Author Archives: Sarang Sheth

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!

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This Rugged Android Tablet with 4 Speakers Is Your New All-Terrain Waterproof Entertainment Hub

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It’s a tablet PC, a shower speaker, your car’s infotainment system, and a portable dashboard for everything from music to video to phone calls. Meet the Nomad – a tablet-speaker that isn’t designed for productivity… it’s designed for entertainment. With a powerful speaker system, a waterproof design, and mounts that let you place the Nomad anywhere, this device doubles as your shower speaker, your smart display, a Carplay/Android Auto-compatible infotainment system, a dedicated device for Netflix and Chill whether it’s in the bedroom, living room, or poolside, and even your perfect radio alternative when you’re camping. For ages, tablets have grown thinner and their speakers weaker… and smart speakers have remained tethered to their plug points. Nomad combines both in a durable, portable package so you can carry your entertainment with you, without compromising on literally anything.

Designer: UpBeat

Click Here to Buy Now: $249 $399 ($150 off) Hurry! Only 13 days left. Raised over $113,000

The Nomad isn’t a tablet. It isn’t a speaker. It isn’t a smart home hub like the Echo Show or the Pixel Tablet. It’s a little of everything, combined into one product that offers zero compromises if you know what you’re buying it for. It’s designed purely for entertainment, which means that sleek, laptop-bag-friendly profile is a non-issue. The device is rugged, doesn’t compromise on audio quality, and is made to be used everywhere, from in your shower to your car.

With its waterproof build and four-speaker array, the Nomad was crafted with audio at its core. This device excels as a portable entertainment hub, with an audio quality that outshines any tablet’s built-in speaker system—be it the shower, the backseat of a car, or your outdoor adventures. The 4 front-facing speakers and 2 subwoofers on the side deliver rich, resonant sound (at up to 94 decibels) that rivals traditional portable speakers. Combined with a battery life of over 20 hours for music playback, the Nomad is set to keep the party going without frequent recharges.

On the inside, the Nomad runs on Android, which means it’s ready for all your favorite streaming apps, plus it has a microSD slot for expanding storage and loading up on offline content. The 8-inch HD touchscreen has a striking brightness level of 1200 nits, 20% brighter than the iPad Pro which shines at 1000 nits, making it perfect for outdoor use. The display is responsive, has an anti-glare coating, and complements the overall build of the device—it’s rugged yet refined, a rare find in tablets with a focus on durability.

The stick-on Shower Mount lets you easily dock and use your Nomad while in the shower

The built-in speaker is supplemented by microphones too, which means the tablet lets you interact with voice assistants, leave voice notes, or even take phone calls. That’s where the powerful speakers come in handy, allowing you to talk without cupping your ear to hear what the other person is saying. If you want to have a private conversation, just connect Bluetooth earbuds, or better still, use the 3.5mm jack on the Nomad to hook up your wired headphones. The only thing missing is an on-board camera, which means no photographs or even video calls.

Mounting options for the Nomad extend its functionality even further. It comes with a shower wall mount, which lets you easily slip the Nomad in while having a bath. The tablet is fully usable while bathing, so whether you’re watching a TV show or hosting your own bathroom karaoke, the Nomad lets you stay in control, unlike your phone or your Bluetooth speaker, which won’t go in the shower with you.

Outside the shower, a built-in kickstand lets you prop the Nomad up wherever you are. If you want to tether the tablet to a tree or the back of your car-seat for in-car entertainment, the tablet comes with a strap-on mount too. An optional add-on cup-holder mount lets you bring the tablet to the front seat, substituting your in-car radio or music player. When all fails, a tripod mount on the bottom lets you screw a tripod in, allowing you to position your tablet practically anywhere. And since it’s fully waterproof, you don’t have to worry about splashes or moisture damaging the device.

For in-car use, you’ve got built-in Android Auto and CarPlay compatibility, a standout feature that elevates the Nomad from a mere tablet to a full-fledged navigation and media console for your car. CarPlay integration makes the device invaluable for on-the-go use, especially if you prefer your tech streamlined and multipurpose. Mount it on a dashboard, and you have an instant navigation system paired with immersive sound quality, all accessible through the Android interface that many users will find familiar and easy to navigate.

