Tag Archives: sustainable design

Largest floating wind platform sets on voyage to offshore destination

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The past few decades we’ve seen a lot of countries look for more sustainable (and safer) sources of energy as large parts of their respective populations continue to use a lot of power for various purposes. Wind energy have been an option for some and so we continue to see a lot of companies developing various types of wind turbines to help power their respective places.

Designer: Mingyang Smart Energy

OceanX is one of the wind turbines that has been making a lot of noise lately as it is now the world’s largest single-capacity floating wind platform. It has finally started its voyage from Guangzhou, China and is expected to reach its final destination of the Qingzhou IV Offshore Wind Farm in Yangjiang, Gangdong by August 14, traveling at 191 nautical miles. Aside from its sheer size, the dual-rotor design and its other technological powers has been catching the attention of those interested in sustainable energy.

The Y-shaped floating platform is made up of two MySE16.6 wind turbines on its upper V-shaped structure, with the entire thing weighing 15,000 tonnes. The blade diameters of the wind turbines are at 597 feet and it can withstand wind of up to 161 mph. Since it has a downward poster and a single-point mooring, the rotors can bend without damaging the supporting structure so it can stand up against extreme conditions like harsh winds and heavy waves.

While there are some reports saying that the OceanX will be able to generate power even in a hurricane, that remains to be seen as formulas of wind turbines in general would say otherwise. The company says that it is expected to generate 54 million kWh annually which would be enough to power 30,000 families (those with 3 members each) for an entire year.

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Cardboard planks create an atmospheric lamp set that pays tribute to dusk

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There are many metaphors and analogies related to dawn when the rising of the sun is often compared to new beginnings or opportunities to begin anew. Dusk, however, is just as magical a time as its polar opposite, when the light of the sun is all but spent but lingers every so briefly before giving way to the restful night. For many people, it is a calming moment that signals the end of a busy day and the start of a period of reflection and peace. That is the soothing atmosphere that this set of mood lamps tries to convey, and they do so in the most minimalist way possible using nothing more than a few pieces of regular cardboard.

Designer: Óscar Santos

Cardboard is a material that’s so common that it’s too easily taken for granted. It’s stiffer than paper but less durable than wood, so it’s often used for packaging that’s meant to just be thrown away. It’s a complete waste, of course, especially when the pieces of cardboard are still pristine, but there are few known uses for them outside of breaking them down and recycling them like paper, which also consumes water and energy. Fortunately, there are also a few creative souls who want to give cardboard a chance, like this collection of lamps that take advantage of cardboard’s natural properties.

CENIT, which means “zenith” in Spanish, is a group of three atmospheric luminaries inspired by the highest point of the sun just before nightfall, the dusk that heralds the transition of light into darkness. Rather than use a light source that has to be mixed with the right color temperature in intensity, these lamps simply rely on how cardboard actually naturally reflects and diffuses light in a warm tone and soft brightness. No additional parts are needed, no filters or other materials: just a normal white LED strip and two pieces of cardboard with a certain gap between them.

This super-simple configuration creates an equally simple design that makes it easy for CENIT to blend almost anywhere. The wall lamp is just two long capsule-shaped pieces of cardboard with the larger serving as the base and the smaller hiding the light elements behind it. The desk lamp is a bit more decorative, with the two pieces set on a rectangular stand. On the other hand, the pendant light offers more flexibility, as the smaller cardboard with the LED or bulb can be turned to face away from the other cardboard piece and toward any area that needs more direct and brighter illumination.

The minimalist design also makes the lamps very sustainable, replacing only the parts that get worn down or broken. Given how many cardboard boxes are discarded every day, there will be no shortage of materials to use for replacements or new lamps. It’s a very interesting and poetic design that is able to set the mood and atmosphere in a room almost like magic, just as dusk paints the sky with an enchanting hue before the mystical darkness of the night sets in.

