This week, Engadget Managing Editor Cherlynn Low joins us to look back at some of the highlights (and lowlights) of 2025. We dive into our favorite gadgets of the year, the many ways Big Tech bowed to Trump, the disappointment of AI PCs and the rise of smart glasses. We also learn way too much about our skincare routines.
Our favorite gadgets of 2025: Kindle Scribe Colorsoft, Airpods Pro 3, bluetooth lav mics and more – 2:26
Favorite Media of 2025: Andor, self-improvement via podcast, and a shoutout to your library – 34:30
iRobot declares bankruptcy – 47:29
Warner Bros. Discovery board rejects Paramount’s hostile bid, shareholders yet to vote – 53:47
The Oscars will air on Youtube starting in 2029 – 56:05
Ford to turn its F-150 Lightining into a gas generator EV – 57:41
Around Engadget: smart glasses had a great run in 2025, against social media age verification – 58:20
Credits
Hosts: Devindra Hardawar and Cherlynn Low Producer: Ben Ellman Music: Dale North and Terrence O'Brien
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/social-media/engadget-podcast-2025-was-the-year-of-ai-smartglasses-and-spineless-big-tech-143000338.html?src=rss
There’s something inherently rebellious about celebrating the process instead of hiding it. But most products are still designed to look effortlessly smooth, polished to perfection, and stripped of any trace of how they came to be. Atelier Andy Carson’s G-Code flatware takes the opposite approach. This cutlery set doesn’t just acknowledge its manufacturing origins, it flaunts them.
The name itself is a clever nod to the digital backbone of modern production. G-code is the programming language that tells CNC machines exactly where to cut, mill, and carve. It’s the invisible blueprint that translates design into reality, one precise coordinate at a time. By naming this flatware collection after that very code, Australian-based designer Andy Carson and his collaborator Sam Collett are making a bold statement: the machine is not just a tool, it’s part of the story.
You can see that story in every angle of these pieces. Each implement in the set, a knife, fork, and spoon, is milled from solid stainless steel bar stock. There’s no stamping, no casting, no traditional manufacturing shortcuts that would smooth away the evidence of creation. Instead, what you get are geometric forms with crisp edges, flat planes, and subtle facets that catch the light in unexpected ways.
The aesthetic is unapologetically industrial, yet somehow it doesn’t feel cold or impersonal. The handles are rectangular and minimalist, tapering slightly as they extend toward the functional end. The fork features an intriguing angular bend that adds sculptural interest while maintaining perfect balance. The spoon’s oval head sits atop its geometric handle like a carefully considered punctuation mark. Even the knife, with its serrated edge, feels more like a piece of architecture than a simple eating utensil.
What makes this design particularly smart is how form and function work together so seamlessly. The weighted handles aren’t just about aesthetics or that satisfying heft you feel when you pick one up. They serve a practical purpose, ensuring that the head of each utensil hovers above the table surface when you set it down. It’s a thoughtful touch that addresses hygiene without requiring a separate knife rest or worrying about sauce staining your tablecloth. This approach challenges the conventions of how cutlery is typically made and what it’s supposed to look like. Most flatware relies on stamping or casting to achieve smooth, anonymous forms that disappear into the background of a meal. G-Code does the opposite. It asks to be noticed, to be appreciated not just as a functional object but as a celebration of precision manufacturing.
There’s a broader conversation happening here about honesty in design. In an era when so much of what we consume is mass-produced but styled to look artisanal, G-Code takes the reverse path. It’s a product that embraces its machined origins and turns them into a virtue. The flat surfaces, the geometric precision, the visible traces of the milling process, these aren’t flaws to be hidden. They’re features to be celebrated.
The monochromatic photography that accompanies the project only reinforces this philosophy. Shot against dark gray backgrounds, the flatware pieces stand like monoliths, their shadows as carefully composed as the objects themselves. The lighting emphasizes every edge, every transition from one plane to another, revealing the complexity within apparent simplicity. It’s worth noting that this isn’t just an exercise in theoretical design. These pieces are meant to be used, held, experienced. The matte finish on the stainless steel provides just enough grip without feeling rough. The proportions are calibrated for comfort. The balance point of each piece feels natural in your hand.
