Tag Archives: Product Design

Stop Counting Sheep: Let the Brain Sleep Pillow Give You the Best Night’s Rest Ever

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Sleep is essential for a healthy, productive life, and the Brain Sleep Pillow is designed to give you the best sleep possible. This innovative pillow uses advanced technologies and high-quality materials to ensure comfort, support, and hygiene. Let’s dive into what makes it the last pillow you’ll buy for your nightly rest.

Designer: Brain Sleep Co., Ltd.

Click Here to Buy Now: $144 $240 (40% off). Hurry, only 5 left! Raised over $114,000.

Focusing on the first 90 minutes of sleep, known as the “Golden 90 Minutes,” this pillow optimizes sleep quality. This period is crucial because it includes the deepest phase of sleep, significantly influencing the overall quality of your rest. Your sleep consists of REM (rapid eye movement) and non-REM (NREM) sleep cycles. Each cycle lasts about 90 minutes; the first cycle typically contains the deepest sleep. The more deep sleep you get during this period, the better the overall quality of your sleep. Body temperature is one of the key factors for achieving quality sleep during the Golden 90 Minutes. Higher body temperatures during sleep are associated with reduced deep sleep. This pillow addresses this by having over 90% of its structure made up of air space. This design prevents heat and moisture from getting trapped in the pillow, helping to keep your brain cool and promoting high-quality sleep. Data confirms that the Brain Sleep Pillow, compared to typical polyurethane pillows, leads to a higher percentage of deep sleep in the first cycle. This is backed by sleep surveys showing that users of this pillow experience more deep sleep during the Golden 90 Minutes, which is crucial for overall sleep quality.

One key aspect is its ability to keep you cool throughout the night. Traditional pillows, like those made from feathers or urethane, often trap heat, making your head feel warm and uncomfortable. However, the Brain Sleep Pillow stays much cooler, promoting better sleep. This pillow is made of a unique material that allows heat to escape quickly, so it doesn’t get trapped inside. Scientific tests show it maintains a cooler head surface temperature than other pillows. This cooling effect helps you fall asleep faster and stay in a deeper sleep longer. Imagine resting your head on a pillow that always feels cool and refreshing, even on hot nights. Dr. Seiji Nishino, a sleep expert from Stanford University, contributed significantly to this design by emphasizing the importance of temperature regulation during sleep. His expertise in sleep physiology and understanding of how cooling impacts deep sleep have been crucial in developing this innovative feature.

Another incredible feature is its personalized fit technology. This pillow is designed with a three-layer structure that perfectly balances comfort and support. The top layer, known as the adjustment layer, is soft and fluffy. This layer molds to the shape of your head, providing immediate comfort. Beneath this is the firmer support layer, which offers solid support for your head and neck. This helps keep your spine aligned properly, reducing any strain or discomfort. The bottom layer, called the base layer, is harder and allows air to flow through the pillow, keeping it cool and increasing its durability. The pillow also features a unique nine-gradation system. This means the pillow has varying firmness levels across its width, ranging from hard to soft and back to hard. This design supports your head and neck whether you sleep on your side, back, or stomach. It also makes it easier to turn over without losing support, which helps reduce strain on your head and neck.

Keeping your pillow clean and fresh is crucial for a good night’s sleep, and this pillow makes it easy with its Super Clean technology. Humans typically sweat around 200ml while sleeping, but the pillow’s excellent breathability prevents moisture build-up, promoting a hygienic sleeping environment. Made in Japan, it undergoes meticulous quality checks. Skilled technicians and craftsmen carefully inspect each pillow to meet stringent quality standards. Once the pillow passes these rigorous inspections, it is carefully packed and delivered to customers, ensuring it arrives perfectly.

This pillow is made from 100% recyclable and sustainable polyethylene, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. In addition to the high-quality pillow itself, you can choose from different covers to suit your preferences. The Active Air cover is made from breathable mesh material with water-absorbent, quick-drying, antibacterial, and anti-odor properties. It ensures a comfortable, non-sticky feel and dries quickly even after washing, making it ideal for rainy days. This cover is made of 100% polyester. The Organic Cotton cover is made from 100% organic cotton, grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers for over three years. It offers natural antibacterial, deodorizing, absorbent, and quick-drying properties, ensuring a clean and comfortable sleep environment. The use of organic cotton reflects the company’s commitment to environmentally friendly materials. The Perfect Cool EX cover combines a powerful cooling function with moisture absorption. It enhances the cooling sensation of the pillow, making it ideal for hot nights. The cover is made from a blend of composite fibers, nylon, polyurethane, and polyester, ensuring durability and comfort.

Another significant benefit of this pillow is its ease of maintenance. The water-washable pillow dries quickly, so you can keep it clean with minimal effort. This makes it ideal for those with allergies, such as house dust, and families with small children. The pillow’s design also minimizes mold growth, adding to its hygienic benefits. For maintenance, if your pillow loses its plumpness, you can restore it by fluffing it with a 45-50-degree shower. This simple care routine keeps the pillow in optimal shape, providing consistent comfort. Just be sure to avoid using water hotter than 50°C (122°F) to prevent any damage to the material.

Integrating multiple advanced technologies, this pillow provides a superior sleeping experience. From cooling and personalized fit to hygiene and sustainability, the pillow addresses various aspects of sleep quality. Its innovative design, combined with high-quality materials and thoughtful features, ensures that users can enjoy a comfortable, restful, and clean sleep environment every night. Whether you’re looking for a cooler pillow that fits perfectly to your head and neck or stays clean and fresh with ease, the Brain Sleep Pillow has it all. By focusing on the crucial first 90 minutes of sleep and ensuring that the pillow remains hygienic and comfortable, this pillow helps you achieve the deep, restful sleep you need to wake up refreshed and ready for the day. Dr. Seiji Nishino’s contributions to its design ensure that it is backed by cutting-edge sleep research, making it a scientifically validated tool for better sleep. So, if you want to improve your sleep quality, the Brain Sleep Pillow is definitely worth considering.