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Eco-friendly tumbler uses thermoplastic made from unused wood byproducts

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Coffee lovers have thankfully become more conscious of the harmful effect their drinking habit has, not on their bodies but on the planet. Plastic cups are the biggest culprits, of course, but even paper cups actually take a toll on the environment in the long run. Paper is sustainable and biodegradable, but the rate at which we manufacture the material is faster than we can grow trees to maturity. At the same time, normal wood isn’t exactly a good material for reusable cups or tumblers that are becoming the go-to solution for environment-conscious drinkers of coffee, tea, or water. This design concept tries to offer a middle ground with a seemingly magic thermoplastic tumbler that is actually made from unused wood.

Designer: Kim Jiwoo (Designer Dot)

Wood is a material well-loved by designers because of its innate beauty and sustainability. But while it does grow on trees, trees don’t grow overnight. And while there are alternatives that make use of recycled synthetic materials like plastic, these don’t easily decompose like wood, which can turn into material that nourishes the soil that trees grow on. In other words, wood is the perfect circular economy material, and it would be great if it could take on the beneficial properties of plastic as well.

CXP or Cellulose Cross-linked Polymer is that growing (no pun intended) solution that promises the best of both worlds. It’s made of wood, specifically the cellulose that is the building block of trees and plants, but it has also been plasticized through specific chemical processes that are fortunately easy to reproduce. Unlike bioplastics that need very specific conditions before they decompose, CXP behaves exactly like wood in this regard. In other words, once this tumbler has reached the end of its life, it can be even used to nourish the soil for other trees whose discarded wood will be used to make more thermoplastics.

LINK is the expression of this sustainability innovation, a tumbler that tries to signify the connection between humans and trees on multiple levels. Its handle is intentionally shaped like a branch sprouting from a tree trunk, sporting a length that is ergonomic for any hand size. The trunk, which is the main body of the tumbler, is also shaped with ridges that try to mimic the uneven surfaces of trees, while also adding to the grippiness of the container.

Unlike a regular wooden vessel, LINK can be used to hold hot beverages like coffee since it is also a conventional thermoplastic. Spills, leaks, and slips can be prevented by using eco-friendly silicone, perhaps the only concession to this design. And because of the very nature of such recycled materials, there will be very noticeable specks of color that give each tumbler a unique identity that represents its special link to all life on the planet through wood.

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This 40-MW Floating Wind Turbine Features A Mega-Array Of Smaller Rotors

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Norway’s Wind Catching Systems (WCS) have created an impressive array of small rotors arranged in a neat grid to achieve up to 126 MW, or five times the energy of a 15-MW single-rotor turbine in the North Sea conditions. Usually, wind turbines are designed to be larger with bigger rotors to pull in more megawatts, but WCS went for a more subtle and functional approach. Besides offering a superior energy output, the innovative Windcatcher design facilitates simpler installation than typical wind turbines, offering easier maintenance and simpler scalability. It also has a longer life service of around 50 years compared to the 30-year life cycle of bigger single-turbine units.

Designer: Wind Catching Systems

The Windcatcher includes floating supports that are shared between a bunch of small and lightweight turbines that have been tied up in large arrays of structural scaffolding. This distributes the weight of the turbine fans and generators, and the force supplied by the wind between a larger area. The scaffolding serves as the ultimate foundation for small installation and maintenance elevators, which slowly run up and down the generators. Once the main structure has been built, the various working parts will be installed and then maintained with total ease. The system won’t need large generators and massive blades, as it will be logistically easier to build.

WCS gathered a lot of support in the past couple of years. In 2022 it secured almost US$10 million from GM Ventures and also received grants of NOK22 million (US$2.1 million) and NOK9.3 million (US$0.9 Million), respectively. These grants were provided by Enova SF – a Norwegian government enterprise committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and discovering novel and clean energy technologies. The design has also received a stamp of approval from DNV (Det Norske Veritas) – an internationally accredited registrar and classification society that offers services for different industries including maritime, oil, gas, and renewable energies.

