In case you haven't noticed, Engadget has been expanding our smart home and kitchen coverage. However, we don't get to test out as many fridges as we like simply because they're large and difficult to move around. That said, now that Samsung has been putting AI inside of its fancy iceboxes for a few years, I wanted to do a long-term review of one of its latest models — the Bespoke AI 4-door refrigerator — to see firsthand if adding machine learning to an appliance improves its performance. But what I quickly learned is that my favorite thing about the fridge isn't AI but instead an innovative twist on the traditional water pitcher.
Samsung's Beverage Center is hidden behind a thin panel on the left so the water dispenser doesn't become an eyesore.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
Samsung calls it the Beverage Center and it's actually been around since 2021. It started out as a feature exclusive to the company's top-of-the-line model, but more recently, it's become so popular that Samsung began adding it to a wider range of products. Instead of having a basic water dispenser on the outside of a fridge (which is frankly kind of an eyesore), Samsung moved it behind a thin door. It then added another station right next that big enough to hold a water pitcher that automatically refills itself every time you use it.
My biggest gripe with traditional water dispensers is that they're too slow. If you're only filling up a single glass, it's not a big deal. But if you're trying to top up a water bottle or get water for the entire family before dinner, you're often forced to stand in front of the fridge for a few minutes, blocking others from getting in and generally being in people's way. With the Beverage Center, you still have the option to fill a glass individually, or you can pull the entire pitcher out, carry it over to your table and fill everyone's cup with haste like a waiter at a restaurant. Sure, this might only save you a few minutes, but when you're rushing to get dinner done before your kids start getting hangry, every second is precious. After all, six o'clock is dinner time — not 6:05 or 6:10.
Samsung's Beverage Center features a traditional water dispenser and a built-in pitcher that automatically refills itself after each use.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
I'd also argue that a pitcher is slightly more elegant than waiting for the weak stream from your water dispenser to lazily fill up a cup. But more importantly, because the whole pitcher is sitting inside a chilled fridge, all of the water is cold — not just the first 12 or 16 ounces you typically get from that little spigot. Also, because there's a strainer basket, you can even use it to make infused water just by throwing some fruit or herbs in there. And once again, you never need to refill it manually because when the pitcher is empty, you just put it back in the fridge and the next time you grab it, it's already full again. But don't just take it from me, there are numerous threads where other users acknowledge the greatness of Samsung's Beverage Center.
Samsung's Beverage Center comes with a built-in pitcher that holds 48 ounces of water and includes a strainer for making infused water or even iced tea.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
Of course, this feature isn't perfect. Samsung's pitcher isn't dishwasher safe, though that's not a huge deal because it's quick and easy to clean with warm soapy water. The bigger issue is that sometimes I wish the pitcher had more capacity or that Samsung offered the option to upgrade to a bigger one. In my experience, 48 ounces is just enough for my family of four, but I wouldn't be surprised if people with larger households might want something with more volume.
One of the nice things about Samsung's Beverage Center is that you still get room on the reverse side for holding things in the door of the fridge.
Sam Rutherford for Engadget
Honestly, Samsung's Beverage Center feels like one of the ingenious inventions that makes you wonder why another company didn't think of this sooner. But none did, and because Samsung holds some patents related to its automatic water pitcher, you probably won't see a similar feature on any of its competitors' fridges anytime soon.
As for the rest of the fridge and its AI Vision technology, I'm still testing those out, but stay tuned for a full review soon.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/home/smart-home/samsungs-beverage-center-is-the-best-fridge-feature-competitors-cant-copy-130000113.html?src=rss
What if the power of an Intel GPU could fit in the palm of your hand? It sounds almost impossible, but thanks to new kernel updates, Intel Arc GPUs can now run on Raspberry Pi devices. This unexpected pairing bridges the gap between x86 GPUs and ARM-based systems, offering a glimpse into a future where […]
E Ink tablets are a great purchase for anyone looking to get some distraction-free writing done, and reMarkable is selling some of our favorite models for up to a $70 discount for Black Friday. A bundle comes with an E Ink tablet of your chosing, plus a folio case to cover the screen and a rechargeable Marker stylus.
