The Best Camera Lens for iPhone 16? Meet The Reeflex Super Telephoto 240mm Lens with 10x Zoom

Posted on 02/11/2024 by Sarang Sheth

Imagine adding a whopping 10x optical zoom to your iPhone 16 Pro or Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. Forget the moon, you could take pictures of a moon base with it! Jokes aside, the cameras on our phones are growing more and more powerful each day – but the only thing really changing is the algorithm that processes photos. The key differences between a DSLR and a phone camera still remain – the size of the sensor (which lets more light in), and the size of the lens (which enables a camera to see wider, closer, or farther). While phone sensors have been growing larger and larger, the camera bump has limited the lens’ capabilities… but this snap-on 240mm telephoto + macro lens is upgrading the smartphone photography game.

If you’re wondering how much further smartphone photography can go, the Super Telephoto 240mm Lens designed for the iPhone 16 Pro and Samsung S24 Ultra might be your answer. This lens promises to revolutionize how we capture everything from sweeping landscapes to intricate macro details. With a striking 240mm focal length, it offers a 10x optical zoom that pushes beyond the limits of the typical smartphone camera, bringing distant scenes into sharp, professional-quality focus. It’s built specifically for flagship devices like the iPhone 16 Pro’s 5x telephoto camera, which means it’s engineered to align seamlessly with Apple’s Tetraprism camera system, allowing for a reach and clarity that’s previously been out of reach for mobile users.

Designer: Reeflex

Click Here to Buy Now: $270 ~~$395~~ ($125 off) Hurry! Only 11 of 130 left. Raised over $316,000.

The magic starts with the 10x magnification, which practically doubles the reach of standard 5x smartphone telephoto lenses. Imagine this: you’re at a concert or a sports event, seated far from the stage or field, but thanks to this lens, you can capture close-up, high-definition shots of your favorite band or the action on the field. The 240mm focal length offers a staggering zoom but it also brings sharpness and detail that might make you forget you’re using a smartphone at all. Even from the back of the venue, this lens can bring subjects into crisp focus, giving users the freedom to take professional-grade shots with ease.

Having a natural telephoto lens also means benefitting from natural bokeh rather than that computational AI-powered portrait mode with the inconsistent edges. The Super Telephoto 240mm lens is also designed to enhance portrait shots with natural depth, compression, and creamy bokeh effects, all from three to five meters away. The 10x optical zoom gives portrait shots a beautiful subject isolation that you usually only get from traditional telephoto DSLR lenses. This feature is perfect for portrait photographers who want to create striking, professional-quality photos directly from their smartphone.

Want to switch from telephoto to macro? Well, that’s when the ReeMag System comes handy. This magnetic attachment setup allows users to easily switch between telephoto and macro photography modes with a simple snap. Using magnetic add-ons, you can instantly transform this lens into a macro powerhouse. It’s as simple as snapping on the add-ons, no complex adjustments required. For macro photography enthusiasts, this lens setup is a game-changer. The 200mm and 300mm magnetic macro add-ons allow you to get detailed close-ups of subjects at comfortable distances. This means you can capture intricate textures like the delicate veins of a leaf or the patterns in an insect’s wings, all without having to get uncomfortably close.

The ReeMag system also applies to all of Reeflex’s earlier award-winning lenses from its G-series, like the Anamorphic 1.3x lens, the 110° Wide Angle lens, the Long Range Macro lens, or even the 220° Fisheye lens. Alternatively, Reeflex also lets you use the ReeMag system to snap on filters like its Variable ND filters, and CPL or polarizer filters that help you further fine-tune your shot for that DSLR-like feel. It’s a nifty ecosystem that Reeflex has developed that lets you explore different accessories and shooting styles with your existing flagship smartphone.

