Tag Archives: Product Design

Nothing launches sports-friendly Ear (open) earphones with built-in ChatGPT for just $149

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No, it isn’t Phone (3), but to be honest, haven’t we had enough phone launches already?!

Say hello to the Nothing Ear (open), the latest ‘hearable’ from London-based tech-brand Nothing. Designed in vein with their existing Nothing Ear series, the Ear (open), as its name suggests, is an open-ear wearable and the first of its kind from the company. The newly launched device introduces a distinctive open-ear design that prioritizes comfort, situational awareness, and superior sound quality. This marks the company’s fourth mainline set of earbuds, not counting special editions (like the Nothing Ear (stick)) and their CMF budget line. Known for pushing the boundaries of audio tech with a bold design, Nothing seems intent on revolutionizing the way we experience audio on the move.

Designer: Nothing

One glance at the Nothing Ear (open), and you immediately notice the company’s signature minimalist aesthetic. Transparency is the name of the game here. Rather than having earpieces with silicone tips that create an airtight seal to lock in sound and minimize audio leakage, these open-ear wearables rest against your ear canal, firing audio directly in without compromising your ability to hear the world around you. Sort of like how holding your phone up to your ear lets you hear calls but also lets environmental sounds to make it to your ear so you’re aware of your surroundings. “A lot of people were skeptical internally, but I was really bullish on this form factor because you see people wearing regular earbuds these days, and sometimes they only wear earbuds with one bud in the ear and the other one out… because they want to what’s, you know, happening all around them”, says Nothing founder Carl Pei. “But this form factor opens up, so that you can hear all your surroundings without having to do that.”

Staying true to their design philosophy, the Ear (open) showcases a slim, see-through form factor that emphasizes the craftsmanship behind its sleek exterior. Weighing just 8.1 grams per earbud, these are designed to be lightweight and portable, and with the case measuring a mere 19 mm in thickness, you can easily slip them into your pocket. The buds also come equipped with a smart case that mirrors the same transparency-focused design the company has come to be known for, along with a dimple in the center of the lid for fidgeting purposes. Obviously, the case acts as a charging dock for the earphones when not in use.

The Ear (open) shines with its Open Sound Technology, a software feature that aims to let users enjoy immersive sound while staying connected to their environment. Whether you’re on a busy city street or in a park, these earbuds let ambient sounds like traffic or birdsong through, without drowning out your music or calls. This makes them ideal for those who want to stay aware of their surroundings—whether for safety reasons or just to feel more present.

Supplementing the open-ear design is the Sound Seal System and directional speakers. These features work together to minimize sound leakage, ensuring that you get a rich, personal listening experience without disturbing those around you. This system’s privacy-oriented design addresses one of the common pain points with open-ear earbuds, giving you the best of both worlds—situational awareness and high-quality sound.

The earbuds feature a three-point balance system that, alongside flexible silicone ear hooks, ensures the earbuds sit securely in your ears. Designed with the intent of being worn while running, exercising, cycling, or just walking through the city, the Ear (open) promises a secure fit that won’t fall out during your activities. Combined with their feather-light weight, these earbuds are designed to make you forget you’re even wearing them.

On the performance front, the Ear (open) delivers with its custom patent-pending diaphragm, titanium coating, and ultra-light driver setup. These earbuds are built to handle both the deep lows and the crisp highs, offering a balanced soundstage that’s sort of rare for open-ear designs (although we intend to verify this when we get our review unit!) The bass is further enhanced by an automatic Bass Enhance algorithm, giving the low frequencies an extra punch without distorting the sound quality… something we’ll definitely confirm once we try these bad-boys on.

You’ll get 8 hours of continuous playback on a single charge, with the total extending to 30 hours when factoring in the charging case. And if you’re pressed for time, a quick 10-minute charge provides an additional 2 hours of playback. For those who take a lot of calls on the go, the Clear Voice Technology uses AI-enhanced processing to deliver crystal-clear call quality, even in noisy environments. Trained on over 28 million noise scenarios, this tech ensures that your voice comes through loud and clear, regardless of your surroundings. Additionally, Dual Connection allows seamless switching between devices, and a Low Lag Mode is designed specifically for gaming, ensuring minimal audio delay during gameplay.

Earlier in the year, Nothing announced it was bringing ChatGPT to all its earphones, and the Ear (open) gets this feature too, allowing you to tap into GPT instead of your phone’s assistant for a more intuitive, intelligent conversation. Need to check the weather before heading out or quickly look up an answer to that random question nagging at you? Just ask—no need to fumble for your phone. The ChatGPT feature is accessible directly from your earbuds via the Nothing X app, making real-time information just a voice command away. Whether it’s getting directions, solving a debate, or grabbing quick updates on the go, ChatGPT turns your earbuds into more than just audio devices. That’s more than you can say for a pair of AirPods that are still yet to get Apple Intelligence.

