Kia’s unveiling of the Concept PV5 and PV7 marks a major milestone in electric vehicle development, targeting a 2025 release. These models blend modern aesthetics with practical design, catering to diverse urban transport and logistics needs. The PV5 and PV7 are designed with both scalability and versatility in mind, making them perfect for various business applications, from passenger transportation to cargo delivery.
Designer: KIA
The PV5’s exterior features sleek, aerodynamic lines and a striking two-tone color scheme that conveys a futuristic and professional look. Large, seamless windows enhance visibility and contribute to the high-tech aesthetic, while the minimalist front design with integrated LED headlights adds a touch of sophistication. The vehicle is available in three body types: Basic (Passenger), Van (Delivery), and Chassis Cab, providing flexibility for businesses that require different configurations. The Basic model prioritizes comfort and space, featuring wide double doors and a flat floor to maximize interior room. It is ideal for urban passenger transport, including taxis and ride-sharing services.
KIA Concept PV5-R
Inside, the PV5 offers a spacious and innovative environment. Ergonomic seats can be configured in multiple ways to meet various needs, and they fold flat to provide additional storage space when necessary. The minimalist dashboard has a digital display that integrates all essential functions, offering the driver a streamlined and efficient interface. Sustainable materials used throughout the interior contribute to a luxurious feel and reflect Kia’s commitment to eco-friendly design. The large touchscreen display in the center console ensures easy access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings, enhancing the connected driving experience. The flat floor design of the electric platform further enhances versatility and space efficiency, making it easier for passengers with mobility issues or those carrying heavy cargo to enter and exit the vehicle.
Kia Concept PV5 Basic (Passenger)
The PV5’s Van (Delivery) model is tailored for the transportation of small and medium-sized cargo, featuring ample storage space and wide rear doors for easy access. This model is particularly suited for service industries and delivery businesses, offering a reliable and efficient solution for urban logistics. The Chassis Cab variant offers maximum flexibility, allowing businesses to customize the vehicle for specific needs, such as mobile workshops or specialized service vehicles.
The PV7, a larger sibling in Kia’s PBV lineup, extends these innovations with greater cargo space and advanced features tailored for more extensive transport needs. Both models reflect Kia’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle design, offering practical solutions for various commercial uses. The PV7 builds on the versatility of the PV5, providing more room and possibly additional configurations to meet diverse business demands.
Kia Concept PV5 Van Interior
Kia Concept PV7 is Kia’s second PBV and boasts the largest cargo space in the lineup.
Kia’s PV5 and PV7 concepts also hint at future advancements with the planned PV5-R model, incorporating autonomous driving technology. This innovation promises to enhance the appeal of PV5 and PV7 across various industries, offering a modern and efficient solution for urban mobility.
Kia Concept PV5 Basic (Passenger) is a perfect solution for urban passenger transportation such as taxis, ride hailing/sharing, and vehicles for people with disabilities.
Overall, Kia’s PV5 and PV7 concepts represent a significant step forward in the electric vehicle market. Their versatile designs, scalability, and focus on passenger comfort and cargo space position them to meet the diverse needs of businesses and individuals. The anticipated 2025 release marks an exciting milestone for Kia as it continues to innovate and lead in the electric vehicle sector.
When Dyson Zone headphones with a visor for beaming fresh air into your nose were released a couple of years ago, we were taken aback by the idea. Although the prospective buyers didn’t show much affinity towards the unconventional ANC cans costing $1,000, we knew Dyson was working under wraps to reclaim lost glory in the headphones segment. They were poised to take the heat to Sony 1000XM5, Bose QuietComfort Ultra, Apple AirPods Max, Bowers & Wilkins PX7, and Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless.
This time the UK-based consumer tech giant has come up with a more conventional pair of headphones that are ultra-customizable. Meet the Dyson OnTrac headphones that tout class-leading ANC performance akin to the QuietComfort Ultra and AirPods Max. Audio quality is also the USP just like B&W PX7 or Momentum 4 Wireless. Priced at the upper end of the consumer tech segment, the cans have enough meat to pack a punch.
The color customization of the headphones makes them stand out from the crowd with more than 2,000 possible combinations of the interchangeable outer cap covers and ear cushions made out of ultra-soft microfiber material. This is on top of the 4 basic color options in different material choices including CNC Copper, CNC Aluminium and CNC Black Nickel. OnTrac will also come in a special Ceramic Cinnabar version draped in a painted finish with a ceramic feel.
The headphones have an eight-microphone system capable of 40 decibels of reduction in unwanted sound courtesy of the 384,000 sound sampling per second. Good sound quality is a priority for the creators of the headphones, hence, the OnTracs feature 40mm drivers to reproduce the frequencies as intended by the artist. The frequency range of 6Hz to 21,000Hz makes you feel the rumble of sub-bass without muffling things and the highs are crystal clear. The Bluetooth codecs supported include SBC, AAC and the newer LHDC version.
The superior performance of the ANC doesn’t take a toll on the battery as Dyson promises 55 hours of impressive backup with Active Noise Canceling turned on. A charge of half an hour will juice them up for around 9 hours of playback. The controls for toggling volume levels, track change and ANC on/off are done with a tactile joystick button on the outside of either cup. Comfort is also important so the multi-pivot gimbal arms ensure the right amount of clamping force to prevent any pressure on the ears.
