Author Archives: Sarang Sheth

Upgrade your Regular Bicycle into an E-Bike with LIVALL’s $279 PikaBoost 2 Accessory

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In 2022, the folks at LIVALL unveiled the PikaBoost, a simple battery-powered motor that could attach to any bicycle, giving it an electric upgrade. Now, the PikaBoost 2 comes with the same pitch as its predecessor, but with a power upgrade, better range, an anti-theft design, and swappable batteries. All you really do is strap the PikaBoost 2 to the back of your bicycle, right above the rear wheel and you’re good to go. The process takes under a minute, but gives your bicycle quite the upgrade, with a motor-assisted drive that can be accessed across 4 riding modes. The best part? Unlike e-bikes that can cost upward of $800-1000, the PikaBoost 2 is a simple under-$300 accessory that pretty much attaches to any existing bicycle.

Designer: LIVALL

Click Here to Buy Now: $279 $369 (24% off). Hurry, only 31 left! Raised over $320,000 raised.

Do you remember when Elon Musk put jet thrusters on the Tesla Roadster to make it go even faster? The PikaBoost 2 is sort of the same thing, but scaled down to less mad-scientist and more practical-genius levels. In essence, it just adds a motor to your existing bicycle, so that you don’t have to rely entirely on pedal power. The PikaBoost 2 outputs an impressive 500W, which when coupled with its high RPM capacity, allows cyclists to conquer steep inclines effortlessly, reaching speeds of up to 32 km/h (19mph) without rider exertion. On flat land, the PikaBoost 2 is a nice way to turn your bicycle from an exercise machine to an effortless mode of transport, allowing you to travel farther and faster without splurging for a gas-powered motorbike or an e-bike.

The slick device retrofits onto almost any existing bicycle simply by attaching itself firmly to the frame right under the seat. Traditional e-bike conversion kits often require significant time and effort to install, with many models being incompatible with a range of bike sizes. In contrast, PikaBoost 2 can be installed or removed in under a minute, thanks to its simplified design that fits most bike models and tire sizes. The system includes a proprietary tool that secures the unit with four anti-theft screws, ensuring a secure fit that’s impossible to remove without the specific tools if you’re a thief… but very easy for you to detach and take home at the end of the day by using the proprietary screw. Additionally, its shock-absorbing spring design helps maintain stability, even on rough terrain, while preventing screw loosening.

PikaBoost 2’s adjustable design seamlessly integrates with wheel sizes from 14 to 29 inches, accommodating mountain bikes, road bikes, and hybrids. LIVALL also provides its own tire designs for the PikaBoost, allowing you to adjust based on road or mountain driving. Once installed, the PikaBoost 2’s wheel rests on the top of your bicycle’s rear wheel, gripping it securely to ensure high traction so it can efficiently transfer kinetic power to your bike’s rear wheel. The V-shaped grooves on the PikaBoost 2 interlock with your bike’s treads, while also providing channels to direct water/mud when you’re riding in the rain or on wet/muddy roads.

One of the standout features of the PikaBoost 2 (and an upgrade from its predecessor) is its AAR2.0 technology, which offers personalized e-bike assistance. Unlike traditional systems that rely on torque sensors, AAR2.0 continuously learns and adapts to your riding style, providing precise power assistance that matches your needs. The regenerative braking system further extends your ride by capturing and converting kinetic energy back into electricity, adding sustainability to your journey. At 25 km/h, the RBS (regenerative braking system) can generate about 100 watts of power to recharge your battery.

Although it seems like the original PikaBoost had a bigger 234Wh battery, the one on the PikaBoost 2 is smaller but MUCH more efficient. Equipped with a 158Wh lithium-ion battery, the system offers a range of up to 70 kilometers or 43.4 miles (an upgrade over the 30 kilometers on the previous model). This size reduction comes with a good reason too, as the folks at LIVALL wanted the battery pack to be ‘airline-friendly’. For those seeking even greater endurance, an optional 220Wh battery extends the range to 96 kilometers or 59.6 miles. Both batteries support fast-charging technology, allowing for a full charge in just three hours. Beyond powering your ride, the battery can also function as a portable power station, with up to 100W of output power, making it versatile for charging everything from your phone to even your laptop.

