Author Archives: JC Torres

Setting the Stage: How Design Shapes the Dynamics of Presidential Debates

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It’s that time in human history again when the world turns its attention to a country whose political outcome could also affect the rest of the world, one way or another. Presidential debates are pivotal moments during this period, offering candidates a highly publicized platform to present their policies, challenge their opponents, and connect with voters. These events have become quite sensational shows even, and just like any other show, there is one unsung hero: stage design. The layout and design of the debate stage are fundamental in shaping how these encounters are perceived by both the live audience and viewers at home. So we take a closer look at the role stage design plays in presidential or any other debate, and how various elements such as visual hierarchy, backdrop aesthetics, and camera angles can influence the overall dynamics.

Designer: Clickspring Design

Visual Hierarchy and Focal Points

Just like in any stage design, the placement and interaction of various elements play a critical role in guiding people’s attention, especially for those watching at home whose views are largely determined by the camera. Here are some of those elements that establish a visual flow that could very well change the narrative or impact the audience.

The Central Placement of Podiums

Image courtesy of: Pressmaster

The podiums where debaters stand are naturally the center of attention on stage and have a direct impact on its design. Typically, podiums are positioned centrally on the stage to ensure that candidates are the main visual focus. They are also distributed evenly across the center to maintain an equal visual weight between candidates, promoting an unbiased viewing experience. It is also a strategic arrangement as it facilitates a smoother debate flow, allowing candidates to engage directly with each other and the moderators, regardless of their position on the stage.

Backdrop Design

Although treated as a decorative element, the backdrop plays a more important role in setting the atmosphere and even diverting focus toward or away from the speakers. In political debates, it’s a canvas that can incorporate national symbols such as flags or seals, as well as national landmarks that paint a larger picture of what the event is about. The choice of color scheme is an important matter to consider, as too many hues can end up distracting or even straining the eyes. Neutral and muted tones are generally best to keep the emphasis on the candidates rather than the design.

Image courtesy of: Live Design Online

Camera Angles and Lighting

Considering presidential debates have always been televised or, more recently, projected on large screens in the venue, camera angles and lighting have become even more essential and can either enhance or detract from the debate experience. Wide-angle shots capture the entire stage, providing context and showing the physical dynamics between candidates. Close-ups, on the other hand, capture facial expressions and gestures, adding an emotional dimension to the proceedings. Lighting isn’t just a matter of putting a spotlight on people, especially since it has to be done in a way that doesn’t look biased, like casting shadows on some candidates but not others. Balanced and soft lighting helps to create a polished and professional visual atmosphere, keeping the focus squarely on the candidates, while extravagant and showy lighting effects tend to make the event and the stage look cheap and superficial.

Ensuring Equality and Focus

The layout and design of a presidential debate stage isn’t something that is planned haphazardly. Visual elements like the central placement of podiums, backdrop aesthetics incorporating national symbols, and strategic lighting all work together to highlight the candidates. The visual hierarchy created by these elements helps direct the viewers’ attention to the key players and enhances the overall impact of their messages. The most important point to remember is that the design should ensure that candidates are given equal visual weight, reducing any implicit bias. Stage design should also keep the audience focused on the content of the debate rather than the setting, though some more recent stages seem to go in the opposite direction and become spectacles themselves.

Image courtesy of: AnnaStills

The Evolution of Stage Design in Presidential Debates

While debates have been around since the time of the ancient Greeks, televised presidential debates are a more recent phenomenon that only started in the US in the 60s. Thanks to technology, this integral part of the US election system went beyond geographical borders and became something that other countries have come to follow. Of course, the design of the stages in these debates has also evolved along with human history and trends, reflecting not only the aesthetic tastes of the generation but also their concerns.

Historical Context

The first televised debate between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon in 1960 already highlighted the importance of visual elements. Kennedy’s youthful and composed appearance contrasted with Nixon’s pale, sweaty demeanor and the poor stage lighting and camera angles that didn’t do the latter any favors. This debate marked the beginning of an era where stage design would become an integral part of political strategy. The design of presidential debate stages has evolved significantly over the years as technologies improved and audiences have become more sophisticated.

Image courtesy of: Getty Images

Modern Innovations

Recent technological advancements have allowed for more complicated stage designs that go beyond simple podiums and plain backgrounds. High-definition screens, 3D projections, and even augmented reality have been integrated to create more engaging and dynamic environments. These innovations not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also offer new ways to present data and statistics, making complex topics more accessible to the audience. That said, there is also a tendency to go overboard with these innovations, resulting in stages with distracting elements and presentations that turn the debates into entertainment shows.

Image courtesy of: CNN

The Psychological Impact of Stage Design

Stage design might seem like more of an audiovisual matter, but like any kind of design, they have underlying and sometimes subtle psychological effects as well, intended or otherwise. Even the mere placement of elements or choice of colors can have an impact on viewer perception, often subconsciously even.

Perception of Authority

Stage design can subtly influence the perception of a candidate’s authority and competence. For instance, elevated podiums can give candidates a commanding presence, while their placement on the stage can make them feel emotionally distant or close. Symmetrical designs and balanced lighting contribute to a perception of fairness and impartiality, indirectly boosting the candidates’ credibility. Lighting and camera focus can literally change how a candidate looks, making them seem gloomy, happy, suspicious, or trustworthy.

Image courtesy of: adme

Audience Engagement

The stage itself captures and retains the audience’s attention, and a well-designed one has stronger holding power. Strategically placing elements and tasteful use of visuals Engaging visuals ensure that viewers are not distracted and remain focused on the candidates’ messages. Elements such as movement on stage, transitions between camera angles, and interactive elements like audience reactions contribute to a dynamic viewing experience and can be potent tools to create a more meaningful connection with the audience, especially with the Internet that can include the participation of home viewers as well.

The Role of Technology in Enhancing Stage Design

While the first televised presidential debates relied solely on studio cameras and terrestrial TV networks, we have a broader range of technologies today to add flavor to the debate or, conversely, spin a different narrative. Just like any other tool or design element, these have to be used wisely and judiciously to put the focus on the most important part of the event: the candidates’ messages.

High-Definition Screens and Projections

High-definition screens and projections are now standard in modern debate stages as they can let live audiences see a closer look even when they’re at the bleachers. These can also display real-time data, enhance visual graphics, and even simulate different environments. This technology allows for a more comprehensive presentation of complex issues, making it easier for the audience to grasp the nuances of each candidate’s argument.

Image courtesy of: MUS_GRAPHIC_

Augmented Reality

Augmented reality (AR) has started to make its way into stage design, adding an immersive layer to the debate experience. Just like screens, AR can be used to visualize data, project interactive maps, or even recreate significant historical moments, except at a more personal distance. It can make viewers feel like they’re really “on the scene,” but like any other AR experience, it needs to be used in moderation so as not to exclude the majority of people who don’t have AR equipment to use.

Lighting and Sound Design

Advanced lighting and sound systems are crucial in creating the desired ambiance and ensuring clear communication. Programmable LED lights can highlight specific moments or shift focus between speakers, while high-quality sound systems ensure that every word is heard clearly. Conversely, they can also be sources of distraction or even physical discomfort when overused.

Designer: Clickspring Design

Challenges and Considerations in Stage Design

Stage design for presidential or any debate has the same elements as most stage designs, but they carry even more weight in ensuring an impression of impartiality and fairness. To some extent, this kind of stage design has a more serious overtone, presenting unique challenges to designers and architects.

Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality

Like with any kind of design, balancing aesthetics with functionality is one of the most important hurdles to overcome. While it’s essential to create a visually appealing environment, it’s equally important to ensure that the design does not interfere with the debate’s primary purpose: to provide a platform for meaningful discourse. Overly elaborate designs can be distracting, while overly simplistic designs might actually be counterproductive and bore viewers to the point of losing interest.

Image courtesy of: CNN

Ensuring Impartiality

To some extent, ensuring impartiality is probably the most critical consideration that guides the overall design. Every element of the stage must be scrutinized to avoid any potential bias, visual or otherwise. This includes equal lighting, symmetrical podium placement, and unbiased camera angles. Even subtle elements, such as the candidates’ color schemes, must be carefully managed to maintain a neutral environment.

Final Thoughts

Stage design for presidential debates is a complex interplay of art and science. It requires a deep understanding of visual hierarchy, psychology, and technology to create a setting that enhances the candidates’ messages and engages the audience. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the possibilities for innovative and impactful stage designs, further elevating the importance of this often-overlooked aspect of presidential debates. It shapes perceptions, influences engagement, and ultimately contributes to the political process by providing a fair and engaging platform for candidates to present their visions for the future. After all, the role of stage design in presidential debates cannot be overstated, for it is indeed a silent yet powerful player in the theater of politics.

Pasant Theatre, Wharton Centre

The post Setting the Stage: How Design Shapes the Dynamics of Presidential Debates first appeared on Yanko Design.