The Nothing Ear (open) will be available for pre-order starting September 24th, with the official launch on October 1st. Priced at $149 USD (£129/€149), these earbuds are positioned to offer great value for those who want cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design without breaking the bank. If you’re the kind who needs music while exercising or training, these open-ear wearables might just be perfect to give a try. Especially at that affordable price point.

The post Nothing launches sports-friendly Ear (open) earphones with built-in ChatGPT for just $149 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Essential Scrapbooking & Cardmaking Supplies For Crafters

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If you’re someone who enjoys scrapbooking or cardmaking in their free time, then you’ve landed in the right space. There is something truly therapeutic in creating something, and then maintaining it. And maintaining a scrapbook or journal, or creating a card for a loved one is always fun, wholesome, and productive. To assist you in your scrapbooking endeavors, we’ve curated a collection of functional and exciting stationery items, that are not only essentials but a joy to use. From a Pen Fan with 8 sketch pen flat-heads to a photo printer that transforms images for your smartphone into cute little stickers – these must-have designs are excellent for those who love scrapbooking, journalling, and putting their creative juices to good use!

1. Pen Fan

Dubbed the Pen Fan, this one-of-a-kind stationery product is a cross between a Pantone shade card, and a stationery set. It is equipped with 8 flat-head sketch pens and is packaged in a compact and portable form that you can carry anywhere with you with ease. The different choice of pens makes the product a great fit for scrapbooking or cardmaking.

Why is it noteworthy?

The flat pens are all connected, and they form an adorable little Japanese-fan-style layout that beautifully displays all 8 colors. You can easily pick and choose from them. The flat pens are detachable, and you can easily snap them on and off, building a palette that perfectly caters to your needs.

What we like

  • Portable set that you can carry with you
  • The pens cannot be easily misplaced or lost

What we dislike

  • It only includes 8 color options, which can be a bit limiting if you prefer a wide variety of colors

2. Memories Log Book

We usually tend to discard business and shop cards or throw them away into a forgotten drawer. But what if we carefully gather them in a minimalist and profound log book, that lets us pen down our thoughts and memories about the people and events we experienced, allowing us to create little stories that let us travel back in time?

Click Here to Buy Now: $35.00

Why is it noteworthy?

Named the Memories Log Book, this unique little book lets you transform every business card, shop card, or photo into a wonderful and memorable experience to look back at. You simply need to fit the two corners of a card into the slit, and it will stay securely in place, without the need for adhesives or pockets.

What we like

  • It can accommodate business cards, shop cards, and even small Instax photos
  • Includes blank canvases to note down your reflections on the person or event

What we dislike

  • Only fits one specific size of cars or photos

3. Craftmaster EDC Utility Knife

Called the Craftmaster EDC Utility Knife, this minimal and clean EDC knife resembles an everyday paper cutter. It is equipped with an all-metal body and a textured knob which lets you easily deploy and lock the blade. The knife’s handle is pretty grippy and weighted, so holding it is an easy task.

Click Here to Buy Now: $79.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The knife is amped with a simple, subtle, and sophisticated aesthetic and a CNC-machined handle. It also features an enclosed blade which is machined to perfection. The blade is enclosed, so it glides with smoothness, and no hassle at all, providing a seamless and harmonious experience.

What we like

  • Equipped with a 45° slant to help you open boxes with ease
  • Features a metal scale, making it a multifunctional design

What we dislike

  • It has a magnetic back, which can attract small metal bits

4. ColorPik Pen

Meet the ColorPik Pen – a super extraordinary pen that accommodates 16 million colors! With the ColorPik Pen, you don’t need to buy different pens, you can simply use it and have fun with an unlimited number of colors. You simply need to scan the item whose color you want to imitate, and then doodle with it.

Why is it noteworthy?

The ColorPik Pen uses a smart color, that is light fast, and water resistant, and can’t just be weathered away. You can control the texture and dimension for writing by selecting any of the multiple tips, allowing you to write beautifully as well as draw.

What we like

  • Combines 16 million colors into one nifty pen
  • Features re-fillable smart cartridges

What we dislike

  • Some users say the pen doesn’t produce the color accurately
  • The app isn’t very easy to use

5. Scissors w/ Base

These unique scissors are called the Scissors w/ Base, and they feature a magnetic basic, making the product a really cutting-edge one. The scissors have an innovative design that lets you renovate your workspace organization, ensuring your scissors don’t lie around, simply creating clutter.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

Why is it noteworthy?

The scissors have a magnetic base which makes it a complete game-changer. They are made from lustrous Japanese steel, and serve as a handy little tool, while also making for a good-looking addition to your work desk.

What we like

  • The magnetic base can be utilized as a dedicated spot for your scissors
  • Features a built-in cutter, which is quite an innovative forward-thinking detail we appreciate

What we dislike

  • You cannot use them for difficult tasks

6. Penxo

Say hello to Penxo – the most minimalist pencil out there! Penxo is designed with complete simplicity, and it features a last-lead release mechanism. The designer spent countless hours refining the Penxo, adding some modernity while maintaining its traditional form. It is a 2mm lead holder pencil, milled from a single block of aluminum.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Penxo has a simple design, cutting out springs, buttons, and other mechanical parts found in mechanical pencils. It has a center gap which serves as a lead trigger release, and an indicator window for lead color, markings, and usage.