Each PikaBoost 2 is paired with a remote controller that attaches to your handlebars, allowing you to switch between modes while riding. Notably, the 2nd gen device also gets a few nifty design and safety upgrades in the form of an LED taillight that automatically shines as you slow down or make turns (and also works as a charging status light), as well as fall or slip detection that automatically kills the motor to prevent accidents or injury. The PikaBoost 2 also comes with its own smartphone app, available for both Android and iOS devices. Aside from letting you perform actions like switching between modes, the app also lets you track your PikaBoost 2, as well as uses your location to automatically adjust its output based on riding regulations of the country you’re in (European users will see their speeds capped at 25 km/h to comply with the maximum speed limit). The entire device weighs 6.6lbs or 3 kilograms, and is IP66 water-resistant, making it fairly weatherproof. The PikaBoost 2 ships globally, along with the remote controller, the 158Wh battery, a mudguard, and the proprietary accessories for upgrading your bicycle. An upgrade gets you the 220Wh battery along with mountain and road bike tire attachments, and a fast-charging setup. Additionally, LIVALL also sells its own bicycle helmet with a built-in rear LED light that synchronizes with the PikaBoost 2 to shine automatically when you slow down, turn, or come to a stop.

Click Here to Buy Now: $279 $369 (24% off). Hurry, only 31 left! Raised over $320,000 rasied.

The post Upgrade your Regular Bicycle into an E-Bike with LIVALL’s $279 PikaBoost 2 Accessory first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Absolutely Badass Folding Knife has the most Eye-catching Titanium Handle I’ve seen

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If looks could kill, the Sandstorm 2.0 pocket knife would’ve eliminated you already.

The Maxace Sandstorm 2.0 isn’t for the faint-hearted. Whether it’s the dangerously sharp Kukri-style blade on the front, the 10-ounce hefty weight, the 10-inch overall length, or that viciously rustic titanium handle, every part of the Sandstorm 2.0 screams “BEWARE”. I wouldn’t be surprised if I had to sign a waiver before I bought this thing. It’s durable, meaty, well-weighted, and is ferocious enough to scare your enemies away before you get a chance to use it.

Designer: Maxace

I have an innate appreciation for good craftsmanship. Whether it’s the dragon-inspired pocket knife from a few weeks ago, to this beaut here, there’s something about nature-inspired detailing that makes a knife look more raw, rustic, beastly. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good minimalist flipper, but sometimes a pocket knife just needs to feel like it could get your adrenaline going. The Sandstorm 2.0 is one of those knives. That almost chipped-Obsidian-style texture on the handle catches light wonderfully (in part thanks to the stonewashed finish). The handle is entirely machined from a single piece of Titanium, so don’t expect to see seam lines. It’s a major deviation from most knives that come with two or three-part handles sandwiched together. This single-piece handle is absolutely astounding to look at, although that also adds to its overall cost.

The gorgeous handle is just one aspect of what makes the Sandstorm 2.0 such a great knife. The M390 blade, which measures a whopping 4.62 inches in length is yet another thing of beauty. At that size, the blade becomes fairly heavy, which can be a boon when it comes to maneuvering or working the knife. The M390 blade doesn’t sport a conventional drop-point mechanism. Instead, it has a combination of design styles that pretty much mirror the complexity of the handle’s chipped design. The silhouette feels very similar to that of a Nepali khukri knife, albeit without a continuous curve. There’s a slight sharp turn at the belly, before the knife ends at a sharp tip. The spine of the blade has a clip-point-style faceted curve too, giving you a blade that has a much more complex character than your average drop-pointed folder.

The hefty blade feels incredibly satisfying to open too, thanks to a thumb stud that lets you flick the Sandstorm 2.0 open in seconds. A frame lock helps click the blade in place, which you can then disengage as you shut the blade. With a knife that heavy and a blade that sharp, it’s best do shut the blade with both hands rather than trying to singlehandedly shut the blade. I guess that’s a small price to pay for overall safety. A rotating LBS helps you lock the frame lock, preventing the blade from disengaging. You’ve also got space for a screw-in stop-head to lock your blade in position.