Designed with high-end smartphones in mind, this lens integrates particularly well with the latest Apple and Samsung flagships. For iPhone 16 Pro users, the 240mm lens aligns with the 5x telephoto camera, meaning that it takes advantage of the Tetraprism system for optimal results. On the Samsung S24 Ultra, the lens offers similar enhancements, working seamlessly with Samsung’s top-notch camera specs to elevate mobile photography standards. Users of these devices can expect a noticeable upgrade in quality, even when pushing the lens to its maximum zoom capabilities. This focus on compatibility highlights the thoughtful design of the lens, which makes it one of the few add-ons crafted to meet the demands of flagship smartphones’ advanced hardware.

Reeflex isn’t new in the smartphone camera game. Aside from its award-winning G-series smartphone camera lenses, the company has also developed dedicated smartphone apps for capturing and recording media. These apps let you access pro features as well as capture in unique formats such as long-exposure or even time-lapse. With over 300,000 downloads on the App Store, Reeflex’s hardware + software handshake makes it perfect for serious photographers who want to push smartphone photography to its maximum.

Depending on the bundle you buy, the Reeflex Super Telephoto 240mm lens kit starts at $270, which includes the telephoto lens, along with a set of 300mm Macro and 200mm Macro add-on lenses. You also get a smartphone case (iPhone or Samsung) to help you easily mount the lenses onto your phone. You can upgrade to include some of Reeflex’s original G-series lenses with your bundle too (there are bundles for Macro or Portrait photographers), or just splurge on the $1,158 Ultra Kit which includes all of Reeflex’s previous lenses and filters compatible with the ReeMag system. The lenses ship globally starting January 2025, so if photography is your passion (or your new year resolution), grab your kit now!

Click Here to Buy Now: $270 ~~$395~~ ($125 off) Hurry! Only 1 of 130 left. Raised over $316,000.

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Hyundai Unveils Stunning Hydrogen-powered INITIUM FCEV With Over 400-Mile Range

Posted on 01/11/2024 by Sarang Sheth

Hyundai has made a bold statement in hydrogen mobility with its latest concept car, the INITIUM, an FCEV (fuel cell electric vehicle) designed to blend style, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology. If you’re wondering how this vehicle differs from the EVs and hybrids saturating the market, it’s all in the fuel cell—a technology that converts hydrogen into electricity with zero emissions. Pioneering the company’s new “Art of Steel” design language along with its cutting-edge hydrogen fuel-cell tech, the INITIUM is set to make its first debut next month at the Los Angeles Auto Show, with the promise of 403 miles worth of range (650km) thanks to a 201 horsepower motor. Hyundai’s also slated to reveal their latest Ioniq 6 at the LA Auto Show with the aforementioned “Art of Steel” design language.

Designer: Hyundai

A Design that Stands Out

With the INITIUM, Hyundai introduces its new “Art of Steel” design language, a style that emphasizes strength and functionality. The car’s exterior is punctuated by bold lines and a robust frame that’s both stylish and practical for city and off-road adventures alike. The large 21-inch wheels do more than just look good—they add stability and performance versatility, helping the INITIUM transition smoothly across different terrains.

Inside, Hyundai goes big on comfort. The spacious interior includes an expansive second-row living space, which is a thoughtful touch for families or anyone who values roominess on the road. The design and layout cater to daily commuters and long-distance travelers alike, with enough space for gear, groceries, and friends.

Performance that Doesn’t Compromise

Under the hood, Hyundai equips the INITIUM with a motor capable of 150 kW output, promising serious power without compromising its eco-friendly ambitions. The INITIUM’s fuel cell system is engineered to give drivers over 403 miles (650 kilometers) of range on a single fill-up. This range is significant, especially in the context of today’s hydrogen infrastructure limitations, where finding a refueling station can be challenging. Hyundai tackles this with an FCEV-specific route planner designed to guide drivers to the nearest hydrogen stations, offering reassurance for longer journeys.

Notably, the fuel cell technology in the INITIUM allows it to serve as a mobile power source through a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature. This means you could potentially power household appliances or even a campsite setup, a handy feature that adds an extra layer of versatility to the car’s utility.

