Monthly Archives: June 2024

Laurent Ferrier x Hervé Di Rosa limited-edition Classic Micro-Rotor watch flaunts 12-armed character on the dial

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Swiss horologer, Laurent Ferrier, is known for making watches that are timeless yet modern in all accounts. Their ultimate amalgamation of form, function, and aesthetics put LF watches ahead of the curve, and its new design, a revival of a flagship piece with touch of playfulness and art, is a fine embodiment.

To celebrate the longevity of the flagship Classic Micro-Rotor, the watchmaker has collaborated with French artist Hervé Di Rosa and arrived at this recovered timepiece that reflects the timeless elegance and minimalism of Laurent Ferrier and the creativity and imaginative artistry of Di Rosa. The five-piece limited edition watch is a testament to the fine collaboration and exchange of expertise between the watchmaker and the artist.

Designer: Laurent Ferrier

Hervé Di Rosa is a renowned name in the French and International art scene. Best known for being the pioneer of the Figuration Libre art movement in the 1980s, the 64-year-old artist unveiled “Hervé Di Rosa – The Worlds-Passer,” a retrospective exhibition in Paris at the Centre Pompidou, which celebrates his life’s work. In celebration of this occasion, the globetrotting artist has given a new artistic makeover to the Classic Micro-Rotor.

The watch keeps the curves of the Classic case, which is inspired by the pocket watches of the 19th century. The round stainless steel case measures 40mm and features a strikingly different dial comprising a 12-armed character named “Ah! Ah! Ah!” It is a design adapted from one of Di Rosa’s vibrant and chaotic paintings from 1984 called the Dirosapocalypse.

The dial of the Classic Micro-Rotor is completely hand-engraved and it’s made from 18-carat white gold. The artistic dial is topped with the iconic white gold assegai-shaped hands that blend with the base, yet stand out in their appearance. The watch case, on the side, has a ball-shaped winding crown, while the sapphire glass case back leaves you admiring the movement. The in-house FBN 229.01 automatic winding calibre has a 72 hours power reserve. The limited edition Classic Micro-Rotor Di Rosa is 30-meter water resistant, and priced at 80,000 CHF (roughly $90,000).

 

The post Laurent Ferrier x Hervé Di Rosa limited-edition Classic Micro-Rotor watch flaunts 12-armed character on the dial first appeared on Yanko Design.

Deepfakes of Elon Musk are pushing crypto giveaway scams on YouTube Live

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A YouTube Live broadcast that ran for five hours today used a deepfake of Elon Musk to push a cryptocurrency scam, in the latest of a series of similar bogus streams. The video, which has has since been taken down, showed a clip of Musk that was meant to look like a livestream from a Tesla event, with an AI-generated version of his voice instructing viewers to visit a website and deposit their bitcoin, Ethereum or Dogecoin in order to participate in a giveaway. The message, playing on a loop, promised the system would then “automatically send back double the amount of the cryptocurrency you deposited.”

Over 30,000 viewers were tuned into the stream at one point (though we can’t discount the possibility these numbers were inflated by bots), pushing it to the top of YouTube’s Live Now recommendations. The account masquerading as Tesla, @elon.teslastream, had the Official Artist Channel verification badge, so we may be looking at an account hack. Both the video and the channel were removed after Engadget reached out to Google. We’ll update this article if we hear back with any more information.

A screenshot showing an account posing as Tesla with a livestream that uses an AI generated Elon musk to push a crypto scam
Screenshot by Cheyenne MacDonald/Engadget

These Elon Musk deepfake scams seem to have surged over the past couple of months, in each instance using an account posing as one of Musk’s companies. This one was titled “Tesla's [sic] unveils a masterpiece: The Tesla that will change the car industry forever.” Earlier in June, Cointelegraph reported on similar scams run by 35 accounts pretending to be SpaceX around the time of the Starship launch. Scammers in April attempted to get in on the eclipse hype using the same tactic, as Mashable reported at the time. And there have been numerous reports of fake Musk livestreams posted on Reddit recently.

Crypto scams targeting Musk’s followers on social media have been a problem for years, as have those involving celebrities in general. Just this Friday, 50 Cent was hit by a hack that used his accounts to carry out a pump-and-dump scheme.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deepfakes-of-elon-musk-are-pushing-crypto-giveaway-scams-on-youtube-live-200700886.html?src=rss

This genius LEGO Card Shuffler can automatically shuffle any deck of cards

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The most annoying part of any card game is obviously the shuffling (unless you’re good at it). It seems like a laborious activity that almost always causes one or two stray cards to fly out and fall on the floor… and even after shuffling your cards, someone is bound to tell you that you did a terrible job because they got a dealt a bad hand. I’ve ruined many a deck shuffling cards that eventually got bent out of shape, and I’ve always thought of what life would be like if I had a machine that shuffled my cards for me. Turns out, Pedro Lara went and built himself one instead of buying it online. The LEGO Ornate Card Shuffler is a pretty nifty-looking functional shuffler that uses a combination of gears to accurately shuffle a deck with surprising consistency.