What we like

  • Has the fastest lead release compared to any other lead pencil

What we dislike

  • It can only hold one piece of lead
  • It is a bit difficult to deploy the lead

7. Potto

Called Potto, this conceptual design is a toy camera that prints out different kinds of photos for you. It doesn’t print out your typical pictures for you, instead, it delivers an outline of the image you clicked or sent to the camera. It provides a line drawing you can keep as it, or color, creating a creative and colorful element for your scrapbook.

Why is it noteworthy?

The camera helps you indulge in some coloring, making your scrapbook or journal even more elaborate. It is a product both kids and adults can use and appreciate, as coloring is something people of all age groups enjoy.

What we like

  • Has a display screen, so you can see the images before clicking them

What we dislike

  • Uses thermal paper which eventually fades over time, so it’s not very long-lasting

8. Passion Planner

This is the Passion Planner – the one space for all your thoughts. It includes an appointment calendar, goal-setting guide, journal, sketchbook, gratitude log & personal and work-to-do lists – all in one notebook. It is a paper planned and designed with your passions and personal goals in mind, helping you strike a balance between functionality, personal reflection, and goal setting.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Passion Planner has a beautiful handcrafted design which makes it great to carry almost anywhere. It measures 5.5′ x 8.5′, and is printed on premium quality, recycled, and bleed-resistant paper.

What we like

  • Features a durable and low profile soft faux leather cover with an elastic enclosure strap

What we dislike

  • The visioning place is a little small
  • The design of the planner is a bit boring

9. 30° Ruler

Called the 30° Ruler, this innovative ruler features a simple elevation. The slope on the ruler’s face is lifted by 30°, which makes it easier to use, and also expands its utility. The slope allows you to read measurements from a glance without needing to lean over to use the device. You switch from a tilted neck to a tilted ruler, while your back is straight and your eyes are on the target.

Why is it noteworthy?

Since the ruler is elevated, you can also easily grab it, without the need to drag it towards the edge of the table or dig your nails underneath it. The angled nature makes the ruler pretty safe for cutting too.

What we like

  • Features large fonts and clear indications
  • You can read the measurements from a distance

What we dislike

  • Users may take some time to adjust to the ruler’s new form

10. Canon IVY 2 Mini Photo Printer

Named Canon IVY 2 mini photo printer, this unique little device lets you capture and cherish your memories in a fun way. You can transform the images from your smartphone into personalized photo stickers without using any ink. The photo printer has a compact form, and it fits easily into your pocket, so you can carry it anywhere with you.

Why is it noteworthy?

The photo printer uses ink-free technology, so it maintains a vibrant print quality without the extra mess or cost of traditional ink. You can connect it to compatible smartphones via Bluetooth 5.0 for quick and easy printing.

What we like

  • It easily recharges within 45 minutes
  • You can modify photos using the free Canon Mini Print App

What we dislike

  • It supports only Bluetooth connectivity
  • It is a bit on the pricier side

The post Top 10 Essential Scrapbooking & Cardmaking Supplies For Crafters first appeared on Yanko Design.

Ultra-Portable Wind Turbine Generator Lets You Fast-Charge Your Devices Anywhere with Green Energy

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We have become so dependent on our electronic appliances and devices that we start to panic when the grid suddenly goes down. While solar power generators now offer a more sustainable alternative to the gasoline-chugging relics of the past, it’s a different story when you’re out in the wild with the sun nowhere to be seen. Of course, we can’t control the weather, but we can be prepared for any situation, including when things don’t go according to our perfect plans. Just because the sun isn’t around doesn’t mean you have to stress over the lack of power. With this ultra-portable 50W power generator, you can have the confidence and peace of mind to stay outdoors longer, thanks to the power of the all-present wind.

Designer: Aurea Technologies Inc.

Click Here to Buy Now: $356 $571 ($215 off). Hurry, only 6/74 left! Raised over $273,000.

Solar energy isn’t the only renewable energy source available. In fact, while solar panels are more popular for residential or personal uses, wind power is considered to be more reliable for wide-scale industrial use. Unfortunately, conventional wind turbines are neither small nor portable, making them inconvenient to use in more common, everyday scenarios. That is exactly what Shine 2.0 fixes, harnessing the power of the wind to power your outdoor adventures while enjoying the conveniences of modern technologies in a compact package that’s just the size of a large water bottle.

Shine 2.0 can generate up to 50W of power day or night, whether it’s sunny, cloudy, foggy, or even rainy. Its USB-C PD port outputs up to 75W to fast charge, smartphones, eReaders, tablets, and more. It can also power 12V devices, including laptops, and drones. Worried about a dry spell ruining your outdoor fun? The Shine 2.0 can generate as well as store power in its internal 12,000 mAh battery so you can use the oblong-shaped power generator as a power bank even after the wind has died down. And because of the wind’s cubic relationship with power, when the wind is twice as strong, the Shine 2.0 can generate eight times more power as well.