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Concrete house lets you live in the middle of the forest

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Having lived in a city all my life, I’m used to waking up in the morning, looking out the window, and seeing nothing but buildings. So of course it’s my dream that one day, I’d be able to live in a place where I am surrounded by nature but still have the conveniences of “civilization”. We’re seeing a lot of house concepts right now where all you need to do is step out of your front door or sometimes even just look out your window and you’re one with nature.

Designer: Pérez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados

One such house is Copas, a contemporary and minimalist concrete house located in the forests of Valle de Brava in Mexico so you get the best view of nature from your window and especially from the rooftop terrace, where you feel like you’re part of the forest. The colors of the house are similar to the tree trunks and rock formations that surround it. The overall design of the house gives you the impression like you’re climbing a mountain.

The private bedrooms on the lower level has glazing that frames the forest while the kitchen, dining room, and the lounge space also give a beautiful view of the surrounding woodlands. The terrace on the roof extends towards the trees while the swimming pool on the higher volume is the perfect way to cap off a relaxing day in your abode.

The two-volume house is integrated into the slope so there’s not much excavation that will disturb the surroundings. The house has also different finishes to complement the concrete look, including wood furniture, natural rugs and fabrics so you get an even cozier feeling. This is such an interesting house to live in especially if you’re sick and tired of the concrete jungle.

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Explore Cutting-Edge Aerodynamics with the Polydrops P21: A Camper for the Future

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Polydrops has been capturing the attention of the camper industry for a few years with its innovative designs. Their latest release, the P21, promises to redefine the RV experience with its advanced design and features. Known for affordability and lightweight construction, Polydrops campers have become a favorite among modern travelers. The P21 is no exception, pushing the boundaries of what a camper can offer with its futuristic aesthetic and practical functionality.

Designers: Kyunghyun Lew and Jieun Choi

The company, founded by two architects, always integrates architectural principles into its designs. This new model is distinguished by its striking appearance and exceptional aerodynamic performance. The P21 is designed to turn heads on the road and at campsites, seamlessly blending style with functionality in a manner unmatched by other campers.

The design prioritizes efficiency and performance, with every exterior aspect crafted to enhance aerodynamics, reduce drag, and improve towing stability. This focus on aerodynamic efficiency is significant for those using electric vehicles, as it helps to maximize range and minimize energy consumption.

Exterior Design: Futuristic and Functional

The P21’s exterior is striking with its angular, polygonal design, reminiscent of Tesla’s Cybertruck. Polydrops has seamlessly integrated architectural principles into the P21, creating a visually appealing and highly functional structure.

Each line, panel, and curve of the P21 enhances its aerodynamic performance. The sharp, knife-edge front cuts through the air with minimal resistance, ensuring stability and ease of towing, even at high speeds. This aerodynamic design reduces drag, crucial for maintaining the range and efficiency of electric vehicles towing the trailer.

Aerodynamics: The Science Behind the Design

Polydrops has meticulously engineered the P21’s exterior to optimize its aerodynamic efficiency. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations played a crucial role in shaping the P21, ensuring that every aspect of its design minimizes air resistance and maximizes efficiency. These simulations, akin to those used by aerospace and automotive leaders like Boeing and NASA, informed the development of the P21’s unique shape.

The P21 features a vertical wedge-shaped front end that slices through the air, reducing high-pressure zones that typically cause drag. This design departs from conventional travel trailers’ more traditional rounded or angled fronts. By minimizing high-pressure air drag, the P21 achieves greater stability and efficiency, which is crucial for maintaining the range of electric vehicles towing the trailer.

The design of the roof significantly contributes to its aerodynamic performance. The pointed, forward-slanting tip and downward-flowing roof allow air to flow smoothly over the trailer, reducing turbulence and drag. This design enhances aerodynamic efficiency and provides ample headroom inside the camper, creating a spacious and comfortable living environment.

