtual spaces
  • Used to be paid for individuals, but is now free

What We Dislike

  • Requires VR hardware, limiting accessibility
  • iPad app isn’t as immersive as the metaverse experience

Procreate – Best Sketching App for iPad

Procreate has made waves in the digital art community for its intuitive sketching tools on iPad. It offers a wide range of brushes, layering options, and even animation capabilities, making it versatile for illustrators, digital artists, and animators. With the Apple Pencil, Procreate brings a natural drawing experience to the digital canvas, letting you even sketch directly on 3D models!

Priced at a one-time fee of $12.99, Procreate is affordable and extremely powerful for creatives looking to sketch, paint, or animate on the go. It’s widely used for illustration, concept art, and character design, making it indispensable for artists who prefer tablet-based workflows.

Why We Picked It?

Hands down the best sketching app for the iPad. Procreate’s brilliantly simple interface, its abundance of tools and features, and its ability to handle everything from sketching and animation make it a must-have if you own an iPad. You could sketch with your finger or a capacitive stylus, but we recommend the Apple Pencil for its pressure and tilt sensitivity features. The one-time fee has great value because Procreate keeps adding new capabilities and features every few years without charging extra.

What We Like

  • Natural drawing experience on iPad with Apple Pencil
  • One-time payment, no ongoing subscription required

What We Dislike

  • Available only on iPad, limiting cross-platform use
  • Lacks some advanced features of desktop design software

Blender – Best Free 3D Software

Blender is a widely popular, open-source 3D software with extensive capabilities for modeling, sculpting, and animation. Known for being free yet feature-rich, Blender is a favorite among independent artists, animators, and hobbyists. It offers tools for everything from basic 3D object creation to complex animation, making it incredibly versatile.

One of Blender’s standout features is its robust community support, which keeps the software updated and provides a wealth of tutorials. This makes Blender ideal for creatives looking to learn 3D modeling without an upfront financial commitment. As a completely free tool, Blender is used not only in personal projects but also in professional production pipelines, especially in indie game development and VFX for films.

Why We Picked It?

There’s nothing Blender can’t do. The open-source software lets you model and render anything, whether you’re an industrial designer, 3D artist, animator, special-effects artist, or even an engineer working on simulations. Blender’s advanced settings let you customize the UI based on the kind of workflow you have, and you can even download plugins that make it even more fine-tuned to your needs. The software was and always will be free, so if there’s one 3D software I recommend you keep in your back pocket – it’s this one.

What We Like

  • Completely free and open-source with extensive community support
  • Powerful toolset for modeling, sculpting, animation, VFX, compositing, and even video editing—all in one program
  • Strong community provides extensive tutorials, plugins, and support, making it easier for beginners to get started and for advanced users to expand capabilities

What We Dislike

  • User interface can be overwhelming for new users
  • Lacks built-in collaboration tools

SketchUp – Best 3D Software for Architecture + Interiors

SketchUp has long been popular among architects and interior designers, offering intuitive 3D modeling that balances functionality with ease of use. Known for its push-pull tool and simple interface, SketchUp is ideal for creating detailed architectural models and visualizations quickly. The software was created by @Last Software and was acquired by Google in 2006. SketchUp finally got sold to Trimble Inc. in 2012.

While SketchUp offers a free web-only version for non-commercial use, the Pro plan at $49.99 per month gives you a dedicated app for Desktop, iPad, as well as web-based 3D modelers. Its user-friendly approach and accessible pricing make SketchUp an industry favorite for architecture and interior design projects.

Why We Picked It?

SketchUp was the first ever 3D design software I truly worked with. This was in the year 2008-09, just before I went to design college, and when SketchUp was owned by Google. The app was ridiculously intuitive to use, and I even designed houses and 3D scenes with zero prior knowledge. Although SketchUp has changed owners, it still remains a favorite in the architecture and interior design industry (you should check out Thilina Liyanage‘s work – all made on SketchUp).

What We Like

  • Intuitive and user-friendly, ideal for architecture and interior design
  • Free version available with essential modeling tools

What We Dislike

  • Lacks advanced rendering and parametric modeling tools
  • Pro version can be expensive for those needing full functionality
  • The 3D Warehouse has been disabled for non-web use, cutting off an entire repository of assets for users

Autodesk Fusion + Revit – Best Overall Suite for 3D Design

Autodesk is known for its powerful lineup of 3D design software, most notably Fusion and Revit. Fusion (previously known as Fusion 360) is a standout for CAD, CAM, and CAE, providing a full set of tools for product design and manufacturing. Its cloud-based nature enables real-time collaboration, making it ideal for engineering and industrial design teams that need seamless workflows and advanced simulation tools.