Under the hood, the Snapdragon 662 processor keeps the Nomad humming along smoothly. Sure, it’s not the latest SoC on the market, but in a rugged device focused on reliability and battery efficiency, the Snapdragon 662 is a solid choice that provides a good balance of performance and energy efficiency. You’ll find it more than capable for streaming, navigation, and even some light gaming if the mood strikes. Although the exact battery capacity isn’t mentioned, the Nomad delivers 20 hours of audio on a full charge, and can be doubled thanks to an optional magnetic battery that snaps right on top, bringing its output to 40 hours of music, or 10 full hours of video. Both the tablet and the magnetic battery have USB-C charging, which means you can charge your Nomad anywhere.

The basic bundle starts at $249, which includes the Nomad itself along with the shower mount. The $340 Ultimate Bundle gets you all the other accessories too, like the strap-on mount, the cup mount, and that snap-on magnetic battery. No matter which bundle you pick, the Nomad ships globally, starting February 2025.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249 $399 ($150 off) Hurry! Only 13 days left. Raised over $113,000

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Fake AirPods Pro With A Built-In TouchScreen Feels an AirPods/iPod Frankenstein’s Monster

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Apple would never… but what if they did??

This isn’t the Apple AirPods Ultra, but it sure is parading around the internet as one. Discovered on Threads, these knockoff pair of AirPods Pro (probably available on Temu if you look hard enough) have a feature that even the originals don’t. Visible the instant you unbox the earbuds, these knockoff AirPods Pro come with a touchscreen built into the case, letting you play/pause music, activate or deactivate features like ANC and Spatial Audio, and even mess with the earbuds’ equalizers. It isn’t too different from a pair of JBL Tour PRO 3 earbuds we saw two years ago at CES, except these ones are modeled exactly on Apple’s AirPods Pro.

Designer: Choice HYUNDAI

It isn’t easy to tell what the brand or model of these earbuds is (although I suspect it’s the Choice HYUNDAI HY-Y11), but it’s certainly a Chinese manufacturer trying to emulate the Apple aesthetic. The case looks almost exactly like the AirPods Pro, albeit with a black touchscreen on the front. You’ve got a USB-C at the bottom, and the interiors of the case look almost exactly like Apple’s own. The earbuds are a resounding copy too.

Flip open the case and it automatically wakes up the touchscreen, showing your earbuds status. Take one earbud out and an animation on the screen shows which earbud’s out of its case, providing a pretty nifty visual indication. The screen has touch-to-wake too, allowing you to do things like play/pause music, set a wallpaper on your “AirPods” case, and adjust features like ANC, EQ, and Spatial Audio.

On the top, you’ve also got a status bar that tells you each earbud’s battery level, case battery level, Bluetooth connectivity status, and the time. Pop the earbuds in and you can adjust your audio through the case itself without needing to take your phone out. Is it convenient? Sure. Is it necessary? I doubt.

This device basically turns the AirPods Pro into an AirPods iPod mashup. It’s cool, but highly unnecessary given that it doesn’t achieve much since you’re still taking a gadget out of your pocket to control playback. At that point, the gadget might as well be your phone. Adding a screen to the case also reduces its overall battery capacity, since the screen now chugs on the battery to remain operational.

However, if the idea of an AirPods case with its dedicated screen appeals to you, the internet is probably littered with low-cost versions of this device that you could play with for fun. Don’t expect stunning audio quality, ANC, or Spatial Audio from these shoddily-made knockoffs. Don’t expect a warranty either, since this thing literally costs $7.50 on AliExpress.

 

View on Threads

 

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Best Security Camera and Smart Lock Combo for Ultimate Two-Factor Home Security

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Up until recently, your insurance against a break-in was a Beware Of Dog sign hanging outside your house. We’ve come a long way since then, and it just makes sense to have a camera monitoring your doorstep. Whether it’s porch pirates, thieves, vandals, annoying neighbors, or their rebellious pets, having an eye on your front house helps keep you and your home safe. Pair this with a smart lock and you’ve got impenetrable two-factor home security. That’s just step 1. Step 2 is a little more daunting – choosing the right camera and lock – something that should feel a lot easier if you read on.

If you’re wondering how the Anona Aurora Security Camera stacks up in a crowded market of options like Nest, eufy, and Ring, you’re in for a thorough breakdown. Built with a clear focus on usability and independence, the Anona Aurora promises 4K resolution, long-lasting battery power, always-on recording, and smart AI detection—all features that make it not just another camera but a security asset for your home. Its standout design features and technical perks position it as a strong competitor, especially for those tired of subscription fees and complicated installations.

