Author Archives: JC Torres

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.

ESR Releases Hot New MagSafe Chargers with next-gen CryoBoost™ Cooling Tech

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Battery life continues to be the bane of smartphone users, and the current limits of technology mean we can only cram bigger batteries inside these slim devices. Charging technologies alleviate the pain with faster charging times, while wireless charging offers convenience and comfort free from the tangles of wires. Even Apple’s MagSafe, however, has to follow the laws of physics, generating heat that not only slows down charging but also puts your safety at risk. With its brand new Qi2 MagSafe chargers, ESR is delivering safe and fast wireless charging thanks to its next-gen CryoBoost™™ technology that ensures a stable and cool charging experience without messy cables.

Designer: ESR

CryoBoost™: The Coolest, The Fastest MagSafe Charging

Charging will always generate heat, and wireless charging even more so. Not only is this dangerous, as the volatile batteries inside our phones are very sensitive to heat, it also means slower charging times because the phone and the charger might throttle output to prevent overheating. The most common solution for wireless charger manufacturers is to cool down the charger with fans, but these also rely on natural heat transfer to lower the phone’s temperature. This results in very inefficient cooling and, in some cases, condensation that could damage the phone and the battery.

With the latest iteration of its CryoBoost™ technology, ESR promises a smarter way to keep things cool. In addition to an advanced cooling fan with heat dissipation elements, it now features a patented all-open duct design that enhances airflow while also keeping the noise under 25dB, no louder than a whisper from five feet away. By directing the airflow to the back of the phone, ESR chargers with CryoBoost™ are able to keep the phone cooler more effectively, ensuring consistent maximum charging speeds all the time.

ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger with Qi2 and CryoBoost™ (HaloLock)

Almost beating Apple at its own game, this new ESR 3-in-1 charger with Qi2 and CryoBoost™ offers 15W iPhone charging that tops up an iPhone 15 Pro Max to full in just 2 hours, at least a 30-minute improvement over most Qi2 chargers. Thanks to an Apple-certified 5W fast-charging for the Apple Watch, even an Apple Watch Ultra chargers in just an hour and 40 minutes, four times faster than standard 2.5W chargers that take more than 6 hours to finish. There’s also room for AirPods on the base, keeping all your essential Apple mobile devices charging in one place. The sleek minimalist design doesn’t get in the way of your desk or bedroom motif, providing an elegant visual point of interest wherever it makes its presence seen.

ESR MagSafe Car Charger with Qi2 and CryoBoost™ (HaloLock)

Charging a phone inside a car tends to get even hotter when the phone is also being used for GPS navigation. With ESR’s new MagSafe Car Charger with Qi2 and CryoBoost™, those worries are a thing of the past. The 15W charger can fill up an iPhone 15 Pro Max in just 2 hours and 7 minutes, and that’s while using GPS even. That’s more than an hour faster than most Qi2 car chargers, and about 35 minutes faster than Qi2 car chargers that have cooling fans. What makes this ESR Car Charger even more special are the 18 extra-strong N52 magnets that won’t lose their hold on the no matter how bumpy the ride gets. Plus, air vent and dashboard mounting options offer flexibility that adjusts to your car and driving style, not the other way around.

ESR Qi2 MagSlim Kickstand Power Bank 5,000mAh

Featuring a multiple award-winning built-in kickstand design, the 5,000mAh ESR Qi2 MagSlim Kickstand Power Bank is the slimmest Qi2 charger on the market and is perfect when you’re on the go. The 15W charger can get an iPhone 15 Pro to 84% in just 2 hours and 25 minutes. With a built-in kickstand and a powerful magnetic hold of up to 1,200g, you can conveniently watch videos or chat with colleagues without having to worry about running out of battery. And at only 15.5mm thick, the ESR Qi2 MagSlim Kickstand Power Bank can easily slip into bags or even pockets, ready to charge your phone anytime you need it.

The post ESR Releases Hot New MagSafe Chargers with next-gen CryoBoost™ Cooling Tech first appeared on Yanko Design.