All this heft, sharpness, intricate detailing, artistry, and sheer complexity results in a knife that doesn’t come cheap. At $399, the Sandstorm 2.0 is definitely on the more expensive side… but it’s also worth every penny, given how at the end of the day you don’t get a knife that just looks good… It could inflict some serious tactical damage on enemies too.

Images via Metal Complex

The post This Absolutely Badass Folding Knife has the most Eye-catching Titanium Handle I’ve seen first appeared on Yanko Design.

4-in-1 EDC Pen also packs a Ruler, Stylus, and an Eternal Pencil that lasts forever

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Remember when some pens had multiple refills inside them and that somehow felt like peak functionality? Well, we now live in 2024, where a multi-refill pen is severely outdated. Instead, we’ve got 4-in-1 pens that pack rulers/scales, pencils, and even a capacitive stylus for working digitally. The FLINTONE is an all-metal pen that comes with a unique modular design. Its outer sleeve has a waterdrop cross-section that allows it to double as a grip for the pen on the inside. However, if you want to change things up, the pen element swaps out for other modules… namely a capacitive stylus, or an eternal pencil capable of writing forever without running out of graphite or needing to be sharpend. Designed with professionals and creatives in mind, this tool reflects a deep understanding of the demands placed on those who require precision, adaptability, and convenience in their daily tasks.

Designer: FLINTONE

Click Here to Buy Now: $79 $109 ($30 off) Hurry! Limited units left.

The FLINTONE 4-in-1 EDC Pen is crafted from aerospace-grade aluminum, making it both lightweight as well as durable (definitely more durable than those plastic pens you carry around). At the core of its design is the ability to switch between four functions—pen, pencil, touch pen, and ruler—effortlessly in just a few seconds. This pretty much guarantees never needing to carry a full-fledged stationery kit with you. The FLINTONE’s multipurpose design gives you all you need. The outer sleeve serves as a scale or ruler, and the pen, which can be detached from the sleeve, can be used independently. Conversely, the sleeve’s teardrop shape provides a nifty grip if you’re using the pen while it’s docked within. The pen itself uses a standard G2 refill, giving you the ability to swap out old refills for new ones.

The sleeve’s unique form factor has two functions. For starters, its non-cylindrical design means it’ll never roll off a table. However, on the tapered edge lie both imperial and metric etchings, allowing you to take measurements in the unit of your choice. This is particularly beneficial for engineers, architects, and designers who work in diverse environments and require precise measurements in different units. The rulers are integrated with a dual synchronized roller design that allows for smooth, parallel movement, making it easier to draw straight lines and achieve accurate measurements.

The roller design lets you move the scale on a perfect straight axis, allowing you to quickly draw parallel lines.

The barrel of the pen module comes with a threaded end, allowing you to attach any one of the FLINTONE’s other modules. This effectively allows you to slide the pen out, flip it over, and slide it back in, basically swapping modules in a way. Apart from the ballpoint pen, the FLINTONE offers a capacitive stylus, allowing you to draw on most touchscreens the way you would on paper with a pen/pencil. Unlike other styluses that require charging (looking at you, Apple), the one on the FLINTONE works without a battery, although don’t expect any functions like pressure-sensing or tilt detection the way you would get with an Apple Pencil.

Alternatively, you have the option of using the eternal pencil module – perhaps the most interesting of the bunch. The eternal pencil uses a specific alloy instead of graphite. While graphite rubs off on paper, creating the black mark you see, this alloy oxidises onto paper, providing a similar mark without getting depleted the way graphite does. The result, stellar black lines without dust, smudging, or even the need to sharpen. The eternal pencil quite literally works forever, without losing its pointed tip.

The FLINTONE’s waterdrop-shaped body provides an ergonomic grip, allowing for extended use without causing hand fatigue. This design consideration is particularly important for those who spend long hours working on detailed projects, where comfort can significantly impact productivity. The pen also features a magnetic closure that secures it in place, preventing it from rolling off surfaces and ensuring it is always within reach.