Click Here to Buy Now: $144 $240 (40% off). Hurry, only 5 left! Raised over $114,000.

The post Stop Counting Sheep: Let the Brain Sleep Pillow Give You the Best Night’s Rest Ever first appeared on Yanko Design.

Stop Counting Sheep: Let the Brain Sleep Pillow Give You the Best Night’s Rest Ever

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Sleep is essential for a healthy, productive life, and the Brain Sleep Pillow is designed to give you the best sleep possible. This innovative pillow uses advanced technologies and high-quality materials to ensure comfort, support, and hygiene. Let’s dive into what makes it the last pillow you’ll buy for your nightly rest.

Designer: Brain Sleep Co., Ltd.

Click Here to Buy Now: $144 $240 (40% off). Hurry, only 5 left! Raised over $114,000.

Focusing on the first 90 minutes of sleep, known as the “Golden 90 Minutes,” this pillow optimizes sleep quality. This period is crucial because it includes the deepest phase of sleep, significantly influencing the overall quality of your rest. Your sleep consists of REM (rapid eye movement) and non-REM (NREM) sleep cycles. Each cycle lasts about 90 minutes; the first cycle typically contains the deepest sleep. The more deep sleep you get during this period, the better the overall quality of your sleep. Body temperature is one of the key factors for achieving quality sleep during the Golden 90 Minutes. Higher body temperatures during sleep are associated with reduced deep sleep. This pillow addresses this by having over 90% of its structure made up of air space. This design prevents heat and moisture from getting trapped in the pillow, helping to keep your brain cool and promoting high-quality sleep. Data confirms that the Brain Sleep Pillow, compared to typical polyurethane pillows, leads to a higher percentage of deep sleep in the first cycle. This is backed by sleep surveys showing that users of this pillow experience more deep sleep during the Golden 90 Minutes, which is crucial for overall sleep quality.

One key aspect is its ability to keep you cool throughout the night. Traditional pillows, like those made from feathers or urethane, often trap heat, making your head feel warm and uncomfortable. However, the Brain Sleep Pillow stays much cooler, promoting better sleep. This pillow is made of a unique material that allows heat to escape quickly, so it doesn’t get trapped inside. Scientific tests show it maintains a cooler head surface temperature than other pillows. This cooling effect helps you fall asleep faster and stay in a deeper sleep longer. Imagine resting your head on a pillow that always feels cool and refreshing, even on hot nights. Dr. Seiji Nishino, a sleep expert from Stanford University, contributed significantly to this design by emphasizing the importance of temperature regulation during sleep. His expertise in sleep physiology and understanding of how cooling impacts deep sleep have been crucial in developing this innovative feature.

Another incredible feature is its personalized fit technology. This pillow is designed with a three-layer structure that perfectly balances comfort and support. The top layer, known as the adjustment layer, is soft and fluffy. This layer molds to the shape of your head, providing immediate comfort. Beneath this is the firmer support layer, which offers solid support for your head and neck. This helps keep your spine aligned properly, reducing any strain or discomfort. The bottom layer, called the base layer, is harder and allows air to flow through the pillow, keeping it cool and increasing its durability. The pillow also features a unique nine-gradation system. This means the pillow has varying firmness levels across its width, ranging from hard to soft and back to hard. This design supports your head and neck whether you sleep on your side, back, or stomach. It also makes it easier to turn over without losing support, which helps reduce strain on your head and neck.

Keeping your pillow clean and fresh is crucial for a good night’s sleep, and this pillow makes it easy with its Super Clean technology. Humans typically sweat around 200ml while sleeping, but the pillow’s excellent breathability prevents moisture build-up, promoting a hygienic sleeping environment. Made in Japan, it undergoes meticulous quality checks. Skilled technicians and craftsmen carefully inspect each pillow to meet stringent quality standards. Once the pillow passes these rigorous inspections, it is carefully packed and delivered to customers, ensuring it arrives perfectly.

This pillow is made from 100% recyclable and sustainable polyethylene, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility. In addition to the high-quality pillow itself, you can choose from different covers to suit your preferences. The Active Air cover is made from breathable mesh material with water-absorbent, quick-drying, antibacterial, and anti-odor properties. It ensures a comfortable, non-sticky feel and dries quickly even after washing, making it ideal for rainy days. This cover is made of 100% polyester. The Organic Cotton cover is made from 100% organic cotton, grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers for over three years. It offers natural antibacterial, deodorizing, absorbent, and quick-drying properties, ensuring a clean and comfortable sleep environment. The use of organic cotton reflects the company’s commitment to environmentally friendly materials. The Perfect Cool EX cover combines a powerful cooling function with moisture absorption. It enhances the cooling sensation of the pillow, making it ideal for hot nights. The cover is made from a blend of composite fibers, nylon, polyurethane, and polyester, ensuring durability and comfort.

Another significant benefit of this pillow is its ease of maintenance. The water-washable pillow dries quickly, so you can keep it clean with minimal effort. This makes it ideal for those with allergies, such as house dust, and families with small children. The pillow’s design also minimizes mold growth, adding to its hygienic benefits. For maintenance, if your pillow loses its plumpness, you can restore it by fluffing it with a 45-50-degree shower. This simple care routine keeps the pillow in optimal shape, providing consistent comfort. Just be sure to avoid using water hotter than 50°C (122°F) to prevent any damage to the material.

