In the rapidly evolving world of smartphones, Apple is reportedly taking a bold step forward with the development of a foldable iPhone, tentatively named the iPhone 17 Flip. This move comes as no surprise, given the increasing popularity of foldable devices among consumers and the fierce competition from rivals like Samsung, Huawei, and OnePlus, who […]
Wouldn’t it be great to be capable of transforming your innovative ideas into market-ready software solutions at lightning speed, without the usual headaches and setbacks. In the fast-paced world of Software as a Service (SaaS), where the pressure to innovate is relentless, the concept of a “SaaS Factory” offers a refreshing approach. This isn’t just […]
The highly anticipated iPhone SE 4 is set to transform Apple’s budget smartphone offerings by incorporating innovative technology at an affordable price point, likely to be under $500. The video below from AppleTrack delves into the leaked features that position this device as a standout in the market, catering to users who seek advanced capabilities […]
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, AI-generated graphics are fundamentally changing the way you create visual content for presentations and reports. Tools like Napkin AI are at the forefront of this transformation, allowing you to convert text into visuals and charts with unprecedented speed and ease. This technological advancement is not just a time-saver; it’s […]
Apple has released iOS 18.1 Beta 7, signifying a significant milestone in its software update journey. As an Apple user, you can expect the Release Candidate (RC) to be available the week of October 21st, with the official release slated for October 28th. This timeline is in line with Apple’s typical update cadence, ensuring that […]
Imagine a world where your glasses do more than just correct your vision—they become a window into new research and innovation. This s the goal of Meta Aria Glasses Research Kit. Initially crafted for internal use, these glasses are now available to researchers worldwide, offering a fresh perspective on tackling the intricate challenges of egocentric […]
When you’re in the market for a new smartphone, the question arises: does the iPhone 16 Pro Max justify its high price compared to the more affordable Nothing Phone 2A? With the iPhone priced at £1,200 and the Nothing Phone at £300, the difference is substantial. This significant price gap prompts a closer examination of the features and […]
I recently watched the first Harry Potter film (following news of Maggie Smith’s demise), and vividly remembered the scene where Harry bought his wand at Ollivanders. Rather than choosing the right wand, Harry was given a wand that ‘chose’ him. It fit his personality, was tailor-made to his greatness, and that moment when the wand and Harry shared a brief exchange of energy – it’s exactly the feeling you get when you discover the right bag. Zero hyperbole, but I’ve got 4 laptop bags in my house right now, ranging across a variety of styles and price points (one of them’s literally from AliExpress)… and neither of them fits my needs perfectly – my current daily driver is a bag that I’d say is 80% perfect.
Finding a bag that ticks all the right boxes is sort of like searching for that ideal wand. It needs to suit your style, be durable, and have enough versatility to keep up with the chaos of life. It’s a relentless pursuit until you stop and discover just the right bag that matches your needs. The folks behind the Mercurius Modular Bag were out to build exactly that bag – a piece of EDC that’s equal parts corporate-classy yet outdoor-durable, with enough modular elements to fit every aspect of your life in. Designed to be carried in 3 different ways, the Mercurius Modular Bag adapts to your style, whether you want a sling, a backpack, or a briefcase, making it your perfect go-to for work, a trip to the cafe for a quick meeting, an outdoor photoshoot, or even a quick getaway for a couple of days to relax.
What makes the Mercurius Modular Bag stand out at first glance is its ability to switch forms depending on how you want to carry it. This is no one-trick pony—it can be worn as a backpack, slung over the shoulder, or carried like a briefcase. That’s three distinct styles in one, letting you transition from morning commutes to weekend adventures without swapping bags.
When you want to carry it as a backpack, the adjustable shoulder straps come into play. These straps are discreetly tucked away when you’re not using them, keeping the bag’s form neat and streamlined. Once you extend them, the bag sits comfortably on your back, distributing weight evenly to avoid strain. It’s ideal for longer commutes, biking through the city, or when you simply want to be hands-free.
