Tag Archives: accessories

10 Best Fun & Useful Products You Need To Keep Your Pets Entertained & Well Taken Care Of

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Any time I’ve spent with my beloved cats is a core memory for me, and I absolutely love cuddling up with them, or playing random games with them! But in all honesty, I’m running out of ways to keep them busy, amused, and entertained. And you know, if your kitties are bored and restless for too long, they end up knocking down objects out of sheer spite and boredom. And if by any chance you’re pretty much in the same precarious situation as me and are always looking for new ways to keep your pet entertained, productive, and happy, then this collection of pet products promises to come to your rescue! From a modular pet-friendly sofa to a pet-friendly console – these product designs will take good care of your pet, and keep them active and content.

1. Quarter Sofa

Dubbed the Quarter Sofa, this modular and pet-friendly sofa is crafted from wood and fabrics. The sofa includes various modules in the shapes of squares and circles. The modules can be easily assembled and disassembled to build various intriguing and fun configurations.

Why is it noteworthy?

The configurations created can function as a fun and amusing playground for your cats. Your cats can easily move and jump around, and if you have multiple cats they can even play together.

What we like

  • You can rearrange the different modules to accommodate a variety of people
  • The hollow spaces can be used to hold and showcase items

What we dislike

  • If your cat pees or poops in the space, it can be tough to clean and access them

2. Waggin G1

Called the Waggin G1, and designed by Waggin – this unique product is a pet bike trailer and a backpack in one. The trailer is in fact attached to the backpack so it is quite easy to assemble and disassemble, and you can efficiently carry it around with you. The backpack also contains some storage space.

Why is it noteworthy?

The backpack can hold snacks and toys for your pet, or even your items. It can store your laptop, or even some books and notebooks if you need any on your outing.

What we like

  • You can easily and safely attach the trailer to your bike

What we dislike

  • It can only accommodate small to medium-sized pets, so you will need to look for another option for your bigger fur buddy

3. PAWaii Wireless Pet Water Fountain

Named the PAWaii Wireless Pet Water Fountain, this unique device keeps your pets hydrated at all times. It provides fresh water to your pets even if you’re home or not. It provides constant access to clean and filtered water, and it has a NSF-certified filter which reduces calcium and magnesium ions.

Why is it noteworthy?

The water fountain is equipped with UV sterilization and it kills any bacteria or microorganisms found in the water. It includes three modes that you can use, and you can use these modes at the same time as well. The modes are – regular mode, manual mode, and inductive mode.

What we like

  • Equipped with a water-electricity separation design and anti-slip silicone pad

What we dislike

  • It is a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

4. UTSÅDD Collection

IKEA recently designed their UTSÅDD collection, which is designed to bring joy to felines and dogs, and to their parents as well. The collection includes 29 pieces, which were designed in consultation with veterinarians and pet product specialists. The products were also tested out on the actual users – the doggos and the cattos!

Why is it noteworthy?

The products are machine-washable, durable, dishwasher-safe, and water-repellant. They’re well-designed, and also pretty gentle and safe for pets. The collection includes soft toys for dogs, and a play tunnel for cats, as well as pet bowls, beds, and houses.

What we like

  • Features a clean and minimalist vibe
  • The products are not only fun but also useful

What we dislike

  • Some pieces are a bit expensive

5. Choo Choo Console

Named the Choo Choo console, this furniture design is much more than just a piece of decor, in fact, it can be used as a dedicated little spot for your pets. The design is made using natural materials like cane wedding and wood. It is created to enhance and elevate the connection between cats and humans.

Why is it noteworthy?

The console is a sleek and modern version of a bullet train. It has a hint of contemporary elegance and style to it, while also integrating a sense of efficiency and speed. The designer merged high-speed transportation with the arena of pet-friendly design.

What we like

  • Serves as a cozy and welcoming space for cats to rest, clean their paws and nails

What we dislike

  • Seems to be a bulky and space-consuming design that will occupy a lot of space

6. Sphericon Dog Chew Toy

Inspired by the intriguing world of geometry, this unique toy is called the Sphericon Dog Chew Toy. It is the perfect little toy to keep your doggo happy and distracted while adding an element of excitement and freshness to their daily playtime. It helps keep your pet entertained and happy!

Why is it noteworthy?

This chew toy is intended to be something new and novel in the field of canine entertainment. It is a solid object that features a continuous developable surface. And unlike most everyday toys, this sphericon has a distinctive shape that lets it roll around in a fascinating and captivating manner.

