Tag Archives: Product Design

From Trailblazer to Trendsetter: The Return of Hoka’s Stinson Evo OG

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2012, when Hoka introduced the Stinson Evo, the running shoe landscape was primarily dominated by minimalist designs prioritizing a light and flexible feel. Hoka, a relatively new brand then, dared to challenge this norm by launching the Stinson Evo, a trail-running sneaker that defied convention with its bold, maximalist approach. Known for its thick, cushioned midsoles, this shoe provided a stark contrast to the minimalist trend, earning it both intrigue and skepticism. However, its unique design quickly gained traction among trail runners, particularly those seeking enhanced cushioning and stability over rugged terrain.

Designer: Hoka

The Stinson Evo was revolutionary not just for its appearance but also for its functionality. The shoe incorporated Hoka’s early “Zero Gravity” technology, which allowed it to maintain a surprisingly lightweight feel despite its substantial midsole. This technology was paired with a “MetaRocker” design, facilitating a smooth, rolling stride that helped runners conserve energy over long distances. Its bold design was completed with a breathable mesh upper and overlays for added support, characteristics that made it stand out in a market saturated with minimalist shoes.

Fast-forward to 2024, and the Stinson Evo OG is coming back, reflecting Hoka’s history and evolution. The brand’s decision to reissue this model coincides with a growing trend toward retro-inspired footwear, where consumers seek the nostalgia of past designs infused with modern technological advancements. The new Stinson Evo OG exemplifies this blend, retaining its original performance features while updating its aesthetics to cater to today’s fashion-conscious audience.

The current Stinson Evo OG is available in a striking “Habanero Red” colorway. This colorway features metallic silver overlays that sweep across the upper, providing a futuristic yet nostalgic look. This vibrant red is complemented by a black-and-white contrast in the midsole and outsole, creating a visually dynamic appearance that is both eye-catching and stylish. The bold color palette aligns with the current trend of using vivid hues in athletic and lifestyle footwear, appealing to those who want their sneakers to make a statement.

Another notable difference in the 2024 model is the inclusion of modern materials that enhance comfort and durability. The mesh upper is more breathable and flexible, adapting to the wearer’s foot for a personalized fit. The redesigned midsole retains the original’s plush cushioning but is now engineered with advancements that offer improved energy return and shock absorption. This makes the Stinson Evo OG suitable for trail running and everyday wear, bridging the gap between performance and lifestyle footwear.

The sneaker’s return also signifies Hoka’s recognition of its role in shaping the running shoe market. When first released, the Stinson Evo was ahead of its time, introducing concepts that have since become mainstream. Today, Hoka is a respected running shoe industry leader known for its commitment to innovation and quality. The re-release of the Stinson Evo OG is a celebration of this journey, inviting longtime fans and new customers to experience the brand’s heritage through a modern lens.

The Stinson Evo OG’s availability through select boutiques like Extra Butter and Sneakersnstuff highlights its positioning within the sneaker culture, where exclusivity and style are highly valued. By labeling the reissue as “OG,” Hoka taps into the sneakerhead community, which appreciates the historical significance and unique design elements of vintage-inspired footwear.

The return of the Hoka Stinson Evo OG is a nostalgic nod to the past while reflecting the brand’s ability to evolve and stay relevant in a changing market. Its retro design and modern technology serve both performance needs and lifestyle preferences, securing its place in Hoka’s renowned lineup.

The post From Trailblazer to Trendsetter: The Return of Hoka’s Stinson Evo OG first appeared on Yanko Design.

Gorgeous Cicada-inspired Pocket Knife may just be the most beautiful EDC I’ve ever seen

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It isn’t often that you have knives mimicking nature or being inspired by natural details, but this one gets a special mention for just how beautiful it is. The Cicada from Rike Knife takes inspiration from one of nature’s noisiest insects, but translates the cicada’s shape and form into a gorgeous piece of art that looks as beautiful closed as it does open. Available in 3 color options, the Cicada knife measures just under 3 inches in length wen closed, making it an incredibly compact number. Open it, however, and you’re greeted with a tiny yet mighty blade that’s perfect for everyday activities.

Designer: Rike Knife

The Cicada pocket knife sports an all-metal design, with a blade made from Bohler M390 (martensitic chromium steel) offering high durability and edge retention. The blade measures a mere 1.96 inches long, and sports a spear-point design with a dual-edge, so you can use it in any direction, or rely on its pointy tip for piercing. A cutout in the blade adds visual drama while reducing material to keep the knife light and spry… and even when open, the entire knife measures just a mere 4.9 inches, putting it in the more compact small-size knife category.

The knife’s 3 color options offer different aesthetics within the same jewel-like format. The matte-black with gold accents is subtle yet eye-catching, while the gold/blue and metallic silver variants glimmer more, drawing one’s attention. The cicada’s wings offer a decent grip while you use the knife, and a Flip Tab opener and frame-lock mean reliable operation.