In sling mode, the Mercurius Modular Bag turns into an over-the-shoulder carrier with a single, wide strap that can be adjusted to your height. This mode is perfect for quick access and short walks when you need something more casual than a backpack but not as formal as a briefcase. You can switch to sling mode easily by retracting one of the backpack straps and adjusting the other to act as the crossbody support.
For the briefcase style, simply retract all the straps and use the sturdy, built-in handles located at the top of the bag. This mode is where the bag really takes on a polished, professional look, perfect for meetings or more formal settings. Even though it’s technically the same bag, this transformation gives off a completely different vibe—like you’re carrying a high-end briefcase designed for business, not an everyday commuter’s backpack. The smooth transition between these modes makes it feel like you’re carrying three different bags in one, without the hassle of switching between them.
The Modular Magic Inside
The modular outer design extends to the insides too, with an insightfully compartmentalized layout. The designers have turned the interior into an organized dream, tailored for modern professionals and tech enthusiasts. You’ll find dedicated compartments for just about everything, from chargers to mice, phones, umbrellas, bottles, and even your AirPods. As far as laptops go (you know, the actual goods), this bag fits almost any model you can think of, from ultra-slim MacBook Airs to the large-and-in-charge LG Gram 17-inch. All iPad models slot in just as neatly (as do other tablets), so no matter your tech of choice, this bag has a place for it.
The Mercurius Modular Bag comes in classic black as well.
You can either slide your laptop right into the Mercurius Modular Bag’s dedicated laptop slot, or use an accompanying detachable laptop sleeve made from the same material as the bag itself, but with a built-in RFID-blocking liner for added digital protection. However, the sleeve isn’t just for protecting your laptop or giving it an extra carrying case—it also transforms into a desk pad or mouse pad. It’s a nifty addition for digital nomads or anyone setting up an impromptu workspace at a café or airport lounge. It’s thoughtful features like these that give the Mercurius Modular Bag its edge. The focus is clearly on adaptability—how the bag functions in real life when you’re constantly on the move.
Need more space? No problem. The bag’s expandable design gives you up to 40% more storage capacity, practically doubling your storage capacity. This extra space doesn’t come at the cost of the bag’s sleek profile, though. Even fully expanded, it maintains its minimal design, refusing to bulk up into an eyesore like other expandable bags tend to. Inside, it’s designed to work with modular packs, pouches, and travel cubes—making organization feel less like an afterthought and more like a core feature.
Tailored Extras for the Modern User
It’s the little things that push the Mercurius Modular Bag into the realm of “I need this.” While the bag itself has a built-in organization system, what gives it further meaning are the various pouches and travel cubes that fit perfectly into the remaining empty space, allowing you to carry your gear like never before. Aside from the detachable laptop sleeve, the Mercurius Modular Bag comes with an EDC pouch that has a magnet-based system that lets it snap onto the bag sort of like how a MagSafe accessory snaps onto your iPhone, aligning and positioning itself perfectly. The EDC Bag is ideal for any everyday carry, although Mercurius Modular Bag also comes with a Tech Pouch for tech accessories and a Bath Pouch for toiletries. All three modules fit perfectly into the backpack’s empty space, allowing you to compartmentalize your belongings in a meaningful way (after all you wouldn’t want your toothpaste and shampoo near your tech gear, right?) Furthermore, the Mercurius Modular Bag also provides a square-shaped Packing Cube for clothes that can be used with the bag, along with the Bath Pouch. In a way, you get to build your bags based on whether you’re heading out for a meeting, for something specific like an outdoor photoshoot, or a 2-day getaway.
Other clever details include things like a luggage pass-through feature, which is a godsend for frequent travelers. Simply slip it over your suitcase handle, and maneuvering through airports becomes a breeze. If you want to travel light, you can ditch the Mercurius entirely and just carry the laptop sleeve around with you, thanks to an add-on strap that turns it into a side-sling. The EDC Pouch can be independently carried like a man-purse too, thanks to that same clip-on shoulder strap.