London-based design studio Based Upon is renowned for its out-of-the-box work and their latest creation is marvel on its own. Upgrading the classic piano design to a level that’s worthy of a grand art exhibition, is the Twist/D. A radical piano that breaks all norms for a creative twist.
Previously the studio has collaborated with names like Rolls-Royce and Tiffany & Co. to create collectible pieces which adorn the spaces of the rich and the famous. Building on the success of The Baby edition of five baby grands, this exclusive piece brings the grand expanse of the universe to your living room musical symphony.
According to Ian Abell, the essence of every piece crafted at the studio focuses on the right balance between functionality and artwork. Ian emphasis that the piano as a subject for them has “always been to create a credible piece of art while preserving the integrity of the instrument.” Twist/D tends to heighten the experience of the player as well as the listener. To everyone’s surprise, the autonomous piano is an amalgam of sculpture and technical features that delivers the touch, feel and sound of an exquisite concert grand.
The musical instrument has a spiralling shape that embodies dynamism of a dancer’s motion. The minimal silhouette of the piano is inspired by the proportions of the Golden Spiral. For the auditory brilliance, there are 12 computer modelled Steinways and Bechsteins from different eras for a vivid tonal qualities. Just like the form of this piano, the sync between strings, cabinet resonance and pedal mechanism of the symphonies is emulated perfectly for a rich sound. So has the integration of Isle of Skye site-specific audio samples that employs impulse response reverb techniques to create signatures of the island subterranean landscape.
Based Upon has managed to craft a musical instrument from advanced material and techniques to create a deep connection with the natural world. Twist/D has a lightweight frame made out of a composite material that makes possible the unconventional shape without compromising the structural integrity. Those keys are made from sustainable ebony and ivory alternatives for an environmentally friendly design. The price of $194,600 is meant to adorn the living rooms of music composers who value the good things in life.
Once upon a Super Bowl Sunday in 1984, Apple unveiled an ad that changed the world. Directed by Ridley Scott, the commercial broke new ground in marketing and technology. As the heroine dashed through a drab, Orwellian world, hurling a hammer to shatter the oppressive image on the screen, viewers were left breathless. The message was clear: the Apple Macintosh was here to break the chains of conformity and ignite the flames of innovation. Forty years later, where is Apple now? The legacy of that revolutionary spirit lives on, not just in Apple’s computers, but right on our wrists.
Designer: Apple
Designer: Seiko
Fast-forward to today and the legacy of that revolutionary spirit lives on, not just in Apple’s computers but right on our wrists. Enter the Apple Watch Ultra, a device embodying the essence of forward-thinking technology. But before we dive into the modern marvel, let’s take a nostalgic trip back to another wrist-worn wonder from the same era: the Seiko UC-2000.
The Seiko UC-2000: A Wrist Revolution in 1984
In the same iconic year of 1984, Seiko wasn’t content with just making elegant timepieces. They dared to dream of a wristwatch that could do so much more. Introducing the Seiko UC-2000, a watch that doubled as a personal computer. This gadget had a rectangular LCD screen and a series of buttons and could be paired with a keyboard docking station to perform tasks that were nothing short of magical for its time.
Seiko UC-2000
Imagine programming in BASIC, storing contacts, and managing your schedule, all from a device strapped to your wrist. The UC-2000 was ahead of its time, a pioneering effort in wearable tech. Its design included distinctive orange buttons, adding to its unique appearance and functionality.
Seiko UC-2000 + Keyboard dock
Echoes of the Past in the Apple Watch Ultra
Now, let’s warp back to the present and unwrap the magic of the Apple Watch Ultra. Sleek, sophisticated, and packed with features, it’s everything the Seiko UC-2000 aimed to be and more. The Apple Watch Ultra sports a vibrant OLED display, sophisticated health monitoring tools, navigation aids, and seamless connectivity with the Apple ecosystem. It’s like having a mini-supercomputer on your wrist.
Apple Watch Ultra
But here’s the kicker: look closely at the design. Notice anything familiar? The Apple Watch Ultra features an orange ring and a striking orange button on the left. This design choice echoes the legacy of wearable tech pioneers like the Seiko UC-2000.
Source: oldcrap.org Seiko UC-2000
Even more striking is the resemblance in the link bracelet design. The Apple Link Bracelet closely mirrors the design of the Seiko UC-2000’s band, with its sleek, segmented links and metallic finish. Both bracelets emphasize a modern, streamlined look, showcasing how timeless design elements continue to influence new generations of technology. Four decades later, the spirit of those early innovations lives on, influencing and inspiring new generations of technology.
Source: oldcrap.org Seiko UC-2000
Link Bracelet for Apple Watch Ultra 49mm Metal Band
The shape of the watches themselves holds a remarkable resemblance. The Seiko UC-2000 and the Apple Watch Ultra feature a rectangular face with rounded edges, a design that enhances aesthetics and functionality. This shape provides a broad, clear display area while maintaining a comfortable fit on the wrist. The Apple Watch Ultra, with its rounded corners and sleek profile, seems like a modern interpretation of the Seiko UC-2000’s design ethos. This continuity in design highlights how certain principles of form and function remain relevant and influential across decades.