In addition to its multifunctional capabilities, the FLINTONE 4-in-1 EDC Pen is built to last. The pencil component, for instance, is constructed from an ultra-durable carbon alloy, capable of withstanding extensive use. This durability is matched by the pen’s overall construction, which is designed to endure the rigors of daily use in demanding environments. The pen also comes with a specially crafted storage case, which helps keep everything organized and prevents any mess.

By combining multiple tools into one sleek and durable device, the folks at FLINTONE have created a product that meets the needs of professionals and creatives alike. Whether you are drafting a technical drawing, taking notes, or interacting with your digital devices, this pen is engineered to deliver performance and convenience at every turn. The FLINTONE sports a $79 price tag, which may seem high for a pen, but can be justified when you look at its 4-in-1 aspect and all-metal durable construction. The FLINTONE 4-in-1 pen comes in 3 colors – Frost Silver, Midnight Black, and Aurora Blue (shown in the images above). The pen ships globally, starting November 2024.

Click Here to Buy Now: $79 $109 ($30 off) Hurry! Limited units left.

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The Samsung Freestyle Projector gets a $335 competitor from Zebronics

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With a dynamic capsule-shaped design that can be pivoted to face pretty much anywhere, the Zebronics Zeb PixaPlay 54 is far from those boring box-shaped projectors of yesteryear. It feels refreshing, artistic, and worthy of placing on a mantelpiece from which it can cast images and videos onto a wall. The pivoting capsule design feels fairly similar to a conceptual projector we saw back in 2018 or more recently, the $900 Samsung Freestyle. At practically a third of the price, the Zeb PixaPlay 54 feels like quite the deal, although it does come with its fair share of compromises – none too drastic if you ask me. You get exactly what you’re paying for… if not more, considering the projector has a few nifty features like auto-keystone, multiple connectivity options, and the ability to cast a 140-inch screen on any wall you point it at!

Designer: Zebronics

The Zebronics PixaPlay 54 LED projector is an intriguing entry-level option for those looking to enhance their home entertainment setup without breaking the bank. Positioned within the Indian market, this projector aims to deliver a solid viewing experience while keeping the price tag accessible. Despite its marketing claims of 1080p support, the PixaPlay 54’s native resolution is 720p, which is a crucial consideration for potential buyers who prioritize image clarity and detail (even more so considering the Freestyle does output 1080p). This slight dip in resolution might be a drawback for some, but it doesn’t negate the fact that the PixaPlay 54 can still provide a satisfactory visual experience for casual movie nights or presentations. Personally, 1080p at a slightly higher price would absolutely seal the deal.

The Zeb PixaPlay 54’s internal light source outputs up to 3,800 lumens of brightness. This should suffice for most indoor settings, ensuring that images remain vivid and clear even in rooms that aren’t completely dark. Moreover, the LED light source is touted to have a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, translating to years of use without the need for a replacement bulb. This longevity is a significant advantage, especially for users who plan on using the projector frequently. However, it’s important to note that while the brightness is commendable, the native resolution may not fully leverage this feature, leading to a trade-off between sharpness and luminosity.

The cylindrical pivoting shape is perhaps the projector’s biggest visual highlight, which not only gives it a modern appearance but also allows for practical adjustments. The adjustable stand is a thoughtful addition, enabling users to tilt the projector to achieve the optimal viewing angle without the need for additional mounts or tripods. Automatic keystone correction further enhances the user experience by ensuring that the projected image remains rectangular and undistorted, even if the projector isn’t perfectly aligned with the screen. The inclusion of a lens adjustment wheel allows for fine-tuning the focus, which is essential for achieving the best possible image clarity given the projector’s native resolution limitations.

Connectivity options on the PixaPlay 54 are robust for its price range. The device supports dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1, offering a range of wireless connection possibilities, from streaming content directly from your smartphone to mirroring your laptop screen. Considering its positioning as a smart speaker, it DOES come with its own OS, although you won’t find every app you need. Personally, as a Zebronics projector user myself, I find it easier defaulting to an Amazon Fire Stick for seamless content. The projector also features various ports, including HDMI, USB-C, USB-A, and AUX, which provide ample options for connecting external devices such as gaming consoles, laptops, and sound systems. The built-in speakers are a convenient feature, though they may not deliver the audio depth that dedicated external speakers can provide. Your best bet is to pair an external speaker with the projector – preferably using the aux to avoid any audio lag.

