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Capture Every Connection: Memento Business Card Log Review

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In our hyper-digital age, the humble business card might seem like a relic. But the Memento Business Card Log is here to remind us that sometimes, old-school is the way to go. This isn’t just another organizer—it’s a beautifully crafted piece from Re+g that captures the essence of every connection you make.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.

Design & Functionality: Where Minimalism Meets Utility

At first glance, the Memento Business Card Log is all about those clean lines and a minimalist vibe. It’s the kind of accessory that wouldn’t look out of place next to the latest tech gadgets. But it’s not just about looks. The binding system is smart—letting you shuffle your cards around like a playlist. No more rigid order. And the two-point slit? It’s like the perfect grip for your cards, paired with paper that just feels good to touch.

Beyond just holding cards, this log gives you space to scribble down those little details—like the witty joke someone cracked or the project you brainstormed over coffee. It’s these personal touches that elevate it from a mere organizer to a memory keeper.

Craftsmanship: A Nod to Japanese Design

Re+g, a brand known for its creative flair and functionality, nails it with the Memento Business Card Log. The paper’s smooth, the cover’s durable yet light—making it easy to slip into your bag without adding heft. And the elastic band? A practical touch that keeps everything secure while adding a dash of style.

Whether you’re a designer, consultant, or exec, this log feels more like a part of your professional kit. Each card you add isn’t just a contact; it’s part of your story.

A Refreshing Take on Networking

In a world where LinkedIn requests fly faster than paper planes, the Memento Business Card Log offers a refreshing pause. With dedicated note space beside each card, it transforms the act of organizing into something reflective. You’re not just filing contacts; you’re documenting stories.

Imagine ending your day by logging each card, capturing what made the interaction special. This turns the Memento Log into a keepsake, bridging you to lasting professional relationships.

What We Like:

  • Thoughtful Design: The unique binding system and two-point slit design keep business cards securely in place, while allowing for easy rearrangement.
  • Personal Touch: The space for handwritten notes transforms this log from a simple organizer into a tool for capturing memories.
  • Craftsmanship: High-quality materials and a tactile paper finish elevate both the aesthetic and the functionality of the log.
  • Portability: Compact and lightweight, making it the perfect companion for professionals on the go.

What We Dislike:

  • Limited Capacity: Holding up to 120 cards is enough for most users, but heavy networkers may find themselves needing more space.
  • Paper Durability: While the paper feels premium, those seeking extreme durability might prefer a more reinforced cover.

Final Verdict

For those who value both organization and meaningful connections, the Memento Business Card Log is a must-have. Whether you’re at a conference or just meeting clients, this log helps you capture not just who you met but why it mattered. It’s more than a business card holder—it’s a part of your career journey.

In a world of fleeting digital connections, the Memento Log offers a tangible way to cherish and preserve professional relationships, ensuring every interaction is remembered for both the contact and the moment.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19

The post Capture Every Connection: Memento Business Card Log Review first appeared on Yanko Design.

Why KeyShot’s New ‘Product Design-to-Market Strategy’ is a BIG DEAL for Designers and Brands

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As industries evolve at breakneck speed, so too must the tools that power them. With increasing pressure to innovate quickly, deliver immersive experiences, and streamline processes, companies need solutions that can keep pace. Long known for its powerful 3D rendering capabilities, KeyShot is stepping into an expanded role with a vision that goes beyond just visuals. The brand is now introducing a comprehensive solution for the entire product design journey, or what they call their new ‘Product Design-to-Market’ framework. This shift promises to change how companies of all sizes design, collaborate, and deliver products to market, going well beyond simple 3D visualization (which KeyShot’s already proven to be a market leader in).

Click Here to Download Now: The whitepaper for an in-depth look at how this new framework can transform your business.

The Evolution of KeyShot

KeyShot’s 3D rendering software has been a staple for designers worldwide, offering photorealistic renderings and an intuitive workflow. But as industries change, so too must the tools that power them. Today, the product development process is a complex web of teams, assets, and software—often siloed and inefficient. Design, engineering, and marketing teams are tasked with bringing ideas to life while navigating scattered workflows and disconnected feedback loops.
Recognizing these challenges, KeyShot has expanded its scope to introduce a Product Design-to-Market Suite. This new approach aligns all stages of a product’s journey—from the first sketch to the moment it hits the market. The goal? A more unified, streamlined, and collaborative process that minimizes waste and maximizes creativity.

What is Product Design-to-Market?

The concept of Product Design-to-Market is simple but transformative. It’s a holistic strategy that bridges the gaps between the many departments involved in product creation. Instead of working in isolated silos, KeyShot’s vision encourages a fluid exchange of information and assets across design, development, and marketing teams. The result is faster iteration, better alignment, and a smoother transition from concept to market delivery.

For many companies, the current state of product design is far from optimal. Data is often scattered across platforms, teams work with outdated versions of assets, and crucial feedback gets lost in the shuffle. These inefficiencies cost time, money, and—perhaps most importantly—creativity. KeyShot’s Product Design-to-Market Suite seeks to eliminate these pain points by centralizing the entire process within one ecosystem.

KeyShot’s Expanded Offering

With this new vision, KeyShot has unveiled three key tools designed to revolutionize product design and delivery:

  • KeyShot Studio: The rendering tool we’ve previously known as KeyShot, KeyShot Studio remains a top choice for rendering photorealistic 3D visuals. Now with enhanced features, like improved texture baking and animation support, it integrates more deeply into the product development process, allowing teams to do much more than just rendering.
  • KeyShot Hub: A brand-new addition to the KeyShot family, Hub is all about collaboration. It’s a centralized platform where teams can manage scenes, assets, and versions, ensuring everyone stays in sync during the design journey. This tool aims to solve one of the biggest pain points in product development: the lack of a unified space for feedback and iteration.
  • KeyShot Dock: Formerly Digizuite’s DAM (Digital Asset Management), Dock takes the guesswork out of managing 3D assets across departments. It ensures that teams can access the right assets at the right time, helping to streamline the transition from design to marketing and beyond.

Together, these tools form a complete Product Design-to-Market Suite, designed to break down the barriers that have traditionally slowed product development.

Why This Matters for Designers and Businesses

In a landscape where time to market is critical and customer experience reigns supreme, KeyShot’s new direction offers a much-needed solution. For design teams, it means less time lost in tedious back-and-forths, fewer revisions, and more focus on creativity. For businesses, it translates to faster product launches, reduced costs, and a better alignment between design and marketing teams.

Whether you’re part of a small design studio or a large corporation, the ability to quickly adapt and deliver products to market can be a game-changer. KeyShot’s Product Design-to-Market Suite approach ensures that teams can iterate faster, collaborate more efficiently, and ultimately bring better products to life.

A New Era of Product Design

By expanding its role from rendering software to an all-encompassing design-to-market platform, KeyShot is positioning itself at the forefront of modern product development. This isn’t just a rebrand—it’s a reimagining of what’s possible when design, engineering, and marketing work in harmony. And as industries increasingly shift towards immersive experiences and rapid innovation, KeyShot’s vision offers a clear path forward.

For designers, it’s a chance to focus less on the logistics of development and more on pushing creative boundaries. For businesses, it’s an opportunity to streamline processes and deliver products that truly resonate with their audience.

Learn more about KeyShot’s Product Design-to-Market Suite and download the whitepaper for an in-depth look at how this new framework can transform your business.

Click Here to Download Now: The whitepaper for an in-depth look at how this new framework can transform your business.

Learn more about KeyShot’s Product Design-to-Market Suite

The post Why KeyShot’s New ‘Product Design-to-Market Strategy’ is a BIG DEAL for Designers and Brands first appeared on Yanko Design.

Life-Saving Pneumatic Inflatable Helmet declared the 2024 Red Dot Award: Design Concept Luminary Winner

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The Ventete aH-1 Cycle Helmet, awarded the prestigious Luminary Winner title at this year’s Red Dot Award: Design Concept, is an innovative take on personal safety for urban cyclists. At a time when cities are embracing cycling as a sustainable and efficient mode of transport, the aH-1 helmet emerges as a design-forward solution, combining portability, comfort, and protection in a way that challenges traditional helmet conventions.

What sets the aH-1 apart is its pneumatic design—a notable departure from the foam helmets that have dominated the market for over five decades. Instead of bulky, rigid foam, Ventete utilizes an inflatable air chamber system that collapses to a thickness of just 3.5 cm when deflated. This compact form allows the helmet to fit easily into a bag or even a large pocket, addressing a key pain point for cyclists who often struggle with where to store their helmets off the bike. When it’s time to ride, a small USB-C pump inflates the helmet in under 30 seconds, providing a quick and convenient transition from portability to protection.