Shine 2.0 is designed for versatility. Are some low structures getting in the way of your wind? Shine 2.0’s 6-foot mount accessory raises it high above potential obstructions to capture more wind and maximize power generation. By using Shine 2.0’s custom adapter accessory, you can even charge power stations from EcoFlow, Bluetti, Jackery, and others. Sealed and weatherproof with an IP54 rating, Shine 2.0 is ready to face any condition to help you enjoy the great outdoors or even provide emergency backup power during an outage.

New to this second-gen wind turbine generator is a Bluetooth-connected app that lets you see all the critical stats like wind speed and power output without even having to get close. Weighing only 3 lbs and small enough to be stashed in a backpack water bottle compartment, Shine 2.0 offers unbeatable value in providing power on the go, wherever and whenever you need it. With this sleek, compact, and ultra-portable wind turbine, you no longer need to stress over surviving a few days away from power outlets, allowing you to enjoy the liberating experience of generating power from the wind.

Click Here to Buy Now: $356 $571 ($215 off). Hurry, only 6/74 left! Raised over $273,000.

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This miniature LEGO Billiards Table comes with every accessory from cue sticks to powder cubes!

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You’ve got Foosball, you’ve got Mini Golf, but have you ever heard of mini billiards? This tiny (yet somewhat playable) LEGO billiards set from the mind of LEGO builder Golden Eye captures the grandeur of a full-scale billiards table, but at a fraction of the size. Built with all the trims and fittings (including pockets, a gutter, and a cue-stand), Golden Eye’s Vintage Billiards Table is an adorable tabletop build that you can potentially even interact with, playing a game on its faux plastic turf!

Designer: Golden Eye

Golden Eye’s MOC (My Own Creation) is a meticulously crafted homage to classic pool tables, incorporating both form and function in a way that LEGO enthusiasts and billiards fans alike will appreciate. It taps into the nostalgia of vintage recreational games while presenting an innovative challenge for builders. The table includes thoughtful design details, such as nets for catching balls, a built-in scoring system with chips, and hooks for accessories like a bridge stick. Every element is designed with precision to replicate the essence of a real billiards table, but in LEGO form.

The underneath tray is practical, offering a space to store additional balls, while also contributing to the table’s structural integrity. The cue stand on the side features both 9-ball and 8-ball racks, giving you the opportunity to explore different game styles, playable with the striped and solid balls that come with the table. As for the accessories, the inclusion of two chalks, two felt brushes, and even a hand-powder stone showcases the level of detail considered to make this as realistic as possible.

Although it isn’t possible to play a proper game on the table (the bricked surface is far too unreliable and the plastic balls have very little weight or inertia), you could totally engage with it on a purely fidget level, using it to pass time and probably settle quick wagers with friends/colleagues.

Golden Eye’s LEGO Vintage Billiards Table is currently a submission on the LEGO Ideas Forum, an online community for fans to share their own creative builds. With just under 2,000 votes, the entry is slowly making its way to the 10,000 vote mark, following which LEGO’s internal team considers it for review before deciding whether to turn it into a box set for people to buy. You can vote for the LEGO Vintage Billiards Table on the LEGO Ideas website here!

The post This miniature LEGO Billiards Table comes with every accessory from cue sticks to powder cubes! first appeared on Yanko Design.

NEO S Mobile Kit gets you ready for ergonomic smartphone gaming with CRKD’s controller

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Mobile gaming is here to stay and numerous brands are trying to cash in to this buzz with mobile gaming controllers that turn your powerful smartphone into a handheld gaming machine. Now premium gaming brand CRKD, known for Nitro Deck+ handheld and NEO S controller, wants to try its prowess as a mobile gaming controller.

They’ve released two innovative accessories dubbed NEO S Mobile Kit and Wall Display Kit for mobile gamers. Both these gaming accessories are developed in collaboration with Accessories maker Mechanism. As the name suggests, these are compatible with CRKD’s existing line-up of gaming controllers – most notably the NEO S.

Designer: CRKD

The NEO S Mobile Kit gives you the freedom to mount your iPhone 16 Pro, Galaxy S24 Ultra, or other gaming-capable devices to the NEO S controller. That’s perfect for playing AAA titles like Resident Evil, Fortnite, CODM, PUBG, Asphalt Legends or Real Racing. One thing that you need to consider though is the weight of the premium smartphones which can sometimes weigh down the whole setup. So, I presume CRKD has sorted that out to some extent. Hooking on the kit’s elements to the controller and your smartphone is pretty simple, all you have to do is attach the magnetic grip to the smartphone and mount the extension arm on the controller. The gaming accessory makes more sense for Apple users since it is MagSafe compatible.