Designer: Pedro Lara

Although Lara doesn’t specify how many bricks were used to build the card shuffler, it’s worth admiring how the overall contraption is both functional and classy. The word ornate isn’t thrown in for nothing – the ‘black box’ has a variety of golden trims that add an aesthetic touch to the contraption. Two chambers on the left and right hold both halves of the deck, and once the shuffler gets to work, the cards are shuffled into a central deck, which can be pulled out thanks to a removable drawer.

The card shuffler utilizes LEGO Technic gears that connect both left and right chambers. The uppermost cards are pulled using friction from rubber tires. For people familiar with card games, the machine uses a variation of what’s called the Riffle Shuffle, which alternates the cards from the left and right, breaking any patterns within the existing deck. While Lara’s original design works with a LEGO electric motor, it can also be operated manually with a lever. The gear mechanism provides significant leverage, making manual shuffling a fun and efficient option.

A close look at the gear system under the hood of the LEGO Ornate Shuffler

Pedro Lara’s self-made design or MOC (My Own Creation) can be found on the LEGO Ideas Forum, an online dashboard where LEGO enthusiasts upload their own zany designs and have the community vote for their favorite creations. With just under 2000 votes, Lara’s design seems to be picking up traction and has even received a Staff Pick recommendation from the LEGO team. You can cast your vote for the LEGO Ornate Card Shuffler on the LEGO Ideas forum, and if it reaches the coveted 10,000 vote mark, it might just turn into an available retail box set!

The removable drawer that collects the cards after they’re shuffled.

The post This genius LEGO Card Shuffler can automatically shuffle any deck of cards first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Art of Imperfection: The Unique Charm of Golden Goose Sneakers

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Golden Goose sneakers have found a cool and quirky spot in luxury footwear. These shoes, with their distinctive distressed look, exceptional quality, and unparalleled comfort, have garnered a loyal following among fashion enthusiasts and casual wearers alike. From the sidewalks of Milan to the streets of New York, they are more than just a trend—they are a statement of individuality and a celebration of authentic style. Let’s delve into the reasons behind their widespread appeal and explore why so many people are captivated by these iconic sneakers.

Designer: Golden Goose

The Look of Golden Goose Shoes

The sneakers are instantly recognizable for their scuffed, lived-in appearance. When the brand introduced this style in 2000, it was a bold move that set them apart in a market dominated by pristine, new-looking shoes. The distressed look, complete with scuffed soles, worn-out laces, and imperfect finishes, has since become a signature style that many have come to love.

Golden Goose: Men’s Super-Star LTD in Nappa leather with black leather star and silver heel tab

This aesthetic is not just about looking worn; it’s about conveying a sense of casual, effortless cool. The unique color palettes and unconventional details, such as asymmetrical star logos and quirky prints, add to their charm. Styles like the classic Superstar, with its hand-distressed finish and unique color variations, exemplify this perfectly. The Ball Star model, inspired by vintage basketball sneakers, combines sporty elements with high-fashion sensibilities, making it a versatile choice for any wardrobe.

Golden Goose: Men’s Ball Star in white nappa leather with green leather star and heel tab

The shoes embrace a philosophy of “perfectly imperfect,” encouraging wearers to celebrate their individuality. This nonchalant attitude resonates especially with the younger generation, who appreciate the bold statement these shoes make. Wearing a pair is a declaration of authenticity and a rejection of cookie-cutter fashion.

The Quality of Golden Goose Shoes

Golden Goose sneakers are known for their exceptional quality, a key factor behind their popularity. Handmade in Italy, each pair is meticulously constructed using premium materials like smooth Italian leather, ensuring the shoes are both stylish and durable.

Golden Goose: Italian craftsmanship

The high price point is justified by the use of top-quality calfskin leather, which is both soft and durable. This leather enhances comfort over time, molding to the wearer’s feet and making the shoes more comfortable with each wear. These sneakers maintain their quality even with regular use, making them a reliable choice for long-term wear.

Every pair undergoes a unique hand-distressing process, ensuring no two pairs are exactly alike. This attention to detail and individuality adds to their exclusive appeal. The craftsmanship involved means that Golden Goose sneakers can withstand daily wear while retaining their distinctive style.

Golden Goose shoes are versatile enough to be paired with various outfits, from jeans to dresses. They are a practical and stylish choice for different occasions. Their blend of durability, comfort, and unique style makes them a worthwhile investment for those seeking long-lasting footwear.