XGIMI Debuts Stylish Projectors to Deliver Quality Entertainment For All, Wherever You Are

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With cord-cutting and streaming services, the boundaries between home entertainment and watching videos on the go have gotten even blurrier. With the freedom and flexibility of sources for entertainment, consumers have also begun yearning for freedom from conventional TV boxes or even flat displays. Laser projectors have risen in popularity in the past few years, whether they’re the big hulking boxes that are kept at home or the funky cylinders that we can take anywhere with us. The designs of these projectors have also changed considerably over the years, adapting not just to the needs of people but also to their aesthetic tastes. Now XGIMI is introducing not just one, not even just two, but five sleek new projectors to satisfy your entertainment needs, wherever the craving hits you.

Designer: XGIMI

XGIMI Elfin Flip: Elegance and Power in One

Laser projectors have this connotation of large, uninspiring boxes used in meetings or formal presentations, but today’s designs have thankfully outgrown that stereotype. In fact, some projectors have even embraced the call of adventure, accompanying people wherever they go, ready to play a movie at a moment’s notice. The new XGIMI Elfin Flip is one of the latest in this new breed of projectors, and it doesn’t sacrifice elegance for portability.

With its thin and tall triangular body, the Elfin Flip almost looks like an Objet d’art that adds a subtle yet beautiful accent to any space. But flip its middle section down and it’s ready to play a movie in your living room, impress your bosses with a presentation in the board room, or dazzle your friends with photos from your latest island getaway vacation. And with its compact design, you can easily switch between any of these places without breaking a sweat.

The XGIMI Elfin Flip doesn’t skimp on the performance to get that slim body either. Boasting a brightness of 400 ISO lumens, two built-in 3W speakers, a multi-angle projection of up to 150 degrees, and featuring automatic keystone correction and screen alignment, this stylish projector delivers the right amount of power for an enjoyable movie day or movie night. Powered by WebOS with support for Netflix and thousands of apps, the Elfin Flip offers nearly limitless possibilities on what you can show on an extra-large screen. Best of all, the XGIMI Elfin Flip only costs $399, making it a very tempting offer for those who want a stylish project at home and anywhere they go.

XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro: Fun Anywhere, Anytime

If portability is the name of the game, then the EISA award-winning XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro is the projector to beat. Weighing only 2.4 lbs (1.1kg), this cylindrical beauty lets you take your binge anywhere inside your house or outdoors. With Google TV support, a first for any XGIMI projector, the MoGo 3 Pro has access not just to Netflix but also to hundreds of media sources and apps. Whether you want to watch a video, blast out some tunes, or start a party light show, the MoGo 3 Pro has got you covered.

Inside its very petite body lies a 450 ISO lumens bulb and a projector capable of a 1080p display that supports 90% of the industry-standard DCI-P3 color gamut. With dual 5W Harman Kardon speakers, you enjoy not only bright and vibrant visuals but also mind-blowing audio. And with the Ambient Light mode that syncs the projector light with the music being played, you can instantly get the party started anywhere.

The XGIMI MoGo 3 Pro is filled to the brim with convenient features for use anywhere. Simply rotate the projector body out of its multi-angle base stand to turn it on, no fumbling with switches and buttons necessary. Intelligent obstacle avoidance, automatic keystone correction, and other smart features offer stress-free and effortless operation so you can worry less about setting the projector up and spend more time enjoying the video or music. It can even be powered by a 65W power bank via USB-C, so power outlets will never be a problem. For only $449 ($499 for a bundle that includes the power stand), this agile projector delivers an unforgettable audio-visual experience in no time flat.

XGIMI AURA 2: Theater and Art Gallery at Home

Sometimes you just want to kick back and relax in the comfort of your favorite couch or chair and the XGIMI AURA 2 makes for a perfect partner in crime. With an ultra-short throw ratio of 0.177:1, you can put it near a wall and still get a 150-inch screen with no effort at all. Uninterrupted automatic keystone correction, color adaptation, and smart alignment assist make it super-easy to get the perfect screen without having to get up from your couch each time.

With Dual Light technology, a brightness of 2300 ISO lumens, support for 99% of the DCI-P3 color range, Dolby Vision certification, and 2-channel 15W Harman Kardon speakers, the XGIMI AURA 2 is a multimedia powerhouse disguised as a low, stylish object that can fit in many cramped spaces in your home. With rich and vibrant colors, you can display not only videos but also photos and artwork, turning into wall into a dynamic art canvas.

It can even display games and sports with the smooth MEMC mode. With Wi-Fi 6 support for wireless streaming, any device can become a source of entertainment, fun, and awe. Competitively priced at $2,699, the EISA award-winning XGIMI AURA 2 can turn any flat wall into a vibrant display with ease and convenience, creating a cozy environment for your personal movie night or a lively atmosphere for a celebration with family and friends.

