Audi has partnered with the Italian brand Fantic to launch a limited edition electric mountain bike (eMTB), combining the best of automotive engineering and e-bike technology. This collaboration reflects Audi’s deep-rooted motorsport heritage and Fantic’s 50-year legacy in motorcycle excellence, offering a robust option for trail enthusiasts and urban riders alike.
Designer: Audi + Fantic
The eMTB is inspired by Audi’s Dakar Rally-winning RS Q e-tron, incorporating its high-performance DNA into a bike designed for extreme environments. The frame, made from lightweight aluminum, ensures agility and responsiveness, making it suitable for the most challenging terrains. It features a sleek design that’s functional and also visually appealing, echoing the aesthetics of Audi’s pioneering racing models.
Powering the Audi eMTB is the Brose S-MAG motor, known for its seamless, natural pedaling feel and robust output of 250 watts continuous and 565 watts peak power. This motor, complemented by a 720-watt-hour Fantic Integra battery, provides substantial range, theoretically allowing riders up to six hours of riding time at moderate power usage. This combination is ideal for long, adventurous rides where efficiency and reliability are paramount.
There are four levels of electrical assistance—Eco, Tour, Sport, and Boost—each tailored to different riding conditions and preferences. Eco mode is calibrated to deliver maximum efficiency and range, offering substantial electrical assistance for extended rides. Tour mode provides a significant boost and is suitable for varied terrains. Sport mode adds powerful assistance tailored for dynamic cycling, and Boost mode, the most powerful setting, delivers maximum electrical assistance ideal for tackling steep climbs. The level of assistance and the bike’s speed can reach up to 20 mph, with an estimated battery range between 12 and 90 miles, depending on the terrain, rider weight, and chosen level of assist.
The bike’s performance is further enhanced by its class-leading Öhlins suspension system, featuring a TTX22m.2 coil rear shock and RXF38 m.2 fork. This setup mirrors World Cup downhill bike specifications, ensuring smooth handling and effective shock absorption on rough trails. The inclusion of high-end Braking 4 piston hydraulic disc brakes guarantees that riders can manage high speeds safely and comfortably.
Fantic XEF 1.9 Factory enduro e-bike vs. World Cup downhill spec cross-country bikes
When comparing World Cup downhill spec cross-country bikes with the Fantic XEF 1.9 Factory enduro e-bike, several similarities stand out:
Advanced Suspension: Both types of bikes use high-performance suspension to handle rough terrains. While XC bikes now commonly feature up to 120mm of travel, the Fantic XEF 1.9 goes further with a 190mm RockShox ZEB fork for even tougher trails.
Power Assist: Unlike traditional XC bikes, the Fantic XEF 1.9 includes a motor. This Brose S-MAG motor offers powerful assistance, similar to what might be useful on tougher XC courses, helping with challenging climbs.
Stable Geometry: Both XC and the Fantic XEF 1.9 are designed for stability. The XEF 1.9 uses downhill bike features like a slack head angle to enhance control on descents, a trend that’s growing in XC designs.
Dropper Posts: Dropper posts are becoming increasingly common in XC racing for better control on descents. They are a standard feature on the Fantic XEF 1.9 and enhance maneuverability.
Tough Tires: Both bike styles sport robust tires suitable for diverse trail conditions, ensuring grip and durability on rough tracks.
These features make the Fantic XEF 1.9 well-suited for enduro and similar to modern XC bikes that are built to tackle increasingly technical courses.
Beyond these technical specifications, the Audi eMTB is versatile and designed to cater to the needs of expert bikers navigating black trails as well as those seeking an exhilarating ride on local paths. It is classified as a Class 1 e-bike, which means it assists up to 20 mph and is permissible on a variety of bike trails, ensuring compliance with most local regulations.
Key Components Contributing to Cost:
Motor—Brose S-MAG: This motor offers 250 watts of continuous power and peaks at 565 watts, with 90Nm of torque. It is known for its robust performance and natural pedaling feel.
Battery—Fantic Integra 720Wh: This high-capacity battery provides up to 6 hours of ride time at moderate power usage, enhancing both aesthetics and balance.
Suspension System – Öhlins Components: Features the Öhlins TTX22m.2 coil rear shock and Öhlins RXF38 m.2 fork, crucial for smooth rides on rough terrain and renowned for superior performance and comfort.
Audi and Fantic’s new electric mountain bike combines tough components and sleek design with advanced technology and user-friendliness. Priced at $9,795 and available this summer, it sets a new standard in the rapidly expanding e-mobility market. Designed for biking enthusiasts and professionals seeking top-notch gear to boost their rides, this bike showcases the culmination of Audi’s innovation and Fantic’s expert craftsmanship in e-bike design. With all things considered, I’d venture to say the price tag is justified—now, if only Audi would throw in a bottle holder!