Integrating multiple advanced technologies, this pillow provides a superior sleeping experience. From cooling and personalized fit to hygiene and sustainability, the pillow addresses various aspects of sleep quality. Its innovative design, combined with high-quality materials and thoughtful features, ensures that users can enjoy a comfortable, restful, and clean sleep environment every night. Whether you’re looking for a cooler pillow that fits perfectly to your head and neck or stays clean and fresh with ease, the Brain Sleep Pillow has it all. By focusing on the crucial first 90 minutes of sleep and ensuring that the pillow remains hygienic and comfortable, this pillow helps you achieve the deep, restful sleep you need to wake up refreshed and ready for the day. Dr. Seiji Nishino’s contributions to its design ensure that it is backed by cutting-edge sleep research, making it a scientifically validated tool for better sleep. So, if you want to improve your sleep quality, the Brain Sleep Pillow is definitely worth considering.

Click Here to Buy Now: $144 $240 (40% off). Hurry, only 5 left! Raised over $114,000.

The post Stop Counting Sheep: Let the Brain Sleep Pillow Give You the Best Night’s Rest Ever first appeared on Yanko Design.

2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance: Celebrating Automotive Excellence with Rolex

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Car Week 2024 is just around the corner, and we at Yanko Design couldn’t be more thrilled about it! As guests of Rolex, I can’t begin to express how excited I am to attend the prestigious Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance this year. I’m eagerly anticipating the festivities, ready to immerse myself in the world of automotive excellence and share all the excitement with you.

This year’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance promises a week filled with elegance, engineering marvels, and a rich history of motoring. The festivities begin with the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion from August 14 to 17, where over 400 meticulously restored cars will take to the iconic WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. This event, celebrating its 50th anniversary, is a reunion of racing legends and the machines that drove them to victory. Established in 1974, it started with just 66 entries, and now, each vehicle receives a coveted acceptance letter affirming its prestigious heritage.

ROLEX TESTIMONEE JENSON BUTTON BEHIND THE WHEEL OF HIS 1952 JAGUAR C-TYPE

I’m looking forward to watching Jenson Button, the 2009 FIA Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champion, take to the track at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, driving his 1952 Jaguar C-Type. This classic car, renowned for its historical significance and elegance, is believed to have been previously owned by the legendary racer Juan Manuel Fangio. Button shares his enthusiasm for the Laguna Seca circuit, which is celebrated for its demanding corkscrew corner and dramatic elevation changes, which promise an exhilarating driving experience.

On August 15, the Pebble Beach Tour d’Elegance presented by Rolex will captivate us with its rolling museum of historic vehicles. This event, a prelude to the Concours, takes us on a journey through the scenic 17-mile Drive, offering a first glimpse of the cars that will be judged on Sunday. The tour celebrates meticulous restoration and showcases the craftsmanship of preserving these automotive treasures.

A MISTY MORNING DURING THE PEBBLE BEACH TOUR D’ELEGANCE PRESENTED BY ROLEX

The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, is set for August 16 and is a highlight of the week. Here, we’ll witness a blend of vintage and modern engineering brilliance as esteemed manufacturers unveil their visionary models. This year’s gathering commemorates significant milestones for several marques, including the centennial of British icon MG, the 30th anniversary of Swedish innovator Koenigsegg Automotive, and the 50th anniversary of the Porsche 911 Turbo (930). As the event concludes, class winners and the overall Rolex Best of Show will be welcomed into the Rolex Circle of Champions.

CLASSIC PORSCHE MODELS AT THE QUAIL, A MOTORSPORTS GATHERING IN 2023

The grand finale at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance takes place on August 18. This 73rd edition will feature an array of pristine historic automobiles from 1898 to 2023. The event explores the Italian heritage of Maserati and Pietro Frua, celebrates the 125th birthday of the iconic Packard marque, and admires the GT racing legends of the 1990s, along with contemporary wedge-shaped concept cars. Set against Pebble Beach Golf Links® stunning backdrop, this event celebrates timeless beauty and automotive excellence.

VINTAGE AUTOMOBILES ON DISPLAY AT THE PEBBLE BEACH GOLF LINKS

The journey through Car Week also highlights Rolex’s long-standing connection to motorsport, which dates back to Sir Malcolm Campbell’s World Land Speed Record successes in the 1930s. Rolex’s involvement in motor racing has grown over the decades, extending to revered endurance events like the Rolex 24 At Daytona and the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Their support of classic automotive events, including the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance®, The Quail, and the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, underscores their commitment to preserving and celebrating the heritage of motoring.

We’re excited to share our experiences, stories, and insights from this year’s Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance with you. Stay tuned for our heartfelt report as we bring you the magic and allure of Car Week 2024 straight from the heart of the festivities!

The post 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance: Celebrating Automotive Excellence with Rolex first appeared on Yanko Design.

TCL’s Ultra-Slim 1.1 Inch NXTFRAME Smart TVs with AI Art Generation and Built-in Art Gallery

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If you still happen to have an NFT collection, TCL’s TV might just be the new way to display it.

It was probably Samsung that came up with the idea of transforming your TV into an ambient art frame when not in use, and I have to admit, it’s quite a stellar idea. The television is great when you’re watching something on it, but the minute you switch it off, it becomes an ugly black rectangle on your wall. Frame-inspired TVs are a great alternative, allowing you to turn your wall into home decor, and TCL’s jumped onto that trend with its NXTFRAME range of smart TVs. Measuring a mere 1.1 inches thick, the NXTFRAME televisions sit virtually flush against your wall, pretty much like a piece of framed art.

Designer: TCL

Ranging between 55 and 85 inches in size, the smart TVs blend right into your home seamlessly, with the QLED Pro screen mimicking the feeling of printed art really well thanks to its high contrast and clarity even in brightly lit rooms. The 4K TVs come with Google TV for watching all your streaming services, but the display’s beauty lies in TCL’s built-in curated art library as well as the ability to make and display AI-generated art. A gorgeous matte screen helps the art stand out well without any added glare from lights or nearby windows, and the TV even comes with wood-like veneers that attach onto the bezel, giving the NXTFRAME a bonafide outer frame.