XGIMI HORIZON S Series: Accessible Home Theater Experience

If space is no problem but your budget is, you don’t have to go far to enjoy a quality home theater experience. With the XGIMI HORIZON S Max (formerly HORIZON Max) and HORIZON S Pro, you have more affordable choices that won’t compromise on quality. Starting at only $1,299, you’re getting “Max” Performance and “Pro” Innovation in a box that won’t burn a hole in your wallet.

The HORIZON S projectors are brimming with power, with a contrast ratio of 1000000:1 and brightness of 3100 ISO lumens for the HORIZON S Max and 1800 ISO lumens for the HORIZON S Pro. They’re also packed with intelligent ISA 5.0 features like uninterrupted auto keystone correction, intelligent object avoidance, and autofocus, just to name a few. Featuring Dual Light 2.0 technology that combines a Tri-Color Laser with LED, the projectors offer accurate imagery and eye comfort for every video or photo. And to match that superb light display, both are equipped with two 12W Harman Kardon speakers for the ultimate sound experience.

The XGIMI HORIZON S projectors are also masters of flexibility, with a built-in stand that can rotate 360 degrees horizontally and 135 degrees vertically. With premium designs that integrate with your home decor, the HORIZON S Max and HORIZON S Pro stand out as aesthetic pieces when not in use and as incredible home theater systems when the projectors turn on.

But Wait, There’s More!

Even with five new projectors under its belt, XGIMI hasn’t forgotten about fans of its beloved projectors. Launching the MoGo 2 Plus and Halo+ (New), XGIMI is introducing a new generation in its portfolio that adds Google TV support. This makes Netflix a first-class citizen, as demonstrated by new remotes with a dedicated Netflix button. Of course, these projectors still boast the same features that consumers have grown to love, like ISA 2.0 intelligent features and Dolby Audio. At $299 for the MoGo 2 Plus and $799 for the Halo+ (New), XGIMI covers a wide range of features, designs, and market tiers to make sure no one is left behind in their search for a theater experience at home or on-the-go.

The post XGIMI Debuts Stylish Projectors to Deliver Quality Entertainment For All, Wherever You Are first appeared on Yanko Design.

Best pencil sharpener for those who don’t want to waste their pencils or time

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While many wars have been fought over different kinds of pens and their designs, some people still prefer the simplicity and unique texture of a good, old-fashioned, wooden pencil. Unfortunately, even die-hard pencil fans will admit that their favorite writing tool can sometimes be a pain to maintain. Not only do they tend to go missing exactly when you need them, they might also be too dull by the time you do find them among the pile of other writing instruments. You waste a lot of time fumbling with tools while your muse slips away before you have a chance to write the idea down on paper. Having your tools always within reach helps cut down on time and friction, and this striking minimalist design solves that by combining two of the most essential pencil accessories in one.

Click Here to Buy Now: $55

The Problem: Sharpeners are Unattractive, Inefficient, Out of Reach

A pencil is one of the most basic and most timeless writing instruments known to man. It has its own distinct charm that’s exhibited both by its graphite marks as well as the design of its barrel. That said, the pencil has also inherited the one flaw of its ancestors: the need for regular sharpening. Mechanical pencils try to offer an alternative design but also sacrifice the unique personality of the wooden pencil in favor of precision and convenience.

Sharpening a pencil isn’t exactly too much work, but scrambling to find the sharpener costs too much time and tension when you need to jot something down quickly. And that’s not even considering the time you spend actually looking for your pencil in the first place, especially if your favorite is lost among half a dozen barrels. A pencil and a pencil sharpener sound like two things that should go together, but there has never been a design that puts two and two together, at least until now.

Why is this the Best Pencil Sharpener?

This Upright Pencil Sharpener solves that by putting the sharpener where the pencil is or vice versa. Shaped like a disc or puck, the singular hole in the middle serves as a stand for your beloved writing tool, ready for you to pull it out when you need it. And should the pencil’s tip finally become too dull, you know exactly where to find the sharpener. No more searching inside drawers for a small metal or plastic box, or standing up to walk toward a mounted electric sharpener.

