Tag Archives: Product Design

IKEA VAPPEBY Bluetooth Speaker gets a 3rd Gen Redesign with a Clean Minimalist Makeover

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If you remember the Vappeby speaker from not too long ago, it had this gorgeous boxy avatar with a volume speaker emanating from within the speaker’s fabric cover. The Vappeby of the past blended in the same way smart speakers did, using fabric to integrate into home decor, but not anymore. IKEA’s new VAPPEBY 8×8 has a bold design, with pronounced audio drivers standing out against a plain, boxy housing. The volume knob still stays there, but the new Vappeby gets a rigid, removable handle too, and also now supports the addition of a battery pack so you can unshackle your speaker and take it with you to parties, the poolside, or the backyard.

Designer: IKEA

The most striking feature of the Vappeby 8×8″ is its size. It’s the biggest Vappeby yet, measuring a substantial yet portable 8 inches by 8 inches (without the handle). Despite its size, the speaker retains the clean, minimalist design synonymous with IKEA furniture. However, unlike previous versions, this speaker evokes a certain industrial chic aesthetic, reminiscent of the Swedish design collective Teenage Engineering.

At 39 watts of peak power output, the Vappeby 8×8″ promises impressive audio for its size. A tweeter and a large subwoofer are housed within the minimalist casing, although the exact driver sizes are yet to be revealed by IKEA. A single knob controls volume and playback, while a 3.5mm jack allows for connecting wired audio sources.

For those who crave a truly immersive experience, two Vappeby 8×8″ speakers can be paired to create stereo sound. This functionality makes the speaker ideal for small gatherings or creating a wider soundscape in a personal space.

Powering the speaker is a choice between plugging it directly into a wall outlet or using an ENEBY battery pack (sold separately). The lack of a built-in battery might be a drawback for some, but it also keeps the price down. IKEA also offers a US$10 front panel for those who prefer a more finished look.

The Vappeby 8×8″ comes in black and white colorways and is priced at US$69.99. The speaker plugs into any wall outlet, but IKEA’s $28 Eneby battery pack fits into the base, giving you wireless audio capabilities. If you liked the original fabric-clad aesthetic, the company also sells a $10 cover that you can install on the front, in true IKEA fashion.

The post IKEA VAPPEBY Bluetooth Speaker gets a 3rd Gen Redesign with a Clean Minimalist Makeover first appeared on Yanko Design.

Pulloof smartphone concept will live on as hanging speaker even when other phones are thrown away

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Concept phones are designed to showcase the working possibilities of what the upcoming version of an exciting lineup or an altogether a different smartphone would look and feel when launched. Deviating from this notion is this concept phone that rethinks the way mobile phones are used and disposed of the afterlife. This conceptual design draws some uncanny references to be more than a phone, a device that would survive – be useful – after the user chooses to upgrade, and doesn’t want to use the old phone anymore.

Designed keeping in mind the idea of integrating human behavior and sustainable design, the Pulloof: Smart Phone Concept is meant to survive after its lifetime, not just in memory, but as a device that is still fresh to the touch and use, besides its smartphone functionality.

Designer: Gisung Han

When presented with the question what happens when “the display disappears from a smartphone,” what would people use it for? Gisung Han long before clamshell phones took off because of their display real estate had visioned the Pulloof – inspired by a vintage B&Q radio – as a phone delivering on people’s music consumption through phone. He designed “a sustainable speaker by emphasizing the speaker” functionality of the smartphone.

The Pulloof as a sustainable solution is a dream object that remains valuable after its use as a smartphone as “something that people will keep wanting to touch.” This would be an environmentally safer option since people would stick on to their device even when upgrading to a new phone ensuring lesser electronic waste. People wouldn’t want to throw away a smartphone just because they are upgrading to a bigger screen.

Pulloof thus has a different design approach than a usual smartphone. It is a combination of pull and loop, a phone that features a hidden speaker accessible by pulling out from a round surface using a loop on the phone. With its properties and design, the designer believes, “Even if other phones are thrown away, ‘Pulloof’ will not be thrown away.” This phone will survive anywhere as a hanging speaker (from the loop), so it is usable in the bathroom or in the outdoors to keep you entertained.

The post Pulloof smartphone concept will live on as hanging speaker even when other phones are thrown away first appeared on Yanko Design.

Beautiful walking cane transforms into a compact wooden stool in a snap

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No one can escape the passage of time or how the body grows old and frail. We can really only delay the inevitable with a healthy lifestyle, but there will always come a time when we’ll need someone or something to lean on while walking or need to sit down more regularly even if there’s not a chair in sight. Walking aids and stools are common sights in everyday life, and products that combine these two are also no longer alien to our eyes. Unfortunately, most of them, while functional, are also unattractive and sometimes even difficult to use. They’re often a cause of embarrassment for users who’d rather leave these at home and endure discomfort rather than be seen using them. Fortunately, all hope is not lost and this rather unique “sitting cane” shows how a well-designed tool can be functional, beautiful, and uplifting all at the same time.