Purist audiophiles always come back to the DAPs and high-resolution audio players to enjoy their favorite music collection in high definition. Sony has a foothold in the hi-res audio game for as long as memory goes back, and they continue to offer some of the best players for music listening. Walkman MW-A306 released last year is a favorite one for music lovers.
Teenage Engineering resonates the same value for its consumers with a broader portfolio of innovative and unconventional audio gadgets. Both Sony and TE have things like modern design, Gen-Z targeting and sublime quality at their helm to attract a niche set of audio lovers. We certainly love TE and so does the community of designers who have been mustering up cool concepts inspired by the Stockholm-based electronics company.
This cool concept of collaborating together the two loved brands is surely going to bring the heat to the likes of Astell&Kern, Fiio, iBasso and Shanling. Interestingly called the Pony Project, the DAP has the design DNA and color theme of Teenage Engineering. It gets a digital display to show the currently playing music and library elements to search for tracks. All the other buttons for toggling the elements like the tempo, loop, mode or FX. The tactile input for the L-Shift, R-Shift, Mic, Select and Start is heavily inspired by the Teenage Engineering aesthetics.
The top of the gadget has the volume rockers, bass and treble, power and stop buttons. A lot of mind has been put into the design and conceptualization of the music player by Evgeniy. The popular color theme of the TE products is so good to see in a DAP which usually comes in contemporary dark hues. If you’ve already not noticed, the audio player comes with the Pony branding which dupes the Sony brand name.
Hold onto your hats, folks, because Apple’s “Let Loose” event on May 7 is shaping up to be a blockbuster! Following a history of groundbreaking innovations, Apple’s upcoming event promises to introduce the next chapter in the iPad saga with potentially game-changing new models. We’ve snagged some insider info from Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, and it looks like Apple is ready to roll out not just one or two but four new iPad models, with a surprise fifth possibly in the mix. From sleek designs to powerful chips, Apple’s gearing up to impress us all.
Designer: Apple
As someone who’s still using a maxed-out M1 12.9-inch iPad Pro with 1TB of storage and WiFi + Cellular connectivity, I’m eagerly waiting on the next new iPad Pro. Let’s dive into the details of each model, highlighting their unique selling points and discussing who might benefit most from an upgrade.
iPad (ninth generation)
Apple iPad (ninth generation)
Unique Selling Point: This model continues to feature the classic physical home button, appealing to users who prefer traditional navigation. It’s a familiar design with reliable performance.
Upgrade Advice: Ideal for those using older iPad models who need a dependable device for everyday tasks like web surfing, streaming, and light productivity, without the complexity or cost of more advanced models.
iPad (10th generation)
Apple iPad 10th-gen with all‑screen design, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display
Unique Selling Point: Introduces a sleek, button-less design with a larger 10.9-inch screen, enhancing user interaction and visual engagement.
Performance Leap: A significant upgrade in display and user interface makes it perfect for those who enjoy media consumption and need a bit more space for productivity apps.
Upgrade Advice: This is great for users upgrading from older non-Pro models who prefer a more modern look and improved performance without stepping up to the Pro level.
iPad mini (sixth generation)
Apple iPad mini (6th generation)
Unique Selling Point: Despite its small size, the iPad mini does not compromise on performance, offering robust capabilities in a compact package that is easy to carry.
Upgrade Advice: This model is ideal for those who travel frequently or need a powerful, portable device that can handle tasks on the go without the bulk of larger tablets.
iPad Air (11-inch and 12.9-inch models)
Apple iPad Air (5th generation)
Unique Selling Point: Now equipped with the M2 chip, these models bring near-pro performance at a more accessible price point. The design is expected to be sleek, inheriting the advanced aesthetics of previous iPad Pros.
Upgrade Advice: This is a smart choice for those seeking a larger iPad that focuses less on cutting-edge technology but still offers substantial performance. It’s perfect for users like me who need a versatile device that bridges the gap between a conventional iPad and the high-end Pro model.
iPad Pro (11-inch and 12.9-inch models)
Apple iPad Pro
Unique Selling Point: The new iPad Pro models, set to feature the cutting-edge M4 chip, are poised to be the most powerful iPads yet. They are designed to handle extremely demanding applications and multitasking with ease.
Anticipated Features: Upgrades like OLED displays are expected to provide unmatched visual quality, making these models a top choice for professionals in creative fields. Additionally, I would speculate that an advanced optics camera system, similar to the iPhone 15 Pro, might be included, with capabilities to capture immersive videos that could synergize with devices like the Vision Pro.
Personal Insight: As a power user who is always chasing the next big thing, I’m particularly excited about the new iPad Pro. Given its anticipated capabilities, it could potentially replace my laptop for on-the-go tasks, offering a more convenient option for portability compared to carrying a MacBook Air.
Strategic Redesign and Market Impact
iPad Pro concept design
The potential repurposing of the current iPad Pro chassis for the new iPad Air models is especially interesting, suggesting a significant redesign of the iPad Pro line. This could mean even more advanced features are on the way:
OLED Displays: Set to enhance visual quality to new levels.