Multi-level wireless charger can charge four phones at the same time

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It’s not unusual for one person to own a phone and related accessories like wireless earbuds and a smartwatch. Heck, some even own more than one smartphone, one for personal use and the other for work. Whether you live alone or with others, there will always be times when you wish you could use the convenient wireless charger that’s already being occupied by your own phone or a roommate’s. Of course, declaring war over such a trivial matter is overkill and impractical, especially if you have this rather unusual wireless charging pad that can hold four phones, or any four devices, simultaneously.

Designer: Zens

There are definitely plenty of multi-device wireless chargers these days, but most of them support charging only one of each kind of device. You can charge a phone, a smartwatch, and a wireless earbuds case all at the same time, but charging two phones is often out of the question. These products are designed for the majority of use cases, but that doesn’t mean corner cases have to be ignored.

The Quattro Charger Pro 4 takes the idea of a wireless charging bed and doubles its capacity without double the space it occupies on a desk or shelf. Its rather simple solution is to have two wireless charging pads on top of each other, each supporting two devices. That’s a total of four wireless charging areas for almost any combination of devices you need, all charging at the same time.

The charger supports the Qi2 standard, which means it actually supports a variety of wireless charging technologies, both those with magnets like MagSafe, and those without. It comes with a 65W charger, which is the maximum power it can take it, but it only dishes out 15W max from each charging spot. That’s not exactly the fastest rate around, but it’s still the top wireless charging speed for iPhones anyway.

The good thing is that the 15W is constant, regardless of how many iPhones are charging at the same time, so you can have four placed simultaneously. The Zens Quattro Charger Pro 4 also supports charging AirPods cases, but sadly not the Apple Watch. Another disadvantage is that the flat orientation of the charging beds means that StandBy mode won’t kick in, but it will at least keep your three other family members or roommates happy by not fighting over wireless chargers.

The post Multi-level wireless charger can charge four phones at the same time first appeared on Yanko Design.

High-Flying Designs: The Tug-of-War Between Comfort and Profit in Airline Seating

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Air travel has always been one of the crowning glories of human innovation, proving that mankind can conquer almost anything if they put their minds to it. Over the decades, the aviation industry has been pushing the envelope of speed, efficiency, and safety, but much of the evolution doesn’t happen only on the outside of airplanes. Interior design has also been changing at an even more rapid pace, and a more visible struggle can be seen beyond seat class boundaries. Comfort, luxury, cost-efficiency, and profitability have always been the goals of all airlines, but these sometimes conflict with each other, creating an almost never-ending tug-of-war between maximizing airline profits and ensuring passenger comfort. We take a deeper close into the design philosophies and elements that define airline seating and the effects they have on the economy, the planet, and of course, human comfort.

Designer: James Lee (Butterfly Seating)

Minimalism vs. Luxury: A Deep Dive into Design Philosophies

Airline seat design has always fluctuated between two extremes, often exemplified by the division between economy and first-class sections. You have minimalism that focuses on efficiency and functionality on one end, and you have luxury that emphasizes premium experiences almost to the point of exclusivity on the other end. Of course, both philosophies are ideal to have in both seating classes to different degrees, but they also have different priorities that define the final seat design.

Designer: Aviointeriors (via Jason Rabinowitz)

Minimalist seats, for example, prioritize space efficiency and cost-effectiveness in order to both lower ticket prices as well as increase profits. By minimizing the space occupied by seats, using more lightweight materials, and adopting streamlined designs that are easier to clean, airlines can minimize operation costs while also increasing ticket sales and, therefore, increasing Revenue per Available Seat Mile or RASM figures. This is mostly seen in economy class seats and budget airlines, of which the likes of Ryanair and Spirit Airlines are best known. Aviointeriors’ 7.5kg “FABRYSEAT” concept is an example of extreme minimalism, pretty much just a metal frame with a fabric covering and a small headrest.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, luxury designs put comfort and convenience above all, even if it means increasing costs for both the company and the passenger. There is enough space to completely recline the seat into a bed and airlines offer extra amenities not available to other passengers. Given the price involved, these luxuries are only offered to business and first-class passengers, and Singapore Airlines and Etihad Airways are perhaps the most popular examples of such premium experiences.

Designer: Etihad Airways

Economic Impact of Different Seat Designs

Just like how airplanes themselves require a delicate balancing act to stay airborne, every aspect of seat design has an overall effect not just on passenger comfort but also on the airline economy in general. Two of the most important elements to be considered for seat configurations are the seat pitch and the seat width. Seat pitch, which refers to the space between one seat and the one in front of it, and the width of the seat not only affects passenger comfort but also how many passengers you can fit in the cabin.

You might think that having more seats and more passengers will always be beneficial for the airline, but that isn’t always the case. Cramped spaces are likely to also decrease customer satisfaction, leading to lower customer loyalty, and more seats and passengers will also weigh the plane down as well, requiring more fuel, interior modification, and, in the long run, higher operating costs. The duality between these two elements isn’t always clear-cut as well. For example, United Airlines has an Economy Plus that offers more legroom but at a higher price. This conundrum is at the heart of that tug-of-war that both airlines and even regulators face, balancing profit maximization and passenger satisfaction.

Designer: United Airlines

Ultra-Luxirious First-Class Seats vs. High-Density Economy Seats: A Few Case Studies

With dozens if not hundreds of airlines in operation around the world, there are just as many seat designs available that cover the spectrum between extreme minimalism and posh luxury. There are, however, a few that have stood out over the years, almost becoming representatives of these two design philosophies. Of course, business is more complicated than that, and most airlines have different sections or even aircraft that cater to different audiences and budgets.

On the luxurious side of flights, Etihad Airways is quite famous for its “The Residence,” offering a three-bedroom suite, a shower, and even a personal butler. Singapore Airlines’ Suite isn’t far behind with its full-length bed, 32-inch TV, and privacy sliding doors. Both airlines offer hotel-like amenities and luxuries available to those who can afford the rather steep price tag.

Designer: Singapore Airlines

Designer: Etihad Airways

Conversely, Ryanair and Spirit are poster children for high-volume, low-cost economy seats, with seat pitches averaging 30 inches or lower. Most of the designs are minimalist and utilitarian, employing mass-produced materials to keep costs low and tickets affordable. It might sound uncomfortable, but these configurations are quite popular with budget travelers, especially frequent flyers who simply need to get from A to B without much fuss.

Designer: Ryanair

Designer: Spirit Airlines

Sustainability in the Air: Balancing Eco-Friendly Designs with Cost and Comfort

These days, it’s no longer enough to be cost-effective or luxurious. Sustainability has become a major consideration in airline seat design, and to some extent an added complication. Companies and designers now also have to consider using eco-friendly materials that won’t compromise comfort and cost, and that’s not always an easy feat even for normal product designs.

There are a few airlines that have started that arduous journey, like Air New Zealand’s use of plant-based leather alternatives, or Recaro’s SL3510 carbon fiber-reinforced plastic to make seats lighter. There are also other concepts that not only utilize lightweight materials but also apply simpler structures and mechanisms to reduce the number of parts needed. Lighter and recycled materials can help lower a plane’s overall carbon footprint, but these materials can sometimes also cost more, so airlines have to balance the pros and cons of these as well.

Designers: JPA Design x Williams Advanced Engineering x SWS Aircraft Certification

Successes and Failures: Lessons From Both Past and Future

Aviation history is filled with stories of winners and losers, not just in flyer programs but also in seat designs. Some have become more notorious than others, while the rest served as lessons to be learned. JetBlue, for example, coined its own “Mint” business class, offering lie-flat seats and artisan dining to its transcontinental flights, a move that proved to be quite successful and popular with business travelers. In stark contrast, American Airlines’ decision in 2017 to reduce its seat pitch to below 30 inches was faced with much backlash that the company eventually backtracked.

Designer: JetBlue

Even in the realm of concept designs, there are a few that seemed to be too far-fetched and uncomfortable that they were immediately met with ridicule and even contempt. While not everyone will oppose having more seats on a plane to accommodate more passengers, a few designs seemed to prioritize that over passenger comfort, feeling like they were more interested in helping airlines game more profit instead.

The Economy Class Cabin Hexagon concept, for example, made use of a zig-zagging layout that would make some passengers, some of whom might be complete strangers, awkwardly facing each other. The Chaise Longue design, on the other hand, implemented the “double-decker” idea that would theoretically give more legroom for people on the “lower” decks but also make them feel more cramped and almost claustrophobic. Neither concept has so far been implemented, but there are also plenty of examples out there that miss the mark, one way or another.

Designer: Zodiac Aerospace

Designer: Chaise Longue

Final Thoughts

The design of airline seats is not a simple matter of choosing a form and a set of materials. There’s an ongoing tug-of-war between comfort and profit that also keeps changing over time. One generation might focus on comfort and luxury while succeeding generations might prioritize economy and efficiency. There’s also the matter of sustainability and eco-friendliness that is becoming just as important as these two factors. Airlines and designers must continually innovate and push the boundaries, looking not just for new materials but for better layouts and structures as well. Customers and regulators must also be vigilant that the interests of companies don’t overtake the experience of passengers. In the end, success in this domain hinges on understanding and anticipating passenger needs while crafting an economic model that sustains profitability amidst the ever-competitive skies.