Designer: Anker Bak

Made from a single piece of solid ash wood split in the middle and held together with six brass bolts, the SNILD, the Danish word for handy or dextrous, shatters expectations of what a walking aid should look like. Rather than a traditional stick or a rod that ends with legs at the bottom, it looks more like a tapered paper clip viewed from the front. The curved top and bottom edges along with the sloping sides give the tool a more elegant and stylish appearance, while also providing bigger surface areas for holding or standing on the floor. The loop at the top also lets you hoist the sitting cane over your shoulder if you need to make use of both hands.

Unlike walking aids that also function as stools, transforming the SNILD is as easy as pulling the top halves apart. This reveals a leather seat that is both durable and comfortable, and it uses simple physics to hold the person up. The rubber feet of the legs provide the necessary grip to prevent the stool or the cane from sliding.

More than its functionality, it’s the design and aesthetic that puts the SNILD above the rest. It has a dignified appearance that goes beyond a simple walking aid or seat, and that sense of dignity is transferred to the user who no longer feels the shame of carrying one. It is a part of the designer’s vision of Everyday Assistive Furniture (EAF) design furniture that’s not only a tool but can even be a source of pride and an heirloom for future generations.

The post Beautiful walking cane transforms into a compact wooden stool in a snap first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Retro-Themed Gifts for Father’s Day That Will Take Your Dad Back to the 80s

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There is truly something magical about retro-inspired designs, They manage to evoke a deep sense of nostalgia within us, taking us right back to the 80s. And you know who truly loves a good old retro-themed product? Our dads! Maybe because they were actually alive during the 80s, and they feel a sense of wholeness and comfort when they come across such thoughtful designs. With Father’s Day around the corner, you may want to take your dad on a trip down memory lane, by gifting him a cool retro-inspired product. And, we’ve curated a collection of such designs for you to pick from! Though these designs are wonderfully retro-esque, they have been imbibed with modern functionality. Their aesthetics may be from their past, but their utility is embedded in the future. Have a look!

1. NIXOID NEXT

Nixie designed this steampunk-inspired NIXIOD NEXT which incorporates Nixie tubes. The watch features rare Nixie VFD lamps which were discovered around 25 years ago. This unique design beautifully merges a healthy and fascinating mix of futurism and retro, by integrating retro tubes into the form of a modern wristwatch. It’s the perfect Father’s Day present for dads who love a nostalgic touch and want to show off their retro possessions on their wrists.

Why is it noteworthy?

The NIXIOD NEXT merges an accelerometer which lights up the VFD tubes when moved toward the user. The interesting tubes were found in a warehouse from the days of the USSR, making it a historic limited-edition collectible.

What we like

  • Equipped with charging points on the back, making it an easy charge
  • Features a scratch-resistant sapphire case

What we dislike

  • When the watch display changes from hours to minutes, there is a 1.5-second pause

2. Portable CD Cover Player

Called the Portable CD Cover Player, this minimalist CD player is designed to be a unique retro design that merges an exceptional listening experience with the beauty of visual art. You can slip the CD jacket or sleeve inside the specially designed-pocket, enabling you to display and showcase your favorite CD. It’s a great present for your dad, letting him boast his prized CDs from his youthful days, in his home!

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

The Portable CD Cover Player is essentially the physical equivalent of showcasing digital album art, with the extra benefit of being able to showcase your physical original CD.

What we like

  • It is a portable product with a 40mm full-range speaker and woofer unit, allowing you to listen to your favorite music wherever you please
  • Features a 1,800mAh battery providing 7-8 hours of exceptional audio

What we dislike

  • It does not support syncing music with any digital medium, only an analog style of music-listening

3. ‘A for Ara’ Speakers

If your dad is a music lover, and someone who loves an occasional trip down memory lane, then you may want to consider gifting him these speakers this Father’s Day. Designed by ‘A for Ara’, and called the FS-1 and Fs-2 speakers, these retro-modern speakers feature an eclectic blend of design styles. They have an appeal to them which seems grand and larger-than-life, while also showcasing a nature-inspired theme.

Why is it noteworthy?

The retro-themed speakers have two visual parts – the basic unit, and the upper phonograph-inspired horn. The base unit holds the audio drivers and acoustic cabinet, while the horn has both visual and functional utility. The speakers literally look like massive morning glory flowers, which amplifies sound.