Revit, on the other hand, is a favorite among architects and construction professionals for its Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities. Revit allows for the creation of highly detailed building models with built-in structural and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems, facilitating a streamlined design process from conception through construction. It’s the go-to choice for architecture firms that need precise, collaborative tools for large-scale building projects.

Autodesk’s software is available through individual licenses or comprehensive subscription plans. Fusion costs $85 per month or $680 oer year, while Revit’s subscription starts at $365 per month or $2,910 per year, with discounts for bundled purchases. For educational purposes, all of Autodesk’s software remain free to use – both for students as well as teachers. The variety in Autodesk’s offerings makes it a powerful choice for industries spanning product design, architecture, and manufacturing, cementing its reputation as an industry standard for 3D modeling and BIM.

Why We Picked It?

Autodesk is the most commonly uttered name in the design and engineering circuit. With all its apps and software, be it Fusion, Revit, AutoCAD, 3DS Max, Maya, Arnold, Inventor, and a whole host of others, Autodesk has a strong grip on its industry and user base.

Fusion 360 is recommended for its all-in-one CAD, CAM, and CAE tools, ideal for iterative product design and remote collaboration via cloud-based features. Revit excels in architecture and construction with advanced BIM capabilities, supporting detailed, data-rich models that improve project precision and multi-disciplinary collaboration, making both tools invaluable for comprehensive, professional-grade design workflows.

What We Like

  • Comprehensive toolset for CAD, CAM, CAE, and BIM (Fusion 360 and Revit)
  • Cloud-based collaboration and data sharing
  • Free for Students and Educators

What We Dislike

  • Expensive subscription plans, especially for Revit

Adobe Creative Cloud – Best Overall Suite for Graphic Design

Adobe’s suite is a mainstay in the design world, with Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign leading the way for image editing, vector art, and layout design, respectively. Each of these apps provides a deep feature set, making Adobe essential for graphic designers, photographers, and digital artists. Photoshop’s advanced image editing, Illustrator’s vector manipulation, and InDesign’s layout capabilities make it versatile across creative industries. The company has also stayed ahead of the AI curve, launching multiple AI features within its popular software as well as on its Adobe Firefly web app.

Adobe’s Creative Cloud subscription costs $59.99 per month for access to the full suite, though individual apps are also available starting at $9.99 per month. Adobe Spark and Adobe XD add unique tools for social graphics and UI/UX design, cementing Adobe’s role as a comprehensive toolkit for digital and print projects alike.

Adobe has also moved into 3D design with Adobe Substance, expanding its offerings for those working in material texturing and 3D asset creation. This suite provides designers with everything from basic editing to advanced 3D tools, truly making Adobe a one-stop shop for creatives.

Why We Picked It?

There’s really no escaping Adobe. As hard as you try, Adobe always remains the industry standard for graphic and creative work, although they’re steadily expanding into most domains. Adobe Audition is a VERY capable digital audio workstation, Premiere Pro is the gold standard for video and VFX, Illustrator is the best for illustrators, InDesign for publication designers, and Photoshop – oh, where would we be without it! As an editor, I use Photoshop probably more than any other design app/software, and its intuitive layout (that hasn’t changed in decades) plus GenAI features make it the best photo-editing software out there. For a price, though.

What We Like

  • Industry-standard suite covering a wide range of design needs
  • Comprehensive toolset for everything from graphic design to 3D rendering
  • Incredible AI features integrated right into the software

What We Dislike

  • High monthly subscription costs, especially for full Creative Cloud access
  • Canceling your subscription can be a monumental task with extra fees

KeyShot – Best for 3D Rendering and Visualization

KeyShot, developed by Luxion, remains a top choice for 3D rendering and visualization, recently enhancing its platform with a comprehensive “Product Design-to-Market” suite. Known for its fast, photorealistic rendering and simple drag-and-drop interface, KeyShot enables designers to create high-quality visuals and animations from 3D models with ease. Its real-time rendering engine provides instant feedback, making it invaluable for quick design iterations and client presentations.

With the recent bifurcation into KeyShot Studio, KeyShot Hub, and KeyShot Dock, the software now extends beyond rendering to support a complete, collaborative workflow. KeyShot Studio delivers the powerful rendering capabilities users rely on, while KeyShot Hub enables streamlined asset management and sharing across teams. KeyShot Dock bridges the gap between design and marketing, making it easier for teams to transition finalized assets into promotional materials.

KeyShot is widely used in product design, automotive, and marketing, where lifelike visuals are crucial. Pricing for KeyShot Studio starts at $99 a month, with add-on plugins providing advanced features like Network Rendering and VR support. These new additions solidify KeyShot Studio as an essential tool for turning 3D models into stunning, market-ready visuals while enabling efficient, team-oriented workflows across the design-to-market process. KeyShot Hub and KeyShot Dock have pricing-on-request models.

Why We Picked It?

