Monthly Archives: January 2024

LV Nanogram Speaker has travel-friendly design, decorative allure, and exceptional acoustic to match

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Louis Vuitton has a habit of redefining the wheel with luxury. Case in point the LV Nanogram Speaker that refines opulence and quality for the seekers on the horizon of portable music and fashion accessory. Designed to take “beauty and sound to destinations unknown” the compact and lightweight LV speaker is a portable successor to the LV Horizon model.

As a premium tech offering, Masion’s creation embodies craftsmanship and quality in an on-the-go fashion accessory that resembles a tiny UFO measuring 13.5 cm across and tipping the scale at 520g. The hefty speaker is made from aluminum but with the embedded leather loop with a removable hook, the LV Nanogram Speaker, becomes a portable and travel-friendly option.

Designer: Louis Vuitton

The first thing you would notice on the speaker will either be the perforated grille or the debossed Monogram, depending on what your perception is. For me, the LV Nanogram Speaker with emblematic codes all over, is a premium speaker and so I see the grille before the logo, but you could have a different opinion.

The impressive design of the LV Nanogram is inspired by the LV’s circular Toupie bag. And in a similar theme, the leather loop and hook can allow the speaker to hang from the backpack, handbag, or just from the belt, if you don’t mind an additional pound on it. If you don’t mind the weight, then the LV speaker can give you a 2.3-inch loudspeaker with a frequency range of 170 Hz to 20 kHz anywhere, anytime.

While the speaker looks all decked up and sublime for indoor usage, it assures it won’t leave you wanting in the outdoors either, for this it boasts a long 17 hours of battery life. The speaker comes with a USB-C charger in the box which can juice up the battery in under two hours. The charging port is the on back of the speaker, hidden away from the plush façade.

Portability demands ruggedness we all know. LV is not known essentially for delivering heirloom speakers in the outdoor division; but adding substance to the design, LV Nanogram Speaker is provided with IP67 rated for protection against dust and water. Priced at $2,230 LV Nanogram comes in three colors: copper, silver, and a “Damoflage” edition. Irrespective of the color, each speaker is available with monogramming all over. The speaker can (courtesy of its built-in LEDs) create a light show that synchronizes with the music you are playing. And when you’re done, you can safely pack the speaker in its travel pouch and get going.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2BwkJuHa68

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The Beeline Velo 2 is a gorgeously minimal bicycle GPS with a carbon-negative design and Strava support

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It’s difficult to believe that it’s been 7 years since the Beeline first launched back in 2017! A perfect accessory for any biker or two-wheeler rider, the Beeline instantly stood out as an incredibly simple, iconic accessory that helped you get from point A to B. Working in tandem with the navigation app on your phone, the Beeline was a simple, sophisticated, and sleek-looking accessory that basically pointed you in the direction that you needed to go. No fancy maps, no bloatware, no extra data. Just an arrow you could follow till you reached your destination. The Beeline’s simple design made it easy to keep your eyes on the road too, by offsetting the need to stare at your phone for directions and potentially get sidetracked by apps, notifications, and other distractions.

Seven years and multiple products later, Beeline just announced the Velo 2, a compact navigator for bike rides. Upgraded with an IPS LCD screen (as opposed to the original’s e-paper display), the Velo 2 retains the Beeline’s intuitive approach to wayfinding, while also giving riders access to basic metrics like distance covered, ride time, speed, ETA, and a compass, alongside the ability to plan routes, share them on apps like Strava, and even rate them in retrospect. Everything sits inside the Velo 2’s compact puck-shaped design that easily snaps on and off your bicycle, making every single step of your journey intuitive and comfortable.

Designer: Beeline

Click Here to Buy Now

The Velo 2 retains the beloved features of its predecessor, popularized on Kickstarter while introducing an updated user interface and additional navigation options. It’s housed in a compact, smartwatch-like round design with a 1.28-inch circular LCD IPS display, distinguishing itself visually from traditional GPS computers. The unique RockerTop interface replaces conventional buttons or touch screens, offering a distinct tactile feedback which is a notable advantage over touchscreen designs.

Unboxing reveals an eco-friendly package containing the GPS unit, a handlebar mount with two sets of O-rings, an instruction manual, and a USB-C charging cable. The Velo 2, Beeline mentions, is designed to be both carbon and plastic-negative, lining up well with the eco-friendly mode of travel that is bicycling. The device, aside from being healthy for the environment, is also designed to be entirely repairable via Beeline’s refurbishment scheme. The mounting system, though proprietary, is effective and secure, using o-rings to attach to various handlebar diameters.