Apple Watch Ultra 2
Seiko UC-2000
Bridging Four Decades of Innovation
The journey from Apple’s iconic 1984 ad to the cutting-edge Apple Watch Ultra is a tale of relentless innovation. Apple’s commercial heralded a new era of computing. Similarly, the Seiko UC-2000 took a bold step into the future of wearable technology.
Source: Reddit
Today, as we glance at our Apple Watch Ultras, it’s fascinating to see how far we’ve come. From the pioneering days of the Seiko UC-2000, with its orange buttons and chunky design, to the sleek, multifunctional marvels on our wrists now, it’s clear that the spirit of innovation and rebellion against the ordinary has always been the driving force. From its early days to now, the Apple Watch has evolved into a market leader, becoming the number one selling watch in the world. It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come.
This journey of innovation is mirrored in Apple’s other groundbreaking products. From the revolutionary iPhone and iPad, which redefined how we communicate and consume media, to the Vision Pro, which promises to revolutionize augmented reality. The MacBook and iMac continue to set standards in computing performance and design, illustrating Apple’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of technology across all its product lines.
Apple WWDC 2024: A Theatrical Return to Roots
In 2024, Apple brought back the daring and eye-popping theatricality reminiscent of its 1984 ad. Senior Vice President of Software Engineering Craig Federighi kicked off the event at the Worldwide Developers Conference by parachuting down into the Apple headquarters. This dramatic entrance harkened back to Apple’s roots, showcasing its commitment to breaking the mold and captivating its audience.
watchOS Public Beta: New Features to Love
watchOS 11 Public Beta
Building on this legacy of innovation, Apple has released the public beta for watchOS 11, packed with features that promise to enhance the user experience significantly. The Vitals app offers users a comprehensive view of their overnight health metrics. By wearing your watch to sleep, you can monitor heart rate, respiratory rate, wrist temperature, blood oxygen levels, and sleep duration. The Vitals app helps establish a typical range for each metric, providing notifications if multiple metrics fall outside this range, with context on possible factors like medications or illness. While traveling in Japan, I became ill, and the Vitals app flagged my vitals as being out of range. It was helpful to see the metrics.
watchOS 11 Vitals
Training Load is another exciting feature, helping athletes see how workout intensity impacts their bodies over time. This tool lets users make informed decisions about their training schedules, especially when preparing for significant events. Enhanced GPS positioning for more workouts and custom workouts for pool swims are also noteworthy additions, providing users with more precise and personalized fitness tracking.
watchOS 11 Training Load
The Photos Face has been redesigned and powered by machine learning to curate the best images from your library for display on your watch. The Cycle Tracking app now includes features tailored for pregnancy, offering gestational age tracking and health recommendations.
watchOS 11 Photos Face
watchOS 11 Cycle Tracking
Smart Stack has become more intelligent, displaying widgets automatically based on time, location, and other factors. Live Activities are supported, and new widgets include severe weather alerts, Training Load, and Photos.
watchOS 11 Smart Stack
With the new Check-In feature, users can notify friends or loved ones when they arrive at a destination, providing peace of mind. Enhanced GPS positioning, custom pool swim workouts, and a new effort tracking metric for workouts round out the impressive list of new features in watchOS 11.
watchOS 11 Check In
Apple’s ability to captivate and innovate remains as strong as ever, from the bold declaration of the 1984 ad to the thrilling presentations of WWDC 2024. As a 50-year-old tech journalist covering technology for the last three decades, it’s been such a pleasure to have experienced each stage of innovation. I’m excited to see what Apple Intelligence has in store for us over the next few decades.
For those eager to explore the future of wearable technology, try the public beta. However, be cautious—once installed, you cannot roll back to the previous version without shipping the watch to Apple for service. For more detailed information on watchOS 11 features, visit the Apple watchOS 11 preview page.
With the way how cameras on the back of the phones seem to be dancing around, or how every new model has some innovative glass-etching process, you’d think that the smartphone design field is bursting with activity and changing at every turn. You’d be partially correct, at least if only external appearances are concerned. In one important aspect, however, phone design has somewhat stayed still, held back by the demands of technology. Phones these days are either made up of glass and plastic covers on top of metal or plastic frames, with all-metal designs almost just a footnote in history. As one that never settles for anything less, OnePlus embarked on a bold and ambitious quest to design the first and so far only 5G phone with a metal unibody, a journey that took them back not only through the history of smartphone design but also through the history of human innovation.
Designer: OnePlus
Mobile Innovation, Material Stagnation
It wasn’t always the case that smartphones had a singular formula when it came to materials. It wasn’t too long ago that OnePlus itself launched a metal unibody design in the form of the 2017 OnePlus 5 and OnePlus 5T. Since then, however, smartphones have moved to those glass-metal or plastic sandwiches and there hasn’t been a full unibody design ever since. Ironically, the reason for that is one of the biggest innovations in the mobile industry: 5G networks.