In a design landscape often dominated by either hyper-ornamentation or bland minimalism, G-Code carves out its own territory. It proves that celebrating manufacturing processes doesn’t mean sacrificing elegance, and that industrial aesthetics can coexist with everyday functionality. It’s flatware that makes you think about how things are made, why certain choices matter, and what it means when a designer decides to show their work rather than hide it. For anyone who appreciates when form, function, and manufacturing philosophy align perfectly, G-Code is a masterclass in intentional design. It’s proof that sometimes the most interesting stories are told not by what we conceal, but by what we choose to reveal.
Imagine spending hours refining an AI-generated output, only to realize the problem wasn’t the AI, it was the way you asked for help. In the video, Robin Ebers breaks down the findings from analyzing 2,236 AI prompts, revealing that 75% of failures stem from vague or poorly constructed instructions. It’s a frustratingly common issue: you […]
The iPhone 18 Pro Max introduces Apple’s most fantastic design and hardware updates in a decade, signaling a bold evolution in the smartphone market. With innovations such as under-display Face ID, a reimagined edge-to-edge display, advanced camera technology, and the next-generation A20 Pro chip, this flagship device is poised to redefine the mobile experience. These […]
What if your music experience could be as seamless and personalized as your favorite playlist? In the latest video from Home Assistant, they break down the exciting release of Music Assistant 2.7, a innovative update for this open source platform. From tailored user profiles to synchronized multi-room playback, this version isn’t just an upgrade; it’s […]
What if writing code wasn’t just for engineers anymore? Imagine a world where a UX designer tweaks an interface, a business analyst generates actionable insights, or a junior developer contributes to a major project, all without needing years of programming expertise. Below Nate B Jones breaks down how OpenAI’s Codex 5.2 is making this a […]
Apple’s iOS 26.2 update brings a host of new features aimed at enhancing functionality, accessibility, and personalization. Whether you’re streamlining your daily tasks, exploring entertainment options, or customizing your device, these updates are designed to make your iPhone more intuitive and efficient. Below is a detailed look at the most impactful additions in this release […]
Riot Games has confirmed that it’s working on a massive update for League of Legends after Bloomberg published a report saying that the company has plans to remake the game. Back in November, a Chinese esports insider also reported that a League of Legends 2 is in development and is coming as early as the second half of 2026. In a video announcement discussing Riot’s plans for League after 2026, executive producer Paul Belleza denied that the developer is working on League 2 like rumors have been suggesting, but he admitted that it is working on a big update that will arrive in 2027.
Andrei van Roon, Head of League Studio, then enumerated some of the things his team is already working on, including a brand new around-game client that’s fully integrated with the in-game experience, a full visual overhaul of the Summoner’s Rift, changes to Runes and an overall improvement to the player experience. The update is looking to be as big as the one from back in the mid-2010s when Riot reworked League’s graphics and is meant to bring in new players.
Belleza and van Roon said they’ll share more details between MSI in the summer and Worlds in the fall of 2026. While the timeline is pretty vaugue, the window of release for a major update like this is most likely the end of November until early January when competitive league is on break.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/a-total-league-of-legends-revamp-is-coming-in-2027-130000644.html?src=rss
Imagine walking into your favorite coffee shop, laptop in hand, ready to tackle your latest AI project. But instead of relying on a cloud service or a bulky workstation back home, you pull out a sleek, portable box that holds the power of a high-performance AI rig. Bold claim? Not anymore. The Olares One, a […]
The final days before the holidays arrive with their own particular pressure. Gift lists grow longer while time grows shorter, and the temptation to settle for whatever’s left on the shelf becomes real. Yet the best stocking stuffers aren’t about expense or elaborate planning. They’re about finding objects that feel intentional, considered, and genuinely useful.
What separates a thoughtful gift from a forgettable one often comes down to design intelligence and material honesty. The items that follow share a common thread: each one transforms an everyday moment into something more refined. They’re compact enough to tuck into a stocking, substantial enough to use for years, and distinctive enough that they’ll never be mistaken for last-minute panic buying.