What we like

  • Brings a whole new dimension and element to your dog’s daily playtime
  • Can adapt to various play environments

What we dislike

  • It is small in size, so you need to make sure your doggo doesn’t misplace or lose it

7. Triangle Toy

Named the Triangle Toy, this innovative toy is designed to provide entertainment to your furry friends, while also functioning as a work of art. It is a one-of-a-kind pet toy that isn’t simply for playing with, but it can also offer an exciting visual experience which is inspired by nature.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Triangle Toy is designed to be creative and interesting. It is a canvas for the motifs of clouds, the sun, and the mountains. The mountains are represented by the triangular structure, while the rolling ball signifies the gentle flow of the clouds.

What we like

  • Besides being a creative pet toy, it also looks like a work of art that can enhance any space it is placed in

What we dislike

  • The toy is currently a concept, so we are unsure how well it will translate into an actual product

8. Dog Hut Desk

If you’re a pet owner, then the best kind of furniture for your home is furniture design that can be used by people and your pet! This creates a living situation that is enjoyable and engaging for pet owners and their pets, instilling and growing an emotional connected between the two. And the Dog Hut Desk is an excellent example of such a furniture design!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Dog Hut Desk is created to be a new nap spot for your doggo. It is a wooden desk design with a metallic U-leg on one end, and a small D-shaped bed for your doggo on the other end. You can work peacefully, while your doggo naps comfortably right beside you, allowing you both to spend some quality time together.

What we like

  • You can fit in a cushiony mattress on which your dog can lie down and relax

What we dislike

  • If your doggo is a bit rowdy and naughty, he may distract you while you’re working

9. ORo

Revealed at CES 2024 by Ogmen Robotics, this intelligent and super cool home robot is designed to be the ultimate playmate, guardian, and caretaker for your doggo. It looks like a robot on wheels dedicated to human use, but it in fact takes care of your beloved pet!

Why is it noteworthy?

It offers physical, mental, and emotional stimulation through various playful activities. Called ORo, this neat robot keeps an eye on your dog’s health, and can even discover when they are anxious or uneasy. ORo can also play some calming music to help them relax and destress.

What we like

  • You can train your dog using ORo through virtual training services and obedience games

What we dislike

  • We are unsure about how comfy dogs would feel with a robot, they could get aggressive or feel threatened by the presence

10. Clink Clicker

Called the Clink Clicker, this little device is ideal for your doggo’s training regime. It merges the clicking and the treats in one efficient device, so you only need to hold and use one device while conducting your dog’s training. Although it looks like your conventional clicker, it features a sliding mechanism for storing treats to utilize as a reward.

Why is it noteworthy?

Once your doggo’s training is done, you simply need to click the clicker, and your dog will come to you, and you can feed him the treat at once. The little space for the treats is a desiccant compartment keeping the snacks fresh even if you’re outdoors, and it gets kinda hot.

What we like

  • Makes your training session with your doggo easier and simpler
  • Saves time on the training process

What we dislike

  • The clicker is quite small and compact, so you need to make sure you don’t lose it

The post 10 Best Fun & Useful Products You Need To Keep Your Pets Entertained & Well Taken Care Of first appeared on Yanko Design.

This $144 battle rope boasts a clever ‘ropeless’ compact design for small homes and anywhere workouts

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Whether you set up a home gym or have a gold membership at the fitness center down the street, you can always have a reason to skip the workout. But if you are among those who can skip a beat but not a session with the battle ropes; you would need the Z-Rope! A ropeless battle rope solution without the installation challenges, noise problems, and accessibility restrictions.

We come by hundreds of CrossFit accessories that vouch by their heart to assist you with full-body workout anywhere, any time. The new Z-Rope differs from them at the usability and functionality level. It’s highly portable, lightweight, and is an accessory that would let you indulge in high-intensity training in pin-drop silence. Just mind your breath, grunting, and foots taps, please!

Designer: Zest Up 

Click Here to Buy Now: $144 $180 (20% off) Hurry! Only 5 Days Left. Raised over $315,000.

It’s not easy to make space for fitness equipment in your apartment or carry all the routine accessories when you’re traveling for work or leisure. In either case you are deprived of choices and/or either have to settle for less or go without exercise. Z-Rope steps up as a solution worth considering for two reasons: it is a ropeless battle rope that fits conveniently in your backpack (measures 19×1.5 inches and weighs less than 2 pounds), and can let you workout like you would with battle ropes – without disruptive noises, furniture damage, or potential setup costs – at the convenience of the home or wherever your life takes you.