What we like

  • Merges audiophile-grade engineering and tuning with a mesmerizing avant-garde aesthetic

What we dislike

  • Bulky and space-consuming design, not suitable for homes with space constraints

4. Unfiltered Titanium Whisky Glass

Called the Unfiltered Titanium Whisky Glass, this glass is inspired by the range of metallic hues, and it recreates the fascinating light and color play. The result is a stunning visual experience for you with its 1 /f fluctuating pattern, reminiscent of phenomena like murmuring streams. The pure titanium body is not just a material, its a material that amplifies your drinking experience with its purity. The Whisky Glass is a classic piece, handcrafted by skilled Japanese artisans from Shizuoka, making for a wonderful retro-themed gift for your father, if he likes to enjoy a drink or two.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65.00

Why is it noteworthy?

It uses cutting-edge technology which forms a mesmerizing color play. The glass is highly biocompatible and safe, even more than platinum or gold. It is resistant to odors and stains and facilitates long-term hygiene.

What we like

  • It is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation
  • Utilizes advanced space development technology

What we dislike

  • Given that its a solid glass, we cannot look at the quantity being poured or the quantity in the glass from a distance.

5. The Ballast Pen

Pen gif 1

Promised to be unnecessarily heavy and gloriously over-engineered, this pen is one for the generations. As the name suggests, this pen draws inspiration from the ship’s ballast and is machined from solid brass. The result is a pen that is extremely smooth and heavy, weighing almost 50x more than the disposable alternatives. For father’s who love to collect and cherish heritage pieces, this one is for the ages.

Why is it noteworthy?

Writing with this pen is an exercise, requiring your entire hand. It’s inspiration, the ballad, is the essential yet unseen weight that steadies ships during their age of explorations. The ballast pen embodies this crucial weightiness and history in it’s design.

What we like

  • Machined from 100% solid brass
  • Every component of this pen is machined to within one-thousandth of an inch, delivering maximum smoothness

What we dislike

  • The pen is so outrageously heavy, it is not convenient for long periods of writing.

6. The AirFlow 8-Panel Fire Pit

Called the AirFlow 8-Panel Fire Pit, this modular 8-panel design is a portable sheet metal wonder designed for the outdoors. The unique firepit can be used to create a warm campfire in the winter, or as a high-temperature grilling pit to start up an amazing barbecue for a delicious outdoor meal. If your father enjoys camping or spending time outdoors, this one-of-a-kind firepit allows him to experience the joy of an outdoor fire with ease, so he can spend more time enjoying the campfire rather than fiddling with building it.

Click Here to Buy Now: $325

Why is it noteworthy?

The Fire Pit is the perfect lightweight fire-building gear for dads who love spending time outdoors, letting them swiftly build campfires without any trouble. It has a cinder within, which keeps the fire covered, ensuring no embers fall out.

What we like

  • You can disassemble it into various parts and carry it in a special carrying case
  • It can be easily assembled within a minute

What we dislike

  • The design weighs higher than about 6kgs, making it less portable than some of the designs available in the market.

7. Retroduck Q

Called the Retroduck Q, this little design provides fast wireless charging in the form of an aesthetically unique design, which looks like a retro-style television! It is designed to be a quick wireless charger that looks like an old TV but with a modern touch. The design is reminiscent and feels familiar, while also featuring proven technology. It is a handy little gadget to gift your dad on Father’s Day, ensuring his phone never runs out of juice.

Why is it noteworthy?

The original Retroduck was upgraded to form the RetroduckQ, and it features a retro-style smartphone dock, and an added smart wireless charging function. You cannot really compare it with any other wireless charger, it packs modern functionality with nostalgic design into one form.

What we like

  • A stylish and convenient way to fast charge your smartphone

What we dislike

  • Given it’s fixed size, it maybe difficult to accommodate the bigger phones comfortably.

8. LEGO Radio

For the father’s who enjoy tinkering with their own design and create something, this LEGO Radio gives them the best of both world’s. The set unfortunately cannot play your local radio station, but it can play the pre-recorded tunes it comes with. The dial can be turned, along with Spotify or Apple Music and comes with an extendable antenna and tuner window as well for those old world feels. After all, it’s never too late to play and rekindle your childhood again.

Why is it noteworthy?

The radio is actually functional, with a select tunes and Apple Music/Spotify support and comes with a colour palette that adds to overall nostalgic feel. Standing at 13 inches high, 9 inches wide and 2.5 inches deep, it is a model that you can tinker with as much as you want without any worry of spoiling the equipment.

What we like

  • Comes in vintage-inspired green and beige palette
  • You can plug your smartphone in a concealed compartment on the back panel and play your favourite music

What we dislike

  • We wish there was a transmitter inserted to actually play live radio stations when we want to!

9. The Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad

Called the Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad, this little product is inspired by the retro aesthetic of the tech from the 80s and 90s. It functions as an independent peripheral device that can be teamed up with its companion keyboard, or even used separately as an old-school calculator. It features a red and black seven-segment display which is pure retro-inspired beauty. If your dad works from home, then the Numpad will make for an exceptional addition to his WFH desk accessories!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Numpad is available in four different colors, each inspired by iconic gaming systems – the M edition, the Famicom edition, the C64 model, and the N edition. They are inspired by the design language of classic consoles, adding a pinch of retro charm to a desk setup.