Designer: Ventete Limited

Click here to view more Award-winning designs from the Red Dot Award: Design Concept

Beyond the obvious convenience, this inflatable structure offers functional advantages. Ventete has engineered the aH-1 with a chambered design that significantly improves airflow around the rider’s head. Traditional foam helmets trap heat, often making them uncomfortable during longer rides or in warm weather. By contrast, the air-filled design of the aH-1 promotes natural ventilation, keeping the rider’s head cool. Testing conducted by the Swiss Federal Lab for Material Science (EMPA) confirmed that the helmet’s cooling performance matches that of riding bareheaded, a remarkable feat for a safety device.

While inflatable, the helmet is far from fragile or ineffective. It is fully certified to CE/UKCA standards (EN1078), meaning it meets stringent European and UK safety requirements. Extensive research at Imperial College London’s HeadLab revealed that the aH-1 offers superior protection, particularly against rotational impacts—a leading cause of brain injuries in cycling accidents. With over 15 global patents protecting its design, the aH-1 is a product of nearly a decade of research and development, marrying innovation with practical safety.

The design process, led by Ventete’s team of architects and engineers, was guided by a philosophy that integrates functionality with minimalism. The helmet’s understated aesthetic reflects a growing trend in urban mobility design, where products are expected to seamlessly fit into the user’s lifestyle. Its compact and foldable nature speaks to a more flexible, spontaneous approach to transportation. Produced in Switzerland, the aH-1 also embodies the precision and craftsmanship for which the country is known, ensuring that the helmet is as durable as it is stylish.

The aH-1’s innovative design aligns with the broader cultural shift towards sustainability and urban mobility. As more cities promote cycling as a key component of their transport infrastructure, there is an increasing demand for gear that is not only safe and functional but also adaptable to the fast-paced, space-conscious lives of urban dwellers. By addressing the limitations of traditional helmets, the aH-1 positions itself as a forward-thinking solution for the modern cyclist.

Click here to view more Award-winning designs from the Red Dot Award: Design Concept

The post Life-Saving Pneumatic Inflatable Helmet declared the 2024 Red Dot Award: Design Concept Luminary Winner first appeared on Yanko Design.

Yeedi C12 Combo Review: The Ultimate Robotic Cleaner with a Handheld Vacuum and Mop

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The Yeedi C12 Combo is a cleaning companion designed to handle household messes effortlessly. Picture this: instead of rushing around the house, switching between the broom, dustpan, and mop, the C12 Combo quietly goes about its work, cleaning with precision like the silent, efficient partner it’s meant to be. You’ve got other things on your mind—getting that last-minute report done for work, or maybe just a rare few minutes of peace while the kids are occupied—but your floors? Those are taken care of.

PROS:


  • Best value for powerful, multi-functional home cleaning.

  • Long battery life ensures uninterrupted, comprehensive cleaning.

  • Anti-tangle technology minimizes maintenance hassle.

  • Effortlessly transitions between different floor types.

  • Compact design fits seamlessly into home spaces.

CONS:


  • Obstacle avoidance could be improved for more precise navigation.

  • Households with pets that shed will require frequent manual cleaning of the dustbin for optimal performance.

  • The robotic vacuum cleaner lacks integration with mopping feature.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Effortless cleaning, precise performance, flexibility, and unbeatable value—Yeedi C12 Combo makes every corner of your home spotless.
award-icon

Designer: Yeedi

Click Here to Buy Now: $649.99 $899 (28% off). Hurry, this deal ends soon!

Yeedi C12 Robotic Vacuum

There’s something comforting about knowing the dust is handled without bending down or wrestling with a clunky vacuum, especially when multitasking. The C12 Combo is ready for action, no questions asked. It tackles dog hair, crumbs from the kids’ latest snack attack, and more. It fits into your life without adding any more stress. You don’t have to worry about tangled hair, adjusting settings for different surfaces, or even remembering to empty the dustbin daily.

With this multi-functional whole house cleaning machine, you’re not left guessing how it works, either. It’s straightforward, and more importantly, it’s smart. It knows when to clean and how to do it. The real beauty? You’re still in control—but with much less effort.

Design: Where Function Meets Familiarity

At first glance, the Yeedi C12 Combo screams, ‘I’m all business’—focused entirely on getting the cleaning done. It’s sleek, unassuming, and fits right into your home, no matter if it’s a cozy apartment or, in my case, a sprawling 4,100-square-foot ranch home with a mix of flooring types—tile in the kitchen, 35-year-old original hardwood in the living areas, carpet in the bedrooms, and old tiles in the sunroom. It will take a smart robotic vacuum cleaner or a combination of a handheld and robotic one to keep this house clean.

But don’t let its minimalism fool you. The C12 Combo was built to sit effortlessly in a corner while delivering outstanding performance, with thoughtful design elements that enhance usability. The removable comb teeth on the ZeroTangle 2.0 floor brush make maintenance a breeze, and the Crevice Tool and 2-in-1 Dusting Brush make cleaning tight spaces and delicate surfaces simple and effective. For example, when you’re cooking dinner and knock over a jar of flour, instead of dragging out a full vacuum, you can grab the handheld from its dock and clean up the mess in seconds.

The cordless handheld vacuum component is lightweight and easy to maneuver. When you’re tired or your schedule is packed, you don’t want a clunky vacuum that’s heavy or hard to use. You want something you can pull out and get the job done quickly, with minimal hassle. The flexible design allows you to reach those pesky corners, under the couch, and even high spots like curtains without missing a beat.

The automated unit seamlessly transitions between different floor types—hardwood, carpet, and tiles—without manual adjustments. The integration of handheld and robotic components ensures you don’t need to swap out attachments constantly. It’s efficient and doesn’t waste your time, precisely what a vacuum should do.

Ergonomics: Cleaning Without the Backache

The C12 Combo prioritizes comfort and ease. No one likes the strain of bending over to switch vacuum settings or dealing with outlets as you move from room to room. The C12’s cordless design eliminates these hassles, allowing you to move freely throughout your home without interruption. The handheld vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver, with a comfortable handle that ensures no awkward angles or backaches.

The handheld component excels at quick clean-ups and reaching tricky spots. It fits snugly in your hand and is balanced perfectly for tasks like vacuuming crumbs after movie night or tackling cobwebs in high corners, making cleaning less of a burden.

Swapping between the handheld vacuum and the robot is as simple as docking the handheld back into its charging station, where it’s always ready for the next task. Instead of choosing between devices, I often multitask—using the handheld for focused cleaning while the robot cleaner works its way through the rest of the house. It’s so easy that cleaning starts feeling less like a chore and more like a quick, manageable task you can knock out without losing steam.

Performance: Power Meets Precision

The Yeedi C12 Combo doesn’t just look good—it delivers. This machine is powerful where it counts. The handheld vacuum delivers 95AW suction power (Air Watts), which represents how effectively it can pick up dirt and debris, ensuring even the dirt trapped deep within carpets doesn’t stand a chance. Combine that with the 10,000Pa suction power from the robot vacuum, and you’ve got a dynamic duo capable of handling even the messiest floors.

The real genius lies in the ZeroTangle 2.0 Technology. If you’ve ever fought with vacuum brushes clogged with hair, you’ll appreciate how the C12 handles this common issue. Its advanced anti-tangle design includes 45-degree V-shaped bristles, a high-speed cyclone to guide hair toward the center, and a removable comb to make cleaning easy. Be it pet hair, long human hair, or fibers from rugs, this feature keeps everything running smoothly without the hassle of constant brush cleaning. Plus, the LED headlight on the ZeroTangle floor brush helps ensure you don’t miss any dust or debris, even in dimly lit areas.

The Full-Path Self-Cleaning System ensures the HEPA filter stays clean, maintaining peak suction power without manual maintenance. This means consistently powerful performance over time.

TrueMapping Technology supports quick mapping and multi-floor map management and saves up to four maps, making it efficient for homes with multiple levels. It can quickly map 100 square meters in 8 minutes, plan the best cleaning route, and avoid obstacles like furniture and toys. The bottom-view sensor also recognizes steps to prevent falls, ensuring safe navigation on stairs.