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ASUS ProArt PZ13 2-in-1 Laptop Review: Portable Partner with Plenty of Potential

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PROS:


  • Handsome, sleek, and minimalist design

  • Lightweight and portable body for creatives on the go

  • Large and long-lasting 70Wh battery

  • Beautiful Pantone-validated 13-inch 3K OLED screen

CONS:


  • Inserted SD card prevents flap cover from closing

  • ASUS Pen 2.0 is a separate $100 purchase

  • Software and peripherals compatibility is still a hit-or-miss


RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The ASUS ProArt PZ13 with Snapdragon X Plus delivers a handsome AI-powered creativity tool that agile creative professionals can take anywhere with confidence and pride.

Life can sometimes take us places we never planned or even dreamed of going to. While some people fear and stress over life’s unpredictable journeys, others have grown to embrace and even love the adventure, both figuratively and literally. Designers, artists, and content creators today have their beloved computers and tools at home or in the office, but they know better than anyone that inspiration can strike when and where we least expect it, not to mention suddenly having to do work just after we stepped outdoors. Laptops were made for this purpose, but their thick and heavy bodies didn’t exactly make for comfortable mobility, while tablets went the opposite extreme and prized portability over the performance that professionals need. The ASUS ProArt PZ13 makes the bold promise of delivering the best of both worlds, so we naturally had to put it to the test to find it out if could really meet the demands and desires of designers and creatives on the go.

Designer: ASUS

Aesthetics

At first glance, you might not think much of the ASUS ProArt PZ13, but closer inspection reveals it has two sides to its design, matching its 2-in-1 detachable laptop functionality. On its own, it’s a rather stylish and striking tablet, black as black, unlike black tablets that look more like “space gray” or other shades. ASUS’s “nano black” coating, also seen on the ASUS ProArt PX13 we reviewed recently, reduces the reflection of light, making it darker than typical metal or plastic surfaces with glossy finishes, no matter the lighting condition or angle. It gives off a professional and elegant character that you’d come to expect from mature designs used in professional settings.

The ProArt PZ13’s CNC-engraved unibody aluminum alloy chassis gives the device structural integrity, durability, and a simple yet sophisticated appearance, highlighted even more by its ultra-slim 9mm profile. There are barely any breaks in the tablet’s visual appearance, aside from a single visible USB-C port, two ventilation grilles at the top, and one air-inflow grille on the back. The classy yet subtle ProArt logo sits at the bottom, opposite the requisite regulatory markings and branding.

All in all, the ASUS ProArt PZ13 exudes an aura of professional beauty befitting a tool for agile creatives, but that image might be challenged by the protective accessories that add value and change the aesthetic a bit. Included in the package is a magnetic keyboard cover and a magnet back plate with a kickstand, both necessary if you’re carrying this portable computer around. They are designed to offer rugged protection and definitely look the part, though it’s a bit strange that ASUS opted for a different hue that sharply contrasts with the pitch-black body of the tablet itself. Gray with a tinge of green, these accessories will be an acquired taste and might not sit well with some people, both in color and in the rugged, ridged design.

Ergonomics

Combining power and portability is always a delicate balancing act. Due to the laws of physics, you can only cram so much into a small space before you start weighing the object down or making thermal management impossible. Conversely, you can only remove so much before performance starts to take a hit. Thanks to its choice of components, especially the processor, the ASUS ProArt PZ13 manages to strike quite a nice balance, weighing only 0.85kg (1.87 lbs) on its own.

That does carry a bit more heft compared to an iPad Pro, for example, or even a Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, but when you consider that this is a Windows machine with fans inside, that’s still a pretty impressive feat. That makes the ProArt PZ13 very usable as a tablet, whether for reading documents, watching videos, or even making art, though you won’t want to hold it up with your bare hands for a long time either. This also makes the device easy to carry around the house, the office, or even outdoors, especially if you know you won’t need a keyboard to type on.

The story changes a little bit when you do need to add the keyboard and kickstand to the formula, almost doubling the weight of the device. It’s still significantly lighter than a laptop, but it’s no thin tablet either. And you will most likely have to use both the back plate and the keyboard together since there’s no way to prop up the tablet without the kickstand. That also means you can really only use this 2-in-1 device as a laptop when you’re on a flat and long surface like a table, making the “lapability” of the design quite low.

Performance

This is hardly the first 2-in-1 detachable Windows laptop, but the ASUS ProArt PZ13 is one of the first few to use Qualcomm’s new energy-efficient Snapdragon X Plus silicon. This Arm-based processor is closer to the Apple M chips than, say, Intel or AMD, and is in fact directly targeting Apple Silicon devices. Qualcomm earlier launched the beefier Snapdragon X Elite, but that in no way means that this is an underpowered version, especially considering it still boasts the same 45 AI NPU TOPS performance even with only 8 cores.

In other words, Windows itself runs quite smoothly on this machine, as well as any other piece of software that’s actually designed for or adjusted to work on this computing platform. That includes a growing number of Adobe products like Photoshop and Premiere, popular comics drawing software Clip Studio Pro, and more. The ProArt PZ13 and the Snapdragon X Plus shine brighter when those apps need some AI power, thanks to that dedicated NPU chip that doesn’t choke the main processor.

There, however, also lies a bit of the rub. That smooth and responsive experience works best on software that has already been adapted to work on Snapdragon processors, which isn’t the case for the hundreds of popular Windows programs out there. Yes, those apps can still run thanks to a special emulation layer, and yes, performance has improved significantly since the earlier days of Windows on ARM, but that extra layer is still there and can still affect your performance, especially when it comes to games. The same is true with peripherals you want to connect to the device, especially ones that need special drivers that aren’t supported by this platform yet.

In exchange for that uncertainty, the choice of a Snapdragon X Plus processor brings with it the peace of mind that you won’t have to scramble for a power outlet every few hours. The 70Wh battery can last almost a full day, give or take a few hours depending on your use, which is something even the most generous estimates on an Intel or AMD laptop can even boast about. It also chargers quickly over USB-C using the included 65W charger, though that also means you can use almost any standards-compliant USB-C charger as well.

Regardless of what you use it for, you will be experiencing a bright, colorful, and vibrant 13.3-inch 3K screen, thanks to ASUS’s Lumina OLED technology. Professionals who require color accuracy will be delighted to know that it’s Pantone-validated and has support for 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. Even better, ASUS offers all the sliders and switches you need to customize the display to your requirements and tastes. Its refresh rate does cap out at only 60Hz so it won’t be the best option for gaming, which isn’t what you’ll be using this laptop for most of the time anyway.

The ASUS ProArt PZ13 only has one USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C port visible for quick access to a charging port, but don’t fret, it isn’t the only one. There’s another USB-C port of the same type hidden behind a silicone flap, which also hides a full-sized SD card reader. Digital photographers will probably delight in the inclusion of this port which is absent on almost all tablets these days, while those who regularly work with microSD cards will be happy to know that ASUS actually ships an adapter in the box. The one catch to this design is that you can’t have an SD card permanently inserted there because a part of it juts out of the frame, making it impossible to close the silicone flap over it. It’s clearly not designed for storage expansion but removable storage to support the workflows of camera users.

Sustainability

Unlike with its other products, ASUS is a bit silent on the amount of recycled materials it uses for the ProArt PZ13. Rather than focus on the use of sustainable materials, it instead highlights the ways this device can last a long, long time before it needs to be turned in for proper disposal and recycling. With an IP52 rating and conforming to the US MIL-STD-810H spec, you can carry and use this portable tablet with confidence anywhere, knowing that it can keep up with you wherever life or work takes you. Of course, the kickstand back cover and keyboard cover offer additional protection as well, which is all the more reason you won’t want to keep these three pieces apart for long.

One detail about that detachable magnet keyboard, however, might be a source of worry for some. While more convenient than a USB connection but also more reliable than Bluetooth, this design has a tendency to break easily due to wear and tear. ASUS will undoubtedly sell these separately for some time, but there will always come a point when they will go out of production, perhaps outliving the ProArt PZ13 itself. Reliability has improved over the years, of course, but it’s still something to keep in mind with this type of detachable keyboard.

Value

The ASUS ProArt PZ13 is both familiar and completely new. Its 2-in-1 detachable laptop design is something we’ve seen since the very first days of the Microsoft Surface, but its combination with a Snapdragon X Plus is just as new as the processor itself. To some extent, it’s wading into uncharted waters, but it isn’t alone either, and its biggest rival is none other than Microsoft itself and the latest Surface Pro. Fortunately, ASUS has its work cut out for it thanks to its competitive pricing.

At first glance, the ProArt PZ13’s $1,100 price tag seems to be on the losing end compared to the Surface Pro’s $1,000, but then you have to consider what you’re actually getting in the package. ASUS bundles the keyboard cover with the tablet, while that’s a separate $180 purchase for the Surface Pro, at least for the keyboard that can also charge the Microsoft pen. Neither comes with a compatible pen, and those cost an additional $100 for the ASUS Pen 2.0 and $130 for the Surface Slim Pen. That brings the total to $1,200 for the ASUS ProArt PZ13 and $1,310 for the Surface Pro, and even then you’re only getting 256GB of storage versus the generous 1TB on ASUS’s 2-in-1 laptop. In this context, there really is no contest between the two.