Advanced Input and Connectivity Options: Improved Apple Pencils and additional connectivity ports are likely to make these devices more versatile and functional.
Cutting-Edge Design Innovations: Expect sleeker designs with slimmer bezels and potentially new size options.
iPad Pro concept design
Additional Considerations when deciding whether to upgrade:
Budget: Consider the cost-effectiveness based on the new features offered.
Compatibility: Verify whether existing accessories will be compatible with the new models.
Longevity: Investing in a newer model ensures longer support and updates from Apple, providing better long-term value.
As anticipation builds for the official announcements at the “Let Loose” event, the excitement highlights Apple’s ongoing innovation and leadership in the tech industry. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting unveiling of Apple’s newest creations!
It’s the year 2024 and if you’re still manually rotating your screwdrivers, you’re doing something wrong. Meet the SES Nano, a ridiculously compact electric screwdriver that’s no larger than a pencil and weighs a paltry 2 ounces or 58 grams. Arrowmax, the folks behind the SES Nano, has practically perfected the art of electric screwdrivers, and the SES NANO builds on the backs of all that research and development. This tiny screwdriver packs 5 torque settings, peaking at 5 kgf.cm that’s powerful enough to work with even the tightest screws. A simple two-button interface lets you easily choose whether you want to rotate the screwdriver clockwise or counter-clockwise, letting you tighten or loosen screws without any elbow grease. Just load one of the SES NANO’s 52 bits, hold the driver in place, press the button, and watch the magic happen. The SES NANO’s tiny design makes it a no-brainer against most conventional electric drivers that are much larger, and is perfect for your workshop or DIY kit whether you’re working with watches or phones, laptops, computers, drones, tiny models, or even your spectacles.
Despite its compact size and measuring just over 5 inches in length and weighing a mere 58 grams, the SES NANO boasts an impressive torque output of up to 5.0 kgf.cm at 250 RPM. This translates to tackling various projects, from repairing delicate electronics like smartphones and glasses with precision control to confidently assembling flat-pack furniture. The lightweight design, crafted from a single piece of high-grade CNC aluminum alloy, ensures durability while making it easy to maneuver and reducing fatigue during use. Simple one-button operation with clear forward and reverse controls ensures user-friendliness for anyone, regardless of DIY experience.
The SES NANO goes beyond just being small and convenient. With its ingenious design that integrates a robust output circuit board, a precision gearbox, and a secure bit-locking mechanism seamlessly into a single unit, it prioritizes both efficiency and precision. This innovative design minimizes the overall volume of the power unit while maximizing its effectiveness. An LED display keeps you informed about critical details like the current battery level (displayed as a percentage), the selected torque mode (out of 5 available modes), and charging status. Strategically placed 4 LED lights on the chuck illuminate the work area, providing a shadowless light source for focused operation, especially in tight or poorly lit environments.
The SES NANO comes with a comprehensive set of 59 S2 steel screwdriver bits, including commonly used Phillips, star, and nut driver heads, all featuring a standard 4mm hex shank for secure fitment within the driver. This wide variety of bits ensures you’re equipped to handle most screw types you might encounter during various DIY tasks. The inclusion of a handy 58mm extension tip further enhances the SES NANO’s versatility, allowing you to reach and tackle screws in tight spaces or deep recesses that may otherwise be inaccessible with a standard screwdriver. The universal Type-C charging port, a common connector found in most modern devices, ensures convenient and hassle-free power top-ups using a power bank, laptop, or any USB-C wall charger. The best part, you can access the SES Nano’s charging port right through the case, allowing you to juice your screwdriver without even taking it out!
Each SES NANO ships with its all-encompassing case that contains the driver itself along with 52 well-arranged driver bits to choose from, ranging from common to specialty bits. The case also contains an extender tool that lets you extend the reach of your SES NANO to access hard-to-reach spots or sunken screws, a magnetizer that helps you re-magnetize bits, and finally a USB-C charging cable for your device. The SES NANO starts at a discounted $59, and ships globally starting June 2024.
Mother’s Day falls on 12th May, and it really is an incredible day, as we get a chance to celebrate our superhero moms! Although that is something we should do every day. But Mother’s Day is the day we get to pamper our moms and shower them with love, and also hopefully make their lives a little bit easier. If you’re looking to gift your mom with some thoughtful and wonderful presents, then we’ve got your back. We’ve curated a collection of minimal, elegant, and functional products that will easily fit into your Mom’s everyday life and make it a little easier this Mother’s Day!
1. Japanese Lantern Candle
Inspired by the traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, this pretty Japanese lantern has an adorable pillar shape. It is essential for self-care sessions that your mother can indulge in this Mother’s Day, giving her a chance to unwind, letting the worries and stresses of life fade away for a bit. And the best part, you can continue using the lantern body even after the candle inside is used up, giving a warm glow whenever they light it up.