OnePlus 5
OnePlus 5T
The speed and power of 5G placed heavier demands not just on hardware but also on design, specifically on how radio waves are transmitted through the phone’s body. Wireless signals already have a difficult time passing through metal, and even more so for 5G, forcing phone designers to either have plastic strips on the frame’s edges or simply ditch the all-metal design altogether. Unfortunately, it almost seems as if the industry as a whole is no longer interested in solving this puzzle, but OnePlus has risen to the challenge to provide its loyal users with a no-compromise option that will speak to their hearts through their fingers.
Metal Matters
Since the beginning of human history, especially when it came to trade, metal has played an important role not just in building up civilization but also as a symbol of prestige and luxury. Metal has always had this dual character of being a durable and malleable worker’s tool as well as a premium material for jewelry, decorations, and art. It is this long history that has endeared French designer Mathieu Lehanneur to metal. Famed for his nature-inspired metal-based works, Lehanneur was chosen to design the distinctive Paris 2024 Olympic Torch, perfectly symbolizing not only the aspirations of the Olympics itself but also the poetry in nature found in this year’s location for the event.
Mathieu Lehanneur, Designer of the Paris 2024 Olympic Torch
“I love materials that get their own history,” says Lehanneur as he explains his fascination with metal, “and metal’s history actually starts from the Earth, from the very planet itself. At the same time, it is also a part of human invention and skill, thanks to its ability to be transformed. I love the flexibility of the material, being able to create something that appears like a single piece of metal, a unibody design like the Olympic torch.”
It is that same trait that has allowed OnePlus to craft a seamless and unified metal shell for its latest design, the OnePlus Nord 4. The material delivers a lustrous look and a premium feel, something that users today are craving more than just features and specs. More importantly, however, this metal unibody design was made to address the flaws and concerns that smartphone makers have with mixing the material and current technologies, opening the door to fresh new designs that go beyond limitations imposed by hardware.
OnePlus Nord 4: Metal for the 5G Era
Choosing metal for the new Nord was both logical yet also difficult. It presented an opportunity to uplift the user experience but also put hurdles that needed to be sufficiently overcome lest it actually become a burden to that same user experience. Fortunately, the creative minds over at the OnePlus Industrial Design Studio got together to solve these issues to deliver a fashionable product without compromises.
Ryan Ruan, Head of OnePlus Industrial Design Center, shares the many challenges the team had to face and eventually solved to create the OnePlus Nord 4. In the early stages of the design, it was already clear that the higher thermal conductivity of metal would be a concern. “That’s why we chose the power-efficient (Qualcomm) Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 and designed a heat dissipation system that uses 17,900 sq. mm. of high-density crystalline graphene and a steel vapor chamber to ensure that even in extreme temperatures, the phone can still operate normally,” the designer explains. This serves to minimize the impact of heat on the metal surface and keep the phone performing optimally.
Wireless charging is another feature that is absent on phones with metal covers, and, unfortunately, there is still no way around this limitation. That said, the desire for this feature is more of a symptom of a much deeper cause. “Ultimately, users are pursuing high charging efficiency and a better user experience overall. Wireless charging is just one of the solutions, but we provide another solution,” according to Ruan. That solution is the OnePlus Nord 4’s extra-large 5,500 mAh battery and super-fast 100W SuperVOOC charging, minimizing not only the charging time but also the number of times you even need to charge the phone.
As for that tricky 5G antenna problem? OnePlus re-designed the phone’s internals to not only maximize battery space but also improve the signal strength. More importantly, the new U-shaped antenna design at the bottom of the internal chassis ensures that there is no degradation of wireless signals when you hold the phone at the sides with the so-called “Death Grip.” In other words, there will never be a wrong way to hold the Nord 4.
The Future of Burdenless Design
“When you choose a device, a product, or an art piece, it’s not only a question of specs or functionality but also a question of emotion, what you can feel from an object,” says Lehanneur. This relationship between object and person is especially true with today’s smartphone users who no longer pick just from a list of features but based on, as the designer describes it, “a question of how you want to be part of this object and how you want it to be a part of your life.” In that regard, Lehanneur expressed his delight in the Nord 4’s metal unibody design, and not just because it was made of metal. The Mercurial Silver colorway, in particular, has this visual effect where you can feel a relief or embossed surface even when there’s none. Lehanneur compares it to the “guillochage” design of luxury watches that provide beautiful visual and tactile experiences in a simple yet striking manner.
It’s a kind of detail that isn’t lost on OnePlus users who Ruan describes as “very playful, very young, and very personalized, pursuing designs where they can express themselves.” That is why early on, OnePlus designers decided to have a very different metal unibody design for the Nord 4 that distinguishes it from the 4G era OnePlus 5 and 5T. The dual-tone design of this generation’s “Nordtones” expresses that spirit of dynamism and vibrancy, while still trying to appeal to a broad range of tastes. It allows the Nord 4 to establish an emotional connection with users and allow them to express themselves in more unique and personalized ways.