Verdict

The ASUS ProArt PZ13 promises the Holy Grail of mobile computing, offering reliable performance and long battery life in a thin and light design, and for the most part, it does deliver on those. Granted, software support on Windows on ARM processors like the Snapdragon X Plus is still a bit of a gamble, but things are getting better quickly, especially for the more popular programs used by professionals and hobbyists alike. Things are far from perfect, but for creatives looking for a reliable and stylish computer they can easily take anywhere, the ProArt PZ13 is definitely worth considering.

The post ASUS ProArt PZ13 2-in-1 Laptop Review: Portable Partner with Plenty of Potential first appeared on Yanko Design.

GameBaby is a protective case that transforms iPhones into retro gaming handhelds

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Video gaming is still a thriving and lucrative industry, and you don’t even need to own an expensive and heavy handheld PC to enjoy it. With Apple now allowing emulators into the App Store, there is a vast new source of titles to play, some of which aren’t exactly conducive to tapping on a flat screen. Game controllers for iPhones aren’t always the best solution, especially if it means carrying an extra accessory in your pocket. But what if you never had to remove that controller in the first place? That’s the idea behind this genius iPhone accessory that’s a GameBoy-like controller when you need it and a quirky protective case when you don’t.

Designer: Bitmo Lab

There are iPhone-compatible game controllers that attach to the smartphone but only makes sense if you hold it sideways like a Nintendo Switch. You can’t leave these permanently on the phone, of course, which means you’ll have to make sure you always bring it with you when the craving to play strikes. That could be a fleeting moment, however, that quickly evaporates while you try to strap the controller, turn it on, and pair it with the phone. Plus, the landscape orientation really only works for modern mobile games, not the ones from decades past.

GameBaby is an innovative design that solves that problem while also paying homage to some of video gaming history’s greatest hits. It’s technically a two-part case for the phone that slides onto the top and bottom of the phone. The critical difference is that you can flip the bottom half around, revealing actual working buttons in the familiar layout of many old-school handheld consoles, particularly the GameBoy which served as this accessory’s inspiration.

Since the buttons go over the lower half of the iPhone screen, it offers direct input without the lag of Bluetooth or even USB connections. It also means there are no batteries to be worried about either. It’s really simply just a layer of buttons that give you a more tactile feeling than mashing your finger against the glass. And when you’re done playing, simply slide the case off, flip it again, and go on with your regular life.

The catch to this simple yet useful design is that it really only works with emulators that play retro games made for old consoles like NES, GameBoy, and similar. It works best with the Delta emulator now available on iOS, and Bitmo Lab has custom emulator skins designed specifically to match the layout of the physical buttons. The even bigger catch, however, is that GameBaby is only available for the iPhone 15 Pro Max and the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro Max, and only in a banana yellow and white color theme.

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Barbie x Kodak collab gives instant photo printing a splash of pink

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Although it was never really gone, the Barbie franchise recently got a resurgence of popularity thanks to a fun yet odd live-action film. The toy has changed dramatically over the decades, but what has always stayed the same is its spirit of fun, whimsy, and connecting with loved ones. Oh, and the overabundance of the hot pink color. Just in time for the Barbielicious renaissance, Kodak and Mattel have joined hands to create a special limited edition instant camera and photo printer that embody those qualities, encouraging people of all ages and genders to shoot and share those special moments with big smiles and very pink accessories.

Designers: Kodak x Mattel

Instant cameras in the vein of the iconic Polaroid have very limited uses and printouts, but it’s that scarcity and rarity that have actually endeared these products to people, including the younger generation who may be hearing about the idea for the first time. There’s just something exciting about the thought of pressing a shutter button and instantly printing out a photo that you can share or treasure, knowing that that exact moment and that exact photo will never happen again. There’s a huge market for this retro camera design, and what can be more retro and more fun at the same time than Barbie?

The KODAK Printomatic Barbie Edition pours a splash of pink on the instant camera and scribbles the iconic toy line’s name all over the surface. The instant camera uses ZINK technology to print out those lively colors without the dangers of spilling ink in your bag or even your pocket. The 5MP sensor, while sounding like a bummer, lets you also have a retro-quality photo that you can save on a microSD card for future viewing or, better yet, reprinting.

Yes, it might feel like a bit of a cop-out, but you don’t have to sacrifice versatility just to get that nostalgic photography experience, at least not if you also grab the Barbie-themed KODAK STEP Slim Instant Photo Printer. Connected to a smartphone, you can easily print images on that same 2×3 inch instant photo paper format, from the photos you took using your smartphone, to photos you save from the Kodak Printomatic Barbie Edition camera as well. It’s the best of all worlds, allowing you to experience the instant joy of printing photos while still leaving the option to share that over and over again.

The Kodak x Mattel collab is a fun nod to the iconic Barbie brand and could give fans and collectors alike something to vie for when the products do launch. Unfortunately, availability details have yet to be disclosed, but the windows of opportunity to launch Barbie-themed products, like the HMD Barbie phone, are getting smaller.

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SwitchBot Air Purifier Table includes a wireless charger for health and convenience

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Air quality at home has become a key concern among homeowners in the past few years, finally raising awareness that the air we breathe indoors might be just as bad as the pollution-filed air outdoors. Pet owners have it especially bad, with fur and pet hair adding to their list of worries. While air purifiers are becoming more popular because of that situation, very few of them can be considered to have the same aesthetic maturity as more common appliances that have been around for decades. Many are not only uninspiring but also take up space that could have been otherwise given to more functional and appealing furniture. Venturing into the home appliances market, SwitchBot is launching an air purifier that looks a tad more interesting and definitely more useful thanks to its multi-functional design, doubling as a table you can also use as a phone charger.

Designer: SwitchBot

Many air purifier take on a cylindrical shape that maximizes air intake and output, but that means putting their less than attractive bodies in the middle of spaces where they stick out like a sore thumb. The new SwitchBot Air Purifier Table admittedly does have that cannister design, but it takes steps to set itself apart from the crowd and elevate your living space as well.

In addition to its minimalist style, this air purifier puts a flat oval on top that can be used as a table to hold your things while you sit back and relax for a bit. The wood-like finish gives it a bit of visual flair and helps make it match the other furniture in your living area or bedroom. It also encourages you to put the air purifier in places that get a lot of human presence, usually beside couches or beds or maybe even in the middle of the room, allowing it to have a better impact on the quality of the air people breathe.

Its “extra” functionality doesn’t stop there, however. That tabletop is also a wireless charger, supporting 15W charging for Android devices and 7.5W for iPhones. Simply place your phone there and let it charge while you read, watch, or just chill with friends. The Air Purifier Table has configurable lighting between the air purifier itself and the tabletop, allowing you to set the mood you want or be informed when the air quality in its immediate vicinity worsens.

Of course, the SwitchBot Air Purifier Table is an air purifier, first and foremost, and it boasts plenty of street cred for that. It’s also pretty proud of its ability to remove pet hair and prevent it from contaminating the air that humans breathe, all without stressing out the pet in the process. The SwitchBot Air Purifier Table, available now for pre-order, will set you back $269.99, but there’s also a simpler $219.99 version that trades the wireless charging table top for a smaller bowl-like structure that cats might love to sit on.

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Narwal Freo Z Ultra Review: AI for Clean and Stress-free Homes

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PROS:


  • Sleek and minimalist design that blends seamlessly into any home environment

  • Powerful features for thorough and hygienic cleaning

  • Privacy-respecting AI that knows what to clean and how to clean it well

CONS:


  • Auto Water Exchange System is a separate purchase

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Narwal Freo Z Ultra makes AI relatable and useful, keeping your home clean and hygienic while also adding a touch of elegance to any space with its stylish design.

AI, machine learning, neural networks, and large language models are buzzwords not just in the tech industry but in mainstream media as well. Almost anything that has a tiny computer inside or connects to the Internet boasts of some AI feature, but most of them just talk about how powerful their product is for being able to do AI. Like any other technology, AI is supposed to help make our lives easier, not burden our brains with a litany of features to remember. At IFA 2924, Narwal unveiled the Freo Z Ultra robot cleaner to show how to do AI right, and we were able to get a first-hand preview of how it utilizes this powerful technology to keep our homes clean, our families healthy, and even our pets happy.

Designer: Narwal

Aesthetics

Robot vacuum cleaners are nothing new; they are one of the first robots and automation to enter our homes. Over the years, the basic form of these circular machines has changed little, which means they have kept close to their utilitarian aesthetic which stands out too much in most homes today. Even the base stations, which are evolving in complexity, often look like oversized and uninspiring trash bins. Fortunately, Narwal applied not only artificial intelligence but also human intelligence to give the Freo Z Ultra a more human appeal.