Coming on to the Wall Display Kit, the idea is straight-forward, you can add a permanent mounting position on your wall to display your CRKD hardware when not gaming. The kit comes with Adhesive Wall Mount, NEO S Grip, universal grip (for other devices) and adhesive mounts. The NEO S Mobile Kit comes for $30, and the Wall Display Kit retails for $35 which I think is a little overpriced. That said, if the NEO S Mobile Kit aligns with your mobile gaming needs, only then it should be considered for buying. As for the Wall Display Kit, the buying decision completely depends on your budget.

According to Jack Guinchard, Global Brand Manager for CRKD, “would broaden the scope of use for CRKD products and bring new ways to use and display our range of gaming collectibles.” He further claimed that “Mechanism is a perfect fit for the CRKD community.”

The post NEO S Mobile Kit gets you ready for ergonomic smartphone gaming with CRKD’s controller first appeared on Yanko Design.

Minimalist alarm clock offers a simple yet delightful way to control it

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Everyone knows that stereotype of sleepyheads reaching for their bedside alarm clocks and simply pushing a button to turn them off. Even with smartphones, people approach alarm clock apps with that same detached and mechanical behavior. Of course, these clocks are just tools, but the way we interact with them in a way reflects our subconscious attitude toward time and waking up each day. Rather than simply letting time pass us by without our involvement, this minimalist and fun design turns the passive tool into something interactive, turning a routine action into something almost like a game.

Designers: Adrian Wright, Jeremy Wright (DesignWright)

We can sometimes feel like slaves to our clocks, moving according to pre-set schedules and called by the beeping or ringing of alarms. Smartphone apps made that situation simpler but also made us feel less in control. It’s only too easy to set up an alarm, sometimes even without our explicit action, and it’s just as easy to get lost in dozens of alarms and notifications. Having a physical alarm clock, especially by your bedside, helps us distance ourselves from the complexity of apps and digital experiences, and the Flip alarm clock adds a joyful twist to the way you interact with the object.

As its name suggests, you flip the alarm clock to determine how it behaves. One side is labeled “on” and it means what it says, that the alarm is enabled and active. Flip it over, however, and you’re greeted with the word “off” to indicate that the alarm is now disabled. Whichever way you turn it, the LCD display flips to show the time right side up, making it a reversible design as well.

This design that eschews physical buttons for kinetic controls adds an element of direct interaction with the object. You’re no longer dragged around by the alarms you set and become a willing actor in the scenario that plays before you. It can become an addictive action, one that kids will love, and it could even get you up and out of bed with less begrudging effort. Best of all, the Flip alarm clock looks just as fun and attractive on your desk or bedside table, adding a pinch of joy to your life.

The post Minimalist alarm clock offers a simple yet delightful way to control it first appeared on Yanko Design.

Walking wooden coffee table is equal parts mesmerizing and unsettling

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In the prehistoric past, man’s survival relied on preserving as much energy as possible by using the least amount of effort possible to complete a task. Today, that might sound a little like laziness, but it was that spirit of necessity that gave birth to many of humanity’s greatest inventions, from cars to smartphones to this rather ingenious walking wooden table. A product of passionate craftsmanship, computer wizardry, and creative imagination, the Carpentopod and its 12 crawling legs could be the semi-automated table you’ve dreamed of that will bring your snack and drink at your command, or a sci-fi nightmare come to life that will haunt your waking hours.

Designer: Giliam de Carpentier

Given our advancements in robotics, you might think that making a table walk would be a trivial pursuit, but unlike a wobbling and bouncing quadruped, a table needs to be stable and level if it’s to be useful. The biggest puzzle to this project, therefore, is designing legs that would move the table without jiggling and potentially spilling its contents. To solve this, computer software was used to generate thousands of leg linkage variations and have them compete with each other based on certain criteria. In other words, a kind of machine learning to create the best leg design that can move smoothly in a horizontal direction.

The result is a design that looks like a fusion of Theo Jansen’s iconic Strandbeest mechanism and the movement of multi-legged creatures like centipedes. The table moves with no less than 12 legs in four groups, as each leg can only do a third of the walk cycle on the ground. As you can imagine, the assembly of this wooden machine is no trivial task. The leg linkages themselves were CNC’ed from laminated bamboo for the sake of precision. All in all, There were more than a hundred bamboo parts involved in the construction, each of which was sanded and lacquered.

The Carpentopod isn’t just a mechanical wooden sculpture, however. There are motors used to move the legs, specifically the smooth, brushless motors used for automated curtain products. There’s also plenty of electronics involved, though the majority of them are for controlling the table remotely. Curiously, these non-wooden parts are all hidden inside a central hollow compartment, almost like the belly of the beast, so to speak. The table can be controlled using a custom wand-like remote not unlike a Wii-mote.

It’s definitely mind-blowing how the table can walk so smoothly without toppling things on top of it or spilling their contents. There’s still a bit of shaking, of course, but still within safe ranges. One can only imagine how the basic design of the Carpentopod could be improved with some sensors and automation, delivering your food while you sit on your couch and then parking itself away once its job is done.