As gorgeously slick as the NXTFRAME looks, its performance specs are equally impressive. With a refresh rate of up to 144Hz, it promises smooth and fluid visuals, whether you’re watching a high-action movie or playing the latest video games. The inclusion of Dolby Vision IQ ensures that the picture quality adapts to the lighting conditions in your room, offering the best possible image at all times. Additionally, the support for AMD FreeSync Premium makes it an excellent choice for gamers, reducing screen tearing and providing a more responsive gaming experience. Motion Rate 480 and MEMC motion smoothing technology further enhance the viewing experience by reducing motion blur and judder, making fast-moving scenes clear and crisp.

Under the hood, the NXTFRAME runs on Google TV, offering seamless integration with various streaming services and smart home devices. It supports Chromecast and Apple AirPlay 2, making it easy to stream content from your devices. Voice control is also well catered for, with compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Home. For gamers, the TV comes equipped with Game Accelerator 240, Auto Game Mode, and AMD FreeSync Premium, ensuring an optimized gaming experience with minimal input lag and maximum visual clarity. The sound system is robust, featuring two built-in 20W speakers and support for advanced audio technologies like Dolby Atmos and DTS.

The Pro version of the NXTFRAME takes the audio experience a notch higher by including a wireless 3.1.2 soundbar and subwoofer, developed in partnership with the renowned audio company Bang & Olufsen. This combination promises an immersive audio experience, enhancing everything from dialogue clarity to the rumble of on-screen explosions. The TV also boasts four HDMI ports, including one with eARC support, allowing for easy connection of multiple devices and ensuring that audio signals remain high quality.

Pricing for the NXTFRAME series starts at $1,499.99 for the 55-inch model and goes up to $3,999.99 for the 85-inch version. The Pro versions, which include the enhanced audio system, start at $1,999.99 for the 55-inch model and reach $4,999.99 for the 85-inch model. These models are expected to be available in September 2024, along with accessories like the movable floor stand priced at $699.99 and matching table feet at $149.99. It’s unclear if the art library and GenAI art features are available along with the TV or incur an added subscription.

The post TCL’s Ultra-Slim 1.1 Inch NXTFRAME Smart TVs with AI Art Generation and Built-in Art Gallery first appeared on Yanko Design.

Celebrate International Cat Day with this Adorable Sleeping Cat-shaped TWS Earbuds Case!

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The TWS Earbuds case is perhaps the most fertile ground for design exploration. Companies have put screens on them, buttons on them, even shaped them like Deadpool or a Pokeball, and now Japan-based Radius Co., Ltd. is turning the humble earbuds case into a symbol of feline love. Dubbed the Neko Earbuds, these wearables come in a case that looks like a little cat snoozing in a cat basket. The case sports a variety of cat-themed colors, from white to beige and black, and flip the cat open and you see it casually warming your earbuds the way sometimes pets snooze on your slippers to keep them toasty!

Designer: Radius Co., Ltd.

TWS earbuds are literally a dime a dozen, and I’ll be honest, most of them have absolutely uninspiring designs. That’s where something like the Neko really catches the eye. The outer appearance is really a perfect playground for design intervention, and the folks at Ritual did an absolutely stand-up job. The Neko instantly catches the eye and melts the heart. The cat resting adorably in its cat-bed is a universal symbol of eternal cuteness. The cats come in 3 colors, the bed features fish-shaped LED battery indicators, and the inside of the case houses earbuds with a marbled plastic design, ensuring that no two earbuds look the same – sort of like how no two cats have the same personality.

Designed less to be carried in your pocket and more for WFH or tabletop audio requirements, the Neko TWS Earbuds feel almost like a desktop collectible than like tech. Sure, you can slip them right into your pocket or backpack if you want to travel, but given how adorable they look, they’re best suited kept on your table along with other toys and trinkets, etc.

As far as hardware goes, the Neko boasts pretty solid mid-level specs. You’ve got 6.1 mm dynamic drivers, a 20 Hz-20,000 Hz frequency response, Bluetooth 5.3 for up to 10 meters (33 feet) of wireless audio transmission, and IPX4 water resistance (just like cats, keep these earphones away from water). However, the product’s UX boasts a neat twist. Any announcements for calls are made in a feline voice, and tapping your earbuds 5 times activates the Neko’s ‘Purr Mode’, which gives you 3 glorious minutes of purring sounds playing directly in your ear.

The fish-shaped battery indicator is a beautiful touch, adding an easter-egg of sorts to the already adorable design. Speaking of battery, the earphones deliver a solid 3.5 hours of use, extendable to 17.5 hours when used with the charging case. Flip it over and a USB-C port on the back lets you nourish your cat-themed earphones.

The Neko TWS Earbuds were announced as a precursor to International Cat Day (on the 8th of August), for people who love to wear their feline love on their sleeve or in their ears. Priced at 8,822 Yen (around $60 USD), the earbuds garnered more than 10,000 pre-orders on the website following virality on social media (I totally understand the hype).  The earbuds are due to ship starting 8th August, and a portion of the sales are also going to be donated to a rescue organization for street cats in Japan.

The post Celebrate International Cat Day with this Adorable Sleeping Cat-shaped TWS Earbuds Case! first appeared on Yanko Design.

Vivo V40 Pro Review: Prime Mobile Photography Arrives in a Sleek Package

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PROS:


  • Elegant and aesthetic design

  • Powerful quad 50MP camera system

  • Large 5,500mAh battery despite thin profile

  • IP68 rating

CONS:


  • No wireless charging

  • Telephoto camera only supports 2x optical zoom

  • Limited global availability

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Vivo V40 Pro builds on the brand's outstanding photography performance to deliver an even more powerful experience in a stylish design.