The back of the P21 has a boat tail design that helps control airflow as it leaves the trailer. This feature reduces the turbulence behind the trailer, cutting down on drag and improving overall aerodynamic performance. In Polydrops’ CFD simulations, these design elements make the camper three times more aerodynamically efficient than traditional models.

Interior Design: Practical and Comfortable

The inside of the P21 is just as well-designed as the outside. Polydrops has made use of every inch of space to create a functional and comfortable living area. The interior layout is dictated by the aerodynamic exterior shape, and the designers have done an excellent job of maximizing space while maintaining a sleek, modern look.

The interior features a standable height, allowing occupants to move around freely. The layout includes a convertible lounge that can transform into a dining area or an additional sleeping space. Storage is plentiful, with numerous overhead compartments and under-seat storage options. The interior design maximizes the use of space while maintaining a clean and uncluttered look. The materials used are lightweight yet durable, ensuring that the camper remains easy to tow without compromising strength and stability.

Maximize your off-grid adventures with the P21’s Sanitation Unit upgrade. Enjoy the convenience of a sink, shower, and portable toilet featuring 9 gallons of fresh water and a 1.3-gallon water heater tank. The shower cleverly converts into a lounge area when closed, providing luxurious comfort even in remote locations.

Cooking station

Refrigerator

Key Features and Innovations

The P21 features a best-in-class Timbren independent suspension system, which ensures a smooth and comfortable ride on all types of terrain. This suspension system offers excellent stability and minimizes vibration, making it ideal for rough or uneven roads. Additionally, the lightweight construction of the P21 improves fuel efficiency and lowers travel expenses. Its rust-free aluminum frame ensures durability and longevity.

The P21 includes a simple control system. Equipped with a user-friendly 7-inch display, the P21 allows straightforward control and monitoring of all systems. The intuitive interface and remote control capability make monitoring the electrical system and other features easy, enhancing the overall user experience. The system seamlessly connects to your smartphone, allowing for convenient remote control accessibility.

Kid’s bed

The interior layout includes a queen-size bed and an optional kids’ bed, making it ideal for families. The galley is split into two sections, with a sink and countertop on one side and space for a cooktop on the other. There is also a convertible shower with a hidden toilet, similar to those found in high-end campervans. This thoughtful design ensures that the P21 meets the needs of modern travelers while maintaining a compact and efficient layout.

Solar Charging: Harnessing the Power of the Sun

One of the P21’s most impressive features is its advanced solar charging capabilities. The integrated 1300W solar panels efficiently convert sunlight into energy, providing a sustainable power source for the camper. This system ensures you can stay off the grid for extended periods without worrying about running out of power. The solar panels are seamlessly integrated into the design, maintaining the sleek and aerodynamic profile of the P21 while offering significant energy savings.

The solar charging system works in tandem with the all-electric setup, including the LFP battery and climate control system. This combination provides reliable power for all onboard systems, ensuring a comfortable and convenient camping experience. Whether parked in a sunny meadow or a shaded forest, the P21’s solar panels will keep you powered up and ready for adventure.

The Polydrops P21 is a futuristic camper that offers practical functionality. Its aerodynamic exterior, advanced solar charging capabilities, and comfortable interior make it an ideal choice for modern travelers. With features like a rust-free frame, lightweight construction, and a best-in-class suspension system, the P21 is built to handle any adventure. Whether you’re exploring remote landscapes or enjoying a weekend getaway, the P21 promises a unique camping experience. Polydrops continues to push the boundaries of what a camper can be, and the P21 is a shining example of their innovative approach.

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Paper saddlebag hangs over the edge to keep your desk organized

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We only have a very finite desk space, constrained by the available area in our rooms or offices. We can always stack up desk organizers or have drawers beneath to make up for it, but those can only go so far. One underutilized area of our desks is often the sides, and there will always be at least two free edges even if you have a corner table. Taking advantage of that unused space, this rather unusual desk organizer hangs a saddlebag on the side of your table, providing not only a place to put pens and notebooks inside, but even a spot for your phone or drink on top. Best of all, it’s made of a sustainable material that looks more like luxurious leather than paper.