This pretty little candle offers a contemporary take on an age-old iconic Japanese lantern design. It gives a relaxing glow and has a minimalist and simple design ethos which lets it complement any living space. The candle is made by handcrafted artisans in Kurashiki, Japan.
What we like
The outer wax of the candle is harder and comes with a patented tech that keeps it from melting easily, and crafting a clear body on the candle
What we dislike
You need to be careful while using it around children and pets as an open flame is always a fire hazard
2. Pop-Up Book Vase
Convert your desk into a fairy tale scene using this lovely pop-up book vase. This new and elegant item can be opened to unveil a series of 3D vase cutouts, each cutout designed to present your floral arrangements in an enchanting and ever-changing manner. One design, multiple outputs – quite like our multi-tasking mom’s, isn’t it? The vase also folds back into a book and can be stored away easily, making it a must buy for every space – big or small.
The book vase perfectly combines the timeless charm of a storybook with the utility of a flower vase, in turn forming a unique item that will bring some color and character to your desk, table, or wherever you place it. They’re the perfect Mother’s Day gift for your mother, letting her display her favorite flowers in style!
What we like
Provides a unique and playful approach to showcasing flowers
You can easily change the presentation
What we dislike
It doesn’t have the durability of traditional vases
Not a great option for heavy or water-filled arrangement
3. Jewelry Display Clock
Women and their jewelry are always inseparable – everyone I know of has that one iconic jewelry that they wear either everyday or keep it close by for any special occasion they have. In my opinion, jewelry is a women’s special talisman and I can bet our Mom’s have that one piece they want to keep safely in a proper home for that piece. This is where the Jewelry Clock comes in – allowing you to safely story your rings, bangles, necklace or even display your earrings as a pendulum by keeping the clock in your space. The design gives you time + a unique way to stay in touch with your personal belongings, giving you a chance to stop and stare before the day begins.
The delicate tongs can be used by you to prepare lunch boxes or to even eat some sushi. There is really no wrong way to hold the tongs, and they’re designed to last a lifetime. The tongs possess a special metal processing which ensures that the jet black color doesn’t easily scratch off.
What we like
Minimal design with a quartz movement for precision.
Made from bioplastic that contains a large amount of rice husks
What we dislike
The jewelry storing space is minimal, not allowing you store more than 3-4 pieces with ease.
4. Legacy Precision Nail File
Designed by Yoshida Yasuri, the Legacy Precision Nail File is made in Japan using meticulous craftsmanship. The file is manufactured through an intricate three-stage sharpening process, making sure it is not dull, but nor does it have sharp edges like typical factory-made nail files. It makes for a wonderful grooming little gift for your Mom that is minimal enough to keep it handy and stay with her through the ages. After all, who but Mom’s can appreciate the quality of a heritage product that is crafted with an eye for details.
The thick stainless steel plate is shaped in all directions six times, on both sides of the nail file, to ensure it is fine, durable, and smooth.
What we like
Guarantees lifelong durability
Comes along with a handmade leather sheath to safely store when not in use
What we dislike
The intricate craftsmanship and quality materials make these files a significant investment compared to standard alternatives.
It does not have an entire nail care kit to go along with this.
5. Painless Key Ring
The Painless Key Ring lets you bid farewell to traditional key rings with its revolutionary wave spring key ring. It has a unique design that is inspired by the mechanisms used in the aerospace and automotive industries, providing you with a smooth and hassle-free solution to manage your keys. Especially as a Mom whose responsibilities are almost proportional to the number of eyes she carries, this key ring stores the keys easily, gives great access all while protecting her nails!
This unique key ring organizes your keys using a high-tech and durable design that lets you secure your keys in an easily accessible manner. It has a lightweight and compact form which ensures your keys are always well organized and safe.
What we like
Uses a wave spring technology for easy removal and addition of keys
Cuts down the common struggle with tight or deformed key rings
What we dislike
It is pricier than typical key rings due to its advanced design
The individual key rings don’t have a colour grading or any system to distinguish between the keys it holds.
6. Moon Rock Clock
If your mom loves all things space, then you can gift her the Moon Rock Clock. This simple yet unique-looking clock brings outer space to your home. It is crafted from specially polished stainless steel and has a circular shape that manages to capture the mystique and beauty of the moon with numbers that float around the edges and all in a minimal package that blends into any existing space.
The numbers on the clock wane and wax just like the moon, creating a beautiful effect. The clock gives a gentle reminder to live life freely and with the spirit of adventure, in the same way, the rocket ship makes its way around the moon. This minimalist clock has a mesmerizing moon travel-inspired ethos.