Cameras have become one of if not the most important aspects of a smartphone these days. Of course, the display is functionally the most critical component, but other than being large and crisp, people tend to gravitate to the best smartphone camera their money can buy. Unfortunately, the best ones are often reserved for the most expensive handsets as well, leaving the majority of consumers, especially the younger generation, dreaming of better days. Vivo’s V series of smartphones has always aimed to make smartphone photography more accessible, and last year’s Vivo V30 Pro definitely put more expensive devices on notice. Can the Vivo V40 Pro top that or has the brand already reached its peak? We take Vivo’s latest and greatest V series phone for a spin to find out.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

Right off the bat, we can already say that Vivo has outdone itself with the design of the Vivo V40 Pro. Last year’s flagship was already a looker, but it suddenly feels a bit lacking compared to its younger sibling. You still have a sleek appearance, smooth curves, and a thin profile, but the real winner here is the camera design. That Vivo was able to fit three 50MP cameras in such a compact space is already a marvel, but the way it managed to make the design look appealing is a rare feat these days.

Vivo calls it a “Gemini Ring Design,” which is a fancy term for what looks like a curvy keyhole. Two of the three cameras are enclosed in a circle that sits on top of a pill-shaped elevation. Inside that is another oblong enclosure housing the third camera and the Aura Ring flash. There is a subtle beauty to the play of balance and asymmetry in this design, and it definitely gives the Vivo V40 Pro a unique visual character.

The company didn’t pull punches in the different colors and materials available for both the Vivo V40 and the V40 Pro, and all of them are beautiful in their own way. The Sunglow Peach colorway with its warm hues and dynamic magnetic ink is quite an eye-catcher, and our review unit’s Moonlight White with its pale blue streaks has a soothing and calming effect. Other than the camera bump and the small vivo branding at the bottom, there are no distractions on the back of the phone, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of these designs.

At only 7.58mm, the Vivo V40 Pro is already thin, and the curved edges of both the screen and the back panel make it look even thinner. This could be a divisive decision in 2024, though, with many seeing curved edges as a thing of the past. It definitely still has appeal and it perfectly matches the smoothness of the rest of the phone.

Ergonomics

The Vivo V40 Pro is not a small phone by any means so that thin profile helps offset the size of the device. It’s incredibly light as well at only 192g, especially considering what it packs inside, like a very generous battery. All in all, it’s difficult to hold it up for long periods of time, though the glass material on its back could prove to be slippery for some hands.

The debate around flat versus curved edges continues here as well. With part of the screen curving off to the sides, there’s always the possibility of accidental touches in those areas. There isn’t much surface area or sharp corners for your hand to grip either, and you might find yourself straining a bit just to hold the phone tight. It’s partly personal preference and partly the shape of your hand, but thankfully Vivo ships a protective case with the phone just in case.

Performance

It might not be part of Vivo’s top-tier X series, but the Vivo V40 Pro definitely packs quite a punch, starting with the MediaTek Dimensity 9200+, the chipmaker’s flagship silicon. It’s paired with up to 12GB of RAM, as was the case in our review unit, which can be boosted with another 12GB. That said, it takes some of that from the 512GB internal storage, which isn’t expandable like many phones these days. All in all, the Vivo V40 Pro performs like a champ for any use case, whether it’s social media, watching videos, or playing games. The latter is helped by an Ultra-Large VC Cooling System that keeps the phone running at a stable pace without throttling.

More impressive, however, is the 5,500mAh battery the phone crams inside its thin and light body. It’s definitely one of the largest capacities available in a phone that’s barely 7.6mm thick, allowing it to easily support all your shutterbug adventures. With an 80W charging speed, you can quickly top up to full in around 30 minutes, at least with the right charging brick. Unfortunately, Vivo hasn’t yet decided to put wireless charging on its V series phones, but maybe that will change next year.

The real stars of the show, however, are the cameras, all of them with 50MP sensors. Yes, that includes the selfie camera with a Samsung ISOCELL JN1 sensor and a wide 92-degree field of view for those “wefies” or “groufies.” If that sounds familiar, then you might have heard of the Vivo V30 Pro last year. In fact, in almost all but one case, it’s nearly the exact same set of 50MP cameras, like the 50MP Sony IMX816 telephoto shooter and the 50MP Samsung JN1 119-degree ultra-wide camera.

What’s different this year is the new 50MP Sony IMX921 with a larger 1/1.56-inch sensor. That means it is able to take in more light information even in darker environments, improving its overall quality. In fact, the entire ensemble is actually commendable in their output, delivering super images bolstered by AI and computational photography. Of course, these cameras have optics tuned by ZEISS, so there’s little surprise there. And one can’t forget Vivo’s signature Aura Light that takes the regular flash and turns it into a mini ring light for softer and more natural lighting. Its most recent incarnation includes Electronic Control Technology that lets you adjust the brightness of the light depending on the distance of the subject.

In essence, the Vivo V40 Pro builds on the success of its predecessor and adds some extra value with upgraded specs and improved software. Unfortunately, it also carries over the flaws, most notably the short optical zoom range of the telephoto camera. It only goes as far as 2x zoom, but Vivo is heavily advertising what it calls “50x ZEISS Ultra HD Zoom,” which is a mouthful that really means software-assisted digital zoom.

Sustainability

Just like the Vivo V30 Pro last year, the brand is sadly silent on any of its efforts in using even a fraction of sustainable materials for this year’s V series flagship. It also hasn’t stopped shipping chargers in its boxes, which is unsurprising since it wants to make sure that its phones use the right 80W charger for the fastest speed they can support. We’re still holding out hope that Vivo will take the lead in this area soon.