Made from Cactus Leather, Built to Withstand Anything
The Mercurius Modular Bag doesn’t stop at smart functionality; it’s also eco-conscious. Instead of opting for typical leather or synthetic fabrics, Mercurius chose a cactus-based faux leather—an unexpected, yet refreshing choice. This material is as tough as it is sustainable. It’s water-resistant, durable, and designed to hold up to everyday wear and tear, whether you’re navigating city streets or dealing with a bit of rain. The combination of their unique design and cactus leather also gives the bag a luxe feel, so you won’t feel like you’re sacrificing style for sustainability. In fact, brands like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche all use the same cactus-based leather alternative, embracing both durability along with material innovation. Meanwhile, the company does plan to offer a Smooth Calf Leather version of the bag to backers and users in the future. Alongside the durable outer material, heavy-duty zippers reinforce the design, ensuring the bag holds up under pressure, and a non-toxic suede inner further ensures your devices stay protected from elements as well as rough use. Furthermore, the cubes and modules are made from 100% recycled plastic fabric (the same fabric used by Prada in their high-end bags) echoing the sustainable approach.
The Mercurius Modular Bag is one of many I’ve seen over the years, but the one thing it does more than any of those bags is give me that ‘Harry Potter’s Wand’ feeling – it’s sustainable, durable, expandable, modular, stylish, and is designed to carry literally every object you’d want to carry. It comes in two rather evergreen colors – a tanned brown and a black; and can be carried in a variety of ways – as a sling, a backpack, a briefcase, or even strapped to your luggage. If that isn’t your definition of a perfectly designed bag, I don’t know what is…
Modern Tiny Living recently designed the Cerceaux tiny home, and it packs a punch with its unique storage-packed interior, and an impressive “Swiss Army Knife” living room. It features a length of 20 feet, but its innovative and flexible layout truly makes it stand apart. It is based on a double-axle trailer and features a finish in engineered wood. The wood finishing is topped by a steel roof, and complemented by an exterior storage box. It is designed to be a good home for the weekend, but may not be a great full-time residence since it has a compact footprint.
As you enter the home, you are welcomed by a living area or the ‘MTL Social Area’. This section is raised and can seat around six people, in a U shape. It also contains generous glazing, ensuring the space is quite light-filled. Since this space is raised, it includes a load of storage areas, such as pull-out drawers and bookshelves. The sofa can be converted into a bed for the guests if they decide to sleep over. The kitchen is located nearby, and it contains a breakfast bar for two people, a propane-powered four-burner cooktop with an electric oven, a steel sink, a washer/dryer, and a fridge/freezer. It is also equipped with loads of cabinetry, and in-ceiling drop-down cabinets which are suitable for spices. The bathroom is located next to the kitchen and can be entered via a sliding barn-style door. The bathroom is pretty small, and it includes a composting toilet, shower, and sink.
The Cerceaux tiny home only contains one bedroom, which can be accessed through a storage-integrated staircase. This bedroom is much like the bedrooms typically seen in tiny homes. It features a loft-like style, and a low ceiling, as well as a double bed, and space for more storage. The home is powered by a roof-based solar panel and battery setup, making it an excellent fit for some off-the-gird adventures. At the moment, we aren’t aware of the tiny home’s pricing.
Get ready for Fujifilm’s lightest, most adventure-ready camera yet! The FUJIFILM X-M5 is set to launch globally in mid-November 2024, and it’s bringing the ultimate blend of portability and power. Weighing less than any other X Series model, this compact powerhouse delivers incredible image quality, making it a must-have for beginners and photography enthusiasts. If you’re capturing spontaneous shots or creating professional-quality videos, the X-M5 is designed to be your everyday companion.