The post Walking wooden coffee table is equal parts mesmerizing and unsettling first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Sleek & Stylish Japanese-Influenced Stationery For A Zen & Organized Desk Setup

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In recent years, Japanese design philosophy and principles have been discovered by the rest of us, and since then they have slowly but surely taken over the world. There’s something about products with a Japanese touch that instantly makes you feel at ease. They have a sense of warmth and tranquility to them, one that spreads in the space that they’re placed into. There’s something so efficient, functional, and yet unique about Japanese-influenced stationery, in particular.  And we’ve got you covered with a collection of innovative Japanese-inspired stationery! These beautifully designed products are all you need to introduce some Japanese zen and peace to your workdesk.

1. Kintsugi Plain Notebook

This stunning notebook draws inspiration from the Japanese art of Kintsugi, which involves repairing or fixing cracks in pottery with gold lacquer. It has a simple yet beautiful design cover, which embodies a deeper meaning. It encourages users to reflect, think, and write creatively, allowing them to leave imperfect little marks on the paper.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Kintsugi Plain Notebook urges you to note down your happy memories or creative ideas with total freedom. The notebook is built from sustainable bagasse paper, and it embodies your inner healing, as well as the healing of the planet.

What we like

  • Perfectly represents the beauty and essence of Japanese culture
  • The black cover showcases lovely branch-like golden lines

What we dislike

  • It is only available in a plain paper version and doesn’t have a lined variant

2. Forest Crayons

Forest Crayons is a project that utilizes the pigments extracted from different recycled forest trees, and then merges them with other sustainable ingredients to create crayons. Each crayon has a different shade, influenced by the species of recycled tree, and the way it was grown. For magnolia, they’ve created a light green color, while there is a deep turquoise for fungus-stained wood.

Why is it noteworthy?

The different pigments are combined with wood, rice wax, and rice oil. The Forest Crayons set includes ten colors: Bayberry, Bogwood, Cedar, Chinaberry, Cybress, Hazenoki, Katsura, Kaizuka, Magnolia, and Zelkova.

What we like

  • Designed to “breathe new life into Japanese wood”, creating an appreciation for the country’s forests

What we dislike

  • Unsure how dark and long-lasting the colors will be

3. Inseparable Notebook Pen

Named the Inseparable Note Book Pen, this stationery design is the ultimate companion to your notebook. It perfectly combines with your notebook, helping you note your thoughts, ideas, and memories. It has a subtle and minimal design, a comfortable grip, and a harmonious ink flow, allowing it to be more than just a writing tool.

Click Here to Buy Now: $17.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The pen is sophisticated and yet simple. It is a natural and harmonious extension of the book and has a sleek form which makes it great for effortless writing. The pen is an embodiment of the timeless and classic aesthetic everyone adores.

What we like

  • Creates a smooth and seamless writing experience for you
  • Has a compact form that easily gets attached to your notebook

What we dislike

  • It is placed outside the notebook, allowing it to get stained faster

4. Bento Jot

Say hello to the Bento Jot! This modern stationery set is designed to support you on your creative journey. The set is inspired by a Bento Box, and it includes 12 writing tools. The 3-layer bento box design is unique and appealing! It includes 3 layers – the Øver layer, the Mid layer, and the Base layer. All the layers include tools for handwritten notes.

Why is it noteworthy?

The 12 tools were designed specially for the Bento Jot. The tools have been built from premium materials, creating a satisfying tactile feel. The Mid-layer even includes a lovely vegan leather carrying case!

What we like

  • It has a Japandi-inspired emotive design

What we dislike

  • The entire box could be inconvenient to carry around

5. Japanese Memo Block

Named the Japanese Memo Block, this compact design is the perfect place to write down your creative and exciting thoughts, so that none of them escape you. It has an easy-to-carry form, so you can take it almost anywhere with you, ensuring you never lose any of the wonderful ideas that come into your mind.

Click Here to Buy Now: $20.00

Why is it noteworthy?

With the Japanese paper Memo Block, you can note down your priceless thoughts the minute they get into your head. You can jot them down before you get distracted all over again. It has quite a small footprint, so you can easily carry it wherever you go.

What we like

  • Features a pure black/white surface which is a great space for your creative thoughts
  • Made from high-quality Japanese paper

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically it does look like an ordinary notepad with nothing special

6. Quick Access Pencil Sharpener Stand

Meet the Quick Access Pencil Sharpener Stand – it lets you eliminate dull pencils, as this sharpener is present whenever you need it, and it holds your pencil for you too. The design is disc-shaped, and works as a pencil sharpener and a pencil stand, making it the ideal stationery product.

Click Here to Buy Now: $55.00

Why is it noteworthy?

It is equipped with a brass mechanism that prevents the wooden cover from opening by mistake and spilling the shavings within. It keeps your favorite pencil always sharp and within reach.