The entire Cicada knife weighs a paltry 2.46oz (70g), which checks out given how the knife is literally a few fractions of an inch larger than an actual cicada. The $215 knife comes with a tiny hole on the rear end to string lanyards through, and a fairly ambidextrous design that allows you to use the knife with either your left or right hand. Unfortunately, there’s no pocket clip on the cicada – I assume adding one would really help, turning it into a brooch of sorts… but that only means the gorgeous insect-inspired design can be seen on both the front as well as the back of the handle.

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Breakthrough Titanium Heart Design Successfully Implanted in a Human

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In a significant medical breakthrough, the Texas Heart Institute and BiVACOR have successfully implanted the BiVACOR Total Artificial Heart (TAH) in a human patient at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center. This development marks a substantial advancement in treating severe heart conditions, particularly for patients with biventricular and univentricular heart failure, who are unsuitable candidates for traditional devices like left ventricular assist devices.

Designer: BiVACOR

The BiVACOR TAH features a titanium rotary blood pump utilizing magnetic levitation technology. This innovation minimizes the wear and tear commonly seen in traditional artificial hearts. With only one moving part, the TAH emulates the human heart’s function by efficiently pumping blood while reducing damage to blood cells.

The maglev technology allows the rotor inside the heart to operate without contacting other parts, reducing friction and extending the device’s lifespan. Inspired by high-speed trains, this technology enables the artificial heart to function quietly and smoothly, enhancing patient comfort. The TAH is designed to sustain patients until a suitable donor heart is available for transplant.

This successful implantation is part of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration study to assess the TAH’s safety and effectiveness in real-world conditions. Daniel Timms, founder and CTO of BiVACOR, noted that this technology brings us closer to providing more options for patients ineligible for traditional heart transplants.

Heart failure is a leading cause of death worldwide, affecting millions. In the U.S. alone, about 6.2 million adults suffer from heart failure. The National Institutes of Health estimate that up to 100,000 U.S. patients could immediately benefit from mechanical heart support like the TAH.

Dr. Joseph Rogers, president and CEO of the Texas Heart Institute, emphasized the importance of this new technology. Collaborating with BiVACOR and Baylor College of Medicine, they aim to revolutionize heart failure treatment and offer new hope to patients in need.

Comparing the Titanium Maglev Heart and the Biological Heart

The titanium maglev heart looks and functions quite differently from a natural human heart. Constructed from titanium, this heart implant features a strong, metallic design, which stands in stark contrast to the soft muscle tissue of a biological heart. The maglev heart’s sleek design includes various ports and connectors that allow it to work seamlessly with medical devices. Meanwhile, a biological heart has a more organic look, with textures and colors that highlight its living nature, without the industrial elements present in the titanium heart.

BiVACOR: The Total Artificial Heart, made of titanium

Design-wise, the maglev heart appears more mechanical, with visible joints and parts tailored for specific functions, resembling a machine more than an organ. Conversely, the biological heart is smooth and compact, with chambers and valves seamlessly flowing together without sharp edges or mechanical parts.

Functionally, the maglev heart includes technology for monitoring and control, allowing for potential remote adjustments. Its ports and cables are designed to connect to external devices. In contrast, the natural heart’s connections are biological, including arteries and veins, without external interfaces.

Size-wise, the titanium maglev heart may be larger than a biological heart due to the space required for mechanical components like motors and the magnetic levitation system. A biological heart is typically more compact, fitting efficiently within the chest cavity.

The titanium maglev heart shows how science and engineering can merge to provide new solutions for patients who cannot receive a biological heart transplant. Its design and features highlight advancements in medical devices, offering a promising option for those in need.

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Top 10 Smartphone Alternatives To The iPhone To Watch In 2024

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In today’s world, absolutely no one can live without their smartphones! I mean, I need mine by my side at all times, and I am quite heavily dependent on it. , The iPhone is pretty much one of the most popular phones in the world. I mean I’ve been using one for the past 7 years, and I don’t think I’m transitioning to any other smartphone company anytime soon. Designers and brands have been pushing all boundaries and have managed to design innovative smartphones that in all honesty are even better than the iPhone. From a bendable phone by Motorola to a Rabbit smartphone concept – these smartphone designs are truly better alternatives to the iPhone.

1. Rabbit R2

Shreyansh Onial designed the Rabbit R2 – a conceptual smartphone that seems to be the logical next step for the Rabbit brand. This smartphone not only offers apps but also a form of AGI (Artificial General Intelligence). The R2 may look like a smartphone, but it also features a virtual assistant that does everything you need it to do. It is equipped with a screen, camera, USB-C port, as well as basic hardware.

2. Pulloof: Smart Phone Concept

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Designed by Gisung Han, the Pulloof: Smart Phone Concept is created to survive beyond its lifetime in memory and as an innovative device that is fresh to utilize and touch, besides its functionality. It is inspired by a vintage B&Q radio, and intended to be a smartphone that delivers people’s music consumption through phone. It is intended to be “a sustainable speaker by emphasizing the speaker” functionality.