That said, it does have some good news when it comes to keeping the Vivo V40 Pro away from the trash for as long as possible. It’s the first in the V series to reach an IP68 rating, ensuring that it’s protected from dust and water which can mean the end for many smartphones. It also advertises a “50-Month Smooth Experience” guarantee that basically says the phone can run for over four years without losing its fluidity and performance. Unfortunately, it doesn’t translate to having four years of updates, and Vivo has made no promises on that matter.

Value

It’s perfectly clear from our time with the Vivo V40 Pro that it delivers everything it promises on paper. The Quad 50MP Camera System it carries over from last year continues the tradition of excellent mobile photography, but this time with a larger 5,500mAh battery that better supports all those photo and video content creation. Even better, the phone comes in a sleek, slim, and light design that makes you feel like you’re holding an art object rather than a cold piece of technology.

In other words, the Vivo V40 Pro would have been perfect if not for the fact that some people might not even be able to get their hands on it. The $560 price tag it carries (converted from Indian figures) isn’t that heavy, but global availability is still undisclosed at the moment. Hopefully, it will fare better than the Vivo V30 Pro which didn’t get a wider distribution that would have spread the word of its amazing camera chops.

Verdict

Smartphones are getting more powerful and so are their cameras. But with this increase in technical performance, designers are often forced to make many compromises to fit all of them inside a product that should still fit our pockets. In that regard, the Vivo V40 Pro is quite a feat, cramming not only four 50MP cameras but a large 5,500mAh battery inside a body that’s as thin and as light as it can be. It’s a beautiful phone with impressive performance and an accessible price point, and it deserves to be made available to more markets this time.

The post Vivo V40 Pro Review: Prime Mobile Photography Arrives in a Sleek Package first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nokia 7380 5G concept reimagines one of the quirkiest phones in history

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At this point in time, the design of smartphones is pretty much set in stone, at least disregarding novel designs like foldables and rollables. The “candy bar” form factor emerged as the standard, displacing even the fashionable clamshell “flip phones” that are making a comeback through small foldables, mostly because they are practical, handy, and efficient. There was a time, however, when phone form factors were all over the map, with brands like Nokia boldly experimenting with different designs that were functional but also a bit unconventional. The Nokia 7280 and 7380 “lipstick” phones were two of the phone manufacturer’s oddest creations, and one creator is bringing that past design to the present, giving it a modern touch to fit today’s aesthetics.

Designer: AndroidLeo

The Nokia 7380 was, strangely enough, part of the company’s “Fashion Phone” line back in the early 2000s. At a time when people actually used mobile phones for phone calls more than anything else, it could easily get away with its stick-like design and tiny mirror-like screen. You can’t do much else with it, other than listen to music and take photos that were already high-quality during that era, which sounds like the perfect recipe for a distraction-free, minimalist phone today.

In that regard, the Nokia 7380 5G concept doesn’t sound that outlandish after all. The design updates the aesthetics to modern standards, making use of interesting geometric shapes like a trapezoidal prism instead of a rectangular box, and puts a slightly taller screen that covers the whole surface this time around. It will still be too small to do anything productive like texting or even browsing the web, so it will mostly be for controlling the phone and launching apps that have to be custom-designed for that screen aspect ratio.

There’s also a camera on the narrow side of the prism, hidden behind a sliding mechanism. Given today’s technologies and the fact that this phone won’t have much in the way of other components, there should be enough space for a 50MP or higher camera. The concept design, which is based on rumors, also puts a dual camera setup on the “front,” or rather where the screen is. It’s not clear what the use case would be for having two cameras there, though.

In a nutshell, this smartphone stick could be marketed as a device that’s oriented towards music and photos, at least taking photos. There are two headphone jacks on one end, perfect for sharing your music with a friend, and the handy shape of the device makes it easy to take photos and selfies. It’s like a fashionable action cam that can play music and make phone calls as well, though it also raises the question of who would want to buy such a curious but less usable smartphone in the first place.

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CNC-Machined Curved Design allows these Wood Boxes to stack perfectly without Joinery or Magnets

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Think of a box and every single one your mind imagines will probably be made of 6 flat surfaces, forming either a cube or cuboid. Studio Entrandan wanted to reimagine this box, this pixel of our everyday life, as something with a little more dynamism and visual vitality… not just for the sake of making a curved box, but for the sake of making a box that’s MORE useful.

To do so, the London-based product design studio looked to the golden rectangle, expanding the box, creating a proportionate ellipse, and carrying the curve to the top and the bottom of the box. The result is a box that still has flat walls, but boasts a curved base and top. Why, you ask? So that the boxes can naturally stack one on another without requiring lips and grooves or any extra details. Boxes dominate our lives because of their natural ability to stack without any dead space – with this set, Studio Entrandan celebrates that stackable property through a clean design, with a gorgeous visual twist. These boxes are a gorgeous combination of minimal design with clever detailing. Perfect for people who just want to have a wooden set of containers on their work desk or their dining table (or anywhere, really), the Box Set comes with 3 boxes of varying heights, and a lid that also serves as a nifty tray to store items like rings, other jewelry, or even stationery.

Designer: Studio Entrandan

Click Here to Buy Now: $151 $188.75 (20% off). Hurry, only a few left!

The idea of redesigning something as fundamental as your everyday box came from playing around with ellipses and having them overlap one another. As soon as the idea began taking shape, the folks at Studio Entrandan immediately mocked up a 3D model and printed it out to test its feasibility. However, their intention was never to make the final product out of plastic. Choosing wood instead, the boxes were given a distinct EDC appeal. Borrowing from Scandinavian design influences (and even from their timber), the boxes look gorgeous when kept on any tabletop surface. Their curved base is cleverly designed to still sit flat on flat surfaces… but the minute you stack them one above the other, they tuck into each other (think of how dinner plates stack on top of another).