A metal unibody is definitely a bold design to use for a phone, but it’s one that looks to the past glories of smartphone history while also safeguarding its future. “Metal is probably one of the most sustainable materials because it can live endlessly,” says Lehanneur. Unlike plastic that loses a part of its substance every time it’s recycled, metal can be recycled again and again. The recycled metal used in the Paris Olympic Torch, for example, could have very well come from a car in the past. In a way, that is also one way that metal carries its history, creating an interesting narrative with each lifetime.
In the same vein, metal wasn’t just a material choice for OnePlus but a representation of the brand’s design philosophy and ideals. “OnePlus is founded on the belief that while form should always perform a function, good design is what ultimately defines the user experience,” says Ruan. Choosing a metal unibody design, despite its numerous challenges, demonstrates the battle cry that launched OnePlus into stardom: Never Settle. “Our aim is to always strike the ideal balance between modern, elegant design and fast, smooth performance while providing users with a burdenless experience.”
Be sure to look out for our review of the OnePlus Nord 4 that will cover not just the design but also the overall value of this bold metal unibody phone.
There are many techniques and strategies going around the Web on how to get a good night’s sleep, but many neglect the most basic requirement of all: comfort. If you’re sweating buckets all through the night, it shouldn’t take a genius to know why you feel even more tired when waking up, presuming you even got any shut-eye at all. Keeping the body cool is critical in getting that good night’s sleep, but that’s easier said than done, especially given how different people respond to environmental factors differently. Some find air conditioning units too cold, while others feel they aren’t enough, and that’s not even considering you might not be the only one in the room sharing the bed. It would be nice if you could envelope yourself with cool air tailored specifically to your body, which is what this simple yet innovative blanket brings to your bed and to your life.
Blankets and comforters are designed to keep you toasty on cold nights but also tend to trap warm or hot air on warm nights. Four times cooler than linen but just as comfortable on your skin, the HILU Bluvet, a portmanteau of “blanket” and “duvet,” actually works in reverse to keep your body temperature down and experience a refreshing and comfortable sleep. This works wonders for your body during warmer seasons or weather, making it feel like you have your own personal air conditioning unit under the sheets.
HILU Bluvet is made of a special cooling yarn blend, revolutionary Adaptex CoolWeev fabric, that wicks away excess body heat, keeping you cool, dry, and fresh all night.
The secret is HILU’s proprietary Adaptex CoolWeev fabric designed to wick heat away from your body. Made from gel-spun fibers, the Eco-cool Polyfibers are woven into yarn to produce a material that is incredibly strong yet also feather-light. While other cooling mattresses need to make you sweat to cool you down, the Bluvet stops you from sweating in the first place by absorbing excess heat from the air around your body. Whether you’re using it as a blanket, a duvet, or even a mattress topper, the HILU Bluvet guarantees a soothing slumber every time.
Of course, a cool body won’t be much help if you’re scratching all night, which is why the Adaptex CoolWeev fabric is designed to be antimicrobial and hypoallergenic to protect your skin from irritation. It also prevents the build-up of bacteria and odors, so you wake up not only feeling fresh but smelling as fresh as when you went to bed. And when the blanket does get dirty, you can safely put it in the washing machine in the morning and have it dry and ready for bedtime on the same day. Built to last and with a 10-year limited warranty, this blanket/duvet hybrid will keep you company and cool for thousands of nights to come.
With the HILU Bluvet, you’re not just investing in comfort; you’re also choosing a cleaner, healthier sleep environment.
HILU Bluvet also lets you sleep with peace of mind thanks to its environment-conscious design. Made with OEKO-TEX-certified materials, the blanket utilizes eco-friendly and recycled materials that help not only reduce waste but also minimize any harmful impact on the environment. The HILU Bluvet comes in cream, blue, and green colors as well as Queen (90in x 90in) and King (102in x 90in) sizes to match your style, but why stop at having a cool body when you can have a cool head as well? Grab a set with two HILU Dual-Tech Pillowcases, with one side utilizing graphene technology to keep a consistent perfect temperature regardless of the season, while the other side features the same Adaptex CoolWeev fabric for that refreshing cool feeling every time.
After introducing the world’s first thermoregulating graphene blanket, HILU is once again revolutionizing the market to offer a cool new blanket that will also keep you cool no matter the season. So stop wasting your nights tossing and turning, drenched in sweat, and wrap yourself in the cool embrace of the HILU Bluvet and get the most comfortable sleep every night.
The upcoming Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold is already generating buzz, and the latest images from Taiwan’s National Communications Commission offer a compelling look at what we can expect. This second-generation foldable represents a departure from its predecessor, embracing a new design philosophy while addressing some of the previous model’s shortcomings.
Designer: Google
First and foremost, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold ditches the original’s short and wide passport-style form factor. The new model adopts a taller and narrower profile, bringing it more in line with devices like the OnePlus Open. This change offers a larger, more practical outer display, making the phone easier to handle and use. The increased screen real estate is a welcome improvement, even though it means saying goodbye to the unique shape that made the first Pixel Fold stand out from competitors like Samsung’s Galaxy Fold.