3. The Polestar Phone

Designed by Polestar, the Polestar Phone features an all-white and silver colorway with clean lines, tight curves, and perfect surfaces,   just like its cars. The smartphone features a clean design which cannot be attributed to Polestar entirely. The phone is supposed to be a rebranded and rejuvenated version of the Meizu 21 Pro, and it runs a different OS and features Polestar’s iconic branding on the back as well as the sides.

4. Phone One

Dubbed the Phone One, this multi-mode smartphone is equipped with physical buttons to offer an amazing tactile feel. What makes this smartphone unique is that the buttons do not take much of the screen space, and have been designed in a unique and innovative form to support a three-pivot side panel of the smartphone.

5. Adaptive Display Concept

Motorola’s Adaptive Display Concept features a 6.9-inch screen which functions as a smartphone. When bent upright, the 6.9-inch Android phone can be used to take video calls, and it can even be worn around your wrist, allowing it to function as a super cool smartwatch. It is equipped with a bendable FHD + pOLED display. The bendable display can be wrapped around your wrist magnetically on top of a metal band.

6. Sharp AQUOS R9

 

Sharp’s new smartphone is the perfect encapsulation of minimalism, to an almost extreme. The phone doesn’t have any branding on the back, except for the small AQUOS and LEICA texts in the camera circle. The smartphone features flat surfaces and edges, plain colors, and doesn’t include any embellishment. It is designed to be a breath of fresh air, something different and unique as compared to other smartphones on the market.

7. Motorola Edge 50 Pro

Called the Motorola Edge 50 Pro, this smartphone runs on a Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, and it features a decent yet not too impressive set of cameras which are led by a 50MP main sensor. Another 50MP selfie camera is placed in a punch-hole cutout on the forehead of the 6.7-inch 1220p 144Hz screen. A pretty awesome feature of the smartphone is the 4,500 mAh battery amped with a 125W super-fast charging speed and support for 50W wireless charging.

8. Object-X

Designer Antonio De Rosa had a fantastic idea, and he built a smartphone focused on a smartphone-centric company. Called the Object-X, the smartphone is every microblogger’s dream device, and it features a dedicated display just for X. You can see the notifications, browse the app, and even send tweets, or access your Tesla right through the rear display. The front display is otherwise quite normal, while the camera bump is X-shaped.

9.Oukitel WP33 Pro

This rugged phone is called the Oukitel WP33 Pro, and unlike most rugged phones, it is designed to support fun and adventurous activities like camping, trekking, hiking, or even wildlife photography. You can use the speaker to set the mood for fun parties with your friends or to enjoy your favorite tunes when you’re alone. However, you shouldn’t use the loudspeaker around wild animals, especially at night.

10. The Bigme HiBreak

The Bigme HiBreak is a true smartphone, and it runs on Android 11. It has Google Play Support as well, allowing you to install any app available that supports the old OS version. The experience however may not be as smooth as a regular phone. But it has a 3300 mAh battery which will last you days and not just hours. It also has a 13MP main camera for scanning documents. It merges an eBook reader, and smartphone in one pocketable design.

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This pair of hiking pants with adjustable & motorized carbon fiber module lets you climb with less muscle fatigue

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Would it be fair to set out in a pair of robotic pants to cover all 47 miles of the West Coast Trail in Vancouver, British Columbia, in record time without breaking a sweat? You’d say why not, but anyone who’s been there in excruciating pain and sweat will call out cheating. Of course, it wouldn’t be fair to make a record claim with MO/GO on but it may surely be worth bragging.

Exoskeletons and wearable mobility devices have been around for decades. Obviously, the main focus of such devices has been on assisting seniors or those with mobility issues in rehabilitation, to gain strength and independence. But if you have been following us closely, you’d know that there is a new trend on the way. Wearable robots, such as the WIM mobility assist wearable device created by WIRobotics, are being built to assist the healthy strengthen their lower limbs or walk with more confidence and freedom saving up to 20 percent energy.

Designer: Skip x Arc’teryx

Now, MO/GO is a wearable pair of robotic pants conjured up “to support and inspire adventure in a new kind of way.” Short for mountain goat, MO/GO is designed by Skip – a Google’s research and development wing, X, spinout – in collaboration with Arc’teryx, to help people tackle any elevation with less muscle fatigue and body exertion. It “makes you feel up to 30 pounds lighter as you move,” the developers suggest.

Skip is taking pre-orders for the $5,000 MO/GO, right now for a $500 discount. The $5K powered pant is the first of its kind clothing featuring an adjustable boomerang-like carbon fiber module that snaps onto the pants – at the knees and extends over the quadricep and hamstring muscles – to provide up to 40 percent boast to your legs on the way up. It gently supports the legs on the way down, and can snap off effortlessly to be stowed away when you don’t need it.

When you think of putting on something like the MO/GO on your legs, you would be concerned about the weight it would add on. Interestingly, the carbon fiber construction makes it exceptionally lightweight. It weighs only two pounds (with an onboard motor) and is powered by a battery for hours of usage. Charge it once on your way out be rest assured, you’ll make it safely back home no matter the strenuous trail you’re climbing up.