The boxes measure 200mm x 80mm (7.8in x 3.1in) and have varying heights for storing different items. They’re perfect for stationery, cutlery, EDC, your bedside belongings, or even tech like cables, AirPods, etc. The set includes 3 boxes and a lid, all of which can either orient one on top of another, or be used independently. Their shape makes them uniquely eye-catching to anyone who has an appreciation of craftsmanship and good design… but ultimately, they’re minimalist pieces that blend into your decor.

Each of the boxes are CNC machined out of a single block of wood, giving them the accuracy you’d probably expect from metal or plastic containers. Curves on the bottom and the top of the boxes are precision-machined to match into each other, allowing the boxes to stack naturally one on another the way plates do. The curves nest into each other in a way that’s appealing to the eye, allowing you to organize your boxes without joineries, magnets, or anything else. “Before production, we usually let our timber rest and acclimate for two weeks,” Huang mentions. “However, because timber is an organic material, it is constantly changing. Factors such as humidity, temperature, and sunlight can alter its shape.” This adds a unique natural touch to your boxes (think of it as a patina), although the makers recommend that if your boxes wobble a little too much because their tolerances no longer match, a little sandpaper does the trick. Followed by a coating of wood oil to restore their waterproofing.

The set of 3 boxes and a lid start at $151 and ship globally. Each box is CNC-machined out of a single block of wood, and Studio Entrandan offers a choice between Black Walnut, Cherry, and White Oak. You can buy multiple sets, or even individual containers to add to your collection.

Click Here to Buy Now: $151 $188.75 (20% off). Hurry, only a few left!

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The Chipper Tiny Home Let’s You Embrace An Authentic Micro-Living Experience

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Called the Chipper Tiny home, this little house is quite quintessentially a tiny house. It completely adopts the micro-living movements humble beginnings, creating a living space that is truly compact, comfy, and yet economical. The tiny home is designed to let two people live with ease. Designed by Häuslein Tiny House Co., this time is based on a double-axle trailer, and features a length of 5 meters.

Designer: Häuslein Tiny House Co.

The home is a bit small for a tiny home, and features a finishing of steel and thermally treated wood. You can access the interior via a glass sliding door, and it is equipped with oak flooring and birch ply woods. The interior has a floorspace of 12.5 sq m, and they’ve all been arranged on one floor.

As you enter the home, you are welcomed by a living/sleeping area which seems quite compact and yet pretty light-filled owing to the generous glazing. The glazing has been paired up with some strategically placed strip lighting. The area includes a small sofa as well as a bed, and some storage. The opposite wall also holds a mounted TV.

Next to the living area is a kitchen, and it is a bit small, but it is equipped with a decent amount of storage space. A sink and induction cooktop have been included as well, and there is space for an optional dishwasher, oven, fridge, and a washer/dryer. The bathroom is located next to the kitchen, and you can access it via a sliding door. This space includes a shower, small vanity sink, flushing toilet, and some storage space. You can also upgrade the tiny home with some appliances, and furniture choices. It is powered by an RV-style hookup, but you can also opt for an off-the-grid lifestyle with a solar panel setup, water tanks, and composting toilet. If youre someone who truly wants to embrace a micro-living experience, then the Chipper Tiny Home is the one for you!

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Onewheel Pint X Review: I Didn’t Break a Single Bone Testing It

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PROS:


  • Extended Range and Speed: The Pint X offers up to 18 mph and 12 to 18 miles per charge, ideal for longer rides.

  • Compact Design: Its portable size and built-in handle make it easy to carry and store.

  • Customizable Modes: Four riding modes allow for personalized experiences suited to different terrains.

CONS:


  • Not Waterproof: Susceptible to water damage, limiting use in wet conditions.

  • Long Charge Time: Takes up to 225 minutes to charge with a standard charger.

  • High Price: At $1,100, it’s a significant investment compared to similar e-boards.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Onewheel Pint X delivers thrilling rides and great range but make sure its features fit your riding needs and style.

Looking for a thrilling way to navigate city streets or explore your local park? The Onewheel Pint X offers a compelling mix of excitement and practicality in personal electric vehicles. With its sleek design and robust performance, the Pint X is perfect for urban commuters and adventure enthusiasts. I was intrigued by the Onewheel experience, and the Pint X delivered the enhancements I sought, providing impressive speed and range for longer rides without frequent stops for charging. With a powerful 750W Hypercore motor that propels you up to 18 mph, this board offers a ride reminiscent of snowboarding or longboarding, making it an enticing lifestyle choice rather than just a means of transportation. If you’re ready to dive into the world of electric mobility and experience the freedom it offers, the Onewheel Pint X might be your ideal ride.

Designer: Kyle Doerksen + Onewheel

Design and Aesthetics

The Onewheel Pint X combines sleek, modern design with functionality, making it an attractive option for those seeking a stylish and portable personal electric vehicle. With dimensions of 8.75 x 10.5 x 27 inches and weighing 27 pounds, the board is compact yet robust, offering easy maneuverability in urban settings. Its minimalist aesthetic with vibrant color options lets riders express personal style while maintaining a polished look.

The integrated Lightbar on the footpad enhances the board’s futuristic design and provides practical functionality, serving as both a battery indicator and a riding alert. This thoughtful design emphasizes simplicity and ease of use, housing all components compactly while maintaining a streamlined appearance. The low center of gravity and wide tire offer excellent stability and control, making the Pint X adaptable to various terrains.

The Pint X’s design also pays homage to the original Onewheel concept while incorporating modern enhancements that cater to today’s riders. The robust aluminum frame ensures durability, while customizable color options for the bumpers and rails let riders personalize their boards to match their style. The pint-sized form factor of the Pint X doesn’t just make it easier to store and transport; it also gives it a playful, approachable aesthetic that invites riders of all levels to give it a try.