The C12 Combo transitions effortlessly from one surface to another. Hardwood to carpet? No problem. It senses the change, adjusts suction power accordingly, and can even climb up to 0.8-inch thresholds, ensuring every inch of your home gets the right treatment. In my living room and bedroom, I have a couple of chairs with legs that most vacuums struggle to climb over, but the C12’s 0.8-inch (20mm) clearance is perfect for navigating these obstacles, making it an essential feature for my setup. I also appreciate having the option and flexibility to vacuum certain areas manually—let’s face it, anyone who has used a robotic vacuum cleaner knows that no matter how good the machine is, there will be missed spots.

The C12’s robot vacuum is equally impressive, working in sync with the handheld vacuum. It features a 5200 mAh battery that enables extended cleaning sessions, even for larger spaces. At the same time, the handheld vacuum is powered by 6 x 2000 mAh batteries, providing ample runtime for its cleaning modes. The robot vacuum, equipped with TrueMapping Technology, can avoid obstacles while covering every inch of the floor with a systematic cleaning path. It’s smart enough to return to its charging station once it’s done, ensuring it’s ready for the next session.

The mopping capability is exclusive to the handheld component of the Yeedi C12 Combo, which includes a detachable 11.5 oz (340 ml) water tank and an anti-tangle brush. This allows it to handle both wet and dry cleaning tasks effectively. The robot vacuum is designed for powerful dry cleaning with its suction capabilities and does not have a mopping function. The handheld vacuum has accessories like the Crevice Tool and 2-in-1 Dusting Brush, making it versatile for dry and wet cleaning tasks.

With the Crevice Tool and 2-in-1 Dusting Brush, the C12 Combo can precisely clean corners, curtains, and soft surfaces like sofas. These thoughtful accessories make the C12 an all-in-one solution for versatile cleaning throughout your home.

Sustainability: Cleaning With Less Waste

The C12 Combo focuses on efficiency in cleaning and reducing waste. The dustbin is bagless and reusable, meaning you’re not spending extra money on replacements or contributing to landfill waste with disposable bags. According to Yeedi’s internal data, this dustbin can last up to seven weeks without emptying, which is nearly two months of hassle-free cleaning.

Plus, the Full-Path Self-Cleaning System ensures the HEPA filter stays clean, maintaining peak suction power without manual filter cleaning. The washable HEPA filter also traps allergens, keeping your indoor air cleaner, and it’s easy to rinse and reuse. The C12 Combo reduces environmental impact and operating costs over time by focusing on long-lasting, reusable components.

Think about it—no more repeatedly buying dust bags or filters, no more hunting for replacements, or worrying about running out mid-clean. The C12’s design takes care of those pain points, making cleaning more sustainable, both for the planet and your wallet.

Value: What’s the Real Cost?

Here’s where the Yeedi C12 Combo shines: its effortless cleaning, precise performance, flexibility, and unbeatable value—Yeedi C12 Combo makes every corner of your home spotless. Instead of just a vacuum, the Yeedi C12 Combo offers a complete home-cleaning system that fits seamlessly into your routine. The robot vacuum takes care of daily maintenance, sweeping up dust, dirt, and debris while you’re at work or relaxing. Then, when you need to deep clean, the handheld and stick vacuums step in with powerful suction and versatile attachments to get into every nook and cranny.

The 1.5-liter auto-empty dustbin allows for hands-free operation for up to seven weeks, eliminating the hassle of frequent emptying. For the cost of one device, you’re getting a two-in-one system that tackles every type of mess. The C12 Combo ensures that each dollar spent is packed with performance, sustainability, and versatility.

With the 340ml water tank, the C12 Combo also provides advanced mopping functionality. It allows continuous wet mopping that handles stubborn stains and wet waste without a separate mop. You don’t need to vacuum before mopping—the C12 does both simultaneously.

Beyond cost savings, there’s the intangible value of saving time and energy. With the C12 Combo, you’re no longer chained to a cleaning routine that takes up half your Saturday. You can run the robot vacuum while taking care of other tasks and still get a deep clean when you need it.

Ready to Transform Your Cleaning Routine?

If you’re tired of spending your weekends with a vacuum in hand, the Yeedi C12 Combo is here to change that. With its advanced cleaning features, seamless transitions across surfaces, and flexible components for tackling every type of mess, it’s the perfect addition to any household looking for efficiency and simplicity. Let the C12 Combo handle the hard work so you can focus on enjoying your time at home. Experience a cleaner space with less hassle—make the switch today.

Click Here to Buy Now: $649.99 $899 (28% off). Hurry, this deal ends soon!

The post Yeedi C12 Combo Review: The Ultimate Robotic Cleaner with a Handheld Vacuum and Mop first appeared on Yanko Design.

Design Mumbai 2024: Ready to Unleash Its Design Spirit at Jio World Garden

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Mark your calendars: from November 6-9, the vibrant city of Mumbai will transform into a hub of international design creativity with the arrival of Design Mumbai 2024. Set against the lush backdrop of Jio World Garden, this event is India’s first international contemporary design show. If you’re into cutting-edge lighting concepts and meticulously crafted furniture or want to glimpse the future of design, this is where you’ll want to be. Designer to the above picture: Obeetee

Event Dates: 6-9 November 2024.

A Platform for Global and Local Talent

Presented by JSW Paints, the event gives local and international talent a platform to showcase the latest trends in design and craftsmanship. Expect a mix of the finest independent Indian designers alongside global icons, curated into a four-day showcase that brings a unique flavor of creativity to the heart of Mumbai. From installations by JSW Paints to a look at Royal Enfield’s latest take on the Classic 350, Design Mumbai is shaping up to be a must-visit for anyone passionate about creativity.

JSW Paints’ involvement as the Presenting Partner of Design Mumbai brings an added visual spectacle. AS Sundaresan, Joint MD & CEO of JSW Paints, shared, “At JSW Paints, innovation and ‘Think Beautiful’ is at the heart of everything we do. We’re delighted to present Design Mumbai 2024, which will transform Jio World Garden into a vibrant celebration of colour and creativity.” Their participation aims to create a visually inspiring event, encouraging everyone to reimagine their spaces boldly and beautifully.

Designer: andblack

Highlights and Exhibitors

Co-founder Ian Rudge describes the event as a milestone for India’s design community. “This event marks a significant milestone for India, offering an international platform unlike anything seen before. We’re bringing a whole host of innovative and pioneering designs to the show, along with specially commissioned installations from key partners such as JSW Paints and Royal Enfield, and exclusive appearances by some of the most recognised names in the industry. At the same time, we’re committed to celebrating India’s rich design and craft heritage.” Visitors can expect specially commissioned installations, exclusive product launches, and a celebration of India’s craft heritage—all curated to reflect the blend of tradition and innovation that defines modern Indian design.

Designer: Poltrona Frau

With names like Poltrona Frau, Richard Hutten, Studio Saar, Fern & Ade, Jaipur Rugs, VIATOV, VitrA, and de Sede participating, there is something for everyone—if you are interested in plush seating, thoughtful color palettes, or eco-conscious craftsmanship.

Designer: de Sede

Special Features and Installations

Design Mumbai promises an engaging array of special features, from award ceremonies to networking events, all aimed at celebrating the best in contemporary design. Exclusive collaborations, such as the concept hospitality space by THE Park Hotels, in partnership with Studio Saar, will provide attendees with a refreshing look at innovative hospitality design.

Designer: Royal Enfield

Royal Enfield will also feature prominently, showcasing its latest Royal Enfield Classic 350, highlighting its design expertise and the craftsmanship that goes into making these iconic motorcycles.

Live Talks and Keynotes

Design Mumbai is also packed with live industry talks and keynotes under the “Design Mumbai: Exchange” series. Confirmed speakers include key players from Dezeen, Dutch industrial designer Richard Hutten, and those involved in the $30 billion Mumbai infrastructure overhaul.

Richard Hutten

The discussions will cover the intersection of sustainability, design, and technology, providing insights into the future of the creative industry.

Ian Rudge added, “Our goal with Design Mumbai is to deliver top-tier quality and originality to the architecture and design community. We aim to provide a unique experience and diverse content if attendees are specifying for a private residential project or a commercial venture such as a hotel or restaurant.”

Culinary Experiences

Alongside the visual delights, visitors can indulge in culinary experiences from award-winning restaurants, including a pop-up from Soho House Mumbai.

Designer: Fern & Ade

Imagine exploring exhibits ranging from upcycled cotton tapestries by Morii Design to the latest Danish collections by Fern & Ade—all while enjoying a high-end dining experience.

Innovative and Sustainable Design

Innovation is a core theme of the event, which showcases creativity and sustainability, from VitrA’s recycled ceramic washbasins to VIATOV’s plexiglass mirrored art pieces.