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Tekto’s EDC Folding Knives get upgraded with Damascus and Forged Carbon design accents

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They say you shouldn’t mess with perfection… but you could certainly give it a new paint-job and make it look even better than before. Tekto’s flagship folding knives are getting a design refresh, with variants made with forged carbon and Damascus marbling accents. The new variants will be available for enthusiasts, EDC users, and collectors as a special spin on some old favorites.

The three knives getting a refresh are the F1 Alpha, the F2 Bravo, and the F3 Charlie – all a part of Tekto’s folding knife lineup. The company is best known for their OTF knives (Out The Front Knives), but folders remain a classic part of their catalog, catering to people who love sticking to the basics. All knives are designed as collector-worthy knives that pack an absolute punch. They’re compact, deadly, and built for all sorts of outdoor and tactical scenarios.

Tekto F1 Alpha (Forged Carbon Handle with Silver Blade)

As Tekto’s most fierce folder, the F1 Alpha gets first mention. The new knife boasts the exact same crowd-pleasing design, but with a forged carbon handle and a silver-finish D2 steel blade. The F1 Alpha measures a respectable 4.5 inches when closed, opening up to reveal a 3.1-inch drop-point blade that handles everyday tasks like a breeze. A liner lock holds the blade in place, and jimping on top gives you a perfect grip as you maneuver the knife around. The reverse end of the handle also features a lanyard hole that doubles as a glass-breaker, allowing you to make a quick exit in any emergency scenarios. The entire knife weighs a mere 3.3 ounces, has an ambidextrous pocket clip design, and even comes with its own carrying pouch.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119 $139.99. (Use coupon code “YANKO15” to get 15% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Tekto F2 Bravo (Damascus Pattern Handle with Black Blade)

Don’t let the Bravo name fool you – this one is Tekto’s slimmest, sleekest, and lightest folder of the three. At just 2.4 ounces, it’s miraculously light, making it great for quick maneuvering while cutting ropes, opening boxes, whittling wood, or slicing through leather and fabric. The knife has a 4.3-inch handle that houses a folded 3.3-inch drop-point blade made from D2 steel that’s hard enough to take on any sort of activity. Although the original did come with a speckled carbon fiber handle, this new variant gets a marbled Damascus pattern, with the same black-coated blade to give the F2 Bravo an extremely covert demeanor. Makes sense given how thin and light it is. The F2 Bravo also comes with its own carrying pouch, although the built-in pocket clip and lanyard hole should also suffice.

Click Here to Buy Now: $127.50 $149.99. (Use coupon code “YANKO15” to get 15% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Tekto F3 Charlie (Forged Carbon Handle with Black Blade)

At 4.5 ounces, the F3 Charlie is the big brother of the three. It comes with a 5.2-inch handle that houses a large 3.8-inch titanium-coated D2 steel blade on the inside. Fold the blade out and its drop-point design is just as functional as its siblings, but the larger form factor gives it much more heft and power. The renewed variant sports a forged carbon handle with the same black-coated blade that gives the knife a stealthy aesthetic. Holding the F3 Charlie feels vastly different from something like the Bravo, which has a much slimmer design. The F3 Charlie is meaty, ergonomic, and is made for tactical use although it’s more than happy being used for opening boxes too. It sports a button-lock, which gives it reliability too, while simultaneously having the tactile satisfaction of being able to quickly deploy or close your knife with a flick of the wrist!

Click Here to Buy Now: $127.50 $149.99. (Use coupon code “YANKO15” to get 15% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

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Actual Copper Keycaps from Awekeys turn your mechanical keyboard into an Ocean of Rose Gold

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Copper plays a VERY important role in electronics, but this might be the first time copper’s been used for its aesthetic properties. Meet the Awekeys Copper Eagle Keycap set – made from actual copper alloy to give your keyboard drip like no other. Sure, people boast about customizing the RGB backlight on their keyboards, but nothing really matches having your keys be made of actual metal. The Copper Eagle set sports keycaps machined from literal metal, giving them a heft and shimmery appeal that plastic wishes it had. Compatible with Cherry MX switches and clones, these keys attach to any supporting mechanical keyboard (no matter the size or style), giving it an audiovisual makeover. The keys offer the distinctly cool feel of metal, but start typing and you realize how much of a difference they actually make. The metal keycaps offer a distinct kind of sound that feels less like a plastic clatter and more like coins clinking against each other. It also helps that the keys make your keyboard look like a million bucks.

Designer: Awekeys

Crafted from recycled cupronickel, a material known for its strength and durability, the Copper Eagle set is a testament to Awekeys’ commitment to sustainable practices without compromising on quality. Each keycap undergoes a meticulous milling process before receiving its signature satin copper plating. This finish isn’t just visually appealing; it also lends a unique tactile sensation to every keystroke. The weight of the metal keycaps contributes to a substantial feel, while the copper’s natural warmth adds a touch of elegance to any setup.