Despite its rather simple appearance, this pencil sharpener and stand in one is a prime example of great design. The base that holds the shavings is made from anodized aluminum with a matte black finish, while the cover that keeps the shavings from flying around is made from warm-toned walnut wood. A strong magnet keeps these two pieces together, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally knocking off the cover and spilling its contents. And when you are ready to empty the container, the 6cm diameter of the base makes it easy to throw everything out.

Who is this Pencil Sharpener for?

Pencil sharpeners are technically very utilitarian products, but this one easily sets itself apart with its elegance and appeal to the discerning, design-conscious pencil lover. The striking brass mechanism inside provides additional visual contrast to the darkness of the aluminum base. The angle of the blade inside is designed for optimal sharpening to reduce waste and prolong the pencil’s life. Simple, beautiful, and multi-functional, this pencil sharpener stand helps save you time and effort while allowing you to put your favorite pencil on display for everyone to see and appreciate.

Click Here to Buy Now: $55

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HMD Fusion revives the modular phone dream with Smart Outfits back covers

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Implementing a truly modular phone might be next to impossible at this point in time, but that doesn’t mean that the idea has no merits. It also doesn’t mean we can’t have some of the flexibility and customization that the concept promises, at least in some way that is practical and, more importantly, accessible to people today. That’s the vision behind the HMD Fusion, now formally a real thing rather than just a proof of concept, giving owners the choice of how they want to live their mobile phone life and, perhaps more significantly, the tools and opportunity to make their own “Smart Outfits” to customize their experience.

Designer: HMD

You might have heard of this style of smartphone modularity before, particularly if you’ve been following Nothing’s recent escapades. The CMF Phone 1 opened the doors to customized back covers, and it didn’t take long before creative people really took that offer and ran with it to a rather amusing degree. Now the HMD Fusion is daring to dream a bit bigger with an even more open ecosystem as well as a more affordable smartphone base.

The highlight of the HMD Fusion is the Smart Outfits, which you can place on its back as a rear cover. These can range from anything like a rugged protective cover to a wireless charging coil. Because of the special pogo pins on the back of the HMD Fusion, you can actually have more interactive functionality and no longer have to worry about needing a separate power source. The Flashy Outfit, for example, offers a ring light for taking selfies, whether with the 108MP rear camera or the 50MP front cam. You can also have something like a detachable game controller that won’t have the instability and latency of Bluetooth.

HMD, however, isn’t stopping there. It’s actually providing an open source software and hardware toolkit for more seasoned veterans to make their own Smart Outfits. It could potentially open the floodgates of creative designs, though do expect some to be over-the-top and impractical but also fun and novel. There is definitely unlimited potential, only hampered by the phone’s own hardware.

Inside, the HMD Fusion is pretty much an entry-level phone, with a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 process, 6GB of RAM, and an HD+ resolution screen only. The aforementioned cameras squarely aim at the GenZ market, though, who could use the Smart Outfit system to literally dress up their phones. Fortunately, the HMD Fusion also carries a very GenZ-friendly price tag of £199/249€ (roughly $279), which means almost anyone can have access to this appetizer of a modular phone, presuming it becomes available in their region.

The post HMD Fusion revives the modular phone dream with Smart Outfits back covers first appeared on Yanko Design.

AEG Kitchen Range at IFA 2024 Elevates the Culinary Experience with Innovation For All

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Being stuck at home for months not only gave birth to the indoor gardening trend, it also helped people rediscover the joys of home cooking. The rise of the domestic chef who’s excited to try out new recipes for themselves or for their families has also given rise to the need for more sophisticated kitchen appliances. At the same time, however, aesthetics has never been more important than it is today, with kitchens finally getting the recognition they deserve as sanctuaries that serve not only food but peace of mind as well. With so many requirements on many levels, it’s no surprise that some brands falter in meeting those needs or choose to focus on just one or two aspects. At IFA 2024 in Berlin, AEG is proudly rising up to the challenge, delivering a new range of kitchen products that deliver not only AI-assisted cooking but also elegant designs that take the cooking experience to the next level.

Designer: AEG

Cook Smarter, Not Harder

AI is everywhere these days, but it doesn’t have to be a complicated feature that requires an entire manual to use. With AEG’s Assisted Cooking, you have smart technologies right under your fingertips, literally, ready to help you with new recipe ideas, the best settings to use for that dish, and even the safest way to preserve the food so you can enjoy it a lot longer. From preparation to cooking to storage even to cleanup, AEG’s new full kitchen line has got you covered with innovation that’s made easy, convenient, and beautiful.