The Zebronics PixaPlay 54 is competitively priced, with an introductory offer bringing the cost down from ₹27,999 ($333 USD) to ₹10,999 (approximately $131 USD). This makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers who are looking for a versatile projector without the premium price tag. Don’t expect to turn your home into an IMAX studio, given the 720p output… but rather revel in the fact that your projector looks like a million bucks, and gives you a whopping 100-plus-inch display on command!

The post The Samsung Freestyle Projector gets a $335 competitor from Zebronics first appeared on Yanko Design.

Quirky ‘Wordle’ Handheld Game Device feels heavily inspired by Game Boy and Teenage Engineering

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Designed as a part of Richard Falcema’s ‘Fictronics’ (Fictional Electronics) series, the WORDLE TERM is a handheld console that lets you play NYT’s hit game Wordle anywhere you go. Although Wordle is mainly played on phones (and is even available as a board game for true-blue nerds), Falcema’s quirky gadget gives the game its own standalone handheld device with an aesthetic and interface that’s just about as adorable and fun as the game itself.

Designer: Richard Falcema

The gaming device is simple to a point of being almost a meme. You can literally ONLY play Wordle on it and nothing else, which I guess makes it even more appealing if you think about it. The device sports a 25-display grid on the top,very reminiscent of the kind seen on Elgato’s hardware, except those displays can’t be pressed. They’re controlled using a set of 5 wheels at the bottom, which let you cycle through letters in each row. Once you select all 5 letters, the device accepts your input and judges your guess. For non-Wordlers, the game involves guessing the word of the day. You have 6 chances (this game gives you just 5), and each chance gives you clues as to what the word could be. When you guess the letters, tiles either stay grey if the letter is wrong, or turn orange if the letter is right but in the wrong position, and finally green if the letter is right and at the right position. Using this color-coded system, you’re required to work your way through the 5 or 6 guesses, trying to get the word in the fewest attempts.

Falcema’s device captures the Wordle game perfectly through its quirky design. The exposed circuitry, vibrant colors, metal bar on top, and that lone AA battery at the bottom are highly reminiscent of Teenage Engineering’s design cues. The device comes with a Wordle-themed lanyard too, adding to the fun appeal of the entire device. I’m assuming that this device also lets you play as many instances of Wordle as possible, rather than having to wait 24 hours for each new challenge!

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LEGO Coldplay Music Of The Spheres Kit crosses 10,000 votes after being endorsed by the band itself

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Considered to be the biggest band on the planet (with nearly 80 million monthly listeners on Spotify), it’s sort of a shame that Coldplay still hasn’t gotten a LEGO set of its own. Getting your own LEGO set is almost a rite of passage to icon-dom, and we’re at a point where the Brit pop-rock band is well on its way to being immortalized in the brick form. LEGO master-builder MIKEYDENDEN decided to build is own kit based on Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres tour, featuring the band members, two stages, and even hovering fireworks. With an official nod from Coldplay themselves, the fan-made build cruised past its 10,000 vote mark on the LEGO Ideas forum, and is currently being reviewed by the LEGO internal team. If things go smoothly, Coldplay could have its own official LEGO kit for fans to buy!

Designer: MIKEYDENDEN

I had the privilege of attending the Music of the Spheres tour during its Asian leg, and while the LEGO kit doesn’t even scratch the surface of how grand and awe-inspiring the production was, it’s definitely something. It has its own easter eggs, so to speak, with the presence of a main stage along with a smaller C-stage that the band often takes to in the middle of the show for acoustic covers of their songs. For added flair, you’ve even got fireworks at the top that go off during the songs Fix You, Sky Full of Stars, and right at the end of the show.

Zoom in deeper and the kit has a few more surprises, from butterfly and star confetti, to a colorful piano that Chris plays, ‘Believe In Love’ written on the stage backdrop, and Chris in his signature ‘Everyone Is An Alien Somewhere’ tee shirt.