Google Pixel Fold
One of the most notable changes is removing Google’s signature camera bar. The first-generation Pixel Fold featured a prominent, elongated camera bar that added a distinctive look and functionality. The Pixel 9 Pro Fold opts for a new camera housing design, which is substantial enough to prevent the phone from wobbling when laid flat. This redesign offers a cleaner and more streamlined aesthetic, although it loses some of the original’s unique charm.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)
Google Pixel Fold
Looking at the new model’s inner display, there’s still a noticeable crease, though it appears less prominent than before. The screen ratio has shifted, becoming taller and narrower, and the bezels have been slimmed down, giving the device a more modern look. However, this design shift comes with a trade-off: the inner camera is now a cutout on the upper-left part of the display rather than being part of the bezel. This change means the screen is no longer uninterrupted, which might disappoint fans of the original design.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)
Despite its weight, the first-generation Pixel Fold’s short and wide design made it a great one-handed device. Although its cover screen was larger on paper, it was often too wide to hold comfortably for extended periods. In contrast, the new Pixel 9 Pro Fold’s taller form factor should make it easier to use and carry around, enhancing the overall user experience.
Google Pixel Fold
A concern with the new model is its slightly smaller battery capacity of 4,560 mAh, down from the first Fold’s 4,727 mAh. Given that the original wasn’t known for its battery longevity, this reduction might raise some eyebrows. However, Google’s latest Tensor processor promises efficiency gains that could help mitigate this issue.
Alongside these design changes, the Pixel 9 Pro Fold has a new 45-watt USB-C charger. This new charger, which sports a more rounded design than its predecessors, is part of Google’s push to improve charging speeds and overall user convenience.
Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold charger via Taiwan’s National Communications Commission (NCC)
As someone who has used the first-generation Pixel Fold extensively, I can say that it has a unique quality that the new model hopes to build upon. The first Fold had its share of drawbacks, from dim screen brightness compared to newer models to subpar speakers and limited app optimization. With the Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Google can address these issues and deliver a more refined and competitive product.
Google Pixel Fold
The Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold represents a significant evolution in design and functionality. By moving away from the unique but bulky passport form factor to a more practical and user-friendly design, Google is making strides to compete more effectively in the foldable phone market. Here’s hoping that the new model not only looks the part but also delivers on performance and user experience, even if it does come with a price tag north of $2,000.
Is it safe to say that Apple’s won the long-term smartphone war? Samsung had a decent Unpacked event last week, and so did Nothing, but none of them have even managed to match the cultural impact of Apple’s iPhone keynote that happens every September. In fact, even though the event happens on one single day, the news coverage before and after the event revolves around the iPhone too. After the phone’s announced, you’ve got first-impressions, reviews, and comparisons… but before the phone is announced, the rumor mill works hard to try and decipher what the upcoming phone will look like. We’re in July right now (two months before Apple announces its latest phone) and at this point, it does seem like we have a fair idea of what the new iPhone 16 Pro will look like. From hardware details to even internal components, the interwebz has worked tirelessly to deliver on leaks and credible speculations – so we decided to collect everything we know about the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max in one single place. Here’s everything we’ve heard so far…
After last month’s WWDC event, it’s pretty much taken for granted that Apple Intelligence will be at the forefront of the new iPhone lineup… and to make that happen, the new iPhones will need beefed up chipsets. A new report from Jeff Pu, an analyst at Haitong International Tech Research renowned for his reliable insights into Apple’s chip development, reveals that Apple is accelerating the production of the A18 Pro chip earlier than usual. This chip is being specifically tailored for advanced AI functionalities. These upgrades indicate that the upcoming iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max will feature a custom-designed A18 Pro chip, emphasizing on-device handling of intensive artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. Rumors are indicating that even the regular iPhone 16 phones may get the A18 Bionic chipset to handle these AI features.
Smaller Bezels = Bigger Screens
It’s 2014 again and bezels are public enemy number 1. Apple’s new phones will reportedly have marginally larger screens thanks to an impressive 30% reduction in bezels. This new display template, dubbed BRS or Border Reduction Structure, is thanks to Apple pushing Samsung to provide tighter circuit placement that can help shave off almost half a millimeter of bezel thickness. These reports seem fairly credible, coming from THE ELEC, a Korean industry media outlet. This effectively means the new 16 Pro and Pro Max will have screens measuring 6.3 and 6.9 inches diagonally, respectively.
The iPhone 15 Pro on the left and the 16 Pro on the right demonstrate the reduced bezel sizes
A New Capture Button For Enhanced Photography
Although rumors of a Capture Button have circulated for quite a while, actual details on its capabilities have only NOW become more evident. At first, this button was touted as simply a shutter button that could click photos without you needing to touch your screen, but indications show that this button will have a touch-sensitive surface and a two-stage press. The touch-sensitive surface will allow you to slide your finger from side to side to zoom in or out, while the two-stage press lets you press lightly for focusing, and then further for clicking the picture, sort of like most DSLR cameras. The capture button sits where the millimeter-wave antenna once featured on the iPhone’s body, but it seems like the antenna will just move over to the left side instead, making way for the new hardware feature on the iPhone 16 Pro.