Designer: Tilla Goldberg for Richard Lampert

You’d normally hear of saddlebags only in relation to horses or even camels, but our work desks are just as much beasts of burden as these animals. And just like on those, the SALTO dangles off to the side to provide more storage than our overcrowded desks can already accommodate. It’s deep and spacious enough for notebooks, pens, cables, or even headphones, just about anything you want to keep out of sight but still within easy reach.

It even has enough room for a power strip, which is probably the last thing you’d think of putting inside. The bag’s design actually creates a simple loop at the bottom for the strip’s cable to pass through, becoming the only location where it snakes its way to a power outlet. It’s an unusual but effective cable management system, letting those wires all drop off to the side and disappear into the abyss that is the SALTO bag.

There is one odd and potentially problematic part of the saddlebag’s design, at least in the way it’s being advertised. The half-circle tray that sits on top becomes a place for more important items you’ll always want to have access to, like your phone or a glass of water. The latter, however, might be a cause for concern, considering how the weight of the bag’s contents could very well be heavy enough to pull that tray off the table. You can probably imagine the disaster if that drink spills inside, especially if there’s a power strip there as well.

The SALTO is also a very sustainable design that’s surprisingly made of paper. Technically, it’s a type of washable vegan paper that’s being used as a leather alternative, which explains its fabric-like texture and composition. It definitely looks elegant and stylish, especially when hanging from a minimalist desk that has all its clutter cleared and dumped into this bag.

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DON’T Throw Your Old Phone – Here Are 6 Ways You Can Still Use It

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Image Credits: MKBHD

Ever had a spare phone lying around at home and wondered what the resale value on it was? Then you went and checked online and it was probably a measly few hundred dollars. Yeah, me too. The last phone I owned depreciated by a whopping $700 in two and a half years, and that just made me want to not sell it or discard it, because it would be a financial loss. Instead, I decided to keep it (since it was working perfectly well), and repurpose it into a dedicated WiFi Hotspot. If you too have an old phone lying around the house that you’re thinking of discarding, I’m here to tell you to stop! Your old phone may not be capable of handling the requirements of your day-to-day life… but it’s still essentially a computer with a touchscreen and a bunch of sensors. Here are 6 clever things you can do with an old device instead of reselling it, discarding it, or passing it down to a kid.

01. Turn It Into a CCTV or Motion Detection Device

One of the most practical ways to repurpose your old phone is to turn it into a security camera or motion detection device. Designed by Edward Snowden (yes, the cybersecurity expert), the Haven: Keep Watch app turns your existing smartphone into a full-fledged surveillance device, leveraging your phone’s camera and sensors to keep an eye out on your home, alerting you of any movement or sudden changes that may require your attention.

Setting up your old phone as a security camera is straightforward. Download the Haven app, place your phone in a strategic location where you want surveillance, and ensure it’s plugged into a power source to avoid running out of battery. Haven utilizes the phone’s camera, microphone, and even accelerometer to detect movement and sounds, sending alerts to your primary phone. This setup is perfect for monitoring pets, keeping an eye on your front door, or even ensuring the safety of your belongings while you’re away. Instead of investing in expensive CCTV systems, you can use your old phone to keep everything in check. The best part? This solution is cost-effective and can be set up in minutes.

02. Use It as a Dedicated Music Player

You know what’s better than Spotify’s now-dead Car Thing? An old phone that you can use as a dedicated audio player for both your home AND your car. Turning your old phone into a dedicated music player is a great way to keep your tunes handy without impacting the performance of your primary device.

Start by wiping your old phone clean to free up space. Then, download your favorite music streaming apps like Spotify, Apple Music, or Amazon Music. You can also transfer your personal music collection to the device. Once your music library is set up, you can use your old phone exclusively for music, whether you’re at the gym, in the car, or relaxing at home. For those who love high-quality audio, pairing your old phone with a good set of Bluetooth headphones or speakers can provide a rich listening experience. Plus, if your primary phone’s battery is running low, your music won’t have to stop.