What we like
The printed numbers seem to float and merge into the surface of the moon
The tiny rocket incorporated in the clock’s second hand is a beautiful, whimsical touch
What we dislike
The seemingly floating numbers may make it difficult to read when the clock is wall mounted
7. Jewelvase Mirror Stand
Dubbed the Jewelvase Mirror Stand, this lovely little minimal mirror doubles up as an accessory stand or vase. It makes for a fantastic Mother’s Day gift for your mom! It features an elegant and simple design that adds loads of character to your dresser, or any surface where you place it – giving you a chance to observe yourself, share a floral design in the vase or keep your knick knack safe – all in one tiny minimal package!
It has dual functionality, which allows it to serve as both a mirror and a vase/accessory stand. The stand is made from a bioplastic material, which includes rice husks. The mirror stand has a pretty decorative quality to it, and it functions as a stylish yet functional home decor accent.
What we like
Elevates any dresser, table, desk, or furniture piece it is placed on
What we dislike
The design cannot be folded/minimised and stored when not in use.
8. Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser
Called the Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser, this tiny product brings fresh air into your home, letting you take deep breaths and relax without causing any kind of harm to the environment. This unique diffuser harnesses the power of a single candle through the medium of simple physics and science. If de-stressing after a long day is the key to your Mom’s routine, this diffuser elevates the ritual, with every step of switching it on becoming a part of the wellness routine that is sure to bring joy.
The diffuser is battery-free, and it doesn’t need any external power sources to operate. It is crafted from sustainable materials, giving it a pretty eco-friendly ethos.
What we like
Made from recyclable materials
Compatible with various kinds of essential oil
What we dislike
Lacks electric controls, so it can be tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma
9. Rin Harmony Incense Holder
Called the Rin Harmony Incense Holder, this thoughtful little design allows you to enjoy the smokey and relaxing aroma of your chosen incense stick. It is the perfect Mother’s Day gift, letting your mom relax and calm down after a long day. It is made from natural walnut wood and has a storage space for the incense sticks as well.
The brass plate functions as a safe space to hold the lit stick, and a matching cover lets you snuff out the flame, while also making sure that the ashes don’t fly around.
What we like
Unique dual-functional design with a minimalist form that amplifies any setting.
What we dislike
Only allows one incense to be lit at a time, making the reach of the aroma limited
10. Bookish Bookmark
Called the Bookish Bookmark, this beautiful, minimal product allows readers to enjoy a hands-free reading session, letting them keep their books open without having to use any awkward workarounds. With the Bookish Bookmark, you don’t need to put down the book with something heavy and ugly. The transparent design is perfect for anyone who loves to read books or follow cook books – always have your last read page ready to access and stay there in case of people meddling in your reading time!
The bookmark is an excellent choice for those who want to display their favorite books as an element in their home. The bookmark has a clean transparent design, and it lets you keep your book open while adding a visually interesting element to your desk or bookshelf.
What we like
The bookmark allows you to display your favorite books in an aesthetic and neat manner
What we dislike
It might be too large for small books, and disliked by those who prefer discreet bookmarks
Why do cars have air-filled tires? And why do spring suspensions exist as separate entities? What if someone just made tires out of springs, wouldn’t that kill two birds with the same stone? Moreover, spring tires would be more durable, wouldn’t require air, and could therefore never get punctured. All of these questions make a lot of sense, and to be honest, Germans even experimented with spring tires in the 1900s during rubber shortages, but soon reverted back to good-old air-filled rubber tires soon thereafter, sticking to it when they developed the autobahn too.
A YouTuber by the name of Garage54 decided to put this experiment to the test, just to see how things would play out. Instead of rubber treads, G54’s car was outfitted with wheels made of springs in the hopes of being able to travel well on snowy roads and off-road trails. Hate to give you spoilers, but the experiment almost instantly failed, in part because metal doesn’t make a good rubber substitute, and also because G54 quite literally welded springs to his tire. However, it was a great starting point for what I personally think is a pretty unique theory. The design could be optimized, material considerations could be made, and if there’s anyone I trust with getting things right, it’s The Q, who designed the Wheelless Bicycle we saw last year!
Designer: Garage 54
The project started, as most do, with seeing an image on the internet of a spring tire from the early 20th century – designed to boost off-roadability. Of course, good ideas have a certain sticky nature to them, so the fact that nobody uses spring tires anymore was a warning sign to begin with… but then again, I bet you’re just as curious as I am. What if you replaced bouncy rubber tires with bouncy spring tires? How much of a difference could it really make?!
The process of attaching springs to the wheel was quite literally as simple as sanding down the wheel, bending a few massive springs, and welding them in place. To make sure the springs don’t make direct contact with the ground (and potentially destroy the roads), an extra metal strip was then welded around the rim.
A look at the springs that were going to be attached to the wheel
Bending and spot-welding the springs in place
Attaching the rim
Finally, the new tires got a spray of red paint to increase their visibility. Even in their new avatar, they were just about as thick as the original wheels, making the modification incredibly easy.