What we like

  • Features a rechargeable 1000mAh Li-on battery that offers a solid 160 hours of use on a single charge

What we dislike

  • It may not match the overall aesthetic of their desk setup, unless we plan on upgrading your keyboard and mouse as well!

10. PENNA

If your father is someone who enjoys retro-inspired designs and works from home, then you may want to consider gifting him PENNA. PENNA is a wireless Bluetooth keyboard inspired by a typewriter. It is far from a normal keyboard – it features diamond or chrome keycaps, as well as a cherry key switch. It has a macro bar to save frequently used keys/words. Best of all, you can dock your tablet or phone in the keyboard for ease of use while typing on the go.

Why is it noteworthy?

It is amped with Bluetooth 4.2 with a low energy requirement which ensures long idle battery time. You can register up to 5 devices with the keyboard using Bluetooth. It supports all OS including Windows, Android, and iOS.

What we like

  • The perfect combination of nostalgic design and modern tech
  • Maintains up to 6 months of idle time with two AA-size batteries

What we dislike

  • The switch labeling on one side of the keyboard looks quite unappealing and isn’t very clear either

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Why Every Professional Needs the NeoRulerGO: The Ultimate Digital Measuring Tool

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The NeoRulerGO combines cutting-edge technology with a sleek, minimalist design. Its ergonomic shape and smooth finish make it comfortable to hold and easy to use. The bright display ensures you can track measurements effortlessly, even in varying light conditions. Its compact size and lightweight build make it easy to carry in a pocket or on a keychain, ensuring you can take it anywhere you need precise measurements.

Designer: Tiancheng Liang

Click Here to Buy Now: $49 $69 (30% off). Hurry, less than 72-hours left! Raised over $185,000.

Despite its compact size, the NeoRulerGO measures just 12mm (0.5 inches) in thickness and weighs a mere 45 grams (1.5 ounces). Its impressive built-in battery lasts up to 90 days on a single charge, ensuring long-lasting performance. Plus, with an IP54 rating, it’s both water and dust-resistant, ready to tackle any environment. You can grab the NeoRulerGO for a special price of $49. For those looking for even more, the $109 premium bundle offers the NeoPencil Case, a NeoPencil Mini, the NeoPencil Classic, and NeoStands with both color and black graphite nibs—delivering exceptional value with a range of versatile tools from Hozo Design.

Line

Curve

Irregular

One of the key features is its adaptability. The roller design allows smooth, continuous measurement over straight lines, curves, and irregular surfaces. The laser guide ensures accuracy, helping you stay on track. In the images, you can see how it glides over different materials, capturing precise measurements in real time. This makes it an excellent tool for architects, designers, and engineers who need exact project measurements.

Working seamlessly with the MEAZOR app, the device allows you to save, convert, and scale measurements. This feature is handy for professionals who need precise data for their projects. The app’s user-friendly interface makes all your data easily accessible and editable, enhancing your workflow. The NeoRulerGO is incredibly user-friendly. Its compact size and lightweight build don’t compromise its functionality, as the device can measure anything from millimeters to several meters with impressive accuracy. The screen displays measurements clearly, and the app organizes all your data.

The NeoRulerGO’s design combines functionality and aesthetics. Its ergonomic shape ensures it fits comfortably in the hand, reducing strain during extended use. The smooth finish adds a touch of elegance, while the bright display is designed for easy readability in various lighting conditions. The device’s intuitive interface allows users to quickly switch between different measurement modes, making it user-friendly even for those new to digital measuring tools. The laser guide is a crucial feature, providing a clear visual reference for starting and ending points. This ensures that measurements are straight and accurate, even over long distances or complex surfaces. The roller mechanism operates smoothly, allowing continuous measurement without resetting the device. This is a significant improvement over traditional tape measures that can be cumbersome and limited in length.

The flexibility of this device extends beyond just architects and engineers. Fashion designers and custom tailors can benefit from its precise measurements for fabrics, patterns, and garments, ensuring every piece fits perfectly. Its ability to measure curved and irregular surfaces means it can easily handle complex designs and unique cuts. Interior designers will find it invaluable for measuring spaces, determining dimensions for custom pieces, and creating floor plans. The laser guide helps maintain straight lines, even in tricky spaces, and the ability to convert measurements quickly makes it easier to switch between metric and imperial units.

DIY enthusiasts will appreciate how it simplifies the process of measuring materials for home improvement tasks, woodworking, or crafting. The ability to measure continuously without the limitations of a traditional tape measure means handling large projects more efficiently. Construction workers will find it indispensable on job sites, with its durability and water and dust resistance making it suitable for rough environments. Precise measurements ensure that all work meets exact specifications.