Beyond aesthetics, the Copper Eagle set offers a sonic user experience that sets it apart. Metal keycaps are renowned for their ability to produce a deeper, more resonant click compared to their plastic counterparts. The Copper Eagle does so too, delivering satisfyingly rich auditory feedback that can be customized further with the right switch and keyboard combination. Along with just the cold tactile feel of the metal against your fingertips, the satisfying metallic click just elevates the keyboard’s UX to an entirely new level, eschewing the ‘fake’ plasticity of regular mechanical keyboards and replacing it with the premium appeal of metal.

One’s immediate concern with copper alloys (and glossy keycaps in particular) is the issue of fingerprints and patinas. A copper keyboard only looks classy if it maintains its sheen, and to address that, Awekeys actually coated each keycap with a nanocoating that prevents the metal from oxidizing or reacting to the oil and sweat from your fingertips. The keys should remain pristine and shiny for months with regular wiping down, although the durability of the coating over time is still something to be determined.

The Copper Eagle set comes in various kits to accommodate different keyboard layouts and preferences. The base kit consists of every key required for a 100% layout keyboard, but you can grab custom caps too, including different copper grades that have slightly different hues, and a few vanity keys featuring eagle imagery for your special keys like the enter, escape, backspace, etc.

The obvious caveat here is weight – copper weighs significantly more than plastic, so this should definitely make your keyboard feel considerably heavier than usual, but that’s only really a problem if you’re carrying your keyboard around. The second caveat, and a slightly smaller one, is that these keys (just like your regular mechanical keycaps) won’t support backlights. Most keyboards come with dual-plastic keys that allow the symbols to glow so you can see them in the dark – that’s not really possible with copper, so you’ll be relying entirely on muscle-memory here. The benefit, however, is that you’ll also own the coolest-looking keyboard among your friend circuits.

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Google Pixel 9 Pro XL Leaked Hands-on: A First Look at Its Stunning New Design and Features

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The Google Pixel 9 Pro XL is generating buzz even before its official release. Thanks to a lucky break, a YouTuber on Andro-News.com managed to get their hands on one early. While we might wonder how they pulled it off, the real excitement comes from seeing the device in action. My initial impression? The design is quite impressive.

Designer: Google

The Pixel 9 Pro XL marks a significant shift for Google in aesthetics. The flat edges, reminiscent of the iPhone, give it a sleek, modern look that sets it apart from previous models with rounded edges. This change makes the phone look more streamlined and sophisticated. The polished metal frame feels premium, although it might be prone to scratches like the iPhone 13 Pro Max. The back of the phone is made of Gorilla Glass Victus 2 with a matte finish, combining durability with a refined appearance. The phone is also IP68 certified, protecting against dust and water.

Another highlight is the 6.8-inch LTPO display on the Pixel 9 Pro XL. With a resolution of 1344×2992 pixels and a 120 Hz refresh rate, the screen offers vibrant colors and excellent contrast, perfect for watching videos and browsing photos. The flat screen, a departure from the 2.5D curved edges of earlier models, enhances the device’s sleek and modern look. HDR10+ support ensures that the visual experience is top-notch.

One of the Pixel 9 Pro XL’s most talked-about features is its camera system. The camera bump houses three lenses: a 50 MP wide-angle, a 48 MP ultra-wide with autofocus, and a 48 MP periscope telephoto with 5x optical zoom and optical image stabilization. Additional elements like a temperature sensor, flash, extra microphone, and a white balance sensor enhance its photographic capabilities. The front camera has been significantly upgraded to a 42 MP sensor, promising sharper selfies and video calls.

Under the hood, the Pixel 9 Pro XL runs on Google’s Tensor G4 chip, offering a 15% performance boost over the previous generation and emphasizing energy efficiency. While it might not compete directly with the latest Snapdragon chips in sheer power, the Tensor G4 ensures smooth performance for everyday tasks. The battery is confirmed to be 5,050 mAh, improving efficiency for more prolonged use between charges.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL ships with Android 15 and will receive updates for seven years, ensuring long-term support and security. AI features like the Pixel Screenshot function use artificial intelligence to provide contextual information based on user screenshots. Additionally, the device includes a one-year subscription to Gemini Advanced, offering advanced language models, cloud storage, and document analysis tools.

The Pixel 9 Pro XL holds up well compared to the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Galaxy S24 Ultra. It offers a comfortable grip with dimensions similar to the iPhone 15 Pro Max but is slightly taller. The flat edges might appeal to users who prefer a less sharp-edged device compared to the Galaxy S24 Ultra. The new color options — black, gray, pink, and porcelain — offer more personalized choices.

Overall, the Google Pixel 9 Pro XL impresses with its sleek design, solid performance, and innovative AI features. While it might not lead in raw processing power, its focus on energy efficiency, excellent cameras, and long-term software support make it a compelling choice in the flagship smartphone market. The various memory options and colors offer a premium experience that caters to a wide range of users.