G54 then attached the tires to his Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The tires, however, ran into a few snags as G54 drove the car on sludgy snowy roads. For starters, metal doesn’t provide much friction, so even though the spring shape promised to easily conquer off-road paths, the tires tended to either rotate in place or slip in all four directions. Secondly, rubber and air are infinitely lighter than steel springs, so the new wheels added immense weight to the car, causing it to literally sink in the snow – this happened especially when the car was stationary. What also didn’t help the weight problem was the fact that snow managed to fill right up inside the hollow spring tires, adding to the vehicle’s bulk. The springs also managed to catch stray twigs and branches, creating more problems than they solved. And as far as suspension was concerned, the new wheels hardly offered any improvements.
Although an instant flop, the experiment had a few areas of improvement. For starters, manually welding together a metal wheel will result in imperfections that then affect the car’s performance. However, before we dismiss metal tires entirely, it’s worth noting that NASA has been extensively testing airless metal mesh wheels for its Mars rover, allowing the vehicle to quite literally drive on the most off-road terrain mankind has ever witnessed! If NASA can do it, I’m sure us normies could figure something out too!
The furniture design industry is increasingly crowded with visually striking creations, and standing out requires a blend of innovation, convenience, and sustainability. Gustav Düsing’s Space-Frame series, though conceived over a decade ago as an architectural experiment, offers a refreshing perspective that seamlessly merges cutting-edge production technologies with timeless design principles.
The Space-Frame series, crafted from Baltic Birch plywood, brings back the charm of childhood 3D wooden puzzles, this time, in life-size form. What sets this collection apart is its utilization of space-consuming structural elements, aptly named space-frames, which serve as the foundation for its intricate yet functional designs.
Chair23D, a standout piece from the series, draws inspiration from iconic lobby chairs like the Barcelona Chair by Mies van der Rohe. Its complex three-dimensional structure is a testament to Düsing’s mastery, ingeniously assembled without the need for adhesives or screws. Instead, it mimics the human skeleton, with a spine, ribs, and pelvis, resulting in a stable, self-contained system that defies conventional assembly methods.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Space-Frame series embodies a commitment to sustainability. Crafted from Baltic Birch plywood, a renewable resource, these pieces offer a guilt-free indulgence for environmentally conscious consumers. Furthermore, their flat-pack design not only minimizes shipping costs and space but also reduces fuel consumption, making them a truly eco-friendly choice.
Düsing’s design ethos is evident in every facet of the series, from its honest construction to its meticulous attention to detail. Unlike conventional CNC-cut furniture, which often exposes unsightly joints, Düsing’s designs cleverly conceal such imperfections while transforming them into visual elements in their own right. It’s this fusion of form and function that sets this series apart, elevating it from mere furniture to functional art.
We are still living with the iPhone 15 and its variants; the era of the iPhone 16 is further away from now. As known, it’s customary of Apple to drop its new seedlings (iPhone variants, if you like) in September every year and it looks like there is nothing unusual this year as well. Like every other year in the past, since Steve Jobs revealed the first iPhone – feels like it was a century ago – iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro variants will arrive with new features.
A lot of them are leaking in bits and will continue to do so until the launch date. Irrespective of that, we will continue to have our own wishlists: long battery performance… please, elaborate AI integration into the iOS, and perhaps smaller screen real estate…hmm! When everyone else is putting their money on predicting the possible large display sizes of the iPhone 16 Pro Max, the Phone Industry is taking an ‘S’ route: A concept of an iPhone 16S that looks to take design cues from the Rabbit R1.
For reference, the Rabbit R1 isn’t a typical gadget, and so is not its design. The boxy little AI device is designed to learn from your commands and do more than what the average smartphone can do. That is until the recent debacle of reviews that are showing that the real-world evolution of the Rabbit is far from its advocated details. Anyhow, this is not about what the Rabbit R1 does, it’s about the identical-looking (minus the hold bars on the top and bottom) iPhone 16S concept because the best AI device you can have in your pocket – in the foreseeable future is a phone!
Perhaps then the form factor of the concept phone in question may be stolen from the Rabbit R1, it does have some interesting ideas reliving its iPhone 16 identity (as the rumors hold it for now). The iPhone 16S is taking the expected Capture Button idea from the forthcoming iPhone deals, to give us a pocket camera-like physical clicking button from the yesteryears.
So, the hypothetical capture button on the opposite side of the iPhone 15 Pro like the Action Button, gives this iPhone a more camera-like feel. While Apple is considering on reworking the camera array in the upcoming iPhone 16 lineup, this concept sticks to the S series iPhone basics and uses just one – obviously multi-capability – camera in the rear. The highlight for me – besides the square form factor – of the iPhone 16S concept is its all-metal body and an interesting pattern around the Apple logo on the back. What do you think?