Same Old Sensors, New Capabilities
Since cameras are a pretty massive part of the iPhone (some might say its highlight), talking about camera capabilities is also pretty crucial. Rumor has it that the new iPhone 16 Pro will still feature the 48MP main camera sensor from its predecessor with no change. However, the tetraprism telephoto lens from last year’s iPhone 15 Pro Max that could output 5x zoom will see even more zoom capabilities. Last year’s flagship iPhone had the zoom equivalent of a 120mm telephoto lens, but rumors indicate the new iPhone will push this to a 300mm lens equivalent. Now obviously, that seems absolutely bonkers, but it also makes sense to take such a rumor with a little pinch of salt. After all, stabilization while zooming in that far would probably be near impossible.
Thinner MagSafe Array
Yet another tweak, noticed by case-makers, is a refinement of the MagSafe array. Now the new MagSafe ring on the iPhone will feature thinner magnets all around, freeing up more space inside the phone without compromising on the magnet’s strength.
(Probably) A New Rose Gold Color Variant
The final rumor is that the iPhone 16 Pro series could see another color variant added to it. Apparently the famed Rose Gold colorway (made popular with earlier iPhone models and even the MacBook Air) could make a comeback – but this time in titanium. Yes, the new Pro-series iPhones will still have a titanium frame, but Apple will probably issue new color variants to set the different iPhone Pro models apart. Last year, the 15 Pro series saw natural, blue, white, and black finishes. It’s fairly conceivable that Rose Gold sees a resurgence this year.
The Rolex Perpetual 1908 brings a fresh perspective to the brand’s tradition of dress watches. Since its founding in 1905 by Hans Wilsdorf, Rolex has been a hallmark of precision, innovation, and elegance in watchmaking. The Perpetual 1908 continues this legacy, merging classic elements with modern sophistication. The latest model for 2024 introduces new materials and design refinements, ensuring it remains at the forefront of luxury timepieces.
Designer: Rolex
This model captures Rolex’s original boldness. Since the brand’s inception, Rolex has pursued Wilsdorf’s vision of wristwatches as high-performance instruments. This watch combines chronometric precision, waterproofness, autonomy, comfort, and durability. It embodies the classic yet modern spirit of the original Oyster Perpetual watches, with a silhouette and dial design that reimagines these timeless elements.
Initially available in 18-karat yellow gold and white gold, paired with either an intense white or matte black dial, the latest update introduces a new 950 platinum version. This version features an ice blue dial exclusive to Rolex watches in this prestigious metal. The case measures 39 mm, balancing presence and comfort on the wrist. The bezel combines domed and fluted design, adding elegance without ostentation. The transparent case back reveals the intricate workings of the movement, showcasing the brand’s commitment to aesthetics and performance.
The dials for the Perpetual 1908 include intense white, matte black, and now an ice blue with a guilloche rice-grain motif. This intricate pattern is created through traditional guillochage, reflecting light beautifully. The dial features Arabic numerals at 3, 9, and 12, with faceted index hour markers in 18-karat gold. The small seconds counter at 6 o’clock is centered within the rice-grain motif, enhancing the dial’s sophisticated look.
The hands are distinctive, with the minute hand shaped like a two-edged sword and the hour hand featuring a pierced circle. These elements blend historical inspiration with modern elegance, maintaining the watch’s refined aesthetic.
At the heart of the Perpetual 1908 is the caliber 7140, a self-winding movement developed in-house by Rolex’s watchmaking engineers. This movement drives the hands of the central hours and minutes and the small seconds hand at 6 o’clock. It incorporates several of Rolex’s cutting-edge technologies, including the Syloxi silicon hairspring and the Chronergy escapement made of a nickel-phosphorus alloy, both resistant to strong magnetic fields. The movement also features Paraflex shock absorbers, protecting the oscillator and escape wheel from shocks. With a power reserve of 66 hours, the caliber 7140 combines performance and elegance. Patents have been filed for this movement, entirely developed and manufactured in-house.
The 2024 model features an ice blue dial decorated with a rice-grain motif, achieved through guillochage. This rosette-like design, centered on the small seconds counter at 6 o’clock, gives the watch exceptional personality and is a tribute to traditional watchmaking infused with Rolex’s know-how and creativity.
The 950 platinum case, a rare and precious material, is striking for its incomparable radiance and silvery white glow. Considered the noblest of metals, it is noted for its exceptional corrosion resistance. The case has gracious lines and a transparent back that allows the refined aesthetics of the movement and the pivoting of the oscillating weight to be admired.
By offering a watch that reveals its movement through a transparent case back, Rolex continues to innovate while echoing its watchmaking tradition. The caliber 7140 features a cut-out oscillating weight in yellow gold with three arms engraved with the words “Chronometer Perpetual” and benefits from an optimized ball bearing. The movement boasts remarkable finishes, including the exclusive Rolex Côtes de Genève, a celebrated traditional watch decoration reinterpreted with a polished groove between each band. The sapphire window, virtually scratchproof, proves that for Rolex, the aesthetics of the movement are as important as its performance.
Introducing the Perpetual 1908 signifies a new direction for Rolex dress watches, blending the brand’s rich heritage with modern innovation. By launching the Perpetual collection and retiring the Cellini line, Rolex reaffirms its commitment to creating technically superior and timelessly elegant timepieces. This model sets a new standard for dress watches, combining historical elements with contemporary design and cutting-edge technology.