Artists and designers can use it to measure canvases, frames, and other materials accurately. The ability to measure curved and irregular shapes is beneficial for sculptors and those working with mixed media. The compact size makes it easy to use in the studio or on location, and the MEAZOR app provides a convenient way to keep track of all measurements for future reference. Teachers and students in technical fields such as engineering, architecture, and design can utilize the device to learn about measurements, scaling, and spatial relationships in educational settings. Its ease of use and accuracy make it valuable to any educational toolkit, helping students understand and apply measurement concepts in real-world scenarios.

The integration with the MEAZOR app enhances NeoRulerGO’s functionality, offering features such as unit conversion, scaling, and the ability to create technical drawings from measurements. The app’s user-friendly interface makes accessing and editing measurements easy, improving workflow efficiency for professionals and hobbyists. Hozo Design’s innovation is evident in its modular approach. The optional NeoPencil Case acts as an ergonomic handle and houses the NeoPencil Mini, creating a versatile tool for measurement, sketching, and marking. The case also provides storage for extra graphite tips, keeping everything you need at your fingertips. Additionally, the NeoPencil Stand comes with the NeoPencil and 12 replaceable nibs in various colors, enhancing its functionality. Crafted from durable 7075 aluminum alloy, the NeoPencil offers both reliability and elegance. The stand includes an eraser and a pen holder, making it a comprehensive accessory for designers and artists. With 12 tip refills, you are always prepared for detailed work.

The NeoRulerGO is a versatile and indispensable device for various applications. Its advanced technology, user-friendly design, and portability make it an ideal choice for anyone needing precise measurements. Whether you’re a professional in a technical field, a DIY enthusiast, or someone who values accuracy and efficiency, the NeoRulerGO is a worthwhile investment.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49 $69 (30% off). Hurry, less than 72-hours left! Raised over $185,000.

The post Why Every Professional Needs the NeoRulerGO: The Ultimate Digital Measuring Tool first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Modular Handbag Ditches Stitches for Interlocking Leather Pieces

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In 2022, reports highlighted a significant trend among Iranian students and entrepreneurs: nearly 50% expressed a desire to emigrate, and 62% were undecided about returning home. This emigration wave, driven by the pursuit of better opportunities, underscores a broader narrative of seeking growth despite facing mental, emotional, and physical challenges. Olka, meaning “homeland” in Persian, is a product born from this very spirit of resilience and transformation.

Olka is a bag that symbolizes the journey of Iranian youth who venture abroad to build better lives. Inspired by these stories, it captures the essence of migration as a path fraught with pain yet ripe with potential for growth. The design metaphorically represents this journey, where every slit and seam is a stepping stone toward creating something beautiful, similar to a flower blooming through adversity.

Designer: Maryam Hosseini

Leather, known for its durability, often outlasts the threads used in stitching, which degrade faster, compromising the overall longevity of leather products. Olka addresses this issue innovatively by eliminating stitches altogether. Instead, it uses a modular interlocking system where leather pieces fit seamlessly together. This not only enhances the product’s durability but also streamlines production, as the assembly process is faster and more efficient. Additionally, any damaged component can be easily replaced, extending the bag’s life and making it sustainably fashionable.

One of Olka’s standout features is its consumer-centric design approach. The bag comprises 72 genuine cow leather pieces, each meticulously designed in 2D and 3D using AutoCAD and precisely cut with laser technology. These pieces are interwoven, creating a sturdy, cohesive structure without the need for stitching. Consumers have the option to order the bag in separate components, accompanied by a manual, allowing them to assemble it themselves. This DIY aspect fosters a deep emotional connection and sense of belonging, as users actively participate in the creation of their bag.

Olka also includes a handcrafted inner bag made from genuine cow leather, which can be used independently as a minimalist crossbody bag. This dual-functionality adds to the product’s versatility and appeal, catering to various needs and occasions.

The journey to creating the bag involved extensive research across several domains, including interlocking systems, modular design, consumer behavior, DIY product trends, and the migration patterns of young Iranians. This thorough exploration ensured that Olka was not just a product, but a solution that resonates deeply with its target audience. The primary challenge faced during Olka’s development was ensuring that the interlocked components provided strength comparable to traditional stitching. Additionally, the concept of delivering the bag in separate pieces for consumer assembly required meticulous testing to guarantee ease of use and durability. The successful resolution of these challenges is a testament to the innovative spirit and technical expertise behind the bag.

The post This Modular Handbag Ditches Stitches for Interlocking Leather Pieces first appeared on Yanko Design.

This smart desk clock boosts productivity, curbing your phone addiction for good

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Distancing from your smartphone is not that easy when you are barraged with constant notifications from apps. Productivity takes a major hit as you lose focus and the best antidote I staying connected without constantly looking at smart devices. A smart desk clock is the way to go as it helps in time management without going off the course.