Designer: Vitra

Visitors will also find inventive pieces from AKFD Studio, known for its unique lighting designs incorporating traditional Indian craftsmanship, and Studio Avni’s work, which experiments with materials like silicone and discarded silk saris.

Designer: Viatov Design

Craft Heritage and Modern Classics

Expect to see bold, modern pieces from the FAZO Project, which utilizes traditional carpet weaving techniques. Loco Design will present collections that blend Indian heritage with modern technology, while Shailesh Rajput Studio will exhibit art-inspired lighting pieces using aluminum, brass, and clay.

Designer: Loco Design

Loco Design’s efforts to blend heritage craftsmanship with modern aesthetics aim to redefine contemporary Indian design on a global scale. Under brands like Madheke, Pintark, and Taamaa, their new collections represent a convergence of Indian heritage and international practices, creating an engaging narrative for the audience.

Luxury Meets Modern Architecture

The hospitality space designed by THE Park Hotels in collaboration with Studio Saar offers a glimpse of luxury paired seamlessly with modern architecture.

Designer: Studio Saar

With exhibitors like Technogym, Timothy Oulton, Hästens, Michael Young, and Boss Design, Design Mumbai promises something to inspire all design enthusiasts.

Artful Forms and Everyday Simplicity

Other notable names include Seoul-based VIATOV, which presents mirrored objects, and Esvee Atelier, known for its functional art that enhances living spaces.

Studio Avni will also display its Hybrid series of stitched metal light pieces alongside projects like the Garland series, which are made from discarded silk saris.

Designer: Esvee Atelier

Esvee Atelier is set to introduce the VAV coffee table, inspired by Indian stepwells, and the Maya vanity dresser, which turns everyday routines into elegant rituals and embodies the spirit of thoughtful, functional design.

Design Mumbai is set to establish itself as a yearly pilgrimage for lovers of design—capturing the creative energy of India and ingenuity from around the world. Design Mumbai is also collaborating with the Association of Designers of India’s Mumbai Chapter, who is helping them curate speakers and building engagement with the design community. The creative pulse of Mumbai is about to get even stronger!

Event Dates: 6-9 November 2024.

The post Design Mumbai 2024: Ready to Unleash Its Design Spirit at Jio World Garden first appeared on Yanko Design.

Braun Prize 2024: Submit Your Innovative Design for a $50,000 Reward

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The Braun Prize, first introduced in 1968, is an internationally renowned design competition that celebrates the power of innovation and craftsmanship in industrial design. Braun, the German design powerhouse behind the prize, has long been synonymous with iconic, minimalist, sensible design. Known for its clean lines, functional aesthetics, and products that marry form with function, Braun has shaped the landscape of product design for decades. Its influence is deeply rooted in the design world, inspiring generations of designers to prioritize simplicity, utility, and timelessness. With a rich legacy in creating everything from shavers to radios, Braun’s dedication to design excellence extends to the Braun Prize, which has become a benchmark for recognizing creative talent across the globe.

A key element that underscores the significance of the Braun Prize is its distinguished jury, which has, in the past, included design legends like Dieter Rams, Braun’s former Head of Design. Rams, one of the most influential figures in modern design, chaired the competition for several years, bringing his renowned “less, but better” philosophy to the forefront. Other notable figures, such as Peter Schneider and Dr. Fritz Eichler, have also shaped the competition with their expertise. This tradition continues in 2024 under the leadership of Prof. Oliver Grabes, Braun’s current Head of Design, ensuring the competition maintains its high standards of evaluating innovative ideas that fuse practicality with creativity.

For the 2024 edition, under the theme “Ideas to Keep,” Braun invites designers and inventors to participate by submitting projects that highlight both timeless design principles and forward-thinking solutions. Open to students and young professionals globally and held once every 2-3 years, participants have the chance to showcase their work on an international stage and compete for a prize pool totaling $50,000 USD. Designers can submit their entries via the Braun Prize platform, or if you’re looking for inspiration, scroll down to take a look at some Braun Prize winners from the previous edition.

Click Here to Submit Now. Deadline: 14th October 2024.

Braun Prize 2021 Winners

Drilling Targeting Systems (DTS) by Mehmet Mehmetalioglu (Student)

Mehmet Mehmetalioglu’s Drilling Targeting Systems (DTS) is setting a new standard in aerospace assembly. With the surge in aircraft production, DTS provides a much-needed solution for the intricate task of joining fuselage and ribs, enhancing workflows and reducing the need for highly skilled labor. The system employs ultrasonic technology in its modular target unit to accurately locate drilling points, while the drilling unit performs the task with precision, ensuring the surface remains undamaged. This innovation not only minimizes human error but also improves safety in aircraft manufacturing. Juror Stefan Schamberg commends the DTS for its intelligent design, top-notch prototyping, and its potential to elevate industry standards, underscoring Mehmetalioglu’s dedication to meticulous craftsmanship and forward-thinking solutions.

PAPILIO Wind Powered Street Light by Tobias Trübenbacher (Student)

Tobias Trübenbacher’s innovative street light, PAPILIO, addresses the escalating issue of light pollution and energy consumption. As our cities grow taller and windier, so do the environmental challenges we face, including the 6% annual increase in artificial light worldwide. PAPILIO tackles these problems head-on with a Savonius wind rotor that generates its own electricity, significantly reducing CO2 emissions from public lighting. Designed to be both eco-friendly and effective, PAPILIO features a full-cut-off light that directs illumination downward, significantly decreasing its impact on insects and the environment. An infrared sensor ensures the light activates only when necessary, further minimizing unnecessary illumination. Juror Johanna Schoemaker admires the balanced design, highlighting the way the wind turbines’ graceful movement adds an aesthetic element reminiscent of a simple paper windmill. PAPILIO not only offers a functional solution but also enriches public spaces both day and night, making energy generation an elegant spectacle.

RUEI-01 Robotically Recyclable Shoe by Maxwell Ashford (Student)

Maxwell Ashford’s RUEI-01 presents an innovative approach to shoe recycling, solving a challenging problem with precision and creativity. Unlike traditional recycling methods that struggle with mixed materials, RUEI-01 is a multi-material shoe designed for robotic disassembly. By embedding digital information directly into the shoe—including robotic g.code instructions and detailed material data—robots can separate and recycle each component accurately. This method ensures the production of high-quality recycled materials that can compete with new ones, significantly reducing waste and environmental impact from material extraction and production. Juror Sukwoo Lee praises the project’s forward-thinking solution and its practical execution, highlighting the impressive use of seam structures for robotic recycling and the robust presentation of research and prototypes. RUEI-01 exemplifies how contemporary tools and thoughtful design can revolutionize recycling practices, maintaining the durability and functionality of multi-material shoes while addressing pressing environmental concerns.

CANNE Self-directed CPR Learning Experience by Shuai Li (Student)

Shuai Li’s CANNE redefines CPR training with a self-directed, cost-effective solution tailored for developing countries. With more than 550,000 sudden cardiac deaths annually in China and a dismal less-than-1% out-of-hospital survival rate, CANNE addresses the urgent need for accessible and engaging CPR training. This innovative kit, made from corrugated cardboard, allows individuals to practice CPR independently using a smartphone app that leverages AR technology. The app offers real-time feedback through the phone’s camera and microphone, guiding users in identifying cardiac arrest, performing chest compressions, and proper ventilation. By making CPR training affordable, portable, and user-friendly, CANNE breaks down barriers related to cost, availability of qualified instructors, and motivation. Juror Li Ning Ning commends CANNE for its ingenious combination of common materials and sensor technology, highlighting its potential to boost CPR course participation and save lives. CANNE’s practical approach could significantly enhance public health by increasing out-of-hospital cardiac arrest survival rates, particularly in regions where traditional CPR training is challenging to access.

LIDfree Origami Cup by Chia Chun Chuang and Pei Chun Hsueh (Young Creatives)

LIDfree, the ingenious creation by Chia Chun Chuang and Pei Chun Hsueh, tackles the escalating plastic waste problem exacerbated by the pandemic. In a world where plastic lid usage is rampant, LIDfree offers a sustainable alternative by merging the cup and lid into one cohesive unit using the art of origami. This revolutionary design features a hexagonal folding rim that collapses inward, eliminating the need for a separate plastic lid. Users can open and close the cup quickly, prevent spills, and enjoy the convenience of an eco-friendly design that accommodates straws of any width. By maintaining the familiar feel of a typical takeaway cup, LIDfree enhances user experience while encouraging eco-friendly habits. Made from a single type of paper, it simplifies the recycling process, allowing easy separation and flattening without mess. Juror applause highlights its stackability, ease of use, and clever incorporation of functionalities—traits that embody simplicity, elegance, and practical ingenuity. LIDfree proves that sustainable design can seamlessly integrate into daily life, supporting environmental protection effortlessly even during challenging times.