The reMarkable 2 and the reMarkable Paper Pro are available in the deal, and you'll find both on our list of the best E ink tablets. The reMarkable 2 in particular offers a great grayscale reading and writing experience, with support for Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive and Dropbox. It's easy to use and the screen makes text look crisp.
The battery lasts around two weeks, which is one of the benefits of this type of display. It supports Wi-Fi and can integrate both PDFs and ePub files. It's also easy to create your own notebooks that keep track of handwritten notes. To that end, there are eight brush types here to mark up documents and take notes.
The only major downside of the reMarkable 2 is that it doesn't ship with the company's newest Marker Plus stylus. However, this sale lessens that concern. A bundle with the tablet, the Marker Plus and the most simple case costs around $458, whereas the tablet by itself typically costs $399.
There's a similar discounted bundle available for the Paper Pro tablet. This knocks $50 off the asking price.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/remarkable-e-ink-tablet-bundles-are-up-to-70-off-for-black-friday-125523431.html?src=rss
Japanese design philosophy has long championed the principle of “less is more.” This approach strips away excess to reveal pure function wrapped in elegant form. When searching for meaningful gifts, these minimalist Japanese designs offer something beyond mere utility. They bring intentionality to everyday rituals, transforming mundane tasks into moments of quiet reflection and appreciation.
The products featured here embody this design ethos through carefully considered details and honest materials. Each piece serves a practical purpose while elevating the ordinary into something memorable. From writing instruments that float in mid-air to grooming tools crafted by master bladesmiths, these designs prove that thoughtful gifts need not shout to make an impression. They whisper quality and consideration instead.
1. Invisible Shoehorn
The Invisible Shoehorn reimagines a utilitarian object as an almost sculptural presence. Its long stainless steel body extends gracefully, eliminating the need to bend and strain your lower back during the daily shoe routine. The polished surface glides smoothly against delicate fabrics, protecting your finest socks and stockings from tears and snags. This thoughtful engineering makes mornings just a bit easier, particularly for those with mobility concerns or anyone who values their back health.
When paired with its transparent acrylic stand, the shoehorn seemingly vanishes into thin air, creating an intriguing visual paradox. The clear support allows the steel to float, transforming this practical tool into an unexpected design accent for entryways and closets. Rather than hiding a shoehorn in a drawer, this piece deserves display. It sparks conversations while serving its purpose with quiet efficiency, embodying the Japanese concept of functional beauty that enhances daily living without demanding attention.
The extended length genuinely protects your back from repetitive strain
The mirror-polished finish prevents fabric damage beautifully
What we dislike
The transparent stand could be easy to misplace if stored separately
Stainless steel shows fingerprints that require occasional polishing
2. Japanese Lantern Candle
Drawing inspiration from traditional chouchin lanterns that once illuminated festival streets and izakaya doorways, this candle holder brings historical charm into contemporary spaces. The design distills centuries of Japanese lighting tradition into a minimalist form that suits modern interiors. As the flame flickers inside, it casts gentle shadows that encourage the mind to settle and unwind. The ritual of lighting this candle signals a transition from the day’s demands into evening calm, creating a boundary between work and rest.
Craftsmen in Kurashiki handcraft each candle using techniques passed down through generations. The patented construction prevents the outer wax layer from melting, maintaining the lantern’s distinctive shape throughout its burn time. As the interior wax liquefies, the candle’s undulating surface creates mesmerizing light patterns that shift and dance across nearby walls. This interplay between solid structure and liquid interior mirrors the Japanese aesthetic appreciation for impermanence and transformation, offering a meditative focal point for bedtime routines or quiet moments of reflection.