The advancement of a society is determined by the tools it uses. That’s why we labeled epochs by materials, like the stone age, bronze age, iron age and the industrial age. With how much design and art has evolved over the past few decades, it really doesn’t make much sense using stationery tools from centuries ago. Gone are the days of relying on protractors and set-squares, the folks at Ddiin have designed something new, the Exlicon L is an all-encompassing toolkit that combines clever detailing with new-age requirements. With 3 tools that achieve a variety of unique tasks, the Exlicon L lets you master distances, circles, arcs, parabolic curves, triangles, and the golden ratio – one of nature and visual design’s most prominent templates.
Sofia Lee, the visionary behind Ddiin, founded the company in 2019, winning over 30 design awards (like the iF Design Award and IDEA Award) for their unique spin on stationery and their commitment to enhancing the functional aesthetics of design tools. The Exlicon L is perhaps their most extensive toolkit yet, designed to allow web designers, graphic designers, architects, artists, industrial designers, fashion designers, and more to effortlessly create shapes and lines that adhere to the golden ratio—a universally admired aesthetic standard that imbues works with a natural sense of harmony and balance.
The golden ratio is a mathematical concept that describes a perfectly balanced and visually pleasing proportion found in nature and design. It is approximately 1.618, and can be expressed mathematically as follows: φ = (1 + √5) / 2
We are inspired by the golden ratio in nature and architecture.
The toolkit is cleverly engineered to be compact yet comprehensive, accommodating a wide array of design needs. It includes tools like the TG, Triangle, and Circle, each crafted to facilitate the creation of precise geometric shapes, golden spirals, and thick lines, all within the palm of your hand. The precision of these tools addresses a common challenge in freehand drawing—achieving accurate proportions without traditional measuring devices, which can often disrupt the creative flow.
The design of the Circle Tool has a broad spectrum of radius sizes enabling a total of 112 circles to be drawn.
One of the set’s key components, the Circle Tool, addresses a longstanding challenge for artists seeking to master circles and arcs. The tool lets you easily draw as many as 112 circles of different diameters, using pencils, pens, and even thick markers. Three measuring scales built into this tool let you capture distances including metric and imperial linear distances for radii and diameters, or even measure circumferences with a length of up to 18 centimeters. Unlike any existing circle-master, this tool gives you mastery over radial lines too, as well as allows you to quickly make mandalas and other geometric patterns.
Extending the Circle Tool’s functionality is the Golden Ratio Tool Set, comprising the TG Tool and Triangle Tool – each brimming with functionalities designed to streamline the creative process. Imagine incorporating golden spirals, precise angle measurements, and a ruler seamlessly into your workflow – all within a single, portable, and user-friendly toolset.
The TG Tool
Parabolic Curve
The TG Tool is quite unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Modeled on the shape of a golden spiral, the TG Tool gives you mastery over one of the oldest ratios based on the Fibonacci sequence found in nature. This sequence helps determine proportions and can be found in nature, architecture, art, and practically every phase of life. The golden ratio, roughly equal to 1.618, is a mathematical formula that embodies perfect balance and aesthetic appeal, frequently observed in nature and artistic masterpieces. Traditionally, achieving this ratio with freehand techniques has been a frustrating exercise, often requiring rulers, dividers, and a healthy dose of guesswork. The Exlicon L TG Tool eliminates this frustration. The ingenious tool comes with 3 spirals of 55.7, 51.7 & 47.4 mm radii, allowing you to draw spirals, plot details along the golden curve, make isosceles golden triangles, and even draw parabolic curves with sheer certainty.
The Triangle Tool
Finally, the Triangle Tool enables the creation of a series of golden triangles, which are essential for designs that require rigorous proportionality and aesthetic alignment with the golden ratio. It features various marking groups that guide the user in drawing triangles starting from different base lengths, such as 60, 70, 80, 90, and 100 mm. Each marking group is distinctly designed—solid, hollow, and semi-circular—to facilitate easy identification and use, making this tool incredibly user-friendly and efficient for both professional designers and hobbyists aiming for precision in their creative endeavors.
You can either buy the set of three tools together, or choose an individual tool that you’re most likely to use often. Each tool is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, making them robust, sleek, and resistant to damage or corrosion. The Exlicon L starts at $26 for an individual tool of your choice, or you can bag the entire set of $79, with free shipping anywhere in the world.
It’s one hell of a day – it is the 4th of May. Every year the 4th of May is a pretty special day for Star Wars fans as it is celebrated as Star Wars Day! It is a widely celebrated and much loved day by nerds, sci-fi fans, and movie buffs in honor of the iconic series. This exciting day lets you nerd out, show off your love for the Star Wars series, and most importantly bring out your favorite movie-based merchandise. And if you’re looking for a a few cool Star Wars merchandise to celebrate this day with, well we’re here for you. This collection includes some super cool Star Wars-inspired product design that will have the hearts of Star Wars freaks thumping! These items boast innovative designs that resonate with the passionate fanbase, capturing the essence of the legendary franchise. May the Fourth be with you!