The Comfort of Golden Goose Shoes

Comfort is a key aspect that wins over many fans of these sneakers. Despite their distressed appearance, these shoes are all about wearability. The soft Italian leather and thoughtful construction mean they require no break-in period, offering immediate comfort from the first wear.

One of the standout features is the hidden wedge in the heel, which provides a subtle lift and extra support. This thoughtful blend of style and comfort makes the sneakers versatile enough for any occasion, whether you’re dressing up for a night out or keeping it casual. The combination of comfort, style, and quality makes them a favorite for those who don’t want to sacrifice one for the other.

In my own experience, I’ve found that Golden Goose shoes live up to their reputation. The soft leather feels great on my feet right away, and the hidden wedge adds a little extra height without compromising comfort. My collection includes the Men’s Super-Star, which I own two pairs of, and a special edition Mid Star. These shoes effortlessly fit into my wardrobe, pairing well with everything from shorts to jeans to semi-dressy business casual outfits.

I appreciate how these sneakers manage to look stylish while feeling like they were made just for me. They’re perfect for long days on my feet, and the quality craftsmanship means they’ll last for years. I’m also keeping an eye on the Men’s Ball Star LTD in Nappa green star and dove-gray suede inserts, anticipating the same level of comfort and style. If you’re looking for shoes that deliver on both looks and feel, Golden Goose is worth the investment.

Why People Pay a Premium for Golden Goose

The value of Golden Goose sneakers goes beyond just their looks. The high cost comes from using calfskin leather, which is super soft and durable. This top-quality material and careful craftsmanship put these shoes at the high end of the luxury market.

Golden Goose: Men’s Super-Star LTD in Nappa leather with black leather star and silver heel tab

The psychological appeal is also undeniable. These sneakers exude confidence and make a bold fashion statement. The uniqueness of each pair, with its hand-distressed details, ensures that no two pairs are exactly alike, offering a sense of exclusivity and authenticity in a crowded market.

Ready to Experience the Magic of Golden Goose?

Step into the world of Golden Goose and discover why these sneakers have captivated so many. Whether you’re drawn to their distinctive look, exceptional quality, or unmatched comfort, there’s a pair waiting to become a staple in your wardrobe. Embrace the philosophy of “perfectly imperfect” and make a bold statement with every step.

From my perspective as someone who owns three pairs, I can personally vouch for their style, quality, and comfort. My favorite styles are the Men’s Superstar, of which I own two pairs, and a special edition Mid Star. These three pairs complement my style, matching everything from shorts to jeans to semi-dressy business casual outfits. I’m also eyeing the Men’s Ball Star LTD in Nappa green star and dove-gray suede inserts—they promise to be a perfect addition to my collection. Don’t just follow the trend—set it. Explore the latest collections and find your perfect pair today.

Golden Goose: Men’s Ball Star LTD in nappa with green star and dove-gray suede inserts

 

The post The Art of Imperfection: The Unique Charm of Golden Goose Sneakers first appeared on Yanko Design.

Touch Egg is the most ridiculous Playdate game I’ve tried yet, and I’m hooked

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Sometimes we all need to just turn off the ol’ brain for a bit and have some dumb fun. That’s the kind vibe I was after when searching the Playdate Catalog for a new game to play this weekend, and let’s just say I got more than I could ever ask for in Touch Egg. The game, made by Joelle Tindall, is simple: crank wildly to extend a finger Pinocchio-style and poke the egg as many times as you can, but don’t let the horrifying man in the room see you or you’ll lose said finger. It’s all about chasing the high score, and you have 60 seconds to try and get those pokes in.

There is no story (well, none beyond “He lays the eggs and doesn’t want you to touch them”), so no explanation as to who the man is, what sort of creature would hatch from the egg, why you’re bothering it and why everything is so creepy. Don’t worry about any of that, just crank.

You can only touch the egg when the man’s eyes are closed. Three exclamation points will appear in succession to signal that his eyes are about to open and you need to stop cranking. You can also put him to sleep for a few seconds by hitting the ‘A’ button, but this can make it so there’s no warning when he’s going to open his eyes. All the while, the unusually wide cat clock is ticking.

The visuals are wonderfully unsettling, and, just to add to the absurdity of it all, you can unlock little accessories like sunglasses that are worn on the thumb. There are also a few secrets to uncover as you play and — I’m sorry — Egg-Chievements to be earned. I clicked on Egg Touch solely because it made me think of the I Think You Should Leave egg game, and ended up being unable to put it down for a solid hour. (Unlike in ITYSL, there are no NSFW surprises here). 