The handcrafted quality from Kurashiki artisans ensures authenticity
Patented technology preserves the sculptural form as it burns
What we dislike
Replacement candles may require special ordering
The undulating surface means uneven burning in some spots
3. Step Trash Can
Yamazaki Home’s Tower collection exemplifies the Japanese talent for maximizing utility within minimal footprints. This compact waste bin solves multiple bathroom challenges through intelligent design thinking. The step-open mechanism eliminates the need to touch surfaces with wet or dirty hands, maintaining hygiene without electronic sensors or complicated mechanics. The one-gallon capacity suits bathrooms where space comes at a premium, fitting neatly beside toilets or vanities without crowding the floor plan.
The built-in handle facilitates easy emptying, while the hidden interior ring securely holds plastic liner bags in place without visible clips or awkward bunching. Lightweight ABS resin construction means anyone can lift and clean the bin effortlessly, yet the material provides durability for daily use. The minimalist form factor in either white or black steel finish integrates seamlessly with various bathroom aesthetics, from Scandinavian simplicity to industrial chic. For those living in compact urban apartments or anyone seeking to eliminate visual clutter, this trash can proves that even waste disposal deserves thoughtful design consideration.
What we like
The step-open design maintains bathroom hygiene effectively
The slim profile maximizes precious bathroom floor space
What we dislike
The one-gallon capacity requires more frequent emptying than larger bins
Replacement liner rings add an extra component to the track
4. FoldLine Pen Roll
The FoldLine Pen Roll transforms the simple act of preparation into a centering ritual. Cut from a single piece of Italian leather, this pen case unfolds in under two seconds to become a defined tray that instantly claims any surface as your workspace. Whether you settle into a café corner, hotel desk, or conference table, unrolling this leather establishes your territory with quiet authority. The origami-inspired geometry creates storage without bulk, folding air into its structure so the exterior remains slim even when filled with multiple writing instruments.
The design eliminates traditional stitched slots and compartments that create rattle and clutter. Instead, the leather itself wraps around each pen naturally, keeping metal-bodied instruments separated and protected through structure alone. This partition-free approach means you decide what goes where, adapting the roll to fountain pens, mechanical pencils, or styluses as your needs shift. The compact form fits comfortably in smaller hands and slips easily into messenger bags or briefcases, making it ideal for professionals, students, and creatives who work across multiple locations throughout their day.
The two-second transformation from roll to tray feels genuinely satisfying
Italian leather ages beautifully with regular handling
What we dislike
Premium leather comes with a higher price point
The single-piece construction means no replacement parts if damaged
5. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set
This charming miniature bonfire brings outdoor tranquility indoors through clever reinterpretation of camping rituals. The rust-resistant stainless steel construction mimics a campfire ring at desktop scale, while miniature firewood bundled with traditional knots serves as the diffuser medium. Drop essential oil onto the wood pieces, and the scent disperses gently throughout your space, replicating the calming effect of forest breezes without stepping outside. The included oil captures the distinctive aroma of Mount Hakusan, connecting you to one of Japan’s three sacred mountains from anywhere in the world.
The design extends beyond aromatherapy into practical territory. Included trivets transform the miniature bonfire into a functional pocket stove, allowing you to heat small pots or brew tea for an authentic camping experience indoors. This dual functionality makes it perfect for small apartments without outdoor space or anyone craving the meditative quality of tending a small flame. The sculptural presence creates an eye-catching centerpiece on coffee tables or desks, sparking conversations while serving its aromatic purpose. It embodies the Japanese concept of bringing nature’s calming influence into built environments through miniaturization and abstraction.
Mount Hakusan essential oil offers an authentic Japanese forest aroma
The miniature scale creates a surprising visual charm
What we dislike
The small firewood pieces could be easy to misplace
Replacement essential oils may require sourcing from specialty retailers
6. First Pour Bottle Opener
Crafted by legendary blacksmiths in Tsubame-Sanjo, Japan’s renowned metalworking region, the First Pour Bottle Opener elevates beverage service into performance art. The flowing silhouette brings sculptural presence to dining tables and home bars, transforming the mundane act of opening a bottle into a moment of elegance and intention. Its carefully considered curves fit naturally in hand, offering smooth control and satisfying weight with every pop. This is precision engineering applied to hospitality, where every detail serves both function and the overall experience.