The new AEG 9000 ProAssist with SteamPro Oven, for example, features the AI Taste Assist function that helps you make efficient use of the oven. Simply throw it a recipe and, based on key facets like timing, temperature, and protein type, it will automatically select the most optimal cooking settings. It can even suggest new tasty and nutritious dishes you may have never tried before through the AEG app.

The CookSmart Touch, which is now available on hobs like the new AEG 9000 ProSense Hob, puts all the functions you need under your fingertips. With a simple touch, you can access the new Assisted Cooking function that guides you through each step to complete a dish and even suggests the accessories you’ll need to use. CookSmart Touch also lets you assign pan-frying or boiling to the hob, select different cooking modes, and generally enjoy the cooking process without breaking a sweat.

This intuitive interface is an immense help to novices just discovering the joys of cooking as well pros who want to glide through the process with as little friction as possible. And for the first time, the CookSmart Touch technology provides a seamless experience that spans AEG’s kitchen range, from ovens to hobs to built-in coffee machines. It removes much of the anxiety and uncertainty associated with cooking, adding joy and peace of mind to every meal prep.

Killer Kitchen Style

Even with all the innovative technologies, AEG hasn’t forgotten the most important aspect of its kitchen range: the human element. Designed to look dashing in any kitchen setting, AEG’s kitchen products deliver not only an effortless cooking experience but also a style that suits people’s tastes. The AEG SaphirMatt Induction Hub, for example, brings not only a handsome surface to your kitchen but also durability you can rely on when the cooking does get a bit intense.

This year’s lineup is available in Glossy Black and MattBlack, both standing out with their sleek and luxurious dark hues. Signature metal handles provide not only usability but also visual identity, making AEG designs easily recognizable in any kitchen. It’s not just the appliances either but your food that gets the beauty treatment as well. The AEG 9000 AutoSense Hood’s illumination can really make your dishes pop, adding to their already appetizing aromas. The new AEG Kitchen Range not only makes you feel in total control, it also makes you feel like a culinary master in their natural environment.

Healthy Living, Healthy Planet

Cooking your own food is one of the best ways to ensure you’re getting tasty and nutritious meals, but your health doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet’s. Appliances naturally leave a carbon footprint, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it significantly smaller. The new AEG Kitchen Range is not only filled with smart features, it’s also designed to be sustainable and energy efficient without you having to worry about pushing a button to activate some “Eco Mode,” helping you reduce your carbon footprint by as much as 30%.

The AEG 9000 ComfortLift Dishwasher, for example, can save up to 40% energy with some guidance from the QuickSelect with Ecometer function. The AEG 9000 MultiChill 0°C Fridge Freezer not only has better energy efficiency but also has an inner lining that’s made of 70% recycled plastic. The AEG 9000 ProAssist with SteamPro Oven can help save energy with its PreHeat and Residual Heat functions, reducing the amount of electricity needed to keep the food warm.

Selected models in this new Kitchen Range are part of the AEG EcoLine and boast high energy ratings, some of which are even higher than “A” in the EU energy efficiency class. More than just innovative performance and striking design, the new AEG Kitchen Range represents the brand’s no-compromise approach to energy efficiency, environmental responsibility, and commitment to a greener tomorrow for all.

Innovation for the Entire Home

The kitchen isn’t the only part of the modern home that AEG is upgrading with its innovative designs. The AEG 9000X AbsoluteCare Pro tumble dryer brings the same care and energy efficiency from the kitchen to the laundry. With the AbsoluteCare feature that uses a heat pump system to dry delicate material like wool and SmartDry that lets you select lower energy settings, this leading-edge machine has earned The Woolmark Company’s Wool Care Green recognition. It also features 3DScan Technology that determines the humidity in down jackets and duvets for the best drying settings that will keep their fluffiness intact.

AEG is also debuting two new cordless cleaners to keep your home not only clean but also safe from harmful materials and organisms invisible to the naked eye. The AEG 6000 Cordless offers not only strong dust pick-up but also hands-free self-cleaning, emptying its 0.5-liter dust bin with just a touch of a button. The AEG 8000 is the brand’s most powerful and most versatile cordless cleaner, with the UltimatePower multi-surface nuzzle and a brushless DC motor that can capture 99% of dust on hard floors. And with the new Automatic Emptying Station, you can get the AEG 8000 ready for another round of cleaning without having to get your own hands dirty.