03. Create a Portable Gaming Console

Your old phone doesn’t need to retire from providing entertainment. Instead, transform it into a portable gaming console. Pair it with a nice phone-holding controller from Backbone or Razer and you have yourself a bonafide Nintendo Switch replacement!

First, ensure your old phone has enough storage space by removing unnecessary apps and files. Next, download your favorite games from the app store. You can also install emulators for classic games, turning your phone into a portable arcade. Many Bluetooth controllers are compatible with smartphones, offering a console-like experience on the go. Picture yourself on a long flight or a road trip, and instead of draining your new phone’s battery with games, you have a dedicated gaming device. Games like “Call of Duty: Mobile,” “PUBG Mobile,” and classic arcade games can provide hours of entertainment without compromising your primary phone’s battery life or storage.

Moreover, this setup can be a great way to keep kids entertained without giving them access to your new phone. Set up parental controls, download educational games, and let them enjoy without any worries.

04. Set It Up as a Smart Home Controller

Smart homes are becoming increasingly common and nobody here likes the idea of having 20 different remotes for their different smart gadgets, or having 5-6 different IoT apps cluttering their existing smartphone. Here’s where your old phone can serve as a dedicated smart home controller, making it easy to manage your various smart devices from a single screen.

Start by downloading apps for all your smart home devices, such as smart lights, thermostats, security cameras, and speakers. Group these apps into a single folder on your old phone’s home screen for easy access. This setup can help you control your home’s environment efficiently and conveniently while turning that old phone into a universal remote… so that you don’t have to turn your existing phone into one. It’s clean, efficient, and acts as your dedicated control center that anyone in your home can use, rather than 5 members of your house installing multiple apps on all their devices.

05. Use It as a Digital Photo Frame

Your old phone can serve as a beautiful digital photo frame, showcasing your favorite memories on your desk, shelf, or bedside table. This use not only breathes new life into the device but also brings a touch of nostalgia and personal touch to your space.

Start by wiping your old phone clean and downloading a digital photo frame app, such as Digital Photo Frame Slideshow. Transfer your favorite photos to the phone, either through a cloud service or by connecting the phone to your computer. Set the app to display a slideshow of your images, and place the phone in a location where you can enjoy the rotating gallery of your cherished moments. This setup is particularly useful for displaying family photos, travel memories, or even a rotating selection of your best shots if you’re a photography enthusiast.

06. Convert It Into a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

Another fantastic way to utilize your old phone is to turn it into a portable Wi-Fi hotspot. This can be particularly useful when traveling or in areas with poor internet connectivity, allowing you to stay connected without relying on public Wi-Fi. I still use my OnePlus phone as a hotspot while traveling, because of its highly underrated ORoaming feature that lets me use mobile internet in practically any country for a small fee.

To set this up, ensure your old phone is still functional and can connect to your cellular network or can support e-SIM apps internationally. Activate the mobile hotspot feature in the phone’s settings, and configure the hotspot with a secure password. Once set up, you can connect your other devices, such as laptops, tablets, and even your new phone, to the hotspot.

This solution is ideal for road trips, camping, or any situation where reliable internet is essential. It provides a secure and stable connection, helping you avoid the risks associated with using public Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, if you’re working remotely, having a dedicated hotspot can ensure you stay productive without interruptions.

Before you toss your old phone into a drawer or, worse, the trash, consider these six creative ways to repurpose it. From enhancing your home security to enjoying your favorite music and games, your old phone still has plenty of potential. These solutions not only save you money but also provide practical benefits that can improve your daily life.

So, the next time you upgrade to the latest model, remember that your old phone is far from obsolete. With a bit of creativity and the right apps, you can transform it into a useful tool that continues to serve you well beyond its intended lifespan.