The opener lifts caps cleanly without bending or tearing them, preserving their shape for collectors or simply delivering the satisfaction of a perfect open. A discreet magnet catches each cap the moment it pops, keeping the motion smooth and your table clear from runaway metal discs. The satin-finished stainless steel requires minimal maintenance while developing character through regular use. For hosts who treat every gathering as an occasion worth honoring, this tool demonstrates that even bottle opening deserves the same attention typically reserved for more elaborate serving rituals. It proves that Japanese craftsmanship applies its exacting standards to every aspect of daily life.
The premium price reflects master craftsmanship and may exceed typical opener budgets
The specific opener design works best with standard bottle cap sizes
7. Levitating Pen 2.0: Cosmic Meteorite Edition
This gravity-defying ballpoint pen suspends at a striking 23.5-degree angle, creating a floating illusion that transforms desks into conversation starters. Inspired by iconic spacecraft design, particularly the USS Enterprise, its futuristic silhouette appeals to space exploration enthusiasts and design collectors alike. The most remarkable feature lies in its tip, which incorporates genuine Muonionalusta meteorite fragments. This cosmic material predates Earth by 20 million years, offering a tangible connection to the universe’s ancient history every time you reach for a pen.
Beyond its stationary levitation, the pen spins gracefully for up to 20 seconds with a simple twist, providing a mesmerizing fidget function that helps refocus scattered attention during demanding workdays. This kinetic element adds a meditative quality to desk breaks, much like desktop zen gardens or worry stones. The limited edition status makes it particularly appealing for collectors who appreciate the intersection of functional tools and artistic statement pieces. It challenges conventional thinking about what writing instruments can be, proving that even ballpoint pens deserve radical reimagining when creativity meets engineering ambition.
The genuine meteorite tip provides an authentic cosmic connection
The 23.5-degree levitation angle creates genuine visual intrigue
What we dislike
The levitation requires specific placement and level surfaces
Replacement ink cartridges may need special ordering for the unique housing
8. Hasami Porcelain Mug in Gloss Gray
Hasami Porcelain represents over 400 years of ceramic tradition from Nagasaki Prefecture, refined into contemporary forms that suit modern living rhythms. This mug features a custom blend of porcelain and clay that creates exceptional density and refined weight in the hand. The high-gloss glaze coats both interior and exterior surfaces with a mirror-smooth finish, while the integrated handle curves close to the cylindrical body. Every proportion follows deliberate consideration, paring the design down to pure essentials without sacrificing comfort or usability.
The mug participates in Hasami’s innovative modular stacking system, where pieces nest together seamlessly for efficient storage and visually pleasing displays. This attention to how objects occupy space when not in active use reflects deep Japanese design thinking about the full lifecycle of household items. Microwave and dishwasher safe construction accommodates contemporary convenience without compromising aesthetic integrity. The gloss gray colorway offers versatile neutrality that complements various table settings and interior palettes. For daily coffee rituals or tea ceremonies, this mug brings quiet consistency and tactile pleasure to beverages, proving that everyday objects deserve the same design attention as showpieces.
What we like
The 400-year ceramic heritage informs every detail
The custom porcelain-clay blend creates satisfying weight and durability
What we dislike
The glossy finish shows water spots between washings
The minimalist handle design may feel small for larger hands
9. Moon Rocket Clock
This circular clock captures lunar mystique through specially polished stainless steel that reflects light like the moon’s surface. The printed numbers float around the edges, appearing to wax and wane as they curve around the spherical form, creating the optical illusion of phases changing throughout each hour. The second hand features a tiny rocket ship at its tip, completing a journey around the moon every minute. This playful detail transforms timekeeping into a visual reminder of humanity’s space exploration achievements and ongoing cosmic aspirations.
The minimalist design philosophy strips away unnecessary ornamentation, leaving only the essential elements needed to mark time’s passage. Each glance reminds viewers to live with adventure and intentionality rather than letting dreams slip past unused. The stainless steel construction ensures durability for decades of reliable service, while the polished finish requires only occasional cleaning to maintain its reflective properties. For bedrooms, offices, or creative studios, this clock serves dual purposes as a functional timepiece and an inspirational art. It speaks to anyone who gazes at night skies, wondering what lies beyond, bringing that sense of possibility into daily routines.