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Nothing Phone (2a) Plus Review: It Keeps Getting Better

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PROS:


  • Elegant transparent design and Glyph Interface

  • Improved performance across the board

  • 50MP selfie camera

  • Sustainabile design

CONS:


  • No telephoto camera

  • No wireless charging

  • Spotty operator compatibility in the US

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus delivers on its promise of an optimal and accessible daily driver that builds on the essentials and gets it almost perfect.

It hasn’t been that long since we reviewed Nothing’s latest masterpiece, the Phone (2a) which was designed to offer an “optimal” daily smartphone. It was another way of describing what most would bill as a mid-tier device, though it was definitely one that lived up to its hype in both design and performance. It was far from perfect, of course, but it wasn’t bad either. And yet here we are now with a “Plus” version out of nowhere, not a larger version but one that promises a more premium experience, at least compared to the Phone (2a). Color us intrigued, despite the obvious monochrome motif, so we gave the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus a few spins to see if it really has something to be proud of.

Designer: Nothing

Aesthetics

By now, Nothing’s design identity has been well established. It may not be the geeky full transparency many have hoped for, but it definitely managed to strike a beautiful balance between technology and art in its phones. To some extent, that design is even more refined in the Phone (2a) series, with its own unique patterns of opaque lanes snaking down the phone’s back, not unlike roads on a map. It feels like it has a story to tell, not just a composition of shapes, lights, and shadows.

Nothing also embraced that cute little oddity we noticed on the Phone (2a): a face on the back of your phone. The placement of the two cameras in the middle of the NFC coil is no accident, and the company says it gives an anthropomorphic character, almost literally. It’s like having a pair of eyes on a cartoony circular face looking at you, or at least at the person in front of you. It is not by coincidence, either, that the Phone (2a) Plus’s silicon brain actually sits beneath this face as well.

There’s also the Glyph Interface, of course, at least the toned-down version. It might not have the same head-turning effect as the TRON-like Phone (2), but it’s more practical, more efficient, and also longer-lasting. It remains useful and visible even after the novelty has worn off.

Of course, these are design elements that the Phone (2a) also has, but what sets the “Plus” model apart is its more elegant finish. The Phone (2a) Plus has a metallic edge that’s not simply machined and then polished but is actually a product of multiple intricate processes, which is to say it’s quite a laborious and somewhat costly design. It’s well worth it, however, if only for the fact that it gives the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus a more stylish and premium look that raises its profile to the same level as more expensive handsets.

Ergonomics

The Nothing Phone (2a) Plus has a few upgrades inside that we’ll get to in a moment, but despite the internal and material changes, it remains just as lightweight as the Phone (2a), exactly 190g light, in fact. This makes the phone incredibly easy to hold without feeling flimsy or cheap. That’s very important given how large the phone actually is.

The design of the edges also helps improve that grip. Nothing adheres to that modern flat design school that gives phones more angled edges that lodge themselves into your hand without biting into your skin. It is yet another balancing act that Nothing gets right, allowing users to hold such a big phone with confidence.

Performance

The biggest divide that separates the Phone (2a) and Phone (2a) Plus can be found inside, starting with the new MediaTek Dimensity 7350 Pro 5G that Nothing says was developed exclusively for the brand. It’s definitely a step up from the stock Dimensity 7200 of the Phone (2a), especially by the fact that it can run at 3.0GHz max. It also has a stronger GPU with the Mali-G610 MC4 clocked 30% faster at 1.3GHz. What all these mean in practice is that the phone is even better equipped to handle mobile games, let alone the everyday tasks you throw at it. You’ll still have to dial down the settings, of course, but not to the point that games lose their visual flavor and appeal.

The large 6.7-inch FHD+ AMOLED screen definitely contributes to an enjoyable multimedia experience, especially with its 120Hz refresh rate. The display is vibrant and bright, but not so bright that it will strain your eyes. For that, it supports 2160Hz PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation) dimming, supporting longer screen time use, though it’s still advisable to take regular breaks, regardless.

The other big upgrade that the Phone (2a) Plus boasts of is the triple 50MP camera system. No, there are still only two cameras on the back, and both definitely produce impressive output. The newcomer is the 50MP front-facing camera, up from the already good 32MP shooter from the Phone (2a). This is a Samsung JN1 with an F2.2 aperture lens and a wide 81.2-degree field of view. Suffice it to say, whether you’re taking selfies or food pics, you’ll be treated to clear, crisp, and detailed photos, even at night.

Despite the slightly more powerful hardware, the Nothing Phone (2a) Plus retains the same 5,000 mAh battery. It’s still a large and generous serving by today’s standards, so you shouldn’t be worrying about going empty in the middle of the day. For the Plus model, Nothing upped the charging speed a bit to 50W from 45W. It’s not exactly the fastest on the block, but bigger brands have done worse. Sadly, there’s still no wireless charging here, which is disappointing but not unexpected. In the grand scheme of things, that is probably the least of people’s needs for a phone on this tier.