According to independent research, people prefer working on their desktops and if they have a utilitarian gadget that prevents unwanted distractions while keeping you updated with the needed notifications, there’s nothing better. The PAL Desk Clock with added features like a dedicated widget space for the most needed apps is what’s going to keep you interested.

Designer: Mohit Joshi

This nifty gadget concept wants to take the heat to the likes of the Amazon Echo Show 5, Google Nest Hub, Lenovo Smart Clock and Loftie Alarm Clock. There are five main functions – time keeping, focus sessions, music playback and wireless charging. In addition to these, the desk clock has a calendar and temperature sensor. With the wide display, you can customize the widgets like weather, music playback and calendar schedules as desired. The desk clock has a wireless charging pad intentionally positioned on the back where your smartphone is out of the peripheral view.

With the dedicated focus button and the accompanying app, the phone goes into DND mode, so that the task at hand can be completed. The design of the smart desk clock is such that it goes with any kind of setup or other desk accessories. When you need some relaxing time, the music app can play audio directly with all the interface elements you would find on a music player app. This prevents you from opening the phone and going down the rabbit hole of unproductive social media apps.

The post This smart desk clock boosts productivity, curbing your phone addiction for good first appeared on Yanko Design.

Industrial Design Trends: From Past Innovations to Future Possibilities

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The field of Industrial Design (ID) revolves around crafting products and services that are intuitive for users worldwide. Industrial designers prioritize aesthetics, functionality, and ease of manufacture, striving to enrich daily interactions. Whether for personal or commercial use, every item undergoes this transformative process, aimed at enhancing lives through thoughtful design.

Designer: Tamarit Motorcycles

Lets delve into the history of Industrial Design:

What historical factors and practices contributed to the evolution of industrial design as a distinct field?

Designer: Allbirds

• Before industrialization, product design was primarily determined by individual craftsmen’s skills, client requirements, and experience.
• The division of labor was evident in pre-industrial times, with specialized workshops producing standardized goods.
• In the 16th century, pattern books emerged, providing decorative designs for a variety of products, and fostering competition.
• Drawing became a method for specifying construction details during the Italian Renaissance.
• By the 17th century, centralized monarchies like France were backing large government-operated manufacturing facilities such as the Gobelins Manufactory. This patronage extended to court porcelain factories in the 18th century, but with the scale of production increasing, individual craftsmanship often suffered.

Who is the founding father of Industrial Design?

Image courtesy of: Linnean Society of London

Christopher Dresser (1834-1904) is considered the pioneer of industrial design. He was the first independent industrial designer, recognizing the potential of the Industrial Revolution before his German counterparts in the Modern Movement. Dresser’s groundbreaking journey to Japan, appointed by the British Government, reshaped his design approach and inspired the Anglo-Japanesque style in England. His diverse portfolio spanned furniture, textiles, ceramics, glassware, and metalwork, showcasing his versatility and forward-thinking mindset. Despite the conservative Victorian society, Dresser’s courage and vision propelled him to success, establishing him as a design icon with tastes beyond his time.

This silver teapot was created by Christopher Dresser and crafted by Hukin & Heath in Birmingham, with its design registered on May 6, 1878, and the production took place between 1878 and 1879.

Images courtesy of: Daniella on Design

The teapot, designed by Christopher Dresser and produced by James Dixon & Sons in Sheffield, South Yorkshire. Created around 1879, it features electroplated nickel silver and ebonized wood.

The glazed earthernware bowl, envisioned by Christopher Dresser and crafted by the Linthorpe Art Pottery in Middlesbrough, North Yorkshire was produced between 1879 to 1882.

What is the history of Industrial Design?

Industrial design’s roots stretch to the early 1900s amid the industrial revolution’s onset. The 1920s witnessed flourishing design across sectors like automotive engineering and electrical appliances, with artists enlisted to elevate aesthetics. The term “industrial design” may have originated in The Art Union journal in 1839. Make a note that the Industrial Revolution, originating in late 18th century Britain, rapidly spread worldwide, transforming agrarian societies into industrialized economies marked by mechanization and urbanization

Designer: Ludwig Mies van der Rohe (Weissenhof Estate)

The Deutscher Werkbund, founded in Munich in 1907, united architects, artists, industrialists, and designers. It aimed to boost German companies’ global competitiveness by integrating mass-production techniques with traditional craftsmanship. Hermann Muthesius, a German architect, is credited with conceiving the idea.

Designer: Walter Gropius (Bauhaus building, Dessau)

The Bauhaus, founded by Walter Gropius in 1919, was a pioneering school in Germany that fused fine arts and crafts education. It significantly influenced industrial design, typography, interior design, and architecture, emerging as a dominant force in modern design. Operating in Weimar (1919-1925), Dessau (1925-1932), and Berlin (1932-1933), it left an indelible mark on creative disciplines.