The specially polished stainless steel creates stunning light reflection
The floating numbers create genuine lunar phase illusions
The rocket ship seconds hand adds whimsical charm
What we dislike
The polished surface requires periodic cleaning to prevent smudging
The minimalist face may be harder to read quickly from distances
10. Auger PrecisionMaster Grooming Set
Kai Corporation has refined blade-making expertise since 1908, and the Auger Collection represents that accumulated knowledge applied to personal grooming. This all-black, precision-engineered set includes five essential instruments that transform grooming from a routine chore into disciplined self-mastery. The PrecisionFlex Razor features a world-first 30-degree adjustable angle that allows precision shaving even in reverse, paired with a 5-blade system and 3D pivoting head for the cleanest possible cut. The PrecisionGrip Tweezers incorporate patented stopper mechanisms and ergonomic grooves for pinpoint control over stray hairs and brow definition.
The PrecisionCurve Scissors employ ultra-thin curved blades that follow facial contours for surgical-level accuracy when shaping brows and beard lines. The PrecisionEdge Nail File offers dual-sided coarse and fine surfaces supported by a 3D ergonomic grip, while the PrecisionLever Nail Clipper uses patented rotating lever technology to deliver cutting power with minimal effort. Each tool demonstrates mechanical elegance and intentional design, proving that grooming equipment deserves the same engineering rigor as professional instruments. The compact set travels easily, ensuring refined appearance maintenance whether at home or abroad. It appeals to men who understand that attention to personal details reflects self-respect and consideration for others.
The 117 years of Kai Corporation blade expertise ensure exceptional quality
The adjustable razor angle provides unprecedented shaving control
The patented nail clipper lever reduces hand strain significantly
The all-black aesthetic creates cohesive visual appeal
What we dislike
The complete five-tool set represents a significant investment compared to drugstore alternatives
The precision instruments require careful handling to prevent damage to fine edges
The Art of Mindful Giving
These ten designs demonstrate that Japanese minimalism offers far more than aesthetic restraint. Each product embodies centuries of craft tradition refined through modern engineering and contemporary needs. They transform ordinary moments into opportunities for mindfulness, whether that means the morning shoe routine, evening candlelight, or mid-day grooming rituals. Thoughtful gift-giving means selecting items that enhance daily life rather than merely occupying shelf space.
The products featured here share common threads beyond their Japanese origins. They prioritize function without sacrificing beauty, use honest materials that age gracefully, and bring intentionality to tasks often performed on autopilot. Giving any of these designs communicates that you value the recipient’s daily experience and believe their routine moments deserve elevation. That message resonates far longer than trendy items that spark brief excitement before fading into forgotten corners of closets and drawers.
In 2025, battery life continues to be a critical factor for smartphone users, influencing purchasing decisions and overall satisfaction. To determine the best-performing device, six flagship smartphones were rigorously tested under controlled conditions. The contenders included the OnePlus 15, vivo X300 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, Galaxy S25 Ultra, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Xiaomi […]
Smart rings are becoming more ubiquitous and a more subtle way to track your everyday activity than fitness trackers or smartwatches. For Black Friday, you can save on Oura ring models. Arguably the most noteworthy deal is on the Oura Ring 4, the latest model, which is down to $249.
The Ring 4 actually topped our list of the best smart rings, and with good reason. It's comfortable to wear for long periods of time, which is always nice. It's a visually striking ring. We also appreciated the size options, as it fits fingers from size 4 to 15.
As for functionality, this smart ring tracks a number of health and fitness metrics. The affiliated app will send out notifications when it thinks you need a rest or to remind you to exercise. It keeps an eye on sleep, heart rate, stress, body temperature, menstrual cycle and a whole lot more. The battery lasts around a week, which is always nice when taking a quick vacation.
The only downside here, and this applies to all Oura rings, is that many features are locked behind a subscription paywall. This costs $6 a month or $70 per year.