Tackling Hydrogen’s Biggest Challenge: Infrastructure

Perhaps the biggest hurdle for hydrogen-powered vehicles has been limited fueling infrastructure, but Hyundai has a solution. The INITIUM comes with an FCEV-specific route planner, a navigation tool designed to help drivers find hydrogen stations along their route. This feature addresses the “range anxiety” that can come with hydrogen fuel, making longer journeys more feasible and accessible for new FCEV drivers.

Through its HTWO brand (pronounced H Two and standing for “Hydrogen for Humanity”), the company is working to build the hydrogen supply chain to support future FCEVs. By focusing on the production and distribution of hydrogen, Hyundai aims to ensure that vehicles like the INITIUM are not just concept marvels but practical solutions for sustainable mobility, accessible to a broader market over time.

Safety and Practicality Combined

Equipped with a multi-skeleton structure and nine airbags, the INITIUM is built to protect its occupants from all angles. Hyundai prioritizes both active and passive safety, showcasing its dedication to producing a car that can confidently protect passengers, even in unpredictable situations.

These advanced safety features align with Hyundai’s broader R&D goals of pushing safety tech across all their vehicle models. With the INITIUM, Hyundai is setting a new standard for safety in FCEVs, reassuring drivers that being eco-friendly does not mean compromising on passenger protection.

What’s Next for the INITIUM?

The INITIUM concept will be unveiled at auto shows in Los Angeles and Guangzhou, giving the public a first look at this next-generation vehicle before its expected production release in 2025. Hyundai hasn’t revealed pricing yet, but given its stated goal of making hydrogen mobility more accessible, the production model is likely to be competitively priced.

Hyundai’s ambitious hydrogen plans are a promising sign for an industry in need of sustainable solutions. The INITIUM’s practical design, extended range, and advanced tech hint at what hydrogen vehicles could offer in the near future. For those looking forward to a cleaner driving experience without sacrificing range or power, Hyundai’s INITIUM concept might just be the perfect ride.

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TAG Heuer’s New Carrera x Senna Edition Combines Luxury and Legacy for the Ultimate F1 Watch

Posted on 01/11/2024 by Sarang Sheth

The new TAG Heuer Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna is as much a watch as it is a celebration of Ayrton Senna’s enduring legacy in Formula 1. With only 500 pieces available, TAG Heuer has pulled out all the stops to create a timepiece that merges high-end design, cutting-edge mechanics, and a rich sense of history. Crafted from lightweight grade-2 titanium, this Carrera model is bold yet comfortable, setting a durable stage for some impressive features that pay tribute to the iconic Brazilian driver’s career and style, timed perfectly around Netflix’s upcoming documentary on the racing legend.

Designer: Tag Heuer

Fans of Senna will immediately spot the references to his racing persona in the watch’s aesthetic. The 44mm case is framed by a sleek carbon bezel engraved with Senna’s name, and its tachymeter scale is a playful nod to F1 speed, allowing measurements up to 400 km/h. The dial is where things get even more interesting: a yellow sub-dial at the nine o’clock position not only provides functional contrast but also recalls Senna’s racing colors. Paired with a blue rubber strap and accented in green, the color scheme echoes Senna’s legendary racing livery while maintaining the watch’s modern, sleek appearance.

Inside, TAG Heuer has equipped the watch with its top-tier Calibre TH20-09 movement, a tourbillon that promises both accuracy and sophistication. A tourbillon isn’t just a showpiece; it’s a mechanism that compensates for gravitational errors in timekeeping, making this model as precise as it is visually compelling. The movement delivers 65 hours of power reserve, allowing users the luxury of taking it off for a couple of days without resetting the time. This blend of practical power and refined engineering is a perfect tribute to Senna’s relentless pursuit of perfection.

Turning the watch over, owners will find another personal touch: a sapphire crystal case back engraved with Senna’s image, showing him in his helmet. It’s a nod to the Brazilian driver’s legendary presence on the track, adding an intimate connection for those who wear it. The Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna also offers 100 meters of water resistance, making it ready for a variety of real-world conditions beyond the racetrack. This is not just a display piece—it’s designed for active use while preserving its commemorative value.