Amidst the Great Depression of 1929, industrial designers seized an unforeseen chance to demonstrate their abilities. This severe global economic downturn, spanning the late 1920s to the 1930s, brought widespread unemployment, poverty, and a drastic decline in industrial output, along with major disruptions in global trade. In this challenging era, Frederick W. Taylor, a mechanical engineer, played a pivotal role in bolstering industrial efficiency.

What are the current trends of Industrial Design?

The top industrial design trends include:

1. Sustainable Industrial Design

Designer: Ikea

Sustainable design encompasses developing products or services based on economic, ecological, and social sustainability principles. This E3 variable, emphasizing Equity, Economy, and Ecology, sets it apart from eco-design, which focuses solely on environmental sustainability. It involves responsibly using natural resources to meet present needs without compromising those of future generations. Sustainable design plays a crucial role in achieving design strategies that support a high quality of life, sustainable production, and environmental awareness.

2. Technology and Innovation

Advancing technologies like 3D printing, virtual and augmented reality, generative design, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are revolutionizing industrial design. 3D printing enables rapid prototyping and complex designs, while VR and AR enhance visualization and collaboration. Generative design leverages algorithms for innovative solutions, and IoT embeds smart functionality into products. These technologies not only streamline the design process but also foster creativity, efficiency, and sustainability, shaping the future of industrial design across diverse sectors.

3. Human-Centered Design

Designer: Stan Deng

Human-centered design (HCD) is an approach to problem-solving utilized in process, product, service, and system design, focusing on involving the human perspective in all stages of the problem-solving process. It aims to make systems usable and beneficial by prioritizing user needs, and requirements, and applying human factors/ergonomics, as well as usability knowledge and techniques. HCD enhances effectiveness, efficiency, human well-being, user satisfaction, accessibility, and sustainability while mitigating potential adverse effects on human health, safety, and performance. It involves stages like observing the problem within its context, brainstorming, conceptualizing, and implementing solutions.

4. Minimalism

Designer: BKID co

Minimalism has become increasingly popular in industrial design, emphasizing the removal of excess elements to focus on essentials, resulting in intuitive, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing products and spaces. This approach resonates with consumers drawn to the sleek, uncluttered aesthetic. Simplicity defines minimalist designs, making them easy to use and understand. By stripping down designs to their core features, minimalism maximizes impact while reducing clutter and improving functionality. Additionally, this design concept can reduce costs and production time by eliminating unnecessary features.

5. Inclusive Design

Designer: Quantum

Inclusive product experiences are shaped by a thorough understanding of user backgrounds and abilities, promoting a sense of belonging. Inclusive design methodologies aim to cater to diverse user needs, considering factors like accessibility, age, culture, economic situation, education, gender, geographic location, and language. By empathizing with users and adapting interfaces accordingly, inclusive design generates inclusive design patterns, ensuring a more accommodating user experience.

6. Biomimicry

Designer: John Mauriello

Nature serves as a rich source of inspiration for many designers, offering evolved intelligence and innovative solutions. Biomimicry in industrial design involves emulating characteristics or strategies from nature to address various challenges. From materials to systems and technologies, nature provides valuable insights for creating sustainable and efficient designs. By studying natural forms and processes, designers can develop innovative solutions that mimic the efficiency and effectiveness of biological systems. This approach not only offers aesthetically pleasing designs but also promotes sustainability and resilience.

7. AI in Industrial Design

Designer: Shail Patel

AI-generated product design involves leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to generate novel product designs, presenting a transformative opportunity for designers by streamlining the process of conceptualization. While current technology has its limitations, it proves most beneficial in the initial stages of innovation, enabling rapid visualization and testing of new concepts, thereby expediting the design process.

Industrial design encompasses a transformative process wherein design principles are utilized to conceive products, subsequently manufactured through specific procedures. This multifaceted career field involves crafting a diverse array of globally utilized items, spanning from equipment to objects and services, fostering creativity in the creation and production of goods.

The post Industrial Design Trends: From Past Innovations to Future Possibilities first appeared on Yanko Design.

World’s Smallest 20W Charger fits around your Keychain for Effortless Charging Anywhere

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No, it isn’t a car fob. It might look like one, but the MELLO is a fast-charger and honestly, it had me fooled too. Built with a uniquely compact design thanks to the Gallium Nitride semiconductor on the inside, the MELLO holds the title of the sleekest, smallest charging adapter we’ve ever seen. It opens into a plug that works in 180+ countries and fast-charges all your devices at speeds of up to 20W. Oh, don’t worry, it has its own USB-C cable too, integrated into its design to look like a classy leatherette lanyard.

Designer: Mello Power

Click Here to Buy Now: $59 $119 (50% off). Hurry, only 21/1340 left! Raised over $393,000.