The Narwal Freo Z Ultra is designed to blend seamlessly into your home, a part of it that doesn’t get in your way, both literally and figuratively. It doesn’t call attention in the way that something unappealing would, like a tool out of place, but only by its sleek and elegant appearance that makes you appreciate its presence in a positive way. The smooth curves, minimalist style, and premium-looking materials make the robot vacuum cleaner and its base station look like functional design objects instead of just appliances.

Admittedly, the robot cleaner itself doesn’t deviate too much from the standard formula. It is a circular machine with very few standout details, and that’s a good thing. It allows the robot to move around without being distracting, showing only the bare minimum that informs people of its functions or state. And thanks to its intelligent navigation system, you don’t even have to worry about bumping into it or getting in its way, as it will be the one to move out of your way as it should be.

All in all, the Freo Z Ultra combines simplicity and style in a single package, adding to a home’s aesthetic instead of distracting from it. It makes the AI-powered robot cleaning system look and feel more like a part of your home, rather than something tacked on and out of place. It might even become part of the family, in its own helpful and cute way.

Ergonomics

Unlike devices that you operate by hand, you don’t really handle the Freo Z Ultra robot cleaner, which is definitely for the best. The reason you’d delegate this chore to a robot would be to avoid dealing with dirt and germs, so the less that you have to manually interact with the cleaning robot, the better. Fortunately, Narwal made sure to minimize those moments as much as possible, leading not only to a convenient mode of operation but to a hygienic one as well.

You don’t have to manually empty the robot’s dust bin. You don’t even have to wash the dirty mop. The only time you have to do some work is to empty the dust bag and replace the dirty water with a clean one, and even then you are guaranteed a sanitized environment thanks to the Freo Z Ultra’s smart features that we’ll get to later. Using these functions is definitely a walk in the park, as Narwal has made the design intuitive and easy to use.

Controlling the robot is a matter of setting it up in the mobile app and just letting it do its thing on its own. You don’t even have to lift a finger, literally, thanks to integration with smart home systems and assistants, which means voice control and automated scenarios. Yes, it sounds lazy, but the convenience means you get more time for yourself and your loved ones.

Performance

Smart robot cleaners are becoming the norm these days, but the Narwal Freo Z Ultra definitely pushes the envelope of what you can do with all that intelligence. Most implementations focus on AI-assisted navigation and obstacle avoidance, and of course, we see that here as well. More importantly, however, Narwal’s AI not only identifies what lies before the robot but also what to do about it, even if it means going back to it again and again.

This is the case with the Freo Z Ultra’s Next-gen Proactive AI DirtSense, which means it knows that the thing in front of it is some kind of dirt and can actually identify what kind of dirt it is. If it’s dry dirt, it sucks it up, but if it’s a wet spill or stain, it mops it up. It also detects how much more mopping is needed and returns to the spot after the mop has been cleaned at the base station. It intelligently understands in real-time if a certain section of the floor requires more thorough cleaning than other spots instead of just applying the same amount of vacuuming or mopping, which tends to spread the dirt around instead. In that sense, it’s almost human in the way it thinks and behaves, closely mimicking how we would approach such a problem as well.

Just as with dirt, The Freo Z Ultra is able to correctly identify the type of floor and carpet so that it can automatically adjust its settings without you having to tell it. For carpets, it can lift the mop to a height of 12mm to avoid staining the material, and it also maximizes the suction power up to 12,000 Pa for more thorough cleaning. For wooden floors, it applies only 7N of mopping pressure to protect the sensitive material, but ceramic tiles get 12N of pressure to better clean off dirt and stains.

And yes, the Narwal Freo Z Ultra has some pretty impressive obstacle avoidance skills, thanks to dual RGB cameras that let it see better, as well as not one but two processors, one dedicated solely to AI. This TwinAI Dodge Obstacle Avoidance system can recognize over 120 objects in the house and see the world like we humans do, in three dimensions. This helps the robot not only navigate spaces and avoid objects but even understand what it needs to actually do in order to clean that space.

This feature is especially important to households with pets, where the presence of a robot cleaner could wake up a sleeping pet or cause unnecessary stress. The Freo Z Ultra knows when it approaches a pet and avoids the area, but it also knows that it needs to return to the area again and again until our furry friend is awake and away. It then uses that same intelligence to determine how much it needs to clean your pet’s favorite spot to make sure it’s spotless and hygienic for your smaller family members.

The Freo Z Ultra’s intelligence extends to the way it cleans up after it cleans your floors. The base station doesn’t just empty the dust bin and wash the mops but makes sure both are clean and hygienic as well. It washes the mop at a warm 45°C for normal dust-based or powdery stains but ramps up the temp to 60°C for oil-based dirt like grease and sauce. It then heats things up even further at 75°C to really kill the bacteria, after which it dries the mop at only 40°C to make sure it won’t get damaged. It also applies hot air dust drying at 45°C to kill the bacteria inside the bin.

The Narwal Freo Z Ultra is overflowing with smart features on top of standard ones like an anti-tangling brush and Reuleaux triangular scrubbing mops that really get to those edges and corners. The best part about the smart robot cleaner is that you don’t actually have to mind any of these, as it’s smart enough to do the right thing at the right time, freeing you from worry and stress and giving even your pet some peace of mind.

Sustainability

Even though robot vacuum cleaners have been around for decades, some things haven’t changed that much, like the heavy use of plastics and non-sustainable materials. There might come a day when giants in this industry like Narwal start using more eco-friendly materials, but for now, it is tackling the problem from a different angle. In a way, the Freo Z Ultra uses its AI-powered features not only to preserve the longevity of the product but to also be more energy efficient in the long run.

Knowing when to clean is only one part of conserving energy and saving on your electricity bill. Knowing how to properly clean an area and itself can also contribute to this energy-saving strategy. Rather than applying the same pressure or suction power or heat uniformly across all instances, adjusting the settings lower or higher as needed is ultimately smarter and more efficient. The way it also takes care of itself ensures that the Freo Z Ultra will be your cleaning companion for a very long time, saving you money and reducing unnecessary e-waste over time.

Value

There’s no doubt that the Narwal Freo Z Ultra is one of if not the smartest robot cleaners to date. That makes it an amazing piece of technology, but does it really add value to your life? With the many things that burden our minds and take up our time, the last thing we often want to do is deal with chores like cleaning the floor. And while there are definitely lessons to be learned in such labor, there are also better uses of our limited time as well.

In the end, that’s what this smart AI-powered cleaning robot delivers, not just clean floors but also peace of mind and freedom from stress and worry. We don’t have to fuss over whether the little robot does its job well because we know it does. It’s not yet perfect but learns and improves along the way, much like us. The Freo Z Ultra offers a clean, safe, and hygienic environment while also freeing us to spend more time with the more important things in life. You can’t get any better value than that!

Verdict

There are many robot vacuums that boast AI-powered smarts, but most of them simply means they know their way around your home. The Narwal Freo Z Ultra puts all that computing power to work in teaching the robot how it needs to clean as well. From identifying the kind of dirt and applying the right way to clean it, to waiting for your pet to get up and then clean its spot thoroughly, the Freo Z Ultra frees you from having to worry about such minute details and focus instead on more enjoyable activities. Best of all, it looks stylish and elegant in your home as well, almost like having a designer object doing your chores for you.

The post Narwal Freo Z Ultra Review: AI for Clean and Stress-free Homes first appeared on Yanko Design.

Best of IFA 2024: Designs that Deliver Innovation For All

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Every year, we behold innovative designs and technologies blow our minds. But once the novelty and awe have worn off, we’re left asking whether these made any meaningful impact in human lives. For 100 years now, the annual IFA show has been putting such products and inventions that promise groundbreaking improvements to the way we cook, the way we clean, the way we have fun, and the way we live. This year, the organization isn’t just reframing its brand but also putting a spotlight on the role these designs play in upgrading everyone’s lives. Among these, there are definitely a notable few that stand above the rest in how they make innovation available for all. Without further ado, here are Yanko Design’s top picks for IFA 2024.

Narwal Freo Z Ultra Robot Cleaner

So many products these days boast about their AI capabilities, but few actually answer the most important question: what can it do to improve people’s quality of life? The Narwal Freo Z Ultra gives a clear answer and delivers it in a design that seamlessly blends into your home instead of standing out like a sore thumb. It respects your space, adding aesthetic value you might not have come to expect from such an advanced showcase of AI technology.

Designer: Narwal

This sleek robot cleaner doesn’t just navigate your home, it also understands it. It can identify the kind of dirt it faces and apply the necessary cleaning strategy to get the job done. It sees your sleeping pet and respects its space, coming back later to check if it has moved away before starting to clean its area. And it does all these without you having to lift a finger. At the same time, you still have total control, from the privacy of your data to the automation made possible with its integration with smart home platforms and smart assistants.

It’s also smart about keeping you safe when it does come time for you to manually interact with it. It sanitizes not just the mop and water but also the dust bin, ensuring a hygienic environment at every turn. More than just the convenience of having clean floors all the time, the Narwal Freo Z Ultra offers homeowners stress-free living and more time to spend on the more important things in life.