Designer: Fujifilm
Weighing only 355 grams (including the battery and memory card), the X-M5 highlights Fujifilm’s focus on everyday, accessible photography. Despite its lightweight design, the camera is packed with powerful features, including AI-powered subject detection autofocus (AF) that tracks moving objects like animals and vehicles. It can also record video in 6.2K at 30 frames per second. The X-M5 is ready for everything from casual snapshots to high-quality video content.
Design Elements and Controls
The FUJIFILM X-M5 showcases a sleek, retro design embodying style and functionality. Its compact body measures 111.9mm in width, 66.6mm in height, and 38.0mm in depth, making it one of the most portable cameras in the X Series lineup. The top panel features symmetrically placed dials that give the camera a classic, tactile feel and allow users to control settings intuitively.
The left shoulder features a control dial, which allows photographers to quickly access different shooting modes to suit the scene and achieve a variety of tones and moods. If you’re aiming for rich contrast or soft color palettes, these modes replicate the look of classic Fujifilm films, giving a nostalgic touch to modern images. On the right shoulder, the mode dial includes an AUTO mode, making it easy for beginners to let the camera decide the optimal settings for any given scene.
The camera’s grip is ergonomically designed, ensuring a comfortable hold even during extended use. The durable, textured finish adds to the secure handling, while the control layout ensures that both novices and experienced photographers can navigate the settings seamlessly. The well-placed shutter button and control dials create an efficient and enjoyable shooting experience.
Display and Lens Mount
The rear of the X-M5 is equipped with a 3-inch vari-angle LCD touchscreen that offers flexibility for composing shots at different angles—perfect for vlogging, selfies, or shooting from low or high perspectives. The touchscreen allows intuitive control, enabling users to adjust settings, focus, and review images easily. This high-resolution display makes it easy to frame shots, even in bright outdoor conditions.
The X-M5 also features a high-quality electronic viewfinder (EVF), providing a clear and detailed view for composing images in traditional shooting scenarios. The EVF’s high resolution ensures that users can see every detail of their shot before pressing the shutter, making it ideal for precise framing and focus.
The X-M5’s lens mount is compatible with Fujifilm’s extensive range of XF and XC lenses, offering users the flexibility to adapt to different shooting styles and conditions. Whether you’re using a wide-angle lens for landscapes or a telephoto lens for wildlife photography, the X-M5’s sturdy mount ensures secure attachment and excellent performance. The camera’s compatibility with various lenses makes it a versatile tool, suitable for everything from portraits to action photography.
Advanced Features for Photography and Video
At the core of the X-M5 is the back-illuminated 26.1-megapixel “X-Trans CMOS 4” sensor, paired with the “X-Processor 5” image engine. Together, they deliver vivid, high-quality images while maintaining power efficiency. The AI-powered subject detection autofocus (AF) uses deep learning to recognize and track various subjects, including animals, vehicles, and even human faces, ensuring that your shots are always sharp and well-focused.
Beyond still photography, the X-M5 excels at video. It supports 6.2K/30P 4:2:2 10-bit recording directly to an SD card, and also offers 4K/60P and 1080/240P for those who want to create cinematic content. Digital image stabilization helps keep footage smooth, even when shooting handheld. The new “Vlog Mode” makes it easy to adjust settings using the LCD touchscreen, and the “9:16 Short Video Mode” is ideal for creating vertical videos for social media. Video creators will also appreciate the three built-in microphones, which provide different directional recording options for a variety of shooting environments.
Optional Accessories
Two optional accessories enhance the X-M5’s flexibility. The Cooling Fan “FAN-001,” which is already available, can be attached to the back of the camera to manage heat during extended shooting sessions. The Tripod Grip “TG-BT1” improves ergonomics, making it ideal for vlogging, selfies, and low-angle shots.
The FUJIFILM X-M5 captures the essence of everyday creativity, offering a portable, feature-rich camera that makes capturing life’s moments easy and rewarding. If you’re just getting started with digital photography or are a seasoned enthusiast, this compact camera is built to be your constant companion, ready to capture the story wherever it unfolds.