The company is also selling the gold version of the Ring 4 for $349, which is a discount of $50. The water-resistant Stealth Oura Ring 4 is down to $299, which is a discount of $100.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/oura-black-friday-deals-smart-rings-are-up-to-30-percent-off-right-now-123010598.html?src=rss
Happy Friday! As the annual tech discount chaos of Black Friday approaches (good deal here and here and several more here), European policymakers have proposed easing some of the EU’s strictest regulations on artificial intelligence and data privacy. The move aims to remove roadblocks for tech companies and stimulate business growth in the region, potentially marking a major pivot away from the bloc’s reputation as the industry’s toughest regulator.
Changes would allow AI companies to access shared personal data to train their models, while also overhauling GDPR cookie rules. Instead of constant pop-ups, users could set preferences once in their browser and give consent with a single click. (OK, I’m onboard with that.)
Strict rules for “high-risk” AI applications, originally set for next summer, may be delayed until proper support tools are in place. Critics are warning this could be seen as Europe bowing to pressure from Big Tech and political shifts in the US. The proposal now heads to the European Parliament.
A company selling AI-enabled toys suspended sales after a consumer safety report found few restrictions on what its toys would say. The report, by the US Public Interest Research Group Education Fund, found FoloToy’s products would discuss everything from sexually explicit topics, like BDSM, to “advice on where a child can find matches or knives.” The toys all appear to use OpenAI’s GPT-4o model to respond naturally to children’s questions and comments. Missing from that setup was apparently hard limits on subjects the toys would respond to.
FoloToy has opted to suspend sales of its products while it conducts “a company-wide, end-to-end safety audit across all products.”
xAI appears to be nuking posts claiming its CEO is fitter than LeBron James.
xAI is once again nuking a bunch of posts from Grok on X after the chatbot made a series of outrageous claims. The company isn’t only cleaning up a bunch of pro-Hitler posts but also a bout of cringe-inducing sycophantic praise for its CEO, Elon Musk. Over the last couple of days, Grok began offering extremely over-the-top opinions about Musk. The bot claimed Musk is the “undisputed pinnacle of holistic fitness” and that he is fitter than LeBron James (hah!). It also said he is smarter than Einstein and would win a fight against Mike Tyson.
Musk is blaming “adversarial prompting” for Grok going off the rails. “Earlier today, Grok was unfortunately manipulated by adversarial prompting into saying absurdly positive things about me,” he wrote. He did not explain how straightforward questions could be considered “adversarial.”
Two years ago, Ooni attempted the indoor pizza-making party with the Volt 12. It had its flaws, but there were enough redeeming features (and interest) to warrant a follow up. The Volt 2 ($699) is a complete overhaul, with a slicker design, which is slightly smaller than the first generation. It’s also cheaper than the original. Read on for the full review.
The Chrono Divide project (via PC Gamer) lets you play the 2000 RTS Red Alert 2 in Chrome, Edge or Safari. It even works in mobile browsers. It supports cross-platform multiplayer using all the original maps. Red Alert 2’s single-player campaign modes are still a work in progress for now. The project’s website said: “The end-goal is reaching feature parity with the original vanilla Red Alert 2 engine.”
What if the very principles that have guided engineering for decades are no longer enough? Imagine a world where traditional problem-solving methods falter in the face of systems that evolve faster than we can predict. This is the reality engineers face in the age of artificial intelligence. AI doesn’t just demand technical proficiency; it challenges […]
Samsung’s One UI remains at the forefront of smartphone customization, offering an impressive suite of tools designed to help you personalize your device. Whether you’re a casual user looking for simple tweaks or a tech enthusiast eager to explore advanced options, these features provide the flexibility to enhance both the appearance and functionality of your […]
What if you could unlock the power to solve complex equations, generate Python scripts on demand, or analyze multimedia data, all with a single tool? Enter Gemini 3, Google’s innovative AI model designed to transform how developers approach problem-solving and innovation. With its ability to handle tasks ranging from multimodal reasoning to automating workflows, Gemini […]