What we dislike

  • Functions as a sharpener and a sophisticated pen stand
  • Features a specially angled sharpener which makes the pencil last longer

What we dislike

  • The product doesn’t look very portable to carry around

7. Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Scissors

These are the Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Scissors! The handcrafted scissors are inspired by the motifs of famous Japanese samurai swords of the past. They are a special series of scissors that adopt the design and form of different popular Japanese swords. These swords were used by different heroes and legends during the Sengoku Jidai or Warring States Era(1467-1568) in English or the Bakumatsu period at the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Samurai scissors adopt the different motifs of the sheath designs, swords, and the house seals of different warriors. The scissors have been handcrafted by craftsmen, and they are made one by one.

What we like

  • Compact products that are made in Japan

What we dislike

  • They can only be used to cut paper, not strong enough to cut anything else

8. Sushi Eraser

Designed by Iwako, these adorable erasers are a must-have for sushi lovers! The erasers are available in all kinds of sushi – from Salmon Egg sushi to Cuttlefish sushi and even Nigiri Shrimp sushi. The resemblance to actual sushi pieces is uncanny, and each element of the erase is a puzzle piece and can be taken apart and then put together.

Why is it noteworthy?

The erasers bring Japanese culture and sushi fever to your boring desk, and they’re also perfect for stocking stuffers, decorations, and fun little games. The erasers are eco-friendly and made in Japan. They’ve been put together by hand!

What we like

  • Economically priced
  • Represent all the different varieties of sushi, with loads of choices available

What we dislike

  • We are unsure how efficient the erasers will be at erasing, they do look more decorative than functional

9. ONEBOX

Named the ONEBOX, this little woodworking design merges different tools into a fascinating interlocking Jenga-like stationery box. The box utilizes the same traditional mortise and tenon joining technique that was used to construct massive buildings in ancient times. Once the ONEBOX has been put together, it looks like any regular wooden box!

Why is it noteworthy?

When you pull the pieces of the box apart, you realize that each piece is a stationery tool or a fidget toy. The multi-part storage box is built from poplar, beech, or black walnut wood, showcasing a warm and wooden aesthetic. The various wooden pieces can be converted into a container for your stationery as a phone stand or even an adjustable ruler!

What we like

  • The pieces feature flawless tenon and mortise joints
  • Serves as much more than just an ordinary stationery box

What we dislike

  • You have to ensure you don’t lose a piece, or else you’ll have trouble putting the box together again

10. Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Letter Opener

Another important addition to a desk is a letter opener, and we just discovered a Samurai-style letter opener for you! The Japanese NIKKEN Samurai Letter Opener is inspired by the iconic Japanese Samurai Katana, and it is a compact and functional stationery piece for your work desk, especially if you’re a lover of Japanese culture.

Why is it noteworthy?

The letter opener adopts the essence of the old legendary swords of famous leaders from history. Each sword is built by specialist masters of their craft, delivering a quality that is truly unmatched and special.

What we like

  • Handcrafted with a perfected edge

What we dislike

  • It can only be used to open a letter, it isn’t as sharp as a knife

The post Top 10 Sleek & Stylish Japanese-Influenced Stationery For A Zen & Organized Desk Setup first appeared on Yanko Design.

iPhone 16 iFixit teardown reveals a huge step forward in sustainability

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Today’s smartphones may be more advanced and more powerful than ever, but they still suffer from the same ailments that their ancestors experienced more than two decades ago. Screens get cracked, charging ports get worn down, and batteries die. Unlike the mobile phones of the past, however, the complex designs of modern smartphones make it impossible to even just replace a bloated or dying battery. Of course, companies have always defended this practice as protecting their brand and their intellectual property, but thankfully they’ve started turning around, and Apple just made what is perhaps the biggest step in that direction, short of simply letting owners pop off the iPhone 16’s back, pop out the old battery, and pop in a new one.

Designer: Apple (via iFixit)

The new “feature” that has the Internet abuzz involves the removable of those unwieldy “pull tabs” that doubled the work since you’d often still have to resort to some isopropyl alcohol at the end of the process. Instead, Apple’s new adhesive can dissolve under low electrical current, which means you can hook up the back of the exposed iPhone 16 or 16 Plus to an ordinary 9V battery and have that adhesive go away in a minute and a half. The voltage actually determines the length of waiting, and iFixit’s test showed that a 20V charge would have the battery ready to be removed in just 20 seconds.

This makes battery replacement significantly easier and less error-prone, though you’ll still have to do some alcohol cleanup to completely remove adhesive residue before installing a new battery. Considering batteries are one of the first things on a smartphone to die from natural wear and tear, they are also the most common parts that need to be repaired or replaced. This major improvement in repairability also improves the iPhone 16’s overall sustainability, as it reduces CO2 emissions in the long run.

The catch is that this groundbreaking adhesive is only available on the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. The more advanced Pro models, ironically, still use the pull tab system, but Apple did make a little change to make that process less nerve-wracking. The shells of these batteries are now made of hard steel instead of soft pouches, so the chances of accidentally puncturing these sensitive and volatile batteries are now lower, which is very important since you’ll still need to pry them off without that magical dissolving adhesive.