The user interface emphasizes ease of use. It’s simple and intuitive, devoid of the multi-level menus and customization found in other GPS units. This simplicity extends to its functionality: the Velo 2 focuses on GPS navigation and basic ride data, foregoing connections to secondary sensors or display customizations. The main display shows an odometer, the time, battery status, and a playful bicycle graphic that moves with the computer’s orientation.

A key upgrade in the Velo 2 is its innovative approach to navigation. It leverages user feedback to refine routing, allowing cyclists to rate roads during their ride. This crowdsourced data helps Beeline incrementally improve cycling routes, avoiding poorly rated roads. The Velo 2 offers two navigation modes: a basic compass-style display pointing towards the destination and a more detailed turn-by-turn option. It also pairs directly with Strava, letting you upload rides easily, or even share them with friends and families via GPX.

While the Beeline Velo 2 might not cater to data-driven cyclists seeking extensive metrics and sensor integration, its minimalist design, intuitive interface, and innovative routing approach make it a compelling choice for those seeking a straightforward, enjoyable cycling experience.

Click Here to Buy Now

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Bio-composite Roof Tiles With Solar Panels Are An Ode To Traditions In The Modern World

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In a world grappling with environmental challenges, Studio SKLIM’s Lo-Hi Tech project stands out as a beacon of innovation, marrying high and low technologies to create hybrid solutions that are not only efficient but also environmentally friendly. This project is a testament to the power of blending primitive materials with modern and ancient technology to address contemporary issues and enhance human living conditions.

Designer: Studio SKLIM

The Lo-Hi Tech project revolves around two main building material systems: the Ke-Sol System (KSS) and the Terra-Cooling System (TCS). The Ke-Sol System seamlessly combines the strength of Kenaf fibers in lightweight biocomposite roof tiles with custom solar panels, showcasing a perfect harmony between nature and technology. Through a meticulous process involving high thermal pressure, Kenaf fiber mats are transformed into robust yet lightweight roof panels. These panels are then integrated with monocrystalline solar panels, creating an innovative roof tile capable of generating clean energy through its modular and tiltable configurations.

The integration of the Ke-Sol System not only emphasizes sustainability but also illustrates the potential for future-proofing primitive materials with advanced technology. The combination of Kenaf fibers and solar panels provides a durable roofing solution and also transforms roofs into energy-generating surfaces. This not only reduces the environmental impact of traditional roofing materials but also contributes to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.

On the other front, the Terra-Cooling System harnesses the natural properties of terracotta, drawing inspiration from ancient refrigeration and irrigation techniques. Comprising Hex and Tri components, the system converts hot air into cool air while serving as a water tank. By integrating terracotta with innovative technology, the TCS forms a wall system capable of reducing air temperatures by an impressive 6.5 degrees Celsius. This substantial temperature drop is achieved through the inherent cooling properties of terracotta, a well-designed form maximizing air and water flow, and the cooling effect driven by water evaporation.

Computer Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations play a crucial role in refining the TCS design for optimal evaporative cooling performance. The system envisions a future where material systems seamlessly transition between shelter and vehicular infrastructure, breaking conventional boundaries. One promising application involves creating sustainable shelter infrastructure for Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations. These structures not only reduce ambient temperatures but also utilize solar energy for localized lighting during the night, showcasing the project’s commitment to integrated sustainability solutions.

The Lo-Hi Tech project represents more than just a technological achievement; it is a celebration of the convergence of traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge techniques. The images of terracotta pieces being removed from the kiln, custom-built wood-fired kilns, and CNC-milled molds reveal the meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating these sustainable solutions. This blend of ancient materials and modern technology exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to addressing environmental challenges while honoring the rich heritage of craftsmanship. It is a commendable example of how innovative thinking can revolutionize the construction and energy sectors. By combining primitive materials with state-of-the-art technology, the project not only showcases the potential for sustainable solutions but also sets a precedent for future initiatives that seamlessly integrate the built environment with vehicles, paving the way for a more sustainable and interconnected future.

The post Bio-composite Roof Tiles With Solar Panels Are An Ode To Traditions In The Modern World first appeared on Yanko Design.

The UwU Virtual Pet Buffer is a Tamagotchi in a guitar pedal

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I'm not gonna pretend I've figured you, the Engadget reader, out. Trying to predict what is gonna get your little nerd hearts all a flutter is kind of a crapshoot. But, I'm pretty confident that a Tamagotchi in a guitar pedal is right up your alley. Ground Control Audio showed up to NAMM 2024 with the UwU virtual pet buffer pedal.