To coincide with the watch’s release, TAG Heuer timed this launch to match a Netflix series on Senna, hoping to captivate both long-time fans and newer followers of his legacy. Priced at $37,900, the Carrera Tourbillon is undoubtedly an investment, but for fans and watch collectors, it represents something beyond luxury. It’s a way to own a part of the legend’s story, embodied in a timepiece that’s built with the same intensity and focus Senna brought to the sport.

For those who seek not only a high-performing watch but also a connection to one of motorsport’s greatest icons, the Carrera Chronograph Tourbillon x Senna offers just that—a bridge between high watchmaking and the thrilling legacy of Formula 1.

The post TAG Heuer’s New Carrera x Senna Edition Combines Luxury and Legacy for the Ultimate F1 Watch first appeared on Yanko Design.

Toyota’s new Micro-camper doubles into a cargo-van, pop-up shop, or even a wheelchair-accessible van

Posted on 31/10/2024 by Sarang Sheth

As the name suggests, most camper vans are made for camping. However, Toyoya’s Kayoibako interprets things differently. Inspired instead by shipping containers, the adorable micro-camper is compact enough for tight city streets yet versatile enough to transform from a cozy camper into a mobile pop-up shop or even a mini delivery van. Built as a multifunctional, adaptable space, the Kayoibako explores the future of compact vehicles designed for urban explorers, small business owners, and anyone craving flexibility in a city-ready package.

Designer: Toyota

With a length of 3.99 meters (around 13 feet), the Kayoibako maximizes every inch of space. The tiny EV uses a nearly nonexistent hood and a minimalist driver-only seat setup, which frees up over 2.1 meters of usable floor length behind the driver and 3.1 meters in the seatless passenger area. Collaborating with lifestyle brand D&Department, Toyota created a cozy camper layout with a foldable double bed, ambient lighting, and simple furnishings, proving that functional design can be stylish too. The roof—standing at 186 cm (73 inches)—is accessible via a ladder and can double as a gear rack, providing easy storage solutions for adventurers looking to take advantage of every inch of this micro-camper.

What really makes the Kayoibako concept exciting is how easily it shapeshifts to meet diverse needs. Toyota envisioned it for multiple configurations, including an adaptive wheelchair-accessible design, a fully mobile retail shop with racks, and a straightforward cargo hauler. This flexibility comes from the vehicle’s customizable software. For instance, if you’re using it as a mobile shop, the Kayoibako could integrate inventory tracking, or, if it’s out on the trails, off-road navigation could be added to the suite. With all these options, Toyota has crafted a concept that feels a step ahead, blending physical versatility with digital intelligence.

Inside, the Kayoibako is as simple as it is modern. The minimalist dashboard is defined by an ultra-slim, curved infotainment screen that stretches across the windshield area, designed to give the driver a seamless interface with all key information in one place. The Kayoibako’s cockpit keeps things light, thanks to a skeletal steering wheel and minimal controls, perfect for a vehicle that aims to be as flexible as its users’ needs. This simplicity lets Toyota make the most of the interior, creating a spacious, uncluttered atmosphere that’s highly adaptable for different uses, from outdoor exploration to city delivery.

So, will the Kayoibako make it to production? Toyota’s been quiet about that, though its experimentation with flexible mini-vehicles, like the Hilux Champ mini-pickup, hints at a future where modular electric vehicles might become mainstream. If the Kayoibako—or something like it—hits the market, we’d be looking at a new category of hyper-adaptable, eco-friendly EVs. Whether for work, play, or a mix of both, it’s a concept that could be just what the tiny van scene has been waiting for.

The post Toyota’s new Micro-camper doubles into a cargo-van, pop-up shop, or even a wheelchair-accessible van first appeared on Yanko Design.