The Z-Rope is thus tailored for small spaces and gym enthusiasts who travel and find it difficult to get gyms with battle ropes in their locality. It enables the user to not only reap the benefits of battle rope workout, but the makers say, it can help them with 13+ workouts, including cardio and strength training at personal convenience. The full-power training with the ropeless battle rope can help, “effectively in building muscle, stamina, and endurance,” the makers note. For reference, 10 minutes of intense workout with the Z-Rope can provide cardiovascular benefits equivalent to an hour of tennis or 2 hours of running.

As for the design; the baton-like Z-Rope is highly durable. A pair features comfortable EVA foam handles attached to elastic springs. This design – without the ropes – mimics the wave movement of traditional battle ropes – operating almost noiselessly, so that you can exercise freely at home or in your hotel room late at night or in the early hours of the day. Like with the traditional battle ropes, the Z-Rope has been tested to not only help users with the strength training of arms and upper body, it also assists in toning the core muscles and provides strength and substance to the lower body through consistent use.

The Z-Rope is perfect for on-the-go workouts but also for compact homes where storing gym equipment becomes a bit of a hassle. Measuring just 19 inches long and weighing 900 grams (1.9 pounds), the Z-Rope unlocks a healthy lifestyle without the size, price, and commitment of a Peloton. The Z-Rope starts at just $144 and begins shipping as soon as May 2024.

Click Here to Buy Now: $144 $180 (20% off) Hurry! Only 5 Days Left. Raised over $315,000.

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This sleek $99 health-tracking ring marks the death of bulky fitness-tracking bracelets

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You know you’re doing something right when Samsung ends up launching a product to compete with yours, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that Apple plans on joining the category too. The smart ring market is seeing an undeniable rise for a bunch of reasons. Smart rings are classy, discreet, and don’t have too many components or requirements. You have ten fingers, so you can easily wear a smart ring along with your engagement ring or accessories (try wearing two watches and see people stare) and you can easily wear the ring while asleep too. Smartwatches walked so smart rings could run, and the latest runner to enter the marathon is the Kuura Ring – a sleek wearable that’s titanium on the outside, and sensors galore on the inside that tracks everything from your sleep to your stress levels and exercises. Like a fitness tracker but sleeker and frankly a little more convenient, the Kuura is yet another nail in the smartwatch coffin, affirming the fact that rings are, in fact, the future of the health wearable industry.

Designer: Kuura Ring

Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $248 (60% off). Hurry, only 62/1500 left! Raised over $190,000.

Move Smarter: your walks, runs, cycles and gym sessions and measure your heart rate, and recovery rates to plan your personal fitness goals.

The Kuura Ring looks like any minimalist metal ring, blending right in without necessarily looking tech-forward. A titanium outer shell comes in 3 colors – black, silver, and gold, while the inner surface of the ring is made from hypoallergenic epoxy, which hermetically seals all the electronics inside the ring giving it complete water resistance. The insides are lined with various sensors that can track body metrics from body temperature to heart rate and even blood oxygen, giving the Kuura Ring a wide variety of stats to help interpret different stages of your health. A 17.5mAh battery powers the entire wearable, giving it a solid week’s worth of usage so you don’t need to charge your ring every day like you would most fitness trackers.

Live Smarter: Get a clear picture of your health from over 20 biometric signals, including temperature to stress levels to help you live your best life each day.

The sensors within the Kuura capture your health in a holistic manner, working around the clock to give you stats across a variety of categories. A G-sensor captures movement, a heart-rate light reads your heart rate, HRV, and stress levels, a blood oxygen light does exactly what it says it does, and an infrared light detects when the ring’s worn, switching the wearable off when you take it off. Combined, these sensors are all the Kuura needs to analyze your well-being.

The ring does everything a fitness wearable does and maybe some more. It monitors your health, ensuring your heart rate isn’t too high or too low, captures your steps to see how much you’re moving in the day, uses a variety of stats to check your stress levels, tracks your workouts (ranging from a variety of workout styles), and at the end of the day, tracks your sleep cycle. The lack of a screen on the ring means all the data is sent to Kuura’s own smartphone app (it also means better battery performance) where you can access every single metric laid out in a well-designed UI. The app is your health dashboard, letting you see your progress as well as learn all your rooms for improvement, and even set fitness goals that you can aim for.

Sleep Smarter: Wake up to analysis about your deep sleep, light sleep & REM sleep to optimize your sleep schedules and rise feeling refreshed and ready for the day.

Different sections in the app provide their own detailed metrics. The sleep tracking page gives you a detailed analysis of your sleep across 4 stages – REM, restful sleep, light sleep, and wakefulness. The fitness tracker captures movement (distance and steps), duration of your workout, and even the kilocalories burned. The water-resistance allows you to even go swimming with your Kuura on. Finally, the overall health tracker looks at your heart rate, variability, body temperature, and stress levels to give you