Designers: Gianni Wang (Aurora Security Camera) & Ella Zhang (Holo Smart Lock)

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Anona Aurora Security Camera – 4K Always-Recording, AI-Detection, Zero Fees

Perhaps the biggest driving force behind choosing the right camera is over its video quality. While most cameras on the market max out at 1080p or require higher price points for 2K options, the Anona Aurora stands out with its 4K HDR resolution, offering a clear, detailed view of your surroundings. Unlike standard 1080p cameras common with brands like Wyze and some eufy models, the Anona Aurora delivers eight megapixels, meaning you’ll capture critical details like license plates and distant movements with up to 8x zoom. This clarity proves essential when you need detailed footage that’s sharp and vivid, giving you confidence in knowing your surveillance captures the full picture.

The Anona Aurora also excels in low-light conditions with color night vision, a rarity in its $120 price range. Most cameras rely on monochrome or low-resolution night vision, but the Anona Aurora uses a starlight sensor, an F1.2 aperture, and a 10-LED spotlight to keep color and detail intact in the dark. It doesn’t just “see” at night; it maintains accuracy in varying light levels, making it practical for keeping tabs on wider areas like backyards or driveways, especially after dusk. With this combination, you’ll find it offers superior performance to options from Ring or Nest, which often require additional lighting to achieve similar results.

The camera’s more-than-substantial 10,000mAh battery is among the most robust in the category, delivering up to 180 days (6 months) of power on a single charge, outshining popular cameras like the Google Nest Cam that notably lasts an average of 1.5 to 3 months. Paired with Anona’s 4.8W solar panel, the Anona Aurora effectively becomes a self-sustaining security unit. The solar panel harnesses renewable energy, reducing dependency on power outlets and making it particularly useful for those seeking low-maintenance, long-term installation options.

Using on-device AI, the Anona Aurora can distinguish between people, pets, vehicles, and packages—without monthly subscription fees or cloud dependency, a notable edge over cameras from other brands, where advanced detection features usually come with paid plans. The AI’s precision is impressive, notifying users with alerts tailored to actual events and eliminating false alarms. This technology is local to the device, meaning you’re not reliant on cloud services, which is both cost-effective and faster in delivering real-time updates.

For data storage, Anona skips the subscription model entirely by building 32GB of eMMC storage directly into the camera. This local storage holds around four months of footage, allowing users to review recent events over blazing-fast Wi-Fi 6 without paying for cloud access. This also enhances privacy, as footage stays local to the device, giving users complete control over their data.

Additional features like two-way audio, a 10 LED spotlight, and siren give your camera a strategic edge over that Beware Of Dog sign. The two-way audio makes it simple to communicate directly with visitors or delivery personnel, while the siren and spotlight offer an active deterrent against potential intruders. Voice compatibility with Alexa and Google Assistant also elevates convenience, letting users check footage or control features with voice commands alone.

Why It’s Noteworthy

The Anona Aurora Security Camera offers advanced security features without breaking the bank. The Anona Aurora Camera, priced at $119.99, brings 4K resolution, on-device AI detection, and long-lasting power with optional solar support—features that often come with a much steeper price tag. A $30 upgrade gets you the solar panel with your Anona Aurora camera too.

Click Here to Buy Now: $97.90 $149.99 ($52 off, use coupon code “ydesignanona” at checkout). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours! Amazon members, get your offer here, use the coupon code!

Anona Holo Smart Lock – Biometric Keyless Entry, Matter Support, 8-Month Battery

Add Anona’s Holo Smart Lock to the mix and you’ve got yourself a tag-team two-factor system protecting your home. Designed to integrate seamlessly with your existing door setup, the Anona Holo Lock offers multiple access methods, including fingerprint recognition, smartphone control, and even voice activation via Google Assistant or Alexa. Unlike traditional locks, which rely solely on key access, the Anona Holo enables you to manage entry with a tap on your phone or a quick scan of your fingerprint in milliseconds. It’s 2024, fingerprint scanning was great for smartphones – let’s bring it to our homes too. You still have key access, if you’re a traditionalist.

Beyond biometrics, the Anona Holo offers remote control through the Anona app, which allows you to lock or unlock your door from anywhere. Particularly useful for granting temporary access to guests, service providers, or family members, this feature also lets you monitor and manage access logs in real-time (even without the smart camera). It’s a practical, user-friendly solution for those who frequently need flexible access management without being physically present.