OpenAI is building their own AI Chips to take on Nvidia’s Chip Dominance

Posted on 31/10/2024 by Sarang Sheth

In a strategic move that feels like it’s straight from an Aaron Sorkin movie, OpenAI has started crafting its own AI chip, a custom creation designed to tackle the heavy demands of running its advanced models. The company, known for developing ChatGPT, has partnered with Broadcom and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) to roll out its first in-house chip by 2026, Reuters reports. While many giants might build factories to keep all chip manufacturing in-house, OpenAI opted to shelve that multi-billion-dollar venture. It’s instead using industry muscle in a way that’s both practical and quietly rebellious.

Why bother with the usual suppliers? OpenAI is already a massive buyer of Nvidia’s GPUs, essential for training and inference—the magic that turns data into meaningful responses. But here’s the twist: Nvidia’s prices are soaring, and OpenAI wants to diversify. AMD’s new MI300X chips add to the mix, showing OpenAI’s resourcefulness in navigating a GPU market often plagued by shortages. Adding AMD into this lineup might look like a mere “supply chain insurance,” but it’s more than that—this move exhibits OpenAI’s reluctance to put all its eggs in one pricey basket. Sort of like Apple developing its own Apple Intelligence while leaning on ChatGPT whenever necessary.

Broadcom is helping OpenAI shape the chip, along with a data transfer capability that’s critical for OpenAI’s needs, where endless rows of chips work in synchrony. Securing TSMC, the world’s largest contract chipmaker, to produce these chips highlights OpenAI’s knack for creative problem-solving. TSMC brings a powerhouse reputation to the table, which gives OpenAI’s experimental chip a significant production edge—key to scaling its infrastructure to meet ever-growing AI workloads.

OpenAI’s venture into custom chips isn’t just about technical specs or saving money; it’s a tactical play to gain full control over its tech (something we’ve seen with Apple before). By tailoring chips specifically for inference—the part of AI that applies what’s learned to make decisions—OpenAI aims for real-time processing at a speed essential for tools like ChatGPT. This quest for optimization is about more than efficiency; it’s the kind of forward-thinking move that positions OpenAI as an innovator who wants to carve its own path in an industry where Google and Meta have already done so.

The strategy here is fascinating because it doesn’t pit OpenAI against its big suppliers. Even as it pursues its custom chip, OpenAI remains close to Nvidia, preserving access to Nvidia’s newest, most advanced Blackwell GPUs while avoiding potential friction. It’s like staying friendly with the popular kid even while building your own brand. This partnership-heavy approach provides access to top-tier hardware without burning any bridges—a balancing act that OpenAI is managing with surprising finesse.

(Representational images generated using AI)

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This AI Tool Directly Generates Laser Cutting and CNC Project Files: Meet DesignFind AIMake

Posted on 31/10/2024 by Sarang Sheth

For long, AI tools have just been limited to graphical work, with not so much of it spilling into tangible industrial design. Sure, you could create logos and artwork for your products, but you still can’t “create” products using AI – something that xTool is hoping to change with its new software, AIMake. Simply put, AIMake is a GenAI tool that’s optimized for working with graphical output, but in a manner that’s fine-tuned for industrial design. With a prompt-based interface, AIMake allows you to create artwork that’s ready for 2D printing, laser-etching/engraving, and even embossing. AIMake offers as many as 70 different styles to apply to your prompt, generating everything from ready-to-print logos, to editable SVGs for screen-printing, and even low-relief 3D engraving. Alongside the AIMake feature, xTool’s also unveiling DesignFind – an asset marketplace for DIY enthusiasts and professional creators to access free and paid project files from users across the globe.

Click Here to Know More

Generate Ready-To-Use Artwork for Laser Cutting and Screen Printing

Traditionally, preparing files for laser engraving or screen printing can be complex and technical, involving vector graphic software, high-res images, or detailed edits to achieve the clean lines and solid contrast needed for these processes. AIMake addresses this by letting users skip these steps; with it, designers can input descriptive prompts, such as “geometric fox engraving with high contrast,” and watch as the AI turns this concept into a polished, ready-to-engrave file.