1. Star Wars Timepieces
These stunning imaginary timepieces are designed by our Editor-In-Chief Sarang Sheth, and they draw inspiration from the characters of the Star Wars Saga. The pieces were designed on MidJourney’s AI art generator to celebrate the 4th of May, which is celebrated as Star Wars Day. The first timepiece is a tribute to the Storm Trooper, and it features a cloudy transparency and ceramic surface. There is even one dedicated to Darth Vader, and it has been adorned with the Sith lord’s iconic helmet! They perfectly capture the different characters and their trademark characteristics. The timepieces include variety – they range from a wristwatch to a pocket watch and even a table clock!
2. BM1
Dubbed the BM1, this super cool mouse is inspired by the Lambda-class T-4A Shuttle from Star Wars. This unique ergonomic mouse features an innovative design while celebrating one of the greatest cinematic movies of all time! Inspired by the saga’s iconic vessel, the mouse features sleek contours and an impressive resemblance to the Imperial Shuttle. The left and right clicks remind you of the cannons that are placed on the front of the Imperial Lambda. The inventive mouse provides gamers with an immersive experience, similar to piloting a starfighter.
3. R2D2
LEGO launched a 1050-brick version of R2D2 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Star Wars. It is a 1050-brick version of R2D2 – the popular droid who is seen in multiple Star Wars adventures. The droid is much loved and is making a phenomenal return in this brick-built form but in a compact and tinier version than the 2214-brick version from three years ago. The impressive little build is created for younger galactic lovers aged nine and above.
4. A30 Wireless Gaming Headset The Mandalorian Edition
Designed by Logitech G in partnership with Lucasfilm, this headset is called the “A30 Wireless Gaming Headset The Mandalorian Edition”. It is designed to be an amazing collector’s item for Star Wars fan who can use this cool accessory to stream the latest installment of the series. The Mando-inspired aesthetics will have you drooling. They have a Beskar steel-inspired theme which is a tribute to the galactic roamer who is seeking resurrection. The special edition headphones have a claiming force that creates the right balance, providing a secure and comfy fit.
5. Animal Stormtrooper Helmets
Take a look at these stunning Animal Stormtrooper Helmets by William Kang. The helmets are beautifully fabricated and they are given a rigorous process from sketches to CAD to quick renders, and again sketches to CAD and quick renders. The process continues until the design can be physically construed. The helmet is delicately and intricated detailed, making it shocking to believe that they are renders.
6. Star Wars-Inspired Headphone Stands
These Star Wars-inspired headphone stands are 3D-printed, and they are pretty much to scale. They are created to fit the most standard headphones and even VR headsets. Despite being 3D-printed, the impressive stands have an amazing amount of detail. This is possible because Angled partners with artists and designers to create new variants and models online. The artists produce detailed models which are then approved by the Angled’s team on the basis of proportions, sizing, and their ability to be 3D-printed without any errors. And once the design has been approved by the Angled team, the headphone stand is send to the store, and the artists gets a commission for every sale.
7. Casabò’s SSD
Alex Casabò created his own “really fast sci-fi SSD” by upgrading a traditional SSD and taking it to a whole new level. It is inspired by sci-fi movies like Star Wars, and it depends on flash memory to keep things moving, and to ensure that storage is processed. The device has a futuristic, cyberpunk aesthetic, since the faster speed signifies technological advancements, and it creates a vibe very similar to the sci-fi films we all watched growing up!
8. TIE Advanced X1 Watch Winder
Meet the TIE Advanced x1 watch winding sculpture which is inspired by the dark universe. It is an excellent piece of art for the hardcore Star Wars fans. It is a spectacular watch winder in solid aluminum glory with an integrated winding engine which ensures the automatic watch is always running even if it is not worn. The watch is more like a dedicated art piece, and it weighs 4kgs and measures 20cm long, 28cm wide, and 17cm high. It is crafted from solid black anodized aluminum.
9. Hoth & Kamino-Inspired Workbench
This Hoth and Kamino-inspired workbench is truly one of a kind! It’ll keep anyone glued to their seat for hours on end. The desk is made out of a salvaged IKEA table, and the workbench features the weathered and rugged look of the dystopian world seen in the saga. This impressive workbench is a tribute to the mystical worlds. It features greeblies on the front edge, a droid power port, and the floating Mandalorian ship. The power strip is artfully hidden in a vertical position, and you can pull it up by turning the mechanism and pushing a button.
10. Conceptual G-Shock Watch
Designed by Vinicius Gasparate, this collectible watch is what lightsabers would look like now! This stunning G-shock watch is a part of the challenge he took at the Vida de Motion School. It perfectly captures G-Shock’s design philosophy, and the sporty and masculine aesthetic that the brand embodies, but at the same time, it pays a lovely tribute to the elements and details of the Star Wars world. This conceptual G-Shock watch balances both themes with grace and power, creating a visually appealing watch that will grab eyeballs.