Part of the Nothing Phone’s appeal is its take on the Android experience, and the Phone (2a) Plus definitely has that down to a “T,” including the new AI buzzword. Nothing OS has been famed for its minimalist aesthetic, especially when it comes to home screen widgets. Version 2.6 adds new widgets to that set, and productivity buffs will love the new Date widget for important reminders. There’s also ChatGPT integration for getting the answers you need quickly, though it might be a controversial feature considering some privacy concerns.

Sustainability

Nothing has always positioned itself as a design-conscious company, and designers these days are also conscious of the impact that their designs have on the environment. This is especially true in the smartphone industry where material waste from production and electronic waste from discarded products continue to rise each year as more and more devices are made. That’s why it’s quite encouraging to see Nothing’s efforts in this area, from using 100% recycled aluminum for the midframe to sustainably sourcing over 50% of the Phone (2a) Plus’ plastic parts. It even reuses plastic waste from the production of the Ear (2) buds for this phone.

The Phone (2a) Plus also scores a few points for longevity, particularly with its IP54 dust and water resistance rating. We wish it had a longer software support period, which currently stands at 3 years for Android updates and 4 years for security patches. That can change somewhere down the road, and we hope it does. Where it doesn’t do well is repairability, which isn’t all that surprising considering its uncommon design. Nothing is still young, though, and with the CMF sub-brand, we could see some improvement in that regard as well.

Value

If the Phone (2a) already provided great value for its price, the Phone (2a) Plus takes that a step further. Better performance, a better selfie camera, a slightly faster charging battery, and a great distinctive design all make this handset a great sell. At only $399 for 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, it even practically makes the $349 Phone (2a) almost ignorable, strange as that may sound. It is definitely worth considering for your everyday driver, presuming you can get your hands on one.

That is the bit that slightly takes away some of the Phone (2a) Plus’ appeal. You can always import the phone if no local store or carrier offers it, but you will have to do your own research to make sure you can actually use it in your locale. In the US, for example, it doesn’t support AT&T’s 5G network at all and only some of T-Mobile’s 5G bands. Verizon has “limited support,” which means you can use it at your own risk. It’s hardly Nothing’s fault, but it does show some of the disadvantages of being a small fish in such a large pond.

Verdict

The arrival of the Phone (2a) Plus was quite a surprise. Definitely a pleasant one, but a surprise nonetheless. It’s not like the Phone (2a) wasn’t a good phone, but now there might be even fewer reasons for people to want one other than availability and that $50 difference. That’s because the Phone (2a) Plus practically addresses some of the imperfections of its older sibling without taking away any of its charm. It definitely lives up to its promise of a powerful everyday driver, whether you’re scrolling through social media, responding to emails, or even passing the time with games.

The post Nothing Phone (2a) Plus Review: It Keeps Getting Better first appeared on Yanko Design.

All-new Audi A6 e-tron: A Bold Vision in Electric Vehicle Design

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The Audi A6 e-tron combines advanced technology with striking aesthetics. Both the exterior and interior reflect Audi’s dedication to precision and innovation. From the moment you see the A6 e-tron, its clean, sophisticated lines are evident. The design integrates functionality with a bold visual presence. Here’s a closer look at the details that make this vehicle a remarkable entry into the electric vehicle market.

Designer: Audi

The front design features Audi’s signature inverted single frame, encased in a sleek black mask. This design cleverly integrates the main headlights, ADAS sensors, and air intakes, creating a seamless and functional front end. The slim daytime running lights and wide grille give the A6 e-tron a broad, assertive presence on the road.

Audi S6 Sportback e-tron

The side profile of the A6 e-tron impresses with its dynamic roofline and low ride height, enhancing aerodynamic efficiency and contributing to a sleek, sporty look. The prominent Quattro blisters over each wheel arch emphasize the car’s performance capabilities, giving it a powerful stance. A black insert along the sill area highlights the battery’s placement, stretching visually to the rear and integrating the reflectors for an extended appearance. For those who prefer a more traditional touch, the Avant model features a distinctive aluminum-look trim from the A-pillar to the roof spoiler, adding a unique and stylish element.

At the rear, the A6 e-tron combines sporty elegance with functional aerodynamics. A continuous three-dimensional light strip spans the vehicle’s width, housing the second-generation digital OLED rear lights. With 450 individual segments, these lights offer customizable light signatures and enhance road safety through car-to-X communication. The rear diffuser, designed for optimal aerodynamic performance, and the additional spoiler on the Avant model reduce drag and improve stability at high speeds.

Audi’s aerodynamic excellence shines in the A6 e-tron. The vehicle achieves a low drag coefficient (0.21 for the Sportback, 0.24 for the Avant) thanks to several key features. Air curtains at the front manage airflow around the wheels, reducing turbulence and drag. The slim greenhouse and sloping roofline contribute to a sleek profile that cuts through the air with minimal resistance. Underneath, the car’s underbody is extensively sealed and optimized, including specially adapted wheel trims and 3D bumps ahead of the front wheels to streamline airflow further.