88% of Industrial Designers prefer KeyShot over any other rendering software. It’s intuitive, fast, and provides stellar results with minimal effort, unlike other software that requires a lot of technical know-how or pre-rendering setup. Although KeyShot isn’t a ‘design’ software, its Product Design-to-Market Suite is slowly and surely making it an integral part of the industrial design and visualization process. KeyShot Studio, or the rendering app, remains an industry favorite by a strong margin, being used by leading brands like Volvo, Nikon, Motorola, and Under Armour. The KeyShot Hub supplements the rendering program, allowing you to access assets to use alongside your designs.

What We Like

  • Real-time rendering with high-quality visuals and animations
  • New Design-to-Market suite enhances workflow with Studio, Hub, and Dock

What We Dislike

  • Pricey, especially for the Pro and enterprise-level versions
  • Primarily focused on rendering, not modeling or asset creation

 

The post Best Design Apps for the Creative Industry first appeared on Yanko Design.

Roborock Qrevo Slim: The Ultra-Thin Vacuum with Automotive-Grade Navigation Tech

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You remember when people were complaining that their robot vacuum would drive itself off the stairs, or notoriously spread pet fecal matter around the house because the vacuums were just not equipped enough to deal with these scenarios? Or the vacuums being so thick they would just dodge sofas instead of going underneath them? That’s what we in the tech realm refer to as first-generation woes. With newer generations, products get better at solving problems that first-gen versions never anticipated. Roborock’s Qrevo Slim aims to usher in this new generation of robot vacuuming with both better design as well as state-of-the-art tech.

The Qrevo Slim, as its name suggests, measures just over 8cm or 3 inches tall, allowing it to cruise underneath sofas without worrying about headroom. The slim design is also backed by Roborock’s most advanced 3D mapping and navigation system. Dubbed the StarSight Autonomous System, this tech is so good, Roborock claims it’s better at navigating than the LDS seen on most vacuums today.

Designer: Roborock Team

Click Here to Buy Now: $999.99 $1399.99 ($400 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Ultra-Thin Design: Accessing Every Nook and Cranny

At just 8.2cm or 3.2 inches tall, the Qrevo Slim has the kind of vertical clearance that most robot vacuums wish they had. Slim enough to easily slip under beds, couches, and other low-clearance furniture, the robot vacuum covers more ground than your traditional vac, reaching tight spots that often go ignored.

Notably, the Qrevo Slim’s upper profile is super-slick, eschewing that bump you’ll find on most robot vacuums where most of the LiDAR and imaging tech is located. This slim upper surface means the vacuum has lesser problems packing into tighter spaces to clean everything from pet hair, food crumbs, dust, or any dirt that could be languishing under your furniture for months.

StarSight™ Autonomous System: The ‘Star’ of the Show

Roborock’s StarSight™ Autonomous System is perhaps its most significant achievement, using not one but 2 LiDAR sensors to power its navigation and obstacle-avoidance capabilities. This advanced system leverages two 3D Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors to capture more than 1 million 3D points per second. Unlike traditional Laser Distance Sensors (LDS) seen on most current vacuum cleaners, which measure only 2D linear distances (like how close or far objects are), StarSight’s 3D mapping senses depth and height, giving the vacuum full automotive-grade spatial awareness.

With a whopping 38,400 Hz sampling rate and 21,600 sensor points, StarSight processes information at 21 times the speed of LDS. This faster, more detailed mapping allows the Qrevo Slim to detect as many as 73 types of obstacles, from toys to cables, adapting instantly without doing that awkward “bump and turn” that other vacuum cleaners do. This means the vacuum has a better sense of its surroundings (even when people are walking around) so it cleverly avoids obstacles instead of waiting till the last minute to bump into them.

Qrevo Slim: Better Navigation than Some Autonomous Cars

The Roborock Qrevo Slim’s navigation features rival those of some autonomous cars, adapting smartly to varied home environments. Its SmartPlan™ creates detailed 3D maps, allowing it to navigate room layouts precisely, minimizing time and maximizing coverage. With DirTect™, the Qrevo Slim automatically detects and boosts suction in high-traffic, dirt-prone areas, delivering targeted cleaning where it’s needed most—like entryways or kitchens where dirt tends to collect.

For pet lovers, robot vacuum can be used as a pet monitor too. The Pet Snaps feature can be toggled to have the Qrevo Slim go check in on your pet around the house. Once it locates the pet, you can capture snapshots of your furry friend. This feature kicks in during the Qrevo Slim’s cleaning cycle, although it only works with one pet at a given time.

Powerful 11,000 Pa Max Suction: A Cleaning Powerhouse

The Roborock Qrevo Slim offers an impressive 11,000 Pa of suction power, making it one of the most powerful robot vacuums on the market. This high suction strength effortlessly picks up fine dust, pet hair, and larger debris, ensuring a deep clean across all floor types. Whether tackling everyday messes or stubborn dirt, this level of suction provides the thorough cleaning performance needed for busy households.