Never did I expect to see chargers become EDC (everyday carry) but here we are. Our lives are filled with tonnes of tech devices, and they all need power. However, carrying a pair of AirPods seems easy, but carrying a charger around wherever you go can be quite the hassle. They’re cumbersome, have cables that get tangled, and the adapters of fast chargers aren’t particularly pocket-friendly. Designers focus so much on making main products like phones and TWS earbuds portable/pocketable, that they sometimes forget that the accessories might need to be portable or pocketable too. The MELLO, to that end, is a start to a tech movement that should hopefully pick up. It’s the most portable charger you’ll ever carry, with a design that fits in your pocket, clasps to your belt loop or handbag, and blends right into your aesthetic as a stylish accessory rather than a tech charger.

Type-C port

20W GaN Charging

At first glance, the MELLO looks like the fob of a luxury car, with a chrome rim, a leather-textured fascia, a leatherette lanyard, and a carabiner clip. Flip it over, however, and you’ve got a fold-out plug that comes in a variety of styles, suiting the socket designs of 180+ countries. On the base of the chrome rim is a USB-C port, and the MELLO comes with a leather lanyard that opens out into a USB-C to USB-C cable, allowing you to quickly go from stylish accessory to charging apparatus in under a minute. Plug the charger and use it to juice any of your USB-C compatible devices (phones, earbuds, power banks, Bluetooth speakers, etc.), and when you’re done, fold the charging pins in and tuck the MELLO away either in your pocket or attach it back to your belt loop or bag strap using the carabiner clip and you’re done. The charger effectively becomes a fashion statement again, allowing you to go about your day.

What makes the MELLO so impressive is its internals. Most fast-chargers today (or at least the ones you get with your phones) use silicon-carbide semiconductors, which are ideal for transmitting energy, but end up making your charging adapters massive and even cause them to heat up. The tech industry has, for the past few years, begun shifting instead to GaN or Gallium Nitride, a material that’s much more power-efficient than its predecessor. The MELLO comes equipped with GaN on the inside, which allows it to be so tiny, while still being able to output a whopping 20W.

That 20W is honestly perfect for most regular devices. It should easily fast-charge any phone or TWS earbud, having you go from 0% to a healthy battery in well under an hour. The charging cable/lanyard included with the MELLO supports fast charging too, giving you the benefit of plugging in anywhere to ensure your gadgets remain juiced through the day.

The MELLO is impressive for how tiny it is. It fits comfortably in your palm, weighing a mere 28 grams or under an ounce. You can choose between 5 color variants (you’ll get a color-matching USB-C charging cable too), as well as from 4 different plug designs based on what works in your country.

Click Here to Buy Now: $59 $119 (50% off). Hurry, only 21/1340 left! Raised over $393,000.

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‘Catvas’ Scratching Pad Transforms Your Cat’s Scratching into Abstract Wall Art

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From a human’s perspective, the scratching behavior of cats is often regarded as destructive. Cats are naturally inclined to scratch almost anything they can see, from fabric sofas and leather seats to stereos, leading to frustration among pet owners. However, what if we could view this behavior from a different perspective? Catvas invites us to re-examine this norm, encouraging reflection on the evolving relationship between humans and their companion animals.

Designer: Livelyhood Ltd.

For cats, scratching is more than just a habit; it is essential for maintaining their well-being. Scratching helps cats remove the outer layer of their nails, vent their emotions, and leave pheromones. These pheromones create a sense of territory and emotional connection with their environment. As these pheromones accumulate, cats develop a stronger emotional bond with the objects they scratch.

Many cat owners cherish various cat-related objects, from cat hair to toys. However, scratching boards are often overlooked as they are typically viewed as consumables. Catvas challenges this perception by transforming the idea of “consumables” into “artwork,” fulfilling people’s desire to collect and preserve meaningful artifacts from their pets.

This scratching board revolutionizes the concept of scratching by transforming it from a ‘destructive’ act into a ‘creative’ process. This innovative product offers both cats and their owners the opportunity to co-create their living spaces. The specially designed double-layered fabric of Catvas gradually reveals a unique, painting-like effect as cats scratch. These replaced fabric scratching panels are no longer discarded as waste; instead, they become artistic memorials, preserving the traces of the cat’s life in a visually captivating manner.

The L-shaped structure of Catvas is designed to fit the natural stretching habits of cats, while the removable double-layered fabric panel allows for easy replacement. As the cat scratches, the underlying fabric is exposed, creating a unique visual effect reminiscent of a painting. These customized panels can be framed and used as home decorations, adding a personalized artistic touch to the living space. With pride, you can tell your guests “My cat made that”.

It is constructed from mostly recyclable materials, including wood, aluminum, and fabric made from old cloth and mycorrhiza. Its manufacturing-friendly design features easy-to-assemble components, significantly reducing packaging costs and waste during transport. The specially designed multi-layered fabric has a thinner top layer, making it easier for cats to scratch and reveal the underlying art.

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