MonkeyBots IoT Robots by Georg Kloeck and Mohammad Moradi

MonkeyBots, created by Georg Kloeck and Mohammad Moradi, revolutionizes the way we interact with digital notifications by transforming them into physical actions. These small IoT robots help liberate us from constant screen time by performing tangible tasks like clicking switches, rattling pill containers, or striking a gong to remind us of important activities. Designed to be secure and unobtrusive, MonkeyBots connect to your phone via Bluetooth-Low-Energy without microphones or cameras, ensuring privacy. They feature sustainably 3D printed add-ons that can grip, push, hit, or click almost anything, making them versatile tools for everyday routines. The design, compatible with LEGO and available in organic PLA or recycled PET, seamlessly blends into various environments. The jury applauded MonkeyBots for their ability to bring digital notifications into the physical world in a playful and creative way, offering endless possibilities without compromising user privacy.

Click Here to Submit Now. Deadline: 14th October 2024.

The post Braun Prize 2024: Submit Your Innovative Design for a $50,000 Reward first appeared on Yanko Design.

Huawei Watch GT5 Pro Hands-On Review – Where Luxury Meets Functionality

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PROS:


  • Huawei TruSense System: Advanced health tracking, including blood pressure monitoring and ECG

  • Long battery life of up to 14 days

  • Premium materials like titanium and ceramic for durability

  • Compatible with Android and iOS devices

CONS:


  • Higher price tag, especially for premium models

  • Limited third-party app support compared to competitors

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Huawei Watch GT5 Pro blends sleek design with powerful performance, effortlessly fitting into both active and professional lifestyles.
award-icon

Huawei continues to redefine what we expect from smartwatches with the Watch GT5 Pro. Building on the successes of the GT4 and GT3 Pro, this latest iteration seamlessly blends premium materials with advanced health tracking features. Whether you choose the titanium or ceramic model, the GT5 Pro caters to users who value fitness and aesthetics without compromise.

Designer: Huawei

First Impressions: High-End Design with Purpose

From the moment I strapped the Huawei Watch GT5 Pro onto my wrist, it was clear this wasn’t your average smartwatch. The sleek design focused squarely on the timepiece, exudes luxury and sophistication. I had the pleasure of testing the 46mm titanium model and the 42mm ceramic version—each leaving a distinct and lasting impression.

Huawei Watch GT5 Pro Titanium Alloy

The titanium alloy version feels robust and is tailored for those who lead active lifestyles. At the same time, the ceramic model is lighter and more polished, designed to complement any outfit—be it formal or casual. Both models showcase Huawei’s meticulous attention to detail, from the intricately designed watch faces to the seamless integration of premium materials.

Design and Build Quality: Refined Craftsmanship with Bold Details

Huawei’s design philosophy shines through in the GT5 Pro, combining cutting-edge technology with exquisite craftsmanship. The titanium alloy and ceramic models feature sapphire glass, offering excellent scratch resistance while enhancing clarity and durability.

Titanium Model: Rugged Yet Sophisticated

The 46mm titanium version strikes a perfect balance between ruggedness and elegance. Ideal for those who want a watch that can handle outdoor adventures and formal settings, the titanium case is crafted from aerospace-grade material, providing exceptional strength without excessive weight. Its brushed finish adds a touch of class, while the titanium link bracelet feels smooth against the skin and is easily adjustable for a perfect fit.

Despite its larger size, the titanium model feels light enough. Thoughtful weight distribution ensures comfort during all-day wear. The bold, masculine design transitions seamlessly from professional meetings to outdoor pursuits, offering style and durability.

Ceramic Model: Subtle Sophistication

The 42mm ceramic model is all about refinement. Building on the design language of the GT3 Pro Ceramic Edition, Huawei has perfected its nanocrystal ceramic manufacturing process. This meticulous seven-day process results in a flawless, mirror-like, durable, and eye-catching finish.

The ceramic model feels noticeably lighter than its titanium counterpart. The ceramic bezel and sapphire glass blend seamlessly, creating an uninterrupted surface that enhances the watch’s minimalist aesthetic. The white ceramic strap enhances the watch’s elegance and provides all-day comfort, making it ideal for any occasion.

Dynamic Visual Experience: Light and Shadow Effects

One of the GT5 Pro’s most striking design features is its use of geometric shapes to create a captivating light and shadow effect. Light dances across its surfaces as the watch moves under different lighting conditions, adding depth and dimension to the design. This effect is particularly pronounced on the titanium version, where the brushed finish accentuates the watch’s premium look.

The crown on both models is intricately designed with a knurled texture, providing a tactile and responsive experience when adjusting settings. These details and the nanocrystal ceramic rear case reflect Huawei’s commitment to balancing aesthetic appeal with functional durability.

Comfort and Fit: Ergonomics Perfected

Both the titanium and ceramic models are designed with ergonomics in mind. The curved cases and flexible straps ensure a snug fit without discomfort, even during extended wear. The titanium model offers a reassuring weight that balances comfort and presence, while the ceramic model is lighter and stays cool against the skin.

Strap Variety: Tailored to Your Style

Huawei has introduced a variety of strap options for the GT5 Pro, allowing users to customize the watch to match their style and occasion:

  • Fluoroelastomer straps for a sporty, durable feel.
  • Ocean-recycled nylon straps highlight sustainability with colors inspired by ocean waves.
  • Composite leather straps and Milanese straps for those seeking a more formal and fashionable look.

These options enhance the GT5 Pro’s versatility, enabling it to adapt from a casual day out to a formal evening event effortlessly.

Display and Usability: Crisp, Clear, and Responsive

Huawei Watch GT5 Pro

The AMOLED display—measuring 1.43 inches on the titanium model and 1.32 inches on the ceramic—offers a sharp 466 x 466 pixel resolution. Everything from fitness data to notifications appears vibrant and clear, even in direct sunlight. The touchscreen responsiveness is smooth, ensuring seamless navigation through the watch’s features.

The always-on display is especially useful during workouts or when quick access to time and notifications is needed. It reduces the need to wake the screen manually, making interactions more fluid and saving time.

Huawei TruSense System: Comprehensive Health Monitoring and Insights

Huawei’s TruSense System represents a breakthrough in health and wellness tracking, offering users a sophisticated approach to monitoring physical and emotional wellbeing. Built on a multi-channel optical architecture, the system significantly enhances the accuracy of core health metrics such as heart rate, blood oxygen (SpO2), and respiratory rate. Substantial investments in optical, electrical, and material sciences make this possible, allowing the sensors to overcome traditional challenges related to skin tone variations, wrist sizes, and environmental factors like temperature and humidity.

Leveraging this advanced architecture, the TruSense System monitors over 60 health and fitness indicators, giving users a holistic view of their wellbeing. A standout feature is its sophisticated sleep tracking, which offers detailed insights into light, deep, and REM sleep cycles. This in-depth analysis enables users to understand their sleep quality better and identify improvement areas. These combined features contribute to a comprehensive understanding of personal wellness, positioning TruSense as one of the most advanced systems in wearable health technology today.

By integrating physical and emotional health tracking, Huawei’s TruSense offers an unmatched combination of functionality and precision, helping users stay in tune with their bodies and minds daily.

Advanced Optical Sensing

The TruSense System integrates advanced sensors with state-of-the-art algorithms, delivering consistent and reliable readings. This precision is vital for users who depend on real-time data to fine-tune their performance and recovery. SpO2 monitoring provides swift feedback on oxygen saturation—a crucial cardiovascular and respiratory health indicator. Meanwhile, the often-neglected respiratory rate tracking offers valuable insights into how efficiently your body regulates breathing patterns across various activities.

Huawei Watch GT5 Pro

Emotional WellBeing and Management

Beyond physical health, the Huawei Watch GT 5 Series incorporates a unique emotional wellbeing assistant. This feature leverages heart rate variability (HRV) and autonomic nervous system data to assess and track stress levels. During periods of high stress, such as intense workdays or emotional challenges, the watch detects physiological changes and provides actionable insights. Whether you’re feeling happy, sad, or at peace, it records your emotional state, helping you better understand and manage your wellbeing. The built-in breathing exercises help manage stress in real time, guiding users through calming practices that restore balance.