1. Olight Baton 4 Premium Edition
Finding yourself in the dark without a light source is never fun, which is why the Olight Baton 4 Premium Edition exists as more than just another flashlight. This compact EDC tool delivers an impressive 1,300 lumens from a body small enough to slip into your pocket without a second thought. The real genius lies in its ability to become instantly accessible when emergencies strike. Whether you’re navigating a power outage at home or searching for something under your car seat, this flashlight ensures you’re always prepared. The laser micro-perforated LED indicators let you monitor brightness levels and remaining battery at a glance, eliminating guesswork about whether your light will last through the task ahead.
The 5,000 mAh charging case transforms this already practical tool into something genuinely exceptional for your daily routine. That flip-top design means you can open it single-handed, keeping your other hand free for whatever else demands attention. Most impressively, when used with the Baton 4, you simply flip open the cover and press the side button to activate the flashlight while it remains nestled in the case. This eliminates those fumbling seconds where you’re pulling out the light, using it, then trying to put it back. The charging case itself becomes a 5,000 mAh power bank, capable of recharging the flashlight up to five times or topping up your other devices when needed.
What we like
The one-handed operation while the flashlight stays in its charging case saves precious seconds in urgent situations.
The 5,000 mAh charging case doubles as a power bank for your other devices.
Laser micro-perforated LED indicators provide clear battery and brightness level information.
The compact size delivers 1,300 lumens with a 170-meter throw distance without overwhelming your pocket space.
What we dislike
The LED emitter has a slightly greenish tint that some users find less appealing than warmer light temperatures.
The premium edition comes at a higher price point compared to standard flashlight options.
2. StillFrame Headphones
StillFrame brings a refreshing slowness to how we consume music. The design pulls directly from the physical era of CDs, when albums came with liner notes and artwork worth studying. At just 103 grams, these wireless headphones disappear on your head while the 40mm drivers create a soundstage that gives each instrument room to breathe. The fabric ear cushions attach magnetically, and each set includes both Light Gray and Turquoise options for easy swapping.
The dual-mode functionality adapts to whatever your day demands. Active noise cancellation carves out space for focus during commutes or deep work sessions, while transparency mode keeps you connected to your surroundings when awareness is crucial. With 24 hours of battery life and support for both Bluetooth 5.4 and wired USB-C connections, StillFrame offers equal capability for streaming convenience and high-resolution playback.
The magnetic ear cushion system makes personalization effortless and satisfying.
The 24-hour battery life eliminates mid-day charging anxiety during long workdays or travel.
What we dislike
The on-ear design may feel less isolating than over-ear models for some listeners.
The styling leans heavily nostalgic, which might not suit every aesthetic preference.
3. FoldLine Pen Roll
FoldLine turns the simple act of preparing to write into a moment of intention. Crafted from a single piece of Minerva Box leather sourced from Italy’s renowned Badalassi Carlo tannery, this pen case unfolds in under two seconds to become a defined workspace tray. The folded leather naturally separates each pen without stitched slots or rattling metal clips, keeping even precious instruments protected through pure structural design.
The vegetable-tanned leather develops a rich patina that reflects your personal use over time, aging gracefully rather than wearing out. Its mirrored, zipperless design opens cleanly from either side, making it genuinely ambidextrous for left and right-handed users. The hollow interior creates storage capacity without external bulk, so it slips into bags and briefcases without adding noticeable weight or thickness to your carry.
The Italian PRYM snap closure delivers a premium tactile experience with every use.
The symmetrical design accommodates both left and right-handed users without compromise.
What we dislike
The open storage system works best with a curated pen collection rather than large quantities.
Leather requires occasional conditioning to maintain its suppleness over the years of use.
4. Bellroy Card Sleeve
Carrying a bulky wallet stuffed with cards you rarely use makes little sense in today’s minimalist-minded world. The Bellroy Card Sleeve strips away everything unnecessary, leaving you with pure leather and stitching without any bulky layers or linings. This ultra-slim design slides into your front pocket without creating an awkward bulge or discomfort when sitting. Two quick-draw slots on the front and back keep your most-used cards immediately accessible, while the remaining cards stack in the center pocket with pull-tab access. That pull-tab system transforms what could be an awkward fumble into a smooth, confident motion when you need to retrieve something quickly.