The set obviously also has the usual suspects – band members Chris Martin, Will Champion, Guy Berryman, and Jonny Buckland all with their signature instruments. The only thing really missing here is the B-Stage, which extends off the main stage, connected through a ramp. The B-Stage is arguably where most of the action happens, as Chris performs on it, sometimes solo, and at other times with his crewmates. Given it’s the Music of the Spheres, it would also make sense to have some of the floating spheres that get thrown into the audience during the show! Maybe the redesign post LEGO’s internal review will feature these details.

The post LEGO Coldplay Music Of The Spheres Kit crosses 10,000 votes after being endorsed by the band itself first appeared on Yanko Design.

Did you notice something different about this Nail Clipper? A small design change makes it 2x efficient

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If you’re here reading this, chances are you didn’t figure out what makes this clipper different from other nail clippers… but don’t worry, I’m here to tell you.

Most nail clippers are class 1 levers, given that you apply pressure at one end, and the nails get clipped at the other end. It’s simple, it’s effective, and for the most part, nobody really thinks there’s anything wrong with this format… but the folks at Klhip discovered a way to upgrade this system – simply by changing the type of lever.

Designer: Klhip

The Klhip comes with a fairly stand-out design that feels striking given its all-metal construction. However, the area where it differs from every other nail clipper is in the fact that it switches from a class 1 lever to a class 3 lever. With class 1 levers, the force you apply is on the opposite side of your nail-cutting area. With the Klhip, however, the force applied is right near where your nail is being cut, which makes the overall experience much more ergonomic and efficient, resulting in less force needing to be applied. Imagine using a large pair of scissors to cut a wooden branch versus just swinging an axe. The latter feels intuitively effortless because the point of force is closer to the load area.

The Klhip comes made from 440C surgical-grade stainless steel, with radial blades designed to be sharp enough to provide a clean cut so that you don’t need to file down your nails afterward. If you do, an abrasive surface on the on the Klhip lets you file down any sharp edges, leaving you with the cleanest set of nails. Magnets embedded in the Klhip let you fold down your nail clipper once you’re done, and the Klhip comes with its own metal travel case, with the option to upgrade to a leather pouch too.

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Get the Pixel 9’s “Add Me” Camera Feature on Any iPhone or Android Device: Here’s How…

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Were you hyped when Google announced the Add Me feature for the Pixel 9 series camera? I’ll be honest, my wave of excitement died down as fast as it hit me. Truth be told, the Add Me feature is pretty impressive – it allows you to click group photos while also including yourself IN the group. The way the Pixel does this is by scanning your surroundings and the subjects in the frame, and once you click the photo, hand the phone (in the same position) to someone else and walk into the frame. The Pixel 9 will ‘add you’ to the existing photo using AI. Sounds truly remarkable, doesn’t it? Well, given how much 3D scanning and AI computation is done in advance to make this possible, this truly is a feat of technology. There’s a problem, however… You can easily achieve nearly similar results using the Panorama setting on any phone camera.

Before we break down how to do this, it’s worth noting that the way the Pixel 9’s Add Me feature and your camera’s Panorama feature work very differently. Which means there are different things to worry about, and a few potential caveats for both methods. The takeaway, however, is that you DON’T need to be excluded from your group photos. You can simply rely on an existing feature on your phone to add yourself into images… without splurging on a fancy $799-$1099 phone, or without using a whole lot of AI.

Start the panorama process, then hand the phone to someone else while you enter the panorama from the right. The small preview window should help you compose a perfectly stitched panorama that includes you!

As far as Pixel 9’s Add Me feature goes, it’s fairly state-of-the-art and does a job most people would be pretty impressed with. You’ve got the phone quite literally scanning the room, separating the subjects from the background, and then adding an extra subject in. This way, you can truly be a part of a photo even if you’re the one clicking it. Just start the clicking process, hand the camera to someone else, and go stand in the frame you composed. You can stand near people, behind them, pretend to touch their shoulder, and the AI does the rest of the work, crunching multiple data points together to seamlessly integrate you into the frame. It’s great, but it has a few cons – aside from the general stitching issues, you need to ensure the phone’s position doesn’t change too much while clicking the image. You also need a Pixel 9 (or higher) to perform this feature, which is the biggest disadvantage of them all. There is, however, the simple solution of just clicking using the panorama mode. The panorama method is ridiculously simple and works on any smartphone (Android or iOS) without any updates. Here’s how you do it.