The emotional wellbeing assistant goes beyond simple stress tracking, offering a holistic view of your mental state. By integrating daily stress fluctuations with physical indicators, the system provides a comprehensive picture of your overall wellbeing. Over time, it identifies patterns, helping you recognize triggers and develop healthier emotional habits. However, this feature is currently only available in China and isn’t offered in the European market.

Sleep Monitoring and Advanced Sleep Cycle Insights

The sleep tracking feature in the TruSense System has undergone significant enhancements. Like many competitors offering sleep data, Huawei’s system provides detailed analyses of sleep stages, including light sleep, deep sleep, and REM cycles. However, it goes beyond merely reporting sleep duration, offering valuable feedback on the quality of each phase. Whether battling insomnia or aiming to optimize your rest for better recovery, this feature delivers personalized insights and recommendations based on your unique sleep patterns.

Future-Proof Flexibility and Accuracy

Huawei has future-proofed the TruSense System by designing it to be flexible and open to iterative updates. Users can expect continued software and hardware performance improvements as the technology progresses, ensuring their devices stay at the cutting edge of health monitoring. Additionally, the TruSense System has been certified by several authoritative health bodies, offering peace of mind regarding the reliability and safety of the data provided.

Sports and Activity Tracking: Tailored for Adventure

The GT5 Pro shines in outdoor activity tracking with its dual-band GPS and support for multiple satellite systems like GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, Beidou, and QZSS. This setup enhances location accuracy and speed, making it great for hiking, running, or cycling. Huawei has taken things further with the new HUAWEI Sunflower Positioning System, which uses an adaptive algorithm to improve accuracy. The watch’s antenna adjusts itself based on your movement, ensuring it points in the right direction, whether cycling or running. This upgraded system reduces issues like distance or pace inaccuracies seen in earlier models, boosting route accuracy by 40%, distance by 30%, and pace by 20%, offering a more reliable tracking experience overall.

The running form analysis feature is particularly noteworthy. It provides detailed insights into metrics like vertical oscillation, foot contact time, and stride length. These insights help improve performance and reduce the risk of injury.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the offline maps and route back feature offer great value. Whether you’re hiking or exploring new trails, the watch provides accurate mapping and assists with navigation, helping you find your way if you lose track of your path.

Water Resistance and Freediving Mode: Dive In with Confidence

With a 5 ATM water resistance rating, the GT5 Pro is ideal for swimming and water sports. Its freediving mode supports dives of up to 40 meters, tracking depth and dive duration. I took the ceramic model snorkeling, and it performed flawlessly with no issues, even after prolonged exposure to saltwater.

Battery Life: Long-Lasting Performance

Huawei is renowned for the impressive battery life of its smartwatches, and the GT5 Pro doesn’t disappoint. The 46mm titanium model offers up to 14 days of battery life, while the 42mm ceramic model provides up to 7 days. Even with GNSS tracking, continuous health monitoring, and the always-on display active, I comfortably went several days without recharging.

When it’s time to recharge, the Watch GT5 Pro 46mm exclusively supports fast wireless charging. A quick 10-minute charge gives enough power for an entire day, making it especially convenient for those with busy schedules.

Smartwatch Features and Connectivity: Beyond Fitness

The GT5 Pro goes beyond fitness tracking by offering features that enhance daily connectivity. One standout is the keyboard input, allowing you to respond to messages directly from the watch. Though currently limited to specific apps, it adds convenience when accessing your phone isn’t an option. Music control is also intuitive, whether you’re streaming from your smartphone or playing stored songs directly from the watch. With compatibility across Android, iOS, and Huawei devices, the GT5 Pro ensures a seamless experience no matter which platform you use.

Should You Upgrade? A Worthwhile Investment

For GT4 Users:

The GT5 Pro offers significant upgrades in both materials and functionality. The introduction of premium materials like titanium and ceramic, the advanced TruSense system, and enhanced health tracking make it a worthwhile upgrade.

For GT3 Pro Users:

The GT5 Pro builds on its predecessor’s strengths. With improved GNSS accuracy, expanded health monitoring—including emotional wellbeing tracking—and refined aesthetics, it represents a solid step forward for those seeking the latest wearable technology.

Final Thoughts: A Premium Watch for the Modern User

The Huawei Watch GT5 Pro seamlessly merges style and functionality. Its premium materials, cutting-edge health features, and impressive battery life make it a standout choice for anyone looking for a smartwatch that doesn’t compromise design or performance.

Whether focused on fitness, managing stress, or simply seeking a stylish smartwatch to complement your daily attire, the GT5 Pro is an exceptional choice. It embodies Huawei’s commitment to delivering products that enhance our lives through innovation and quality, making it a worthy addition to any tech-savvy individual’s collection.

The post Huawei Watch GT5 Pro Hands-On Review – Where Luxury Meets Functionality first appeared on Yanko Design.

ESR iPhone 16 Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand Review: Stay Original, Stay Protected

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PROS:


  • Slim and light, lets original iPhone 16 design shine

  • Multi-angle stash stand also protects the camera

  • Unbeatable all-around protection

  • Doesn't get in the way of MagSafe features

CONS:


  • Stand doesn't support (tall) vertical orientation

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

ESR's newest range of Classic Hybrid Cases with Stash Stand gives the iPhone 16 the protection it deserves with no compromise to functionality nor a hit on its innate beauty.

The new iPhone 16 series is here, along with a new generation of accessories designed to complement Apple’s latest and greatest smartphone. While the iPhone has changed considerably over the years, what hasn’t really changed is its price tag, making it quite an expensive investment that people want to protect and keep for as long as possible. There is no shortage of cases that promise that, but many of these cover up the iPhone’s minimalist beauty with gaudy designs and fatten up the otherwise slim profile in the name of rugged durability. Other cases also add some functionality that complicates the iPhone’s appearance and use, going against the spirit of simplicity that Apple embraces. It’s rare to come across a phone case that offers protection that doesn’t obscure the original design or adds utility that doesn’t compromise other features. The new ESR iPhone 16 Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand and its siblings promise exactly that and we put them in our hands to see how well that promise holds.

Designer: ESR

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.99

Aesthetics

One of the biggest reasons why some people are hesitant to slap a protective case on their phones is that these cases tend to make the phones look ugly and bulky. Of course, there are people who actually prefer to dress up their phones with stickers and decals, but the large majority want to show off their new phone’s pristine beauty, especially if that phone is an iPhone. That Apple logo on the back is, of course, a matter of pride for owners so it feels counterintuitive to cover that up with a thick and opaque case.

There’s a reason that ESR puts the “Classic” label on this series of cases for the new iPhone 16. Despite offering an impressive set of protective features, the transparent back still lets the original style and color of the iPhone 16 shine through, though you do have choices of colored edges to match the iPhone’s natural color as well. With a back that’s only 1.6mm thick, it doesn’t add that much bulk to the slim and sleek phone.

The ESR Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand embraces Apple’s minimalist design language, offering protection that you can’t see but definitely feel. It has no extraneous markings or branding that would mar the otherwise pristine beauty of the iPhone 16. It hugs the phone’s frame so tightly that it almost looks like a transparent skin wrapped around the phone. And the parts that you do see are also designed to be aesthetic, like the zinc alloy of the camera guard kickstand with a matte finish that just seamlessly blends with the camera bump’s design. ESR clearly had not just phone protection in mind but also user satisfaction in seeing the classic elegance of their iPhone 16 without worrying about accidents.

Ergonomics

Smartphone cases actually do double duty when it comes to protection. They buffer the force of impact when phones fall or bump into hard objects, but they also add some texture to the phone’s back to increase their grip. In other words, cases make it easier to hold the phone and reduce the risk of dropping it, and when you do drop it, the cases absorb some of the shock and protect the material underneath from scratches and dings.

Of course, that’s only true for cases that don’t increase the size and weight of the phone to the point of making it uncomfortable to hold or don’t use a material that’s even more slippery than the phone’s glass or metal rear. Fortunately, the ESR Classic Hybrid definitely checks the right boxes here as well, with an overall thickness of only 14.2mm and a weight of only 42g (1.7oz). The materials themselves also have a kind of “sticky” quality that prevents the phone from slipping off your hand easily. That stash stand also functions as a ring you can hang from your finger while your hands are carrying other things, almost like a built-in loop. It would have been nice if it could also function like a popsocket of sorts so you can hold the phone with even more confidence, but the current design doesn’t make that possible. That’s a puzzle that ESR will hopefully solve in future iterations of the Stash Stand.