The post DON’T Throw Your Old Phone – Here Are 6 Ways You Can Still Use It first appeared on Yanko Design.

Stay in eco-friendly and sustainable luxury villas in the Red Sea

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As we start to feel all sorts of effects from climate change, we’ve become more conscious about our relationship with nature in all aspects of our lives. Well, that is, if you actually care about this planet’s future of course. Sustainable ecotourism has become a buzzword as we’re seeing all sorts of structures being built that want to have a harmonious relationship with its surroundings.

Designer: Kengo Kuma for Red Sea Global

However, we have to admit that a lot of these sustainable projects fall under the category of luxury tourism since it takes a considerable amount of money to design and construct things like these. The Ummahat AlShaykh Island project in the middle of the Red Sea is one such undertaking. The 22 islands are located in the west coast of Saudi Arabia and has several luxury tourist villas and othe structures that are designed to be eco-friendly and sustainable.

The “Land Villas” have curved roofs that are inspired by the contours of the dunes in the area and have a helical structure with a great view of the surrounding waters. To make sure that it minimizes disturbance in the environment, prefabrication is the key. They also used spruce timber and clay plaster with the roofs using natural cedar wood shingles to make it resilient against salt water and other extreme weather conditions.

The islands also have specialty restaurants located one over water and another on land, a spa, housekeeping villas, a guest jetty, and a community building for those that prefer to socialize rather than just stay in the privacy of their villas. I don’t even want to think about how much an overnight stay would cost but this is a great idea for those who can afford it and would want to have a more eco-friendly kind of vacation.

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HMD Skyline is a Nokia Lumia throwback with repairability at its core

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The Nokia brand was famous for its innumerable smartphone designs, some of which have stood the test of time and are being revived today. Although not as old as those, the Nokia Lumia with its blocky silhouette, curved sides, and raised 2.5D screen is just as distinctive, becoming the DNA of the product line until its demise. HMD Global, who now eagerly wants to remind everyone that its name stands for “Human Mobile Devices,” is bringing back that iconic form but with a twist. The HMD Skyline might be a blast from the past, but it is also the most forward-looking of its kind thanks to its strong self-repair spirit.

Designer: HMD

The Skyline is notable for two things. The first is, of course, is design that is both dated yet ironically fresh to people’s eyes today. The more geometric block is almost in line with art trends today, and its neon pink colorway definitely shouts for attention. Given the retro design craze gripping multiple industries, its arrival couldn’t be more timely.

This juxtaposition also shows itself in the HMD Skyline’s other strength: its easy repairability. Sure, it’s not as easy as popping off the back plate with a fingernail and swapping out batteries in a snap, but it’s still worlds apart compared to most smartphones today, including its mid-range buddies. There’s only one screw to lift the back panel, which you can gently pry off with plastic cards or guitar picks, then other connectors can be easily unscrewed or lifted. It’s probably the least risky process around when it comes to replacing the screen. And all that while still having an IP54 dust and water resistance rating.

Images courtesy of: iFixit

The irony is that HMD is positioning this Gen 2 repairability as an attractive feature for Gen Z users who, it claims, are more likely to keep their phone if they can repair it themselves. That said, this is also the generation that lives for the latest and greatest designs, convenient services, and near-instant gratification from social media. Then again, it’s also the maker culture, so there might be some DIY DNA running through their veins as well, waiting to be awakened.

The HMD Skyline’s specs are a bit less impressive, but it’s actually almost a miracle that some of them are even there. The 6.55-inch 1080p, for example, is capable of 144Hz refresh rates, and its 4,600mAh battery supports magnetic wireless charging. There’s a massive 108MP camera teamed up with a 50MP telephoto shooter and a 13MP wide-angle camera. The Snapdragon 7s Gen 2, however, clearly marks it for the mid-range class. All things considered, the $500 Android phone isn’t as bad a deal, especially if you’re truly into retro designs that you plan on maintaining for a very long time.

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