The final result looks just as good as the ones from Pixel’s Add Me feature… except without using any AI!

Start the panorama process, but deliberately leave the part out where you plan on inserting yourself. Then, hand the phone to someone else and have them continue the panorama, but now with you in it. Hit the shutter button after the panorama’s composed and voila! You’re effectively IN the photo that you started taking! No AI, no fancy camera features, just a genius solution to a simple problem. The Panorama method works 9 times out of 10, making it a solid alternative to Pixel’s Add Me feature. However, it has a few limitations too. Again, aside from the potential stitching issues, the photos you take ALWAYS have to be landscape (because that’s how panoramas are recorded). People in the frame cannot move too much, which could affect the stitching – this means you can’t use this feature in a crowd; your background almost always has to be static. The Panorama Method also works only from left to right, which means the photographer can only be to the right of people. Not the left, and not even behind them. Personally, these limitations feel pretty small when compared to the idea of spending $799 for a new phone. I also give it a year before someone develops a camera app or filter (I’m looking at you, Snapchat) that does this exact same thing as Pixel’s ‘Add Me’. Until then, just go ahead and use the Panorama Method. I promise nobody will know the difference.

The post Get the Pixel 9’s “Add Me” Camera Feature on Any iPhone or Android Device: Here’s How… first appeared on Yanko Design.

The New Ford Nugget Camper-Van boasts a Wardrobe, Bathroom, L-Shaped Kitchen, and a Hybrid Powertrain

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The Ford Nugget camper van lineup just got a significant upgrade, perfect for those embracing the #VanLife trend or looking to dip their toes into the nomadic lifestyle. Building on last year’s redesign at the Düsseldorf Caravan Salon, Ford introduces new models to the Nugget family, including a long-wheelbase version with more kitchen and storage space and an Active trim that’s sportier and offers all-wheel drive. The long-wheelbase version stretches the camper from 505 cm to 545 cm, making room for a larger wardrobe and an L-shaped kitchen, ideal for those who love to cook more elaborate meals on the road. Additionally, the much-anticipated plug-in hybrid version arrives with 56 km of all-electric range, combining eco-friendliness with practicality for European roads. With options for both diesel and hybrid powertrains, the Nugget series caters to different travel styles while ensuring you have the space and features needed to make van life enjoyable and stress-free.

Designer: Ford

The new long-wheelbase Nugget model expands the van’s functionality by increasing its overall length from 505 to 545 cm. This added space is put to practical use, enhancing storage options with a larger wardrobe and a more expansive L-shaped kitchen. The extended countertop is ideal for those who like to prepare meals with more complexity or simply need extra room for their cooking essentials. Storage is a critical factor in the success of any camper van setup, and Ford’s design ensures that the additional space serves both convenience and comfort. The larger kitchen area is designed to house more cookware and utensils, ensuring that everything remains within easy reach while traveling.

Beyond just extra storage, the long-wheelbase version is also set to feature a bathroom in future iterations. While details on the layout remain under wraps, the bathroom will likely be a significant draw for those who prioritize a fully self-contained living space on the road. In earlier models like the Nugget Plus, Ford offered a compact bathroom solution in the tailgate area, complete with a privacy screen and foldaway sink. Whether or not this layout remains unchanged, it’s clear that the addition of a bathroom reflects Ford’s understanding of customer needs in this growing market segment.

The Active trim introduces a more rugged design to the Nugget lineup. It features SUV-inspired styling and durable materials suitable for more challenging environments. With water-resistant seat fabric and advanced driver assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and pre-collision assist, the Active trim blends comfort with safety. The inclusion of AWD further broadens the van’s capabilities, making it more versatile for trips that involve uneven terrain or inclement weather. The powertrain options for this model include a 168-hp EcoBlue diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering reliable performance for both highway cruising and countryside exploration.