The thoughtful construction extends beyond just slim storage, proving particularly valuable in professional settings where first impressions matter. Handing someone a business card becomes an elegant gesture rather than a clumsy search through multiple compartments. The wallet holds up to eight cards comfortably, striking the perfect balance between capacity and minimalism. Bellroy’s attention to craft shows in every stitch, combining traditional leatherworking respect with modern design innovations like that signature pull-tab storage system. The construction quality backs this up with a three-year warranty covering faults in materials and workmanship, giving you confidence that this wallet will age gracefully rather than fall apart.
What we like
The pure leather and stitching construction eliminates bulk while maintaining durability.
Quick-draw slots provide instant access to your two most frequently used cards.
The pull-tab system makes retrieving stacked cards smooth and professional-looking.
The slim profile disappears in your front pocket without creating uncomfortable bulk.
What we dislike
The eight-card capacity may feel limiting if you need to carry more cards regularly.
The minimalist design offers no dedicated cash storage slot for bills.
5. Auger PrecisionEdge Nail File
Kai Corporation brings over a century of Japanese blade-making expertise to this men’s grooming essential. The Auger PrecisionEdge features dual surfaces: a coarse side for shaping nail edges with control, and a fine side for finishing with smooth precision. The precision-etched stainless steel surface glides without snagging or scratching, while the three-dimensional handle structure provides a confident grip even for grooming beginners learning proper technique.
At 127mm long and just 9 grams, this nail file tucks into any Dopp kit or desk drawer without taking up space. The corrosion-resistant stainless steel construction maintains its performance through years of regular use. Auger’s philosophy centers on the belief that men’s grooming deserves the same precision and craftsmanship traditionally reserved for shaving tools, turning an often-overlooked detail into a deliberate act of self-care.
The dual-surface design handles both shaping and smoothing in one streamlined tool.
The 3D ergonomic handle makes precise nail care accessible for beginners.
What we dislike
The compact size may feel too small for users with larger hands.
The minimalist stainless steel design lacks the warmth of wooden or textured alternatives.
6. Fire Capsule Oil Lamp
The Fire Capsule transforms any space into a calm sanctuary through its clean-burning paraffin oil flame. Designed by Eri Tsunoda of SERVAL, a Kyoto City University of Arts graduate, this lamp draws inspiration from traditional Japanese tea canisters while delivering thoroughly modern functionality. The 80ml capacity provides up to 16 hours of continuous light, making it reliable for extended gatherings or overnight ambiance without constant refilling.
The precision-engineered lid keeps the glass chimney dust-free between uses, maintaining crystal clarity for optimal light diffusion. An included aroma plate lets you infuse spaces with essential oils, layering scent with the visual warmth of flickering flame. The flat-topped cylindrical design stacks efficiently for storage, while the lightweight aluminum and glass construction weighs just 180 grams. Paraffin oil burns cleanly without odor, and when combined with insect-repelling varieties, it creates peaceful outdoor environments on patios or campsites.
The 16-hour burn time eliminates constant monitoring during long evenings.
The stackable design offers space-efficient storage for multiple units.
What we dislike
Open flames require more attention than battery-powered alternatives for safety.
Paraffin oil refills add an ongoing consumable cost compared to rechargeable lights.
7. Levitating Pen
The Levitating Pen defies gravity through pure magnetic precision, standing vertically balanced without batteries or electronics. Manufactured at the same facility producing Apple products, it’s crafted using high-precision CNC machining with tolerances under 0.1mm. The magnetic pedestal creates an invisible field that keeps the pen elegantly floating, while a gentle twist sets it spinning with hypnotic fluidity that transforms desk breaks into moments of meditative calm.
The Swiss-made ballpoint cartridge ensures smooth, reliable writing performance for professionals, artists, and engineers who demand precision. Cross-brand refill cartridges make long-term use effortless, while the magnetic cap provides quick access when inspiration strikes. Beyond its stunning kinetic presence, this pen serves as functional art that sparks creativity simply through its motion. The soothing rhythm of its spin offers stress relief during demanding workdays, turning an everyday writing tool into an object worth contemplating.
The sub-0.1mm machining precision creates mesmerizing magnetic balance and spin.
The Swiss ballpoint cartridge delivers professional writing quality that matches the premium design.
What we dislike
The pedestal base requires dedicated desk space that portable pens don’t need.
The magnetic system may interfere with sensitive electronics if placed too close.