Future Rolex dress watches will continue to explore the balance between classic aesthetics and modern advancements. The transparent case back, showcasing the movement, indicates a willingness to innovate while honoring traditional watchmaking artistry. The movement’s use of advanced materials and technologies highlights Rolex’s dedication to performance and durability.
The Perpetual 1908 captures the essence of Rolex’s pursuit of excellence, blending past and future in a luxurious timepiece that speaks to the brand’s storied history and its vision for the future of dress watches.
Building LEGOs was something I loved as a child. I could spend hours putting together intricate and mesmerizing LEGO builds, that did have the potential to fall apart in mere seconds. However, LEGO is no longer simply considered child’s play. Masterbuilders and creators spend days and weeks building precise and astounding LEGO creations that will truly blow your mind away. And, this collection of LEGO designs is dedicated to cars! We’ve put together a collection of exquisite and finely detailed LEGO builds inspired by cars. These creations will have motorcar aficionados drooling at the mouth!
1. LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 Performance Set
Meet the LEGO Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 Performance Set – one of the latest additions to LEGO Technic’s collection of motorsports replicas. The build is a 1/8 scale model that you can build piece by piece using 1642 individual LEGO bricks. The LEGO model is 13 cm tall, 63 cm long, and 26 cm wide. It features a stark black color, leaving the carbon parts unpainted, which cuts down on some weight.
2. LEGO McLaren P1 Hybrid Super Car
LEGO Technic just built a 1:8 scale model of the McLaren P1 hybrid supercar, amped with loads of details inside out. It features a 3893-piece format, and it has a price tag of $449. The detailed 3.8-liter V-8 piston engine is paired with a seven-speed transmission with 2 shifter paddles, adjustable rear spoiler, functional suspension, and working dihedral doors. The LEGO build was created in association with McLaren Automotive to mimic even the smallest of details to perfection.
3. LEGO Batmobile
Designed by TaeYang Lee, this LEGO Batmobile draws inspiration from the movie’s fascinating rollercoaster plot. He used Mecabricks, a LEGO modeling tool to build this amazing build. The creation is much like the on-screen Batmobile, and it is based in a dark and gloomy world, with a sinister environment. The Batmobile has a matte black color, with toughened wheel rims, and a reinforced bumper build for the kill.
4. LEGO Bentley Blower
The Bentley Blower is one of the icons of pre-war racing elegance and power, and LEGO is paying tribute to its 100th anniversary and infamous design. The LEGO Ideas Bentley Blower is designed by LEGO builder ‘N.ik.Le.go.’, and it perfectly captures the old-world charm of its powerful predecessor in a scaled-down and compact form. This LEGO MOC is made using 707 bricks, and is pretty uncomplicated compared to the other LEGO builds.
5. LEGO Peugeot 9X8
LEGO builder Brick-A-Brac celebrates Peugeot’s 9X8 and built his own LEGO build of the 9X8 supercar. Made using 1320 parts, the car measures 20 inches long. It is equipped with an extraordinary amount of detail and has all the branded graphics on its body. It has a sleek design, commendable size, and loads of attention to detail, making it a must-have gem for LEGO + car enthusiasts to have!
6. LEGO McLaren F1 Car
Meet the LEGO replica of the 2021 season Formula-1 car. It is really quite jaw-dropping and is nine times the size of the collectible LEGO version which was quite a hit. The 1:1 LEGO variant is at another level altogether and requires a lot of time and effort to be built. It took 1893 man-hours to put the 288,135 LEGO bricks together, creating a 5.7-meter-long, 2.4 meter-wide structure.
7. LEGO FedEx Iconic Truck
This LEGO FedEx iconic truck was made using LEGO bricks to celebrate FedEx’s 50th anniversary. The company has a workforce of around 500,000 employees, as well as a fleet of 700+ aircraft, and 200,000 vehicles. This incredible LEGO build pays tribute to the company. It is white in color with a FedEx logo on the front and the side. It also has a diamond-shaped DOT hazardous chemical flip sign on the front.
8. LEGO McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna
The LEGO form of the McLaren F1 MP4 Ayrton Senna was added to the LEGO Speed Champions and Technic lineup. It serves as a stunning tribute to Ayrton Senna – an undisputed legend of motor racing. The set includes 693 pieces and has a Senna Minifigure on the podium, with the winner’s trophy, and a plate engraved with the photo and quote. McLaren is next to him in power mode.
9. LEGO Back To The Future Time Machine
Meet the LEGO Back to the Future Time Machine! This one is better than ever and more detailed. It includes a Flux Capacitor light brick, gull-wing doors, and printed dashboard dates. You can add the different equipment from the different parts of the movie – including the lightning rod from the first film, and the hood-mounted circuit from Part III.
10. 10321 Corvette LEGO Icons Set
This adorable little 10321 Corvette LEGO Icons set pays tribute to the first-ever Vette which rolled out on June 30, 1953. It has a beautiful build accentuated with a bright red exterior, which perfectly displays the original key details of the real version. These little details include the hard or open-top configuration, opening hood, and the truck that accommodates the V8 engine replica with a spinning radiator fan.