The post AEG Kitchen Range at IFA 2024 Elevates the Culinary Experience with Innovation For All first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 5 Unexpectedly Versatile Desk Tools for the Modern Professional

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In a world where flexibility and efficiency are the cornerstones of productivity, your desk setup should reflect the same principles. Gone are the days of single-function tools that do only one job. Today, we’re looking at gear that can multitask, bringing both style and versatility to your workspace. From a letter opener that doubles as a paperweight to scissors that moonlight as a boxcutter, these top 5 desk tools aren’t just unexpectedly versatile—they’re game-changers. Let’s explore how these innovative tools can elevate your everyday work experience.

1. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter: The Sleek, Multi-Tasking Marvel

Why It’s Noteworthy:

Kick off your desk transformation with this sleek letter cutter. Not only does it make opening mail a breeze with a simple slide, but it also doubles as a stylish paperweight. Its minimal design adds a sophisticated touch to any desk, standing upright and ready to slice through envelopes with ease. Plus, with a replaceable blade, it’s built to last—saving you from the clutter of unnecessary paper scraps and adding a chic element to your workspace.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

What We Like:

  • Effortless, clean cuts that make opening mail almost enjoyable.
  • Dual-purpose design that also serves as a modern paperweight.
  • Replaceable blade ensures longevity and continued sharpness.

What We Dislike:

  • Not ideal for cutting through thicker materials or heavy-duty use.

2. Scissors with Base: Your Go-To Cutting Companion

Why It’s Noteworthy:

These aren’t your ordinary scissors. Standing tall on a magnetic base, they’re always within arm’s reach—no more digging through drawers! Beyond cutting paper, one of the finger rings doubles as a boxcutter, making this tool incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for professionals who need to go from snipping paper to slicing open packages without missing a beat. Made from Japanese stainless steel with a Teflon coating, these scissors are designed to perform and impress.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

What We Like:

  • Always upright and accessible thanks to the magnetic base.
  • Boxcutter function adds an extra layer of utility.
  • Premium materials ensure durability and a sharp cut every time.

What We Dislike:

  • The boxcutter feature is not as sharp or precise as a dedicated box cutter.

3. Ballpoint Pen: The Power Pen with a Twist

Why It’s Noteworthy:

Think pens are boring? Think again. The Ballpoint Pen is designed for those who appreciate a bit of flair with their function. Its dodecagonal barrel shape not only adds a unique visual element but also provides a comfortable, secure grip for long writing sessions. Built tough with a heavy-duty clicker that’s perfect for fidgeting, this pen is more than just a writing tool—it’s a desk accessory you’ll want to show off.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39

What We Like:

  • Ergonomic, dodecagonal shape enhances grip and comfort.
  • Heavy-duty clicker mechanism stands up to frequent use and fidgeting.
  • Sturdy build ensures it’s more than just a pretty face.

What We Dislike:

  • The unique dodecagonal shape, while ergonomic, may not be comfortable for everyone.

4. Paperweight and Pen Holder: The Compact Desk Organizer

Why It’s Noteworthy:

Say goodbye to desk clutter with this clever combo. The donut-shaped paperweight keeps your documents from flying off your desk while doubling as a pen holder. Its 12 beveled edges offer a tactile experience and serve as a playful fidget tool during those long conference calls. Perfect for those who like their desk accessories to pull double duty, this piece adds a touch of modern design to your workspace while keeping things tidy.

Click Here to Buy Now: $35

What We Like:

    • Two-in-one design for both organizing and styling your desk.
    • Adds visual and tactile interest to any setup.
    • Compact size makes it a versatile addition to any workspace.

What We Dislike:

  • Limited to holding a single pen, which might not suit everyone’s needs.

5. Japanese Drawing Pad: The Creative’s Multi-Purpose Canvas

Why It’s Noteworthy:

Whether you’re a designer, an artist, or someone who just loves doodling during meetings, the Japanese Drawing Pad is your perfect companion. Made with high-quality Japanese paper, this pad is durable enough for a range of media, from pen to brush. The microperforated edges make tearing pages a breeze, giving you a clean canvas every time. Plus, with a recycled cardboard base, it’s as eco-friendly as it is functional—ideal for those who want their creativity to come with a side of sustainability.