2008: Onewheel prototype 1: The first rideable prototype had a chain-driven motor and the bare essentials. Old Iron Sides is now its affectionate nickname.

Ergonomics

The Onewheel Pint X is designed with rider comfort and usability in mind, featuring a built-in Maghandle for easy carrying when not in use. This feature makes the board convenient to transport in crowded areas or up flights of stairs. Riding the Onewheel is the most fun I’ve had since my teens, popping wheelies on my BMX bike. While there is a learning curve, many new riders find it manageable with practice. The board’s intuitive control system uses pressure-sensitive footpads for smooth acceleration and braking, mimicking natural movements. At the heart of this system is a combination of sensors, including a Hall Effect sensor and an accelerometer. These sensors interpret your body’s movements and translate them into seamless control, making the ride feel intuitive and responsive. This allows riders to accelerate by leaning forward and decelerate by leaning back, creating a natural and engaging riding experience.

For beginners, the Simple Stop feature is particularly beneficial. It allows the rider to come to a gradual stop by leaning back, reducing the risk of falls and helping build confidence. The wide tire is surprisingly responsive, allowing for nimble turns and adjustments to posture. Riders are advised to start practicing in open areas like parking lots or grassy fields and to wear shoes with good grip for better control and stability. Regular practice helps strengthen stabilizer muscles, making rides smoother and more comfortable over time.

Onewheel riding academy

Performance

Curiosity about the Onewheel experience led me to try out the Pint X, which promised enhancements in speed and range. The Pint X offers a perfect balance between power and agility, making it an exciting upgrade. With a 750W Hypercore motor, the board reaches a top speed of 18 mph, providing a thrilling ride whether commuting through the city or exploring parks. The range of 12 to 18 miles on a single charge is a significant improvement, allowing for longer adventures without constant recharging.

Riding the Pint X feels liberating, as the increased speed and range mean I no longer need to plan my routes meticulously or worry about running out of battery mid-ride. The powerful motor also delivers extra torque, making the board more responsive when changing directions. The Onewheel relies on a rate gyroscope, which helps maintain balance by measuring orientation and angle changes. This technology ensures stability even as you navigate challenging terrains, making it easier to learn and control. While initially a bit “squirrely,” the wide tire quickly becomes second nature, allowing for smooth and agile turns.

The Onewheel Pint X features four customizable riding modes, or Digital Shaping modes, that can be adjusted through the Onewheel app to match your riding style:

Redwood: Offers a smooth ride with a top speed of approximately 12 mph, ideal for leisurely rides and where I felt most comfortable starting as a beginner.


Pacific X: A relaxed mode that balances speed and control, quickly becoming my second favorite, making it easy to handle for a more casual experience.
Elevated X: Raises the front of the board, helping you tackle steep inclines or perform tricks with greater ease.
Skyline X: A responsive mode with a maximum speed of about 18 mph, providing an adrenaline-pumping experience.

From the moment I started riding, the Pint X’s performance was apparent. The speed and handling capabilities offered an adrenaline rush with every ride, making it easy to lose track of time while exploring. The improved range means I can focus on the ride rather than constantly checking the battery level.

However, the performance improvements come with a few trade-offs. The thicker front bumper, intended for symmetry, sometimes drags during sharp turns or when recovering from drops. It reduces ground clearance, causing occasional nosedives and making curb navigation tricky. The extra weight of the board, while not drastic, does impact its agility, making it feel less snappy during tight turns. The shared tire with the regular Pint feels less secure at higher speeds, requiring constant vigilance to avoid bumps and obstacles that could cause a wipeout.

Specifications

Dimensions: 8.75 x 10.5 x 27 inches
Weight: 27 lbs
Battery: 324Wh capacity, 63V
Charge time: Approximately 225 minutes with a standard charger, 110 minutes with an Ultracharger
Tire: 10.5 x 4.5-6 inches, round profile
Top Speed: 18 mph
Range: 12-18 miles, depending on riding conditions
Price: Starting at $1,100

Sustainability

While sustainability isn’t heavily marketed, the Pint X is built with durability in mind, using high-quality materials to ensure longevity. This reduces the need for frequent replacements, supporting a more sustainable approach to personal transportation. Manufactured in the U.S., the Pint X aligns with sustainable practices by ensuring quality control and minimizing the carbon footprint associated with overseas shipping.

Value and Verdict

At the time of this review, the Onewheel Pint X is available at a starting price of $1,100, making it a more accessible option in the electric skateboard market. Despite this competitive price, the board offers exceptional performance, durability, and versatility. The Pint X has become a staple for many riders, providing a blend of speed, range, and portability that’s difficult to find elsewhere.

The Pint X offers a compelling package for those seeking an exhilarating ride experience. The powerful hub motor allows riders to glide through traffic with ease, while the electric transmission system eliminates the need for gear shifting. The wide deck provides excellent traction and stability, securely holding the rider’s feet in place, whether navigating sharp turns, tackling hills or speeding along sidewalks. The puncture-resistant liner on the wheel enhances safety, making it a reliable choice for long-distance travel on rough trails.

However, potential buyers should be aware of a few considerations. The Pint X is not waterproof, so exposure to water can damage the battery and affect motor functionality. The fixed acceleration might be too intense for some users who prefer customizable speed settings. Additionally, while competitively priced, the Pint X still represents a significant investment compared to other e-boards with similar features.

Is the Onewheel Pint X the right fit for you? If you’re looking to embrace the thrill of one-wheel riding while enjoying the convenience and innovation that the board offers, it could be an excellent choice. We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences with the Pint X. With its thoughtful design, ergonomic comfort, and impressive performance, it remains a top choice in the personal electric vehicle market. Share your insights and join the conversation about this exciting rideable!

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