Now buffer pedals are about the least exciting piece of gear you can buy for your pedal board. Probably even less so than a tuner. But, if you've got a particularly large board or long cables, a buffer can dramatically improve your tone. Basically all it does is take the signal coming in and give it a little boost so you don't lose precious high end to tone suck. Like I said, not exciting.

What UwU does is no different, except that it has a Tamagotchi-style virtual pet and a handful of mini-games built in. As you play, your new pedalboard buddy dances and gains experience points. As the little cat like creature gains experience it evolves over 30 levels with unique animations. As for what happens once you cross that 30 level threshold, well, the company hasn't decided just yet. But there is still time to decide that since the pedal isn't set to start shipping until March. 

If simply having a new little virtual friend on your board isn't enough whimsy for you, the UwU also has three mini-games built in. There's Long Cat (a snake clone), Fishy Blox (vaguely Tetris-like) and Neko Invader. The tiny monochrome OLED and small buttons aren't exactly ideal for playing games (and neither is hunching over a pedalboard I might add), but it feels true to its inspiration in old cellphone games.

The Ground Control Audio UwU virtual pet buffer pedal playing 'Fishy Blocks' at NAMM 2024.
Terrence O'Brien / Engadget

If you're sitting there wondering, "why?" Well, first off, why not? Secondly, to keep you playing, obviously. Finding the time and drive to play or practice guitar can be tough. Especially if you're teen with a hectic life of extra curriculars or, like me, a busy dad of two with a demanding day job. The UwU gives you a reason to play beyond just knowing you should. Carving out a few minutes every day to play will keep your adorable little UwU happy and healthy. Frankly, if I had one of these when I was younger and stubbornly clinging to my belief that I didn't need to know music theory or technique, maybe I'd be a more proficient guitarist.

Of course none this would matter if the UwU was a crappy buffer. But it's got 18v headroom and doesn't color your tone at all. It's even super tiny, so finding room for it on even the most crowded of pedalboards shouldn't be too difficult. 

The UwU virtual pet buffer is available now for preorder directly from Ground Control Audio for $139.

The Ground Control Audio UwU virtual pet buffer pedal on a pedalboard next to the Ground Control Audio Bread Oath Overdrive.
Terrence O'Brien / Engadget

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/the-uwu-virtual-pet-buffer-is-a-tamagotchi-in-a-guitar-pedal-193633790.html?src=rss

X plans to hire 100 content moderators to fill new Trust and Safety center in Austin

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X’s head of business operations Joe Benarroch said the company plans to open a new office in Austin, Texas for a team that will be dedicated to content moderation, Bloomberg reports. The “Trust and Safety center of excellence,” for which the company is planning to hire 100 full-time employees, will primarily focus on stopping the spread of child sexual exploitation (CSE) materials. 

X CEO Linda Yaccarino is set to testify before Congress on Wednesday in a hearing about CSE, and the platform at the end of last week published a blog post about its efforts to curb such materials, saying it’s “determined to make X inhospitable for actors who seek to exploit minors.”

According to Bloomberg, Benarroch said, “X does not have a line of business focused on children, but it’s important that we make these investments to keep stopping offenders from using our platform for any distribution or engagement with CSE content.” The team will also address other content issues, like hate speech and “violent posts,” according to Bloomberg. Elon Musk spent much of his first year at X taking steps to turn the platform into a bastion of “free speech,” and gutted the content moderation teams that had been put in place by Twitter before his takeover.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/x-plans-to-hire-100-content-moderators-to-fill-new-trust-and-safety-center-in-austin-173111536.html?src=rss

X confirms it blocked Taylor Swift searches to ‘prioritize safety’

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X has confirmed it’s preventing users from searching Taylor Swift’s name after pornographic deepfakes of the artist began circulating on the platform this week. Visitors to the site started noticing on Saturday that some searches containing Swift’s name would only return an error message. In a statement to the Wall Street Journal on Saturday night, Joe Benarroch, X’s head of business operations, said, “This is a temporary action and done with an abundance of caution as we prioritize safety on this issue.” This step comes days after the problem first became known.

X’s handling of the issue from the start has drawn criticism that it’s been slow to curb the spread of nonconsensual, sexually explicit images. After the images went viral on Wednesday, Swift’s fans took matters into their own hands to limit their visibility and get them removed, mass-reporting the accounts that shared the images and flooding the hashtags relating to the singer with positive content, NBC News reported earlier this week. Many of the offending accounts were later suspended, but not before they’d been seen in some cases millions of times. The Verge reported on Thursday that one post was viewed more than 45 million times.