Supporting this power, the Qrevo Slim is equipped with floor and carpet detection along with the Carpet Boost+ system. When moving onto carpets, it automatically increases suction for a deeper clean, lifting dust and dirt embedded in carpet fibers. This intelligent adjustment means each surface gets the right level of attention, maintaining efficiency on hard floors while delivering extra power where it’s most needed.

DuoRoller Riser Brush and Dual Spinning Mops: Clean and Adapt

The DuoRoller Riser Brush is designed with counter-rotating, all-rubber brushes that capture everything from pet hair to fine dust without tangling. These dual brushes work together to lift debris effectively, providing full coverage across both hard floors and carpets. When transitioning between surfaces, the brushes auto-lift, ensuring optimal performance without scratching or over-brushing on sensitive flooring.

Complementing the brush system, the Qrevo Slim’s dual spinning mops offer thorough mopping action for hard floors. These mops apply steady, even pressure for a polished finish, removing sticky messes and light stains in one pass. Like the DuoRoller, the mops lift automatically when the vacuum moves onto carpets, keeping the damp mop surface from ever wetting your carpet.

FlexiArm Side Brush and Mop: Clean in Every Corner

The FlexiArm side brush and mop system is the Qrevo Slim’s answer to ensuring that dust gets swept from corners – not pushed into them. The FlexiArm brushes reach along the edges and around furniture legs, directing dirt toward the main suction. The mops, meanwhile, apply steady pressure for a polished finish for comprehensive coverage.

This focus on edge-to-edge cleaning eliminates the need for touch-ups in hard-to-reach areas, enhancing the vacuum’s efficiency and reducing your manual cleaning time. No more wiping down corners after your vacuum conveniently leaves a trail of dust along the edge of each floor.

Multifunctional Dock 3.0: Your All-in-One Cleaning Hub

When the Qrevo Slim needs to recharge or self-clean, it makes its way to its Multifunctional Dock. This advanced docking station is equipped with 8-in-1 maintenance functions that automate essential cleaning tasks. With features like hot water mop washing, warm air drying, auto dust emptying, and tank refilling, the dock keeps the vacuum ready for action while minimizing manual upkeep. The automated mop washing and drying system, in particular, ensures that the mops remain sanitary and effective for every cleaning session, removing residue buildup that can impact performance.

The dock’s intelligent dirt detection feature can sense when dust and debris accumulate, automatically emptying the vacuum to keep suction at its peak. Whether for daily cleaning or extensive deep cleans, the Multifunctional Dock 3.0 provides a seamless, self-maintaining system that truly supports a “set it and forget it” lifestyle.

Intuitive Control Through the Roborock App and Built-in Voice Assistant

Roborock makes controlling the Qrevo Slim a breeze with its user-friendly app and built-in voice assistant. The Roborock app allows users to customize cleaning schedules, set no-go zones, and adjust suction power—all from the convenience of their smartphone. With real-time updates, you can monitor the vacuum’s progress, check battery levels, or even pause and resume cleaning on the go. The app’s video monitoring feature also lets pet owners keep an eye on furry friends while the Qrevo Slim cleans, snapping photos or videos during its rounds.

For hands-free convenience, the Qrevo Slim integrates with voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, enabling commands like “Start cleaning,” “Return to dock,” or “Clean the living room.” These voice commands make it easy to control the vacuum without lifting a finger. Whether you’re adjusting settings through the app or issuing quick voice commands, Roborock’s intuitive interface ensures you have full control of your cleaning routine with minimal effort.

Our Verdict: The Perfect Next-Gen Robot Vacuum with Zero Flaws

Roborock’s Qrevo Slim redefines what a robot vacuum can accomplish. With industry-first StarSight™ advanced navigation technology, 11,000 Pa suction, and an ultra-slim build, it combines intelligence with impressive power to reach even the most challenging spots in your home. It’s a cleaning companion that makes cleanliness simple, stylish, and secure.

Ultimately, your smart home appliances should be smart enough that they NEVER need monitoring. The Qrevo Slim proves that by being advanced enough to map and navigate your home better than some self-driving cars, while automatically fine-tuning its cleaning based on floors, rugs, and corners. The Multifunctional Dock 3.0 means the robot vacuum will even automatically charge and clean itself, leaving only one task for you – admiring your spotless floors, along with the occasional pet photo the Qrevo Slim clicks for you!

Click Here to Buy Now: $999.99 $1399.99 ($400 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

The post Roborock Qrevo Slim: The Ultra-Thin Vacuum with Automotive-Grade Navigation Tech first appeared on Yanko Design.