Hisense CanvasTV

The Hisense CanvasTV 4K QLED brings art and entertainment together, transforming your living space into a captivating gallery. Its sleek, minimalist design, paired with the UltraSlim Wall Mount, allows it to hang flush against the wall, seamlessly blending with your decor. When not in use as a TV, it becomes a stunning display for artwork or personal photos through Art Mode, with a low-reflection Hi-Matte Display that ensures your visuals remain crisp and glare-free, regardless of lighting conditions.

Designer: Hisense

The vibrant 4K QLED display sets a new standard for visual quality, offering an expansive color range through Quantum Dot technology that produces over a billion shades. Every image, from digital art to your favorite shows, bursts with vivid detail and realism. The built-in RGB light sensor adapts the screen’s brightness and color temperature in real time, ensuring a seamless and natural viewing experience that adjusts to your environment, whether day or night.

For those seeking more than a TV, the CanvasTV enriches your experience with multi-channel surround sound, enveloping you in movies, music, or games. Gamers will appreciate the 144Hz Game Mode PRO, which delivers smooth, lag-free performance through features like AMD FreeSync Premium and Auto Low Latency Mode, ensuring responsive and immersive gameplay.

To add an extra layer of interaction, Hisense’s Motion Detector powers the screen only when you’re nearby, bringing art to life while conserving energy. This thoughtful design makes the CanvasTV not only a centerpiece for your home but also an eco-friendly, functional solution that enhances any living space.

ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger with Qi2 and CryoBoost

With batteries remaining the bottleneck in smartphone innovation, it’s up to manufacturers of charging accessories to push the envelope and deliver a better user experience. Wireless charging technologies like Apple MagSafe and the new Qi2 offer freedom from tangling cables, but they also bring their own set of problems, particularly when it comes to heat. The hotter the charger and the phone get, the slower and longer the charging takes.

Designer: ESR

ESR fixes that problem with its CryoBoost™ technology, using a patented duct design and a specialized fan to keep the back of your phone cool and keep the charging speed stable and fast. Unlike other wireless chargers with fans that simply lower the charger’s temperature and rely on natural heat dissipation to keep the phone cool, the ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger with Qi2 and CryBoost directs airflow directly to the back of the phone, preventing condensation that could damage the phone in the process.

The result isn’t just a literally cool charger and phone but a faster wireless charging experience as well. An iPhone 15 Pro Max can charge to full in just 2 hours, 30 minutes faster than other Qi2 chargers. Even the Apple-certified 5W fast-charging for the Apple Watch charger juices up an Apple Watch Ultra four times faster than typical 2.5W chargers, getting it to 100% in just 1 hour and 40 minutes. With the ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger with Qi2 and CryoBoost™, you can enjoy the flexibility of wireless charging at full speed, without having to worry about the safety and health of your phone.

Govee Star Light Projector Aurora

Smart lighting doesn’t always have to be flashy, blinding, or fast. Sometimes, you just want to have a more calming atmosphere in your home, and what better inspiration can there be than the enchanting Aurora that flows across night skies? Capturing this magical imagery, Govee utilized its LED expertise to create the Star Light Projector (Aurora) and bring the magic of the night sky to your room.

Designer: Govee

A unique dual lamp bead technology allows the projector to display a stunning and expansive 650-square-foot projection with a wide variety of colors and intricate patterns. These patterns include calming waves mimicking the play of light reflected off an ocean surface, twinkling lights that inspire awe, and even vibrant squiggly strips of color to kick off a party. With 16 million colors and over 50 preset scenes, as well as a built-in speaker with 16 preset white noises, this discreet projector can cover a wide range of occasions and moods, from relaxing night lights for dreamy slumber to dazzling kaleidoscopic displays for a jovial get-together.

Despite its more focused function, the Govee Star Light Projector (Aurora) has all the smarts that other Govee products offer, including Matter smart home compatibility and voice control through Google Home and Amazon Alexa. It also has a Smart Sleep Mode so that it will gradually dim its lights and play soothing sounds to lull you to sleep. It’s a great smart lighting companion, whether you’re aiming to paint the night sky in your kid’s room or create a different mesmerizing light show on your wall each night.

Beatbot iSkim Ultra Robot Pool Cleaner

The Beatbot iSkim Ultra has been named by Yanko Design as the best robotic pool skimmer at IFA 2024, praised for its forward-thinking approach to pool maintenance. Its solar-powered design combines sleek aesthetics with practical, energy-efficient operation. Weighing just 16.98 lbs, it adapts to a variety of pool shapes and sizes, offering a hassle-free solution for pool owners who want to keep their water surface clear without the constant need for charging or manual effort.

Designer: Beatbot

The iSkim Ultra’s advanced seven-motor system, featuring dual-side brushes, a large front roller brush, and a peristaltic pump motor, delivers precise skimming performance. Equipped with Beatbot’s AI-driven path optimization and 20 integrated sensors, including tri-ultrasonic technology, it efficiently handles surface debris, providing a thorough cleaning experience with minimal oversight.

With its ClearWater Clarification System, the iSkim Ultra reduces the need for chemical treatments. Using natural clarifiers made from recycled materials, it helps maintain crystal-clear water while promoting a healthier swimming environment. This design offers pool owners a more eco-friendly approach to pool care, requiring less time and fewer chemicals to manage.

In addition, features like the one-touch debris release and the 9L filter basket make maintenance easy. Built with durable, waterproof materials, the iSkim Ultra is designed for long-term reliability, making it a smart choice for pool owners seeking a sustainable, user-friendly solution for pool skimming.

EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 Solar Home Battery System

As AI becomes a bigger part of everyday life, so do our use and reliance on electronic devices and appliances at home. In addition to power consumption and the costs that come with it, this also means we become more beholden to sources of electricity, like power grids that are groaning under the weight of heavier consumption every year. Fortunately, there are also technologies that try to keep us from becoming paralyzed when the power goes out or when there isn’t one available in the first place, like the new EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 system that promises stable and green power you can rely on anytime, anywhere.

Designer: EcoFlow

Rather than limiting itself for the sake of being small and portable, the Delta Pro 3 embraces flexibility and power to deliver the power you need in the manner that best suits your situation. You can hook it up to solar panels to have 24/7 green energy enough to meet the needs of modern households. You can use it on its own in your outdoor adventures, powering your RV for a comfy outdoor life. And if you’re still living on the grid, it offers emergency backup power that kicks in just after 10ms. It’s an all-around power source that you can expand, whether you need 4kW, 8kW, or a whopping 12kW when used with other units.

Even with all that power, EcoFlow hasn’t forgotten the human factor in its design. Taking inspiration from high-performance sports cars, the Delta Pro 3 adopts a sleek and streamlined style with a Galactic Silver motif that adds visual sophistication to the power station. The EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 also puts safety and comfort in mind, with industry-leading battery management, advanced safety systems, and a quiet operation of less than 30dB that won’t keep you up at night.

Laifen Wave Titanium Toothbrush

The Laifen Wave Electric Toothbrush is designed for users who demand precision and performance in their oral care with up to 66,000 sonic vibrations per minute and a 60-degree oscillation range, adhering to the dentist-recommended Modified Bass brushing technique. Central to its effectiveness is the Proprietary Servo System, a feature that sets it apart from typical electric toothbrushes. This advanced system continuously monitors brushing resistance and adjusts motor performance in real-time, ensuring consistent cleaning power regardless of pressure.

Designer: Laifen

The toothbrush is available in four premium materials — Stainless Steel, Aluminum Alloy, ABS, and Titanium, making it the world’s first titanium electric toothbrush. Known for its strength and corrosion resistance, titanium ensures that the toothbrush is durable and long-lasting, making it a premium option for users looking for a product that will stand the test of time. The Stainless Steel and Aluminum Alloy options provide sleek, modern designs that balance weight and durability, while the ABS option offers a more lightweight alternative without sacrificing performance.

The Laifen Wave has three brush heads: Gum Care, Super-Clean, and Ultra-Whitening. Each head is specifically designed for different cleaning needs. Gum Care is gentler and designed to protect sensitive gums, while Super-Clean delivers intense cleaning for everyday plaque removal. The Ultra-Whitening head is designed for those looking to maintain a brighter smile. When paired with the Laifen Wave’s high-frequency vibrations and wide oscillation range, these brush heads deliver superior results tailored to individual needs.

Customization is another key feature of the Laifen Wave. The toothbrush comes with three preset brushing modes—gentle, regular, and intense—allowing users to adjust the brushing experience to their preferences. For even greater control, the Laifen app offers ten adjustable intensity levels, enabling users to fine-tune the vibration strength and oscillation range to suit their unique brushing style. Whether someone needs a gentler clean or prefers a more vigorous brushing experience, the app allows easy adjustments.