Egg Touch is only $1 on the Playdate Catalog and free on itch.io. Now get outta here and go touch that egg.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/touch-egg-is-the-most-ridiculous-playdate-game-ive-tried-yet-and-im-hooked-173155394.html?src=rss

Apple’s third-gen AirPods are back on sale for their lowest price yet

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Apple’s third-generation AirPods have dropped back down to the lowest price we’ve seen thanks to a deal on Amazon right now. The AirPods, which normally go for $170, are 17 percent off, making them just $140. Apple overhauled the design of the standard AirPods with this model, which was introduced in 2021. The third-gen AirPods have a shorter stem to look more like the AirPods Pro (but without the eartips), a contoured design for comfort and are rated for sweat and water resistance.

Previous models of the non-Pro AirPods weren’t sweat and water resistant, but the third-generation carries an IPX4 rating, which should be adequate for workouts. They also boast an improved method of automatic pausing over the earlier versions, using both an accelerometer and a sensor that detects skin so they can better sense when they’ve been removed from your ear.

The third-generation AirPods run on Apple’s H1 chip, which allows for one-touch fast pairing and always-on Siri. They offer Adaptive EQ, spatial audio and dynamic head-tracking — but no active noise-cancellation, that’s for the AirPods Pro only — and produce much better sound compared to the earlier models. In Engadget’s review, the third-generation AirPods scored an 88 for their comfort-focused design, audio quality and battery life.

The battery life is noticeably longer in the third-generation AirPods. Apple says these AirPods get about 6 hours of battery life on a charge, but in our tests, they lasted over an hour beyond than that. With the charging case, they can get about 30 hours of life in all. If you need to top them up while you’re out, you only need to pop them in the case for five minutes to get another hour of playtime. If you’re not concerned about features like active noise cancellation, the third-generation AirPods are a great bet, especially at their reduced price.

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This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/apples-third-gen-airpods-are-back-on-sale-for-their-lowest-price-yet-144041181.html?src=rss

iOS 18 Settings You Need To Change

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iOS 18 Settings

Apple’s iOS 18 software was released in beta recently, the software is coming to the iPhone later this year. In the ever-evolving world of technology, staying up-to-date with the latest features and settings is crucial to ensure a seamless and secure user experience. With the release of iOS 18, Apple has introduced a wealth of […]

The post iOS 18 Settings You Need To Change appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

The Future of Jobs in an AI World

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Future of Jobs in an AI World

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to transform the job market, potentially rendering many traditional roles obsolete. As AI systems become more sophisticated, their ability to perform complex tasks increases, posing a significant threat to jobs involving cognitive labor and knowledge work. Avital Balwit, Chief of Staff at Anthropic, offers valuable insights […]

The post The Future of Jobs in an AI World appeared first on Geeky Gadgets.

Creative woodworking dad turn AI-renders into a timeless wooden car for his son

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Truong Van Dao of ND Woodworking is one of the most creative and loving dads you’ll ever meet. His tenacity for making wooden cars that are second to none speaks a lot of his passion. The Rolls-Royce Boat Tail brought to life in his wood workshop was one of the coolest gifts a father can give his toddler son. As my fellow editor rightly said in that article, the creation is undoubtedly “more valuable than a $28 million car can ever be!”

Now the super dad has created a unique wooden car right out of some sci-fi series plot. The idea initially generated from AI took shape as a real-life vehicle that is second to none. To me, this seems like the machine from the acclaimed novel Time Machine by H.G. Wells. The most amazing thing is the wooden vehicle’s attention to detail in design, and I’m completely in awe just looking at the thing.

Design: ND Woodworking Art

The inside of the big cogwheels makes up the cockpit section for the driver to maneuver this crazy looking four wheeler. The front wheels are the normal size, but real wheels even smaller, are given the appearance of big chunky wheels with design ingenuity. Functional mechanical parts are exposed making the DIY even more intricate. The initial phase involved creating the chassis out of a metal frame and then building the intricate woodwork for it. Mind you it took a lot of time to carve each section with hand, carving the wheels, mechanical levers and the curvaceous body. The power comes from the four onboard batteries with good torque to pull the thing forward. Top speed is kept very limited since Truong’s son will be driving this crazy contraption.

Every little detail is taken care of by the talented woodworking dad, right from the seating compartment, gearbox and input pedals to the cog-driven lever mechanism, taillights and concealing away the rear wheels. The snail-shell-like cockpit of the four-wheeler has neon lights to add an element of sci-fi. No matter where this vehicle goes – be it in the dark or broad daylight – it is going to catch eyeballs and garner appreciation from everyone simply because of the amount of effort and creativity put into the making.

The post Creative woodworking dad turn AI-renders into a timeless wooden car for his son first appeared on Yanko Design.