Click Here to Buy Now: $26

What We Like:

  • High-quality paper that’s perfect for various artistic endeavors.
  • Microperforated pages allow for easy, clean tearing.
  • Recycled materials make it a sustainable choice for eco-conscious creatives.

What We Dislike:

  • Not as many pages as some might prefer for heavy use.

The post Top 5 Unexpectedly Versatile Desk Tools for the Modern Professional first appeared on Yanko Design.

ASUS Zenbook S 14 with Ceraluminum lead Ubiquitous AI push with Intel Core Ultra 200V

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If you haven’t noticed it yet, AI is taking over, but not in the nefarious Skynet sense. You can hear about it everywhere and, to be fair, it is actually everywhere, even when you don’t see it, let alone be aware of its existence. It’s coming to consumer devices, even when you’re not that interested in AI image generation and photo effects. To be fair, AI can do plenty to improve the computing experience, from optimizing performance to organizing our mess of data to make sense of all the notes and photos that we have taken over the years. To support that kind of AI in computers, however, you need a capable processor to handle that load, and ASUS collaborated with Intel to power this new generation of mobile computers with the latest Intel Core Ultra 200V Lunar Lake chips to cover a wide range of laptops that cater to an equally varied range of users.

Designer: ASUS

ASUS Zenbook S 14 with Ceraluminum

Revealed last June at Computex 2024, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 offers not only AI prowess but, perhaps more importantly, an exquisite design that’s made to last. The new Ceraluminum material, an amalgamation of ceramic and aluminum, combines the durability of metal with the elegance and texture of glass, delivering a graceful aesthetic that belies the power inside. This attention to detail carries over to the cooling system that includes a geometric grille design composed of no less than 2,715 vents. Only 2.6 lbs light and 0.47 inches (11.9mm) thin, the Zenbook S 14 offers a delightful mobile experience that doesn’t compromise on power either.

That power is delivered by the new Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, promising 47 TOPS of neural processing performance to drive those AI features, whether it’s cleaning up audio for conference calls or adding effects to video interactions. Windows’ CoPilot+ key is also there, ready to generate images, create detailed summaries, and more with just the push of a button. The laptop’s 72Wh battery and a full range of ports, including Thunderbolt 4 support, allow users to take their work anywhere they go without having to worry too much about running to the nearest power outlet.

ASUS Vivobook S 14

Embracing minimalism and simplicity, the ASUS Vivobook S 14 delivers that same Intel Lunar Lake performance in a sleek and unassuming design. With a weight of 2.85 lbs and a 0.55-inch profile, this mobile computer offers a stylish companion for all your work and entertainment needs, wherever life takes you. With an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V and its 47 NPU TOPS performance, you also have the full range of AI features available at your fingertips.

Quality of life features for the Vivobook S 14 include a gorgeous 14-inch 16:10 OLED display and Harman Kardon-certified Dolby Atmos speakers, a good number of I/O options, including a microSD card reader, and a large touchpad to complement an RGB backlit keyboard. A 75Wh battery promises hours of use on the go, while USB-C charging offers the flexibility to charge even when away from power outlets.

ASUS Vivobook 14/16 Flip

If flexibility is the name of the game, then the new 14-inch and 16-inch ASUS Vivobook Flip notebooks will satisfy your needs. A 360-degree hinge converts the laptop into a tablet or display, depending on the circumstances, and support for the optional ASUS Pen 2.0 helps those creative juices flow more naturally. Of course, it is also powered by the new Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, giving it AI chops you can take with you anywhere.

The ASUS Zenbook S 14 (UX5406), which is now available from ASUS’s online store, will also be available for pre-order from Best Buy starting 6th September with a starting price tag of $1,399.99. The ASUS Vivobook S 14 (Q423) has a starting price of $999.99 and will be up for pre-order from Best Buy on 5th September, with other configurations following in Q4 this year. Also launching in Q4 are the ASUS Vivobook 14 Flip and Vivobook 16 Flip, with details to be disclosed closer to their availability.