Performance

A protective case is only as good as the protection it offers, and the ESR Classic Hybrid with Stash Stand for the iPhone 16 definitely has plenty of that to go around, almost literally. Almost every side of the case has a feature that ensures the safety of the phone no matter which side it drops on, including the 1.2mm raised edge around the screen and the 0.7mm raised camera guard. There’s also the acrylic-PC material used for the back of the case for enhanced durability and a TPU edge that is promised not to discolor and turn yellow over time.

One unique feature of ESR cases is its Air Guard corners, which are basically small empty pockets that serve as cushions for the most common part of the phone that hits the pavement. These look like very small bumps rather than obnoxious bumpers, staying true to the minimalist design language that the Classic Hybrid cases embrace. All of these give the cases military-grade protection, enough to meet the MIL-STD-810H standard for shock protection. The case can protect the phone from an 11-foot drop, offering iPhone 16 owners peace of mind without compromising their experience.

The “Stash Stand” part of the ESR Classic Hybrid’s name comes from the camera guard that flips down to transform into a multi-angle stand, supporting angles of anywhere between 15 to 85 degrees for your preferred viewing angle. Unlike other built-in phone stands like rings and popsockets, the stash stand gets out of the way when you don’t need it and even protects your cameras. The one disadvantage to this design is that you can’t prop up your phone vertically unless you lay it almost flat on a table, which is fine for scrolling through social media but not for video calls.

Apple’s introduction of MagSafe technology presented a design problem for case makers, especially those with rugged and thick materials. MagSafe won’t work through such cases, at least not without some clever designs and technologies. Fortunately, that’s no longer a problem today and, even better, ESR has found ways to actually improve on the technology. For one, it has even stronger magnets, about 1.5kg of magnetic locking force, so you don’t have to worry about the case making accessories loose and detach accidentally. It can even let the phone charge faster than with other MagSafe-compatible cases, beating its competitors by an average of 30 minutes. Best of all, the magnetic ring is embedded in the case itself, so it won’t scratch your iPhone’s back.

All in all, the ESR iPhone 16 Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand offers unparalleled, military-grade protection that doesn’t get in the way of your enjoyment of your phone. It retains the iPhone 16’s natural beauty while also giving you color options to match your phone and your style. It’s a no-compromise design that brings the best of all worlds while staying true to Apple’s own design philosophy.

Sustainability

Like many protective cases these days, the ESR Classic Hybrid is a mixture of different materials that each offer a different kind of protection. The acrylic-PC material on its back offers durability and scratch resistance, while the TPU around the edges gives flexibility and shock absorption. Unfortunately, these materials are also known to be non-sustainable, though there is definitely research and experiments on using alternative materials that produce the same durable properties.

That’s not to say, however, that ESR isn’t doing due diligence in creating a greener future, but its sustainability results are a little bit more indirect. For one, it offsets its carbon emissions through the ClimatePartner program. In addition, it helps keep phones away from trash bins and dump sites longer by protecting these precious devices and ensuring their longevity. You might not see a phone case as a “green” product, but ESR is definitely doing its part in healing the planet in its own small ways.

Value

Starting at only $19.99, the ESR Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand is pretty much a no-brainer for new iPhone 16 owners. After all, you are getting an impressive amount of protection against accidents and a built-in stand that stays out of the way and out of sight when you don’t need it. Plus, it retains the iPhone 16’s slim profile, sleek looks, and original style, allowing you to enjoy the natural colors you selected when you bought it. What’s not to love?

And for those who want something more or something different, they don’t have to stray far from ESR’s other new iPhone 16 cases. The Cloud Soft Case with Stash Stand, for example, has the same basic design but uses premium liquid silicone to give the phone a softer touch. The Cyber Tough Case with Stash Stand, on the other hand, levels up the durability with a 3-layer design that includes a robust PC backing, a flexible TPU shell, and an inner PORON lining. With these three designs, ESR has got all your iPhone 16 protection needs covered and in your preferred style.

Verdict

Just like with power banks, smartphone cases have become a fact of modern mobile life. No matter how durable companies make their phones, there will still be that nagging fear of throwing away money when, not if, you accidentally drop your precious investment. With the arrival of the iPhone 16, ESR took the opportunity to showcase the best of its design with the Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand. Offering military-grade protection that doesn’t make the iPhone 16 look like a tank, this case with a built-in stand is something you’ll have no reason to take off once you’ve put it on.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.99

The post ESR iPhone 16 Classic Hybrid Case with Stash Stand Review: Stay Original, Stay Protected first appeared on Yanko Design.

AEG’s Smart Kitchen Challenge at IFA 2024: CEO + Chef in a High-Tech Cook-off

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With its kitchen-line products on display at IFA, AEG is putting its money where its mouth is – by having a CEO produce a top-tier dish with help from a chef while using the company’s induction hob, oven, and overhead chimney. The cook-off, hosted by Radhika Seth of Yanko Design, attempts to drive home a simple point – with the right tools, anyone can be a chef. To prove this, we got Anna Ohlsson-Leijon (CEO Business Area Europe APMEA & Group Executive Vice President, Electrolux Group) to collaborate with professional chef Paola Martinenghi. Martinenghi, a designer-turned-chef with a history of working for Michelin star restaurants is a designpreneur in her own right, with her own women-led lighting-design firm. With a passion for cooking, Martinenghi believes in preserving old-school recipes, even if it means updating them so that people can use cutting-edge kitchen appliances to make age-old traditional dishes.

Both CEO and Chef will be attempting a deceptively simple dish that’s known for requiring perfect technique – Risotto Tricolore with pomodoro, pesto, and burrata – a summer spin on the Risotto Milanese. Risotto is considered an incredibly technical dish given the precise control required over temperature, cook-time, and the gradual addition of broth to rice while you constantly stir the dish. Mess any step up and your risotto is less-than-ideal resulting in a dish that would make an Italian nonna fume. It’s a good thing, however, that AEG’s state-of-the-art kitchen collection makes certain steps foolproof, allowing you to easily attempt even the most technical recipes.

The process gets made simple by AEG’s CookSmart Touch Display, which guides you through step by step. The Sense Fry sensor on the hob helps you maintain a consistent temperature during your cook (sort of like cruise control for chefs) – for the risotto, it’s a steady 120°C. Meanwhile, AEG’s Xtractor Hob, which features an integrated extractor fan, kept the cooking area free of smoke and odors, making the experience even more pleasant. A clean, smoke-free kitchen means less hassle, and less cleanup—a win for anyone who’s familiar with the chaos of post-cooking messes.

Throughout the cook-off, the focus shifted frequently to AEG’s smart features, particularly how the appliances use AI to adapt and enhance cooking. The AI TasteAssist feature automatically adjusts cooking settings based on the dish being prepared. Anna explained that by simply inputting a recipe, the oven analyzes the details and determines the optimal temperature and time, which could revolutionize how people cook at home. The Assisted Dishes function also impressed Paola, as it provides guidance across a wide range of meals, making even the most complex dishes accessible to home cooks.

Energy efficiency was another cornerstone of the new AEG range. Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s built into the design. The appliances can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%, with features like PreHeat and Residual Heat, which cleverly utilize retained heat to finish cooking. The SenseBoil & Fry function, for instance, promises to save up to 33% in energy usage. It’s clear that AEG has aligned its smart technology not just with convenience, but with the goal of making kitchens more eco-friendly.

The discussion also touched on design and aesthetics. AEG’s range isn’t just high-tech—it’s designed to be visually appealing. Paola praised the sleek, minimalist look of the appliances, which come in Matt Black and Glossy Black, noting that they not only enhance the cooking process but also complement modern kitchen interiors.

As the cook-off neared its conclusion, Paola and Anna finished the risotto with a flourish, adding burrata for a creamy, indulgent finish. The results were met with unanimous delight as the hosts tasted the dish and marveled at how easy the process had been, thanks to AEG’s smart kitchen tools.

The post AEG’s Smart Kitchen Challenge at IFA 2024: CEO + Chef in a High-Tech Cook-off first appeared on Yanko Design.

Narwal Freo Z Ultra Review: AI for Clean and Stress-free Homes

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PROS:


  • Sleek and minimalist design that blends seamlessly into any home environment

  • Powerful features for thorough and hygienic cleaning

  • Privacy-respecting AI that knows what to clean and how to clean it well

CONS:


  • Auto Water Exchange System is a separate purchase

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Narwal Freo Z Ultra makes AI relatable and useful, keeping your home clean and hygienic while also adding a touch of elegance to any space with its stylish design.