The rest of the iPhone 16 teardown is pretty uneventful, which also means that Apple has retained its improved DIY repair experience this year. This helped the iPhone 16 garner a 7 out of 10 on iFixit’s repairability scale, which is pretty high for a “regular” smartphone that doesn’t promote the same kind of repairability and sustainability as the Fairphone. Hopefully, this new material will eventually land on the iPhone Pro models next year, becoming a major sustainability feature of all iPhones moving forward.

The post iPhone 16 iFixit teardown reveals a huge step forward in sustainability first appeared on Yanko Design.

Frame Your Collectibles with the Ultimate Adaptive Display System

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Imagine the JudoGrid Modular Display System—a setup that grows with your passion. After years of refinement, JudoGrid has been designed to give your collectibles the spotlight they deserve. Whether it’s action figures, wargaming miniatures, or unique trinkets, JudoGrid adapts, evolves, and showcases your collection in a way that makes displaying a more active part of your hobby. Being fans and collectors, the JudoGrid team is dedicated to supporting their fellow hobbyists by providing a product that enhances the joy of collecting.

Designer: JudoGrid Team

Click Here to Buy Now: $48. Hurry, only 11/650 left! Raised over $75,00.

Built for the Future

Flexibility is at the core of JudoGrid’s design, built to grow with your collection. The system features expandable segments that allow you to easily adjust your display case’s size and depth—just picked up ten new action figures? No problem—Judo has you covered. Add or remove segments to create a display that perfectly fits your space and collection needs. JudoGrid offers a variety of shelving options, enabling you to configure your display exactly how you envision it.

The pegboard backing provides 360 degrees of customization, letting you arrange shelves, hooks, and accessories to suit every angle. This dynamic setup supports your current display and adapts to future expansions, making JudoGrid a versatile solution that evolves alongside your growing collection.

Precision in Design

Precision in design is key. The materials are chosen for both strength and visual appeal, with smooth surfaces and clean lines creating a contemporary look that enhances the impact of your display. JudoGrid goes beyond simple storage—it elevates the presentation of your cherished items, making your collection a true reflection of your style and passions.

The sleek, modern design fits effortlessly into any environment, blending functionality with style. Made from high-quality, injection-molded materials, JudoGrid ensures durability and ease of use. The solid pegboard foundation and shelves hold everything securely, supporting collections and figures of all sizes, from small and compact setups to large collector statues. JudoGrid is up for the challenge.

Customize Your World

JudoGrid is all about customization and adaptability, allowing you to organize and highlight your items precisely. With various shelves, hooks, holders, and stands, you can arrange your collection exactly how you want, and as your collection evolves, so can your display. You can choose from various color schemes, from sleek monochrome tones to vibrant hues.
Integrated LED lighting further enhances your display, allowing you to adjust the intensity and color to create the perfect ambiance—from subtle highlights to dramatic and moody lighting. JudoGrid’s durable acrylic windows provide a clear view of your collectibles while protecting them from dust and damage.

Effortless Setup, Endless Possibilities

Setting up your JudoGrid display is as enjoyable as curating it. The components snap or screw together easily and quickly, with no need for special tools. The intuitive design makes assembly simple, so you can focus on arranging your collection. Whether mounted on a wall or free-standing on your desk, JudoGrid fits seamlessly into your life. The modular components can be configured to suit your needs, maximizing wall space with a vertical display or spreading across a tabletop. The sky is literally the limit!

Who Is This For?

At its core, JudoGrid is designed for passionate collectors and hobbyists who want to give their fandoms the display they deserve. Whether you’re a miniature enthusiast, action figure collector, wargamer, or trading card slinger, JudoGrid provides a versatile solution tailored to your needs.

It’s perfect for anime figure collectors looking for the ideal showcase or hobbyists like miniature painters and D&D players who need specialized accessories to hold their 20th set of fancy dice. JudoGrid offers paint holders, brush organizers, and compartments for storing dice, miniatures, and other game accessories, ensuring your hobby stays organized and ready for action.
Looking Forward to the Future

Once the Kickstarter campaign is completed, JudoGrid will indeed come alive with the launch of its online configurator service. This innovative tool will allow collectors to build, visualize, and customize their display cases with ease, planning out every detail—from size and color to accessories—and having their personalized design shipped directly to their door.

The configurator will also make it simple to add new parts and plan future expansions as collections grow. With a continually expanding catalog of accessories, collectors will have an array of options to accent and elevate their figures, ensuring their displays evolve alongside their passions. JudoGrid is dedicated to making the showcasing experience more dynamic, personal, and user-friendly.

A New Era in Display

Finally, JudoGrid transforms display cases from mere storage into an exhilarating part of the collector’s journey. This innovative approach celebrates your collection, making the display an accentuating centerpiece of your experience. It’s a breakthrough that promises to make showcasing as thrilling as acquiring.

Click Here to Buy Now: $48. Hurry, only 11/650 left! Raised over $75,000.

The post Frame Your Collectibles with the Ultimate Adaptive Display System first appeared on Yanko Design.