Eureka E20 Plus Robot Vacuum

There’s no shortage of robot vacuum cleaners boasting powerful suction capabilities, but that also means they’ll suck up anything and everything in their path, including things that can damage the robot as well. The Eureka E20 Plus makes short work of animal fur and human hair that can tangle and clog up vacuum brushes with its Newly Designed Anti Hair-Tangling Roller Design, achieving an anti-wrap effectiveness of 94%! Paired with its super-strong 8000 Pa suction, no dirt or hair is safe from this rolling machine.

Designer: Eureka

And it looks great to boot, offering burden-free operation that can save you up to $70 a year (estimated based on changing a $6 robot vacuum dust bag once per month). The transparent bag-free base station lets you see exactly what’s going on inside and offers stress-free emptying of that dust tank. Simply dump the contents directly into the garbage bin without having to worry about bursting or overflowing bags or having to replace those bags regularly. The clear view of the base station’s internals also gives it a sophisticated and futuristic look that perfectly fits the homes of tomorrow.

The Eureka E20 Plus Robot Vacuum is the perfect solution for pet owners as well as households where hair often ends up on the floor. Of course, it can also do what other flagship robot vacs can, including automatic Multi-Cyclonic Dust Collection, 10mm Mop Lifting, and DuoDetect AI™ 3D Obstacle Avoidance. With strong suction power, anti-tangling capabilities, a bag-free base station, and a stylish transparent design, the Eureka E20 Plus offers a stress-free and burden-free cleaning experience for all.

Govee COB Strip Light Pro

Smart lighting is one of the easiest ways to get started in upgrading your living space, and there is a wide variety of designs that go beyond a simple bulb. Govee, an industry leader in both indoor and outdoor smart lighting, offers plenty of interesting and useful options to not only brighten up your space but also create the mood that you want. One of its newest designs is also its first, a COB strip light that provides both illumination and ambiance with the ease of use and customizability that the brand is known for.

Designer: Govee

Utilizing “chip-on-board” or COB technology, the new Govee COB Strip Light Pro packs no less than 1,260 LED beads per meter, creating a continuous line of light without any visible gaps. It’s a beautiful display that can be used to light up a room as a secondary light source with pure white, as well as get a party going with dynamically changing hues. And thanks to its silicone sleeve, you don’t have to worry about installing it out in the open since it will look discreet and blend with the rest of its surroundings.

In addition to the bright and colorful illumination provided by Govee’s RGBIC+W technology, you have a handful of options available to control the dance of these LEDs, whether manually or through automation through smart assistants. Every meter has 12 segments you can customize, and every 8cm of the strip has a clearly labeled segment you can cut, allowing the user to truly create the lighting environment they want rather than bending over backward to conform to the limitations of the light strip. With the Govee COB Strip Light Pro, any kitchen island, furniture, or space becomes an opportunity to enhance the living experience.

DJI Neo FPV Drone

Weighing just under 5 ounces, the DJI Neo sets a new standard for everyday content creation with its ultra-compact, pocket-friendly design. As DJI’s lightest and most portable drone yet, it eliminates the need for a traditional remote control, offering one-button takeoff, landing, and shooting. It can still pair with traditional RC controllers, DJI Goggles, or the Fly app for more advanced control, offering flexibility to suit different user preferences, while voice commands enhance its ease of use, allowing for a hands-free experience.

Designer: DJI

With an 18-minute flight time and the ability to capture 12MP photos and 4K stabilized video, Neo brings professional-grade filming to anyone’s fingertips. Neo can record up to 40 minutes of 4K video or 55 minutes at 1080p/60fps that it then stores on its 22GB internal storage. The DJI Neo’s AI-powered subject tracking ensures users stay perfectly framed during cycling, hiking, or skateboarding activities. Its six QuickShots modes—such as “Dronie” and “Boomerang”—enable dynamic, cinematic angles with minimal effort.

Safety is paramount with Neo’s fully wrapped propellers, which protect the drone and its users. Neo’s single-axis mechanical gimbal and DJI’s RockSteady and HorizonBalancing stabilization technology ensure smooth, shake-free footage even in windy conditions. The drone’s infrared and monocular vision positioning systems maintain steady hovering, while the automatic Return to Home (RTH) feature adds peace of mind.

CANVAS HiFi TV Sound System

There is a lot of attention being given to the image quality produced by TVs, but what we see, while important, isn’t all that makes up a cinematic home theater experience. That said, the majority of home HiFi sound systems and even sound bars focus too much on technical qualities, forgetting the part that these audio systems have to sit inside the home. The result is a juxtaposition of a beautiful and stylish screen standing beside functional speakers that clash with the rest of your living space. Wouldn’t it be great if you could have a beautiful HiFi sound system that perfectly matches your beautiful TV? Fortunately, CANVAS agrees.

Designer: CANVAS HiFi

Going against the flow of typical speaker designs, the CANVAS HiFi TV Sound System embraces design as an important and co-equal priority to a quality home product. It integrates with your TV mechanically and visually, making the two seem like a whole rather than two separate parts. With premium materials like Milled-Ochre textile from Kvadrat or Mahogany from Danish designer Susanne Helberg, CANVAS creates an almost literal art canvas that adds beauty to any space it’s in.

Of course, it doesn’t hold back on delivering high-quality audio as well, introducing technologies that solve the biggest problems of wall-mounted speakers. Room correction turns bass gains into a big advantage even when placed so close to a wall, while BACCH 3D removes the need to place left and right speakers so far apart by preventing cross-talk and delivering real stereo imaging. The result is a stunning HiFi sound system that puts audio in its proper place, standing proudly with your equally striking TV.

TECNO MEGA MINI Gaming G1 Water-Cooled Mini PC

Even with handheld gaming PCs becoming trendy and gaming laptops becoming slimmer and sleeker, nothing still beats a desktop computer when it comes to sheer performance, configurability, and cooling. Nothing beats them in eating up desk or floor space either, which is why some gamers are willing to compromise power for the sake of size. TECNO, however, says it doesn’t have to be an either-or situation, and its mind-blowing MEGA MINI G1 mini PC proves you can have the best of both worlds.

Designer: TECNO

Significantly smaller than a standard desktop tower, this mini PC still packs quite a punch, including an Intel Core i9-13900H and, more importantly, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060. Gamers will be instantly familiar with such specs on a gaming-worthy computer, now crammed in a compact and cute box with transparent front and side panels. There’s plenty of RGB lighting that gamers crave, as well as a small built-in display at the top for CPU and GPU metrics at a glance without having to open up any app or overlay.

What really sets this mini PC apart, however, is its water-cooling system that you’d only see on larger desktops. A whisper-quiet pump moves the coolant through glowing tubes, offering the distraction-free performance that gives gamers the edge they need for an epic win. Whether it’s exploring the latest AAA title or even rendering graphics, the TECNO MEGA MINI Gaming G1 mini PC has plenty of muscle to show for such a small package.

DJI Avinox E-Bike Drive System

The DJI Avinox Drive System is designed to bring high performance and advanced technology to electric mountain bikes (eMTBs). Weighing only 2.52 kg, the drive system is compact but powerful, delivering an impressive 105 N·m of torque. This level of power allows riders to conquer steep climbs and navigate challenging terrain with ease, all while keeping the bike’s overall weight low.

At the core of the Avinox system is DJI’s Smart-Assist Algorithm, which automatically adjusts power output based on real-time riding conditions, adjusting assistance to match the rider’s needs without requiring constant manual input, whether the rider is tackling flat trails, climbing steep hills, or navigating rough terrain, the drive system . In addition to the automatic mode, riders can choose from three other assist modes—Eco, Trail, and Turbo—tailored to different riding scenarios. For particularly challenging climbs or rough sections, Boost mode delivers short bursts of extra torque, up to 120 N·m, giving riders the power to handle steep inclines or rugged terrain with ease.

Designer: DJI

Connectivity and control are central to the Avinox Drive System, which includes a 2-inch OLED touchscreen display integrated directly into the bike’s frame. This full-color display provides real-time information such as speed, range, and power output, allowing riders to monitor their performance at a glance. Additionally, the Avinox app offers advanced features like ride data tracking, anti-theft mode with password protection, the ability to customize riding parameters, and even remote bike location tracking, adding a layer of security for riders.

The first bike to integrate the Avinox Drive System is the Amflow PL, an electric mountain bike designed to fully take advantage of DJI’s advanced e-bike technology. Weighing only 19.2 kg, the Amflow PL packs serious power into a lightweight, ultra-responsive frame. The bike’s carbon fiber frame weighs just 2.27 kg, keeping the total weight low while offering strength and durability. The bike’s design incorporates cutting-edge geometry, giving it a balanced performance that handles rugged, technical trails with agility and stability. At the same time, it delivers 850W of peak power with the Avinox system, far surpassing the typical output of full-power eMTBs while maintaining the sleek, lightweight build of more traditional bikes.

The combination of DJI’s Avinox Drive System and the Amflow PL bike offers a remarkable blend of lightweight design, high power output, intelligent technology, and robust performance, making it an ideal choice for serious eMTB riders looking for a bike that handles the toughest trails with ease.