AI, machine learning, neural networks, and large language models are buzzwords not just in the tech industry but in mainstream media as well. Almost anything that has a tiny computer inside or connects to the Internet boasts of some AI feature, but most of them just talk about how powerful their product is for being able to do AI. Like any other technology, AI is supposed to help make our lives easier, not burden our brains with a litany of features to remember. At IFA 2924, Narwal unveiled the Freo Z Ultra robot cleaner to show how to do AI right, and we were able to get a first-hand preview of how it utilizes this powerful technology to keep our homes clean, our families healthy, and even our pets happy.

Designer: Narwal

Aesthetics

Robot vacuum cleaners are nothing new; they are one of the first robots and automation to enter our homes. Over the years, the basic form of these circular machines has changed little, which means they have kept close to their utilitarian aesthetic which stands out too much in most homes today. Even the base stations, which are evolving in complexity, often look like oversized and uninspiring trash bins. Fortunately, Narwal applied not only artificial intelligence but also human intelligence to give the Freo Z Ultra a more human appeal.

The Narwal Freo Z Ultra is designed to blend seamlessly into your home, a part of it that doesn’t get in your way, both literally and figuratively. It doesn’t call attention in the way that something unappealing would, like a tool out of place, but only by its sleek and elegant appearance that makes you appreciate its presence in a positive way. The smooth curves, minimalist style, and premium-looking materials make the robot vacuum cleaner and its base station look like functional design objects instead of just appliances.

Admittedly, the robot cleaner itself doesn’t deviate too much from the standard formula. It is a circular machine with very few standout details, and that’s a good thing. It allows the robot to move around without being distracting, showing only the bare minimum that informs people of its functions or state. And thanks to its intelligent navigation system, you don’t even have to worry about bumping into it or getting in its way, as it will be the one to move out of your way as it should be.

All in all, the Freo Z Ultra combines simplicity and style in a single package, adding to a home’s aesthetic instead of distracting from it. It makes the AI-powered robot cleaning system look and feel more like a part of your home, rather than something tacked on and out of place. It might even become part of the family, in its own helpful and cute way.

Ergonomics

Unlike devices that you operate by hand, you don’t really handle the Freo Z Ultra robot cleaner, which is definitely for the best. The reason you’d delegate this chore to a robot would be to avoid dealing with dirt and germs, so the less that you have to manually interact with the cleaning robot, the better. Fortunately, Narwal made sure to minimize those moments as much as possible, leading not only to a convenient mode of operation but to a hygienic one as well.

You don’t have to manually empty the robot’s dust bin. You don’t even have to wash the dirty mop. The only time you have to do some work is to empty the dust bag and replace the dirty water with a clean one, and even then you are guaranteed a sanitized environment thanks to the Freo Z Ultra’s smart features that we’ll get to later. Using these functions is definitely a walk in the park, as Narwal has made the design intuitive and easy to use.

Controlling the robot is a matter of setting it up in the mobile app and just letting it do its thing on its own. You don’t even have to lift a finger, literally, thanks to integration with smart home systems and assistants, which means voice control and automated scenarios. Yes, it sounds lazy, but the convenience means you get more time for yourself and your loved ones.

Performance

Smart robot cleaners are becoming the norm these days, but the Narwal Freo Z Ultra definitely pushes the envelope of what you can do with all that intelligence. Most implementations focus on AI-assisted navigation and obstacle avoidance, and of course, we see that here as well. More importantly, however, Narwal’s AI not only identifies what lies before the robot but also what to do about it, even if it means going back to it again and again.

This is the case with the Freo Z Ultra’s Next-gen Proactive AI DirtSense, which means it knows that the thing in front of it is some kind of dirt and can actually identify what kind of dirt it is. If it’s dry dirt, it sucks it up, but if it’s a wet spill or stain, it mops it up. It also detects how much more mopping is needed and returns to the spot after the mop has been cleaned at the base station. It intelligently understands in real-time if a certain section of the floor requires more thorough cleaning than other spots instead of just applying the same amount of vacuuming or mopping, which tends to spread the dirt around instead. In that sense, it’s almost human in the way it thinks and behaves, closely mimicking how we would approach such a problem as well.

Just as with dirt, The Freo Z Ultra is able to correctly identify the type of floor and carpet so that it can automatically adjust its settings without you having to tell it. For carpets, it can lift the mop to a height of 12mm to avoid staining the material, and it also maximizes the suction power up to 12,000 Pa for more thorough cleaning. For wooden floors, it applies only 7N of mopping pressure to protect the sensitive material, but ceramic tiles get 12N of pressure to better clean off dirt and stains.

And yes, the Narwal Freo Z Ultra has some pretty impressive obstacle avoidance skills, thanks to dual RGB cameras that let it see better, as well as not one but two processors, one dedicated solely to AI. This TwinAI Dodge Obstacle Avoidance system can recognize over 120 objects in the house and see the world like we humans do, in three dimensions. This helps the robot not only navigate spaces and avoid objects but even understand what it needs to actually do in order to clean that space.

This feature is especially important to households with pets, where the presence of a robot cleaner could wake up a sleeping pet or cause unnecessary stress. The Freo Z Ultra knows when it approaches a pet and avoids the area, but it also knows that it needs to return to the area again and again until our furry friend is awake and away. It then uses that same intelligence to determine how much it needs to clean your pet’s favorite spot to make sure it’s spotless and hygienic for your smaller family members.

The Freo Z Ultra’s intelligence extends to the way it cleans up after it cleans your floors. The base station doesn’t just empty the dust bin and wash the mops but makes sure both are clean and hygienic as well. It washes the mop at a warm 45°C for normal dust-based or powdery stains but ramps up the temp to 60°C for oil-based dirt like grease and sauce. It then heats things up even further at 75°C to really kill the bacteria, after which it dries the mop at only 40°C to make sure it won’t get damaged. It also applies hot air dust drying at 45°C to kill the bacteria inside the bin.

The Narwal Freo Z Ultra is overflowing with smart features on top of standard ones like an anti-tangling brush and Reuleaux triangular scrubbing mops that really get to those edges and corners. The best part about the smart robot cleaner is that you don’t actually have to mind any of these, as it’s smart enough to do the right thing at the right time, freeing you from worry and stress and giving even your pet some peace of mind.

Sustainability

Even though robot vacuum cleaners have been around for decades, some things haven’t changed that much, like the heavy use of plastics and non-sustainable materials. There might come a day when giants in this industry like Narwal start using more eco-friendly materials, but for now, it is tackling the problem from a different angle. In a way, the Freo Z Ultra uses its AI-powered features not only to preserve the longevity of the product but to also be more energy efficient in the long run.

Knowing when to clean is only one part of conserving energy and saving on your electricity bill. Knowing how to properly clean an area and itself can also contribute to this energy-saving strategy. Rather than applying the same pressure or suction power or heat uniformly across all instances, adjusting the settings lower or higher as needed is ultimately smarter and more efficient. The way it also takes care of itself ensures that the Freo Z Ultra will be your cleaning companion for a very long time, saving you money and reducing unnecessary e-waste over time.

Value

There’s no doubt that the Narwal Freo Z Ultra is one of if not the smartest robot cleaners to date. That makes it an amazing piece of technology, but does it really add value to your life? With the many things that burden our minds and take up our time, the last thing we often want to do is deal with chores like cleaning the floor. And while there are definitely lessons to be learned in such labor, there are also better uses of our limited time as well.

In the end, that’s what this smart AI-powered cleaning robot delivers, not just clean floors but also peace of mind and freedom from stress and worry. We don’t have to fuss over whether the little robot does its job well because we know it does. It’s not yet perfect but learns and improves along the way, much like us. The Freo Z Ultra offers a clean, safe, and hygienic environment while also freeing us to spend more time with the more important things in life. You can’t get any better value than that!

Verdict

There are many robot vacuums that boast AI-powered smarts, but most of them simply means they know their way around your home. The Narwal Freo Z Ultra puts all that computing power to work in teaching the robot how it needs to clean as well. From identifying the kind of dirt and applying the right way to clean it, to waiting for your pet to get up and then clean its spot thoroughly, the Freo Z Ultra frees you from having to worry about such minute details and focus instead on more enjoyable activities. Best of all, it looks stylish and elegant in your home as well, almost like having a designer object doing your chores for you.

The post Narwal Freo Z Ultra Review: AI for Clean and Stress-free Homes first appeared on Yanko Design.