The controllable cool-air intake under the Singleframe grille ensures efficient cooling while minimizing aerodynamic losses. The rear diffuser balances lift and drag, enhancing stability at high speeds. The Avant model includes an additional spoiler on the diffuser and side spoilers at the rear to manage airflow more effectively, contributing to its slightly higher drag coefficient than the Sportback but still maintaining impressive aerodynamic performance.

The second-generation virtual exterior mirrors, now with electrically foldable compact cameras, reduce the vehicle’s front area and improve the drag coefficient. These mirrors enhance the car’s sleek look and provide a practical benefit by lowering aerodynamic drag.

 

Inside, the A6 e-tron continues to impress with a user-focused design. The digital stage concept features a panoramic display, blending a 14.5-inch MMI touch display with an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit. An optional 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display offers Active Privacy Mode, allowing passengers to enjoy entertainment without distracting the driver. The second-generation augmented reality head-up display provides relevant information directly in the driver’s line of sight.

Comfort and functionality take center stage in the interior design. The “soft wrap” extends door to door, creating a cohesive and enveloping space. High-quality materials cover every surface, differentiating between comfort-oriented and precisely designed control areas. The low-lying, slim air vents blend into the background, emphasizing the interior’s clean lines. Displays for the virtual exterior mirrors are ergonomically positioned inside the doors for easy viewing.

Audi S6 Sportback e-tron

The Audi A6 e-tron seamlessly integrates modern technology. The infotainment system, powered by Android Automotive OS, updates over the air to keep the latest Audi Connect services up-to-date. The Audi Application Store offers a variety of third-party apps, while the enhanced e-tron route planner ensures efficient travel. The Audi assistant, integrated with ChatGPT, provides intuitive voice control for various vehicle functions, enhancing the overall driving experience.

With its curved design and OLED technology, the MMI panoramic display consists of an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit and a 14.5-inch MMI touch display. This digital stage is complemented by the optional 10.9-inch MMI front passenger display, which features Active Privacy Mode. Thanks to intelligent light direction control based on speed and seat occupancy, the front-seat passenger can enjoy entertainment content without distracting the driver.

The interior design emphasizes a homely ambiance with clear structures and spaciousness. The “soft wrap” extends from the doors across the entire width of the control panel, creating a cohesive and enveloping space. Comfort-oriented areas feature generous surfaces and soft materials, while control areas use high-quality, high-gloss black finishes to highlight the interaction points. The low-lying, slim air vents blend seamlessly into the background, maintaining the interior’s clean lines.

Audi S6 Sportback e-tron

The displays for the optional virtual exterior mirrors are positioned ergonomically inside the doors, ensuring they are easily visible without distracting the driver. This thoughtful placement enhances the driver’s ability to monitor their surroundings comfortably.

The Audi A6 e-tron sets new standards in electric vehicle design. Its exterior combines elegance with aerodynamic efficiency, while the interior focuses on user-friendly technology and comfort. Personally, I love the look of the Avant—it’s stylish and incredibly practical. Which model do you prefer?

U.S. Market Specific Information

Audi will launch the A6 e-tron, A6 e-tron quattro, and S6 e-tron Sportback variants in the U.S. market. The offer structure for the A6 e-tron in the U.S. market will differ from the global release.

The A6 e-tron (RWD) Sportback delivers 362 hp and accelerates from 0-60 mph in an estimated 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. The A6 e-tron quattro Sportback offers 422 hp and achieves 0-60 mph in about 4.3 seconds, maintaining the same top speed. The S6 e-tron Sportback has 496 hp, which can be boosted to 543 hp with launch control, reaching 0-60 mph in an estimated 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 149 mph.

Audi A6 e-tron Family

EPA range specifications will be announced closer to the U.S. on-sale date. The European drag coefficient of 0.21 Cd is based on a specific wheel offering. Unfortunately, virtual exterior mirrors are unavailable in the U.S.

The A6 e-tron features a 100 kWh battery (94.4 kWh net), with AC charging at 9.6 kW (240V/40A) and DC fast charging at 270 kW HPC at 800 volts, capable of reaching 10-80% SOC in 21 minutes. Available colors for the U.S. models include Magnetic gray (solid), Glacier white metallic, Mythos black metallic, Plasma blue metallic, Malpelo blue metallic, and Typhoon gray metallic. The S6 e-tron also offers a Siam beige metallic and Daytona gray pearl effect.

The A6 and S6 e-tron offer up to eight customizable light signatures. However, due to U.S. regulations, certain lighting functionalities—such as adaptive matrix LED headlights, car-to-X communication, and active digital light signatures—will not be available. More detailed information will be announced closer to the U.S. on-sale date, including final U.S. market-specific product information, performance specifications, pricing, and EPA-rated range/emissions information.

The post All-new Audi A6 e-tron: A Bold Vision in Electric Vehicle Design first appeared on Yanko Design.