XGIMI Elfin Flip Portable Projector

Who says portable entertainment devices like speakers and projectors have to come in cylindrical shapes? They’re definitely handy and compact, but not always the most visually pleasing, especially when it comes time to use them at home. Embracing both home use and portability, the XGIMI Elfin Flip comes in a form that almost makes it look like a designer object, functioning as a decorative piece when it’s not in use.

Designer: XGIMI

The projector’s triangular form is already eye-catching, but the fact that you can swivel the main section down to reveal the projector will probably amaze your friends and family. Its flat, compact design also makes it easy to put inside a bag, ready to travel with you and set up an entertainment hub or meeting space anywhere.

And it’s not all just good looks either, with 400 ISO lumens brightness and two 3W speakers for a complete audio-visual treat. It also has a bundle of XGIMI’s intelligent features, from automatic keystone correction to screen alignment. Powered by WebOS, you have access to Netflix and a variety of apps, ensuring you have no shortage of sources to keep you and your friends entertained.

Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC Proof of Concept

AI is promised to deliver customized and personalized experiences, but that has mostly been true only for software and services so far. Hardware, particularly computer hardware, is still a matter of manual operations and control, but Lenovo envisions a future when that will no longer be the case. Its latest concept design leverages AI to change the laptop’s mode of operation, particularly its configuration and position, so that it can switch between laptop, tablet, or tent modes depending on what you’re doing. It can even close the lid when you leave the laptop unattended after a period of time.

Designer: Lenovo

Convertible laptops like the Lenovo Yoga offer flexibility in their different modes, but you have to manually fold or turn the screen to actually take advantage of those modes. That presents an opportunity to make computers more efficient mostly by automatically changing their form without having to touch the laptop itself. The Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC Proof of Concept can do exactly that thanks to a motorized hinge and, of course, some AI. The screen, for example, can turn on its own to make sure you’re always at the center, or you can give it explicit commands to flip the screen around and transform itself into a tablet. It’s a simple change but one that could offer significant quality-of-life improvements if it ever becomes a stable and staple part of future Lenovo laptops.

SHARGE Forged Carbon Fiber Power Banks

Power banks are a fact of modern mobile life, and while they come in all shapes, sizes, and designs, they follow a common rule: the larger the capacity, the larger and heavier the power bank is. You can’t escape the laws of physics, but you can use materials that can be thin and light while still remaining durable. That miracle material is forged carbon fiber, and it is at the heart of SHARGE’s new handsome power banks.

Designer: SHARGE

The SHARGE Forged Carbon Fiber Power Bank series offers high-capacity portable batteries that weigh less than their regular counterparts while actually delivering better ruggedness and survivability. Plus they look quite eye-catching with their camo-like designs, thanks to the natural aesthetic produced by using carbon fiber chips. Available in a regular 10,000mAh CarbonBlade design and two Qi2 and MagSafe-compatible packs, SHARGE’s Forged Carbon Fiber power banks push the envelope of how these portable batteries should be designed.

ASUS ZenBook S 14 Laptop with Ceraluminum Cover

Laptops have long outgrown their image of simply being machines that you carry around to get work done. They have now become more suave and stylish, with some even becoming lifestyle choices. Despite all that, much of the materials used for these sleek machines gravitate toward metal or plastic, either for their durability or their cost-effectiveness. With its Zenbooks S 14 and the new Ceraluminum material, ASUS is pushing the envelope of laptop design to offer an elegant and luxurious aesthetic without compromise.

Designer: ASUS

Combining the best of ceramic and aluminum without their restrictions, Ceraluminum offers durable protection that looks and feels premium. Add this to the Zenbook S 14’s slim profile and lightweight body and you have a formula for a portable computer that you’ll want to show off at every opportunity. It doesn’t skimp on the all-important specs either, combining Intel’s latest AI-powered silicon with top-of-the-line hardware to deliver power and pizzazz in a single stylish package.

Morphy Richards Ductless Portable Air Conditioner

Like it or not, our planet is getting hotter, and conventional cooling solutions can no longer keep up with this worsening situation and our changing lifestyles. Not everyone can afford to install a traditional air conditioning unit at home, and A/C’s that advertise mobility have long large hoses snaking from their bodies. Morphy Richards is presenting a revolutionary product that truly makes air conditioning mobile, introducing the industry’s first ductless portable aircon for homes, offices, and other small spaces.

Designer: Morphy Richards

This seemingly magical feat is made possible with water-cooling technology that keeps the emitted hot air actually closer to room temperature, so you don’t need to direct it away using a cumbersome hose. With a 50-degree angle going in each direction, this ductless portable air conditioner can actually cover a wider range than what its small body would suggest. Plus, it actually looks quite appealing, almost like a futuristic robot with its sleek, shiny silver finish and black coating. Delivering cooling, dehumidifying, and fanning functions, this Morphy Richards Ductless Portable Air Conditioner promises comfort, convenience, and even cost savings for the modern household.

Acer Project DualPlay Gaming Laptop Concept

With PC gaming experiencing a sort of renaissance, it’s not surprising to see new designs rising to meet the changing needs and tastes of gamers. From slimmer laptops to handheld PCs, gaming has taken on new trends and behaviors that require PCs to change with them. Acer is taking up the challenge with a new concept gaming laptop that manages to honor tradition and explore new horizons at the same time, thanks to some innovative designs.

Designer: Acer

The laptop’s extra-large touchpad pops out and becomes a wireless controller, allowing gamers to quickly switch between keyboard and controller without missing a beat and without having to worry about forgetting to bring the controller or having no space for it in the bag. That detachable controller can actually be separated into two joysticks, not unlike the concept of the Nintendo Switch Joy-con, allowing two people to compete or cooperate in the same game without having to fight over the controls. Plus, two high-fidelity 5W speakers slide out from the side, delivering not only unhindered sound but a futuristic and hi-tech vibe as well.

Satechi Vegan-Leather Passport Cover with Find My

For all the hi-tech gadgets we have at our disposal, we humans still lose important things quite often, from bags to keys to critical documents. That experience can be especially terrifying when it involves misplacing your passport in a foreign country. Fortunately, we do now have technology that will help us locate lost items, like Satechi’s elegant passport cover which integrates with Apple’s worldwide Find My network. You can ping the passport and get an audible response if it’s nearby, or even get an immediate warning if you’ve accidentally left it behind. With a five-month battery life, you rarely need to charge it, and when you do, you can simply put it down on any wireless charger.

Designer: Satechi

Best of all, the passport cover is made from premium materials that don’t make it look like you’re carrying a piece of tech. Using scratch-resistant vegan leather, the Satechi Vegan Leather Passport Cover with Find My offers not only a stylish and aesthetic design but also a more sustainable material that will last a very long time. Most importantly, it offers peace of mind that your passport and important cards are always with you or are at least easy to locate if you do lose them.

The post Best of IFA 2024: Designs that Deliver Innovation For All first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nanoleaf Blocks ditch hexagons for squares and a more flexible modular lighting system

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Smart lighting is one of the easiest ways to get into the smart home scene because a lot of them don’t require rewiring your house or drilling holes into walls. There’s also plenty of flexibility possible that goes beyond color-changing bulbs or light strips. For years, Nanoleaf has been offering smart lighting panels that can liven up your wall with colorful, dynamic lighting that can be controlled manually or synced with other systems. Nanoleaf’s hexagon-shaped lighting tiles have become iconic and offer visually interesting compositions, but it’s not something that suits everyone’s tastes nor is it the most flexible shape for arranging tiles. At IFA 2024, Nanoleaf introduced a new Blocks set whose basic square shape belied the greater freedom it offers.

Designer: Nanoleaf

Hexagons are definitely more interesting than four-sided polygons like squares and they can connect to six other flat-sided shapes, too. At the same time, however, it also made designing straight and regular forms next to impossible, which ironically limited the way you could decorate your walls. That’s the kind of flexibility that a square shape actually offers, which is the building block for the new Nanoleaf Blocks tiles, pun totally intended.

Nanoleaf Blocks offers the same controllable customizations as any Nanoleaf smart lighting but offers some new options that wouldn’t have been possible in the hexagon iteration of the design. For one, there is a new Pegboard style that lets you insert hooks to hang headphones and other items. There’s also a Shelf style that takes advantage of the wider bottom edge of a square to set up a ledge that you can stand things on.

And because of the more regular square shape of the tiles, you have more freedom in how to arrange and combine them, forming edge-to-edge compositions that turn your wall into an art canvas. At least if you were trying to make gigantic pixel art. There’s also a textured tile that adds a bit of visual variety to the mix, as well as options between regular and smaller squares to fit together as you wish.

And as with any Nanoleaf design, you can control almost every aspect of Blocks lighting, from color to intensity to animation. You can treat them as a set to have a symphony of colors of your choosing, or have them sync with whatever music, video, or game that’s playing on your connected devices. And, of course, you can also use the tiles for additional storage to keep your desk tidier. The Nanoleaf Blocks come in various bundles, starting at $199.99, and will launch in October with pre-orders available now.

The post Nanoleaf Blocks ditch hexagons for squares and a more flexible modular lighting system first appeared on Yanko Design.