This direct-to-laser capability is a shift for designers, providing an AI tool that reduces reliance on graphic software or tedious vector adjustments. Instead, AIMake generates crisp, high-contrast designs that integrate seamlessly with xTool’s laser engravers, ensuring that the visual quality aligns with what’s needed for physical production. Whether creating art for metal, wood, or glass, AIMake optimizes the image for the specific demands of laser engraving, relief carving, and screen printing.

From Vision to Reality with Prompt-Based Design

AIMake’s intuitive, prompt-based design system is key to its simplicity. Users enter a text description—anything from detailed portrait specs to broad aesthetic concepts—and the app’s AI engine generates a corresponding laser-compatible design. This means users can focus on creativity and concept rather than technical adjustments, using AIMake’s AI to refine the design automatically.

With this setup, designers of all backgrounds can produce intricate laser-cut images without needing advanced skills in vector graphics. For example, a prompt like “portrait of a lion, full mane, high detail, silhouette” can create a design with defined, laser-friendly lines and strong contrast, ready for immediate use in xTool’s compatible engravers. This system combines the efficiency of digital AI rendering with the tactile quality of handmade engraving, which helps streamline the creative workflow for designers and hobbyists alike.

Intuitive Controls make AI Creation easy for Beginners and Experts

xTool designed AIMake with both ease of use and versatility in mind, giving beginners and seasoned pros the tools they need for success. The platform allows new users to select from pre-set styles, such as vector templates or laser-friendly text effects, while offering advanced controls for adjusting details like line thickness and contrast.

Integration with xTool hardware, such as the D1 and M1 laser engravers, enables immediate testing and adjustments on physical materials, which saves time and minimizes material waste. For the designer seeking to perfect a project, these tools and settings remove the usual trial and error often required by other engraving software. This integration also lets users work on complex designs with the assurance that their final piece will match the original vision.

DesignFind: A Creative Hub for DIY and Professional Makers

DesignFind is a versatile platform for DIY enthusiasts and professional creators alike, offering a wide array of design assets for laser cutting, engraving, and more. With support for materials like wood and acrylic, users can explore diverse project categories, from home decor and jewelry to seasonal gifts for holidays and special occasions.

Key features include a library of free, shared templates—such as cutting boards and multi-layered designs—and premium assets like 3D models and detailed SVG files. Additionally, AIMake users can enhance their projects with DesignFind’s resources, making it easy to combine AI-generated designs with the platform’s extensive community assets. The “Featured Creators” section showcases work from top designers, inspiring new and seasoned creators with unique, ready-to-use projects.

Practical Applications Across Different Industries

AIMake’s functionality extends beyond personal design and has practical applications across various industries. Designers working with an array of fabrication devices (especially ones from xTool) can use AIMake to create logos, product designs, or custom merchandise. Small businesses can use it to create professional, engraving-ready designs without needing graphic design software, and crafters can generate unique pieces with ease.

In education, AIMake is a valuable asset, offering schools and makerspaces a chance to introduce students to digital design with hands-on projects. By using simple text inputs, students can quickly visualize and produce projects without needing prior experience in traditional graphic design tools. This flexibility gives learners and instructors alike more freedom to explore digital fabrication.

AIMake and the Future of Design Tools

AIMake sets a new standard for GenAI in tangible product design, showing how generative AI can seamlessly enhance the design process, making it more accessible, practical, and enjoyable. As AI technology continues to evolve, tools like AIMake represent a future where design creation is faster yet well within the control of creators.

For anyone working in creative design, AIMake offers an engaging blend of functionality and innovation, serving as both a creative assistant and a precision tool. Whether you’re producing intricate artwork, branding assets, or custom goods, AIMake’s versatile platform offers a little something for everyone. With AIMake, xTool is opening new pathways for artists and designers—one prompt at a time.

Click Here to Know More

The post This AI Tool Directly Generates Laser Cutting and CNC Project Files: Meet DesignFind AIMake first appeared on Yanko Design.