The lock also comes with Matter support, allowing you to use your existing smart home system to control your smart lock without relying on hubs and complicated hardware/software to have devices communicate with each other. Further bolstered by features like auto-lock, door status detection, an (optional) anti-peeping keypad, and enterprise-grade encryption, the lock integrates into your life without adding a hassle or vulnerabilities to your schedule.

Installing the deadbolt lock is simple and rapid, requiring 3 steps that take all of 3 minutes to assemble. The lock runs on 4 AA batteries that offer between 6-8 months of use, and although locks don’t need to brave strong weather and water, the Anona Holo boasts IP65 dust and water resistance.

Why It’s Noteworthy

The Anona Holo Lock, available at $129.99, combines robust encryption, Matter compatibility, and weatherproof durability, offering secure and seamless access control. Aside from using your key, you’ve got biometric unlocking, anti-peep passkeys when paired with a keypad, and even the ability to provide temporary access codes to guests. The Anona Holo has an auto-lock feature, lets you check lock status over your phone, and even monitor access logs, allowing you to enhance home protection without recurring subscription costs… In fact, replace that Beware Of Dog with a Beware Of Tech sign!

Click Here to Buy Now: $97.90 $169.98 ($42 off, use coupon code “ydesignanona” at checkout). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours! Amazon members get your deal here, use the coupon code!

Click Here for Black Friday Sale: Aurora Security Camera | Holo Smart Lock. Use coupon code “ydesignanona” at checkout. Hurry, exclusive early Black Friday Deal ends soon!

The post Best Security Camera and Smart Lock Combo for Ultimate Two-Factor Home Security first appeared on Yanko Design.

EliteMini AI370: The Tiny Windows Mini-PC Built to Outperform Apple’s M4 Mac mini

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You know how every time Apple launches a feature on the iPhone, Android people rush to point out they did it first, or they did it better? If you’re a Windows fan, this post might just be perfect for you. At the end of last month, Apple debuted the M4 Mac mini, surprising us not with just a chip upgrade, but a size downgrade too. A fraction of its original size, this newer Mac mini was tailored for Apple’s AI (or Apple Intelligence), and was designed to be a functional power-house. Not to be outdone, however… it seems like MiniForum has a Windows-based answer to the new Mac mini.

The EliteMini AI370 may be a bit of a handful name-wise, but it’s a handful when it comes to performance, ports, and portability too. Powered by AMD’s latest AI-ready Ryzen processor and the Radeon 890M, the EliteMini has 12 cores, 24 threads, and 50 TOPS of AI processing, ready to easily handle any demanding task from gaming to video editing or even working with AI models without breaking a sweat. The entire device measures just 5 inches across, making it exactly as small as the Mac mini, albeit with way more ports… and perhaps the most important feature – a front-facing power button.

Designer: MinisForum

Under the hood, the EliteMini AI370 boasts AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, which makes multitasking a breeze. With 12 cores and 24 threads, this chip is engineered for the heavy workloads you’d typically assign to a full-sized desktop, handling everything from advanced editing to 3D rendering with ease. Thanks to AMD’s XDNA2 architecture, this processor includes a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU), delivering up to 50 TOPS (trillion operations per second) in AI power. If you’re working with AI applications, real-time rendering, or advanced editing software, this kind of performance is a huge asset, enhancing productivity while keeping things running smoothly.

Graphics enthusiasts and gamers will appreciate the Radeon 890M integrated graphics. Unlike many compact PCs that struggle with graphical processing, the EliteMini is geared for high-quality visuals, with frame rates above 60 FPS. This makes it more than capable for gaming and intensive creative applications. Having this level of integrated GPU performance means you won’t need to invest in an external GPU—perfect if you’re tight on desk space or don’t want extra hardware cluttering your setup.

Memory and storage are equally robust in the EliteMini AI370, with 32GB of DDR5 memory clocked at a fast 7500 MHz. This speed is a lifesaver for multitasking, allowing you to work across several applications without stalling. Storage options are equally impressive, supporting up to 4TB of PCIe NVMe SSD. That’s plenty of space for large project files, software libraries, and extensive media, while the SSD’s high-speed access means you won’t be stuck waiting around for files to load. For everything else, there are ports on both the front as well as the back.