8. Leek – USA Flag
Everyday carry knives should balance functionality with personal expression, and the Kershaw Leek USA Flag Edition accomplishes both with American-made craftsmanship. That 3-inch blade, constructed from 14C28N high-performance stainless steel, holds its edge through repeated use while remaining easy to resharpen when needed. The slim profile measures just 4 inches when closed, making it genuinely pocketable without printing through your pants or weighing down your pocket. The assisted opening mechanism with flipper deployment means you can open this knife smoothly with one hand, keeping your other hand free for holding materials or maintaining your grip on whatever you’re working with.
The contoured aluminum handle provides a comfortable grip during extended use, while that custom USA flag finish adds patriotic flair without compromising functionality. Ken Onion’s design vision shines through in the modified wharncliffe blade shape, which excels at precision cutting tasks from opening packages to preparing food. When you’re finished using it, the tip-lock slider secures the blade safely in the closed position, preventing accidental openings in your pocket. The reversible pocket clip allows tip-up or tip-down carry based on your preference, adapting to your specific EDC setup. Being manufactured entirely in the USA means this knife meets higher quality control standards while supporting American manufacturing.
What we like
The 14C28N steel blade maintains sharp edges through heavy use and resharpens easily.
Assisted opening with flipper deployment enables smooth one-handed operation.
The slim 4-inch closed length makes genuine pocket carry comfortable.
Made entirely in the USA with American manufacturing quality standards.
What we dislike
The patriotic USA flag design may not appeal to those preferring understated EDC gear.
The assisted opening mechanism adds slightly more weight at 2.6 ounces compared to manual folders.
9. Serenity Pen Stand
Serenity reduces the pen stand concept to its absolute essence: a minimalist cylinder with a cavity for your pen’s tip. The slight tilt angle provides easier access to your writing instrument while keeping it displayed rather than hidden in a drawer. The dual-tone aluminum and copper construction adds visual interest through contrasting metal finishes, while the heavy copper bottom lowers the center of gravity to prevent tipping despite the stand’s diminutive size.
This tiny desk accessory becomes decoration in its own right when unoccupied, its sculptural simplicity complementing minimalist workspaces without visual clutter. The unobstructed design puts complete focus on your pen rather than the stand itself, turning quality writing instruments into display pieces worth appreciating. Its compact footprint preserves precious desk real estate while giving your favorite pen or pencil the pedestal treatment it deserves.
The copper-weighted base provides surprising stability despite its minimal size.
The tilted angle offers easier pen access than vertical stands.
What we dislike
The single-pen capacity limits use for those who frequently switch between writing instruments.
The exposed tip position may increase dust accumulation on the pen nib.
10. Aroma Fragrance Pin
These fragrance pins disguise aromatic diffusion as elegant buttons that blend seamlessly with clothing and accessories. Each pin contains a small cotton insert that holds a few drops of your preferred essential oils, releasing a subtle scent throughout your day. The discreet design allows you to carry calming lavender, energizing citrus, or grounding sandalwood wherever you go without bulky diffusers or obvious aromatherapy accessories.
Meticulously carved from single blocks of aluminum by expert craftsmen, each pin receives an alumite dye finish that adds color while creating unique variations between batches. The solid aluminum construction prevents oil leakage while allowing gradual scent diffusion through carefully engineered ventilation. Pin them to shirt collars, jacket lapels, bags, or scarves for personal aromatherapy that stays close without overwhelming nearby people. The refillable cotton system makes scent changes simple, letting you match fragrances to your mood or needs.
The button styling integrates aromatherapy seamlessly into everyday clothing.
The refillable cotton system allows unlimited scent customization and easy changes.
What we dislike
The scent diffusion radius stays personal rather than filling entire rooms.
Oil-soaked cotton requires regular refreshing to maintain fragrance strength throughout long days.
Why These Gifts Work
Last-minute shopping doesn’t mean settling for compromise. The objects above prove that thoughtful design and quality materials create gifts that feel substantial, regardless of when you discovered them. Each piece solves a real need while elevating everyday moments, from how we listen to music to how we light a room or organize our tools.
The holiday season rewards presence over expense, intention over elaboration. These stocking stuffers deliver quiet luxury through honest materials, intelligent engineering, and designs that respect both maker and user. They’re compact enough to surprise, substantial enough to last, and distinctive enough that nobody will question your timing.