Perhaps the most significant update is the introduction of a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. Ford delivers on its promise from last year, launching the PHEV just in time for the 2024 season. The hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5-liter Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with an electric motor, providing a combined output of 230 hp. The 11.8 kWh battery enables up to 56 km of all-electric driving, a feature particularly appealing for eco-conscious travelers or those navigating emission-restricted urban areas. This hybrid setup strikes a balance between efficiency and range, allowing users to enjoy quieter, cleaner drives without sacrificing the practicality of traditional fuel options.

Ford has also integrated the Smart Camper Touchscreen system, allowing centralized control of the van’s features like lighting, heating, and even leveling with the built-in inclinometer. This feature is particularly useful for ensuring a stable and comfortable setup at campsites. The van’s three-room layout—comprising a dining area, kitchen, and pop-up bedroom—remains consistent with previous models but benefits from the increased length and added storage, making longer trips more feasible.

With a base price of €73,126 in Germany, the updated Nugget series remains a premium option within the camper van market. However, the expanded features, enhanced powertrain options, and thoughtful design refinements make it a strong contender for anyone serious about the van life experience. As Ford continues to innovate in this space, the Nugget series evolves from a compact camper into a more comprehensive travel solution, meeting the needs of today’s increasingly diverse group of road adventurers.

 

The post The New Ford Nugget Camper-Van boasts a Wardrobe, Bathroom, L-Shaped Kitchen, and a Hybrid Powertrain first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Valuchi Moonphase Expedition Watch brings back a timeless design in a world saturated with tech

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Think of it as a gorgeous restomod amongst a wave of EVs.

The Valuchi Expedition Watch is an attempt at regaining control of a dialog that has been lost to the tech world. With almost every new company releasing smartwatches (some of them being rather substandard), the watch conversation has skewed away from timeless craftsmanship and timekeeping excellence. With the Expedition Watch, Valuchi brings our attention back to classic watchmaking at its finest. The Valuchi Expedition Watch comes with a gorgeous Tonneau shape, a screw-down case, luminous hands, an accurate moonphase tracker, and a Japanese Miyota movement powering it all. The design balances classy with sporty, thanks to rubber straps and a 5ATM waterproof case design, giving you a watch that’s truly made for every moment.

Designer: Valuchi

Click Here to Buy Now: $189 $289 (35% off). Hurry, only 48/100 left!

The watch sports a barrel-shaped Tonneau case, deviating from the square and circle cases seen on every single tech watch today. The case comes with a screw-down bezel made from premium 316 stainless steel, forming a boundary around the watch’s radial-brushed face. The face also features an accurate 30-day moonphase tracker at the 6 o’clock position, accurately displaying the 4 phases of the moon: new moon, first quarter, full moon, and last quarter. Luminous markings on the dial as well as the hour and minute hand allow you to see the time in the dark, and a gorgeous lightning-shaped seconds hand glimmers in daylight, adding dynamism to your timekeeping.

On the inside, the Valuchi Expedition Watch draws power from a Japanese Miyota 6P24 movement that accurately displays the time while also tracking the moon’s phases with immaculate precision. A 3-year battery keeps the watch running comfortably, encased within a water-resistant case that protects the watch when submerged up to 50 meters or 5 ATM. Meanwhile, a hardened mineral crystal on top guards the watch from accidental scratches or bumps (as does the broad 316 stainless steel bezel).

The Valuchi Expedition Watch was designed for a certain mindset – that of someone who wants a watch as versatile and accepting of life’s twists and turns as they are. The watch sports 5 gorgeous color variants, ranging from vibrant to classic, with rubber straps to match. Perfect for wearing to work, black-tie events, the golf course, the tarmac, or even on the beach, the Valuchi Expedition Watch’s everyday, every time appeal makes it your loyal wrist-borne companion. The watch ships globally, packaged inside a gorgeous green box with embossed gold lettering. Along with your watch, the box also includes the watch’s papers and a certificate of authenticity, affirming the quality of your timepiece.

Click Here to Buy Now: $189 $289 (35% off). Hurry, only 48/100 left!

The post The Valuchi Moonphase Expedition Watch brings back a timeless design in a world saturated with tech first appeared on Yanko Design.