In a statement posted on its platform later that day, X said, “Posting Non-Consensual Nudity (NCN) images is strictly prohibited on X and we have a zero-tolerance policy towards such content. Our teams are actively removing all identified images and taking appropriate actions against the accounts responsible for posting them. We're closely monitoring the situation to ensure that any further violations are immediately addressed, and the content is removed. We're committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all users.”

But it was still possible to find the images in days after. 404Media traced the likely origin of the images to a Telegram group known for creating nonconsensual AI-generated images of women using free tools including Microsoft Designer. In an interview with NBC News’ Lester Holt on Friday, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said the issue highlights what is the company’s responsibility, and “all of the guardrails that we need to place around the technology so that there’s more safe content that’s being produced.” He continued to say that “there’s a lot to be done there, and a lot being done there,” but also noted that the company needs to “move fast.”

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/x-confirms-it-blocked-taylor-swift-searches-to-prioritize-safety-153136902.html?src=rss

How to use ChatGPT and AI avatars to create faceless videos, media and more

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build an AI news channel with OpenAI ChatGPT and VEED AI Avatars

The ability to control AI avatars to express a wide variety of different functions is becoming more and more accessible, thanks to huge developments in artificial intelligence. One such service is VEED AI Avatars that can be used in combination with artificial intelligence (AI) and large language models such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT to create a […]

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These 1:1 scale LEGO Reptiles are the perfect blend of Creepy and Cool!

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The word Herpetophile stands for someone who loves reptiles. Of course, if you already knew that, chances are you’re a fan of scaly vertebrates like lizards, snakes, turtles, and other members of the reptilia family. If the term herpetophile describes you, chances are you’ll love LEGO builder legotruman’s submission to the LEGO Ideas forum. legotruman’s reptile collection showcases with three animals – the Veiled Chameleon, the Leopard Gecko, and the Box Turtle. These reptiles are made entirely from LEGO pieces, celebrating the unique colors, textures, and patterns of these animals, and are built to 1:1 scale, making them perfect for any serious collector who shares a love for, well, unconventional pets!

Designer: legotruman

Indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula, the Arabian chameleon, scientifically referred to as Chamaeleo calyptratus, boasts captivating hues and is distinguished by its distinctive casque that extends from its head. Contrary to common misconceptions, the chameleon’s remarkable color changes are not for camouflage but rather serve as a visual display of its emotions, stress levels, and social standing. legotruman recreated the chameleon using a myriad of tiles, perching the animal delicately on a LEGO branch too. Points if you noticed the use of a brick from the LEGO Scooby Doo Mystery Machine for the chameleon’s eyes!

The adorable-looking Leopard Gecko, native to desert habitats, has garnered worldwide popularity as a beloved pet reptile. One of the frequently encountered morphs showcases a striking pattern of dark spots on a vibrant yellow or orange skin, reminiscent of leopards. Often dubbed as the pioneers of domesticated lizards, they are cherished for their endearing large eyes, charming smiles, and their iconic plump tails. Adult females can reach a length of up to 20 cm, while males can attain an impressive 28 cm in size. The lizard, made entirely out of LEGO bricks, gets perched on a slanted branch, allowing it to display the gecko’s elegant stance.

Highly favored as pets, the Box Turtles are known for their dome-shaped shells. Some showcase remarkable radiating patterns on their shells, adorned with vibrant shades of yellow and orange. Despite their tortoise-like appearance, it’s important to note that they belong to the terrapin family, similar to other aquatic turtles like the red-eared slider. Remarkably, box turtles can enjoy a lifespan of up to 40-50 years! To recreate their stunning shells, legotruman utilized black and orange slope Lego elements, quarter tiles for the leg scales pattern, and gold ring elements to craft their eyes.

The LEGO Reptiles are a submission to LEGO’s Ideas forum, where creators and enthusiasts can design their own LEGO sculptures and share them with the global community. The entries with the highest votes get considered by LEGO’s internal team to be turned into retail box-sets. legotruman’s LEGO Reptiles has collected 2240 votes as of writing this article, and is gradually on its way to hit the coveted 10,000 vote mark that qualifies it for an official LEGO review. Click here to vote for the entry!

The post These 1:1 scale LEGO Reptiles are the perfect blend of Creepy and Cool! first appeared on Yanko Design.

More Details on iPhone Battery Drain in iOS 17.3 (Video)

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iPhone Battery Drain

Apple released iOS 17.3 for the iPhone last week, we previously saw a video on iPhone battery drain and what to do about it in iOS 17.3 and now we have another video, this one is from iReviews and it gives us more information on how to solve battery drain on your iPhone. Let’s delve […]

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