All this power and performance gets packed into a compact and accessible device, fitting neatly on any desk setup. The 5-inch form factor is easy to overlook, but don’t let its size fool you—this mini-PC holds its own. For users who need a flexible and minimal setup, the EliteMini offers a front-facing USB-C setup and headphone jack, while ports on the back include three USB 4.0, HDMI, and an Ethernet connection that’s upgradable to 10GbE. As a (probably) unintentional jab to Apple, the EliteMini puts its power button smack-dab on the front of the mini PC too, making it MUCH more accessible than the Mac mini’s awkwardly placed power button.

Of course, all these features come at a price. The EliteMini AI370 starts at an introductory $1,099, with a regular price of $1,399, reflecting the high-end components and capabilities. For comparison, Apple’s Mac Mini M4 starts at $599, but it lacks the EliteMini’s integrated AI capabilities and has fewer configuration options. For Windows users who prioritize performance and customization, the EliteMini’s added capabilities and that compact design make it a perfect alternative to the Mac mini. Besides, if you’re going to be working with AI models, you’d want a computer that’s AI ready too, no?

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Nissan’s Frontier TARMAC Concept: A 440 Horsepower Muscle Truck Built for the Track

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The Nissan Frontier TARMAC concept isn’t here to haul lumber or rocks. This one’s about making a statement. Designed by Nissan Motorsports (NISMO), Forsberg Racing, and Nissan Design America, this bold concept takes the classic work truck idea and supercharges it—literally and figuratively. Think of it as a track-ready muscle truck, complete with a 3.8-liter V6 that churns out a hefty 440 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. And if you’re already picturing burnouts, you’ll be glad to know that a custom handbrake was added just for that purpose.

Designer: Chris Forsberg & Nissan

This is no standard Frontier, not by a mile. The Frontier TARMAC’s heart is a supercharged engine with carbon fiber accents that reflect its performance-driven personality. The NISMO air intake and performance exhaust deliver power on demand, while custom NISMO brakes ensure it can actually stop when it needs to. This setup isn’t just about big numbers; it’s about delivering a refined level of control that’s engineered for precision on the track.

The Frontier TARMAC’s Afterburn Orange paint—a new hue for the 2025 Frontier lineup—brings a bold aesthetic that turns heads. Carbon fiber fender flares add to the truck’s aggressive stance, giving it a sleek but dominant appearance. Those wide carbon fiber accents aren’t just for show either; they’re there to add strength and reduce weight. And then there are the wheels—custom 20-inch NISMO wheels wrapped in Yokohama Advan tires—adding yet another layer of performance and visual appeal. From top to bottom, the Frontier TARMAC looks ready to handle the asphalt with all the confidence of a sports car.

If you’re wondering how they pulled off that low-riding look, the answer is in the suspension. This truck sits improbably low, thanks to a prototype NISMO coil-over setup in the front, with a rear flip kit and C-notch to make sure it stays close to the ground without compromising structural integrity. This custom suspension, paired with those beefy tires, gives the truck a “slammed” stance, as described by Chris Forsberg himself. Just one look tells you this vehicle isn’t meant for off-road adventuring—think racetrack, not mountain trails.

Inside, the TARMAC concept doesn’t skimp on comfort or style. You’ll find Recaro seats that offer the perfect balance of support and sportiness, making every drive feel like a track day. The carbon fiber steering wheel and handbrake, both track-inspired, give drivers full control, emphasizing that this truck is built for those who value a more hands-on driving experience. Nissan clearly wasn’t aiming for “rugged” here—this is all about precision and speed.

Even though the Nissan Frontier TARMAC is just a concept, it’s a fascinating nod to the muscle truck era, when power and performance were the only metrics that mattered. Nissan is showing off the TARMAC at SEMA this year, where it’s sharing the spotlight with other concepts like the “Project Trailgater” for tailgating fans, and the Kicks Beach Patrol for coastal explorers. Each concept represents a different aspect of Nissan’s vision for the future, but the Frontier TARMAC is easily one of the standouts.

For anyone who’s ever wanted a pickup with muscle car roots, the Frontier TARMAC might be exactly the kind of “truck fantasy” they didn’t know they needed. It’s the answer to a question nobody asked: What if a work truck had a double life as a track star? In the end, the Nissan Frontier TARMAC might be one for the show floor, but it’s proof that Nissan isn’t afraid to play around with tradition and take its designs into bold new territory.

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