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Acer Project DualPlay Laptop Concept puts a unique twist to gaming on the go

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PC gaming has experienced a huge boost thanks to the advent of handheld gaming PCs like the Steam Deck, the ASUS ROG Ally, and the Lenovo Legion Go. But while these offer a more mobile gaming experience, they still pale in comparison to dedicated gaming laptops when it comes to performance, battery life, and heat management. Gaming laptops have been around for years, of course, but they, too, are experiencing a renaissance, whether they’re becoming slimmer and sleeker or, in this case, taking on a completely different design. Rather than completely overhauling the laptop or even doing away with it, the Acer Project DualPlay concept instead transforms this familiar design into something that adapts to the latest gaming trends, including playing the same game with a friend who’s right beside you.

Designer: Acer

The days when PC and console gaming camps were divided across keyboard or controller lines are long gone. Those on PS5 and Xbox now feel the need to grab a keyboard to communicate with friends, while some PC gamers now swear by gamepads, especially those playing on handheld PCs. The trends may have changed, but the design of gaming laptops has not caught up to this shift, which is why the Acer Project DualPlay concept changes the formula a wee bit by embracing both playing styles in the same device.

When you press a certain “release” button on top of the keyboard with two fingers, the laptop’s extra-large touchpad pops out and becomes a wireless controller, not unlike those you’d usually connect and bring with you in a separate case or pouch. This dual system lets gamers 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.

“DualPlay,” however, has dual meanings here. 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. It brings back the social feeling of playing with someone beside you that home consoles offered, except you’re no longer limited to doing that at home.

The Acer Project DualPlay gaming laptop concept has other surprising features that really take gaming to the next level. Releasing the controller also pops out two high-fidelity 5W speakers from the sides, delivering audio that’s not impeded by desks or other obstacles. There’s also an overabundance of dynamic RGB lighting not only around the keyboard but also around the screen, flanking the detachable controllers, the infinity mirror lighting bar on the back, and even the controller’s joysticks. It definitely looks like a gaming laptop from the future, though it remains to be seen if it is far too ahead of its time as well.

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Acer Nitro Blaze 7 jumps into handheld gaming PC arena with Ryzen AI chops

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You know that handheld gaming PCs have made it big when major PC manufacturers join the fray. At this point, almost every major brand has put out its own take on mobile gaming, not to mention the smaller names that really pushed this niche market long before it became mainstream. Acer was noticeably the only one that was falling behind, but that all changes today at IFA 2024. With the Nitro Blaze 7, not only is it coming out with its first-ever handheld gaming PC, it’s arriving guns blazing (pun intended) with the latest AMD Ryzen chip boasting powerful AI capabilities to take your experience beyond just gaming.

Designer: Acer

If there’s one area that Intel has pretty much been left behind, it would be the nascent handheld gaming PC race where AMD’s Ryzen has become the chip of choice since the Valve Steam Deck. Conversely, Intel has been ramping up its new AI-powered processors, and AMD is now pushing its Ryzen AI generation to new PCs in every form. Being a bit late does have its share of benefits, and Acer’s first stab at a handheld gaming PC is able to immediately gain the lead in this area, with the new AMD Ryzen 8040 series and Ryzen AI giving the portable computer a needed boost.

The AMD Ryzen 7 8840HS inside the Acer Nitro Blaze 7 boasts 39 AI TOPS (tera or trillion operations per second), putting it in the same league as many AI-powered laptops. Teamed up with the AMD Radeon 780M and 16GB of RAM, you’ve got the makings of a powerful gaming beast that can fit into a small bag. Then there’s the 7-inch 1920×1080 144Hz IPS touch display with 100% sRGB color gamut support, delivering vibrant and bright visuals, even for the darkest of horror games.

What really sets a gaming handheld apart, however, are its controls, which often translate to joysticks and buttons that you’d also see on gamepads. The Acer Nitro Blaze 7 also features touchscreen support for more direct interaction with UI elements on the screen, while the traditional joysticks and d-pad offer more precise control. There’s also a dedicated hotkey that brings players to their game libraries without having to fumble with half a dozen menus and screens. This customized Acer Game Space feature fixes one of the biggest pain points of Windows gaming: managing titles from different platforms and sources.

The Acer Nitro Blaze 7’s straightforward and simple design eschews complicated and extraneous details that only get in the way of you and your favorite games. With its arrival, the roster of major handheld gaming PC brands is more or less now complete, heating up the competition for the market’s most powerful gaming machine in the smallest form factor. Availability details for the Acer Nitro Blaze 7 handheld gaming PC will vary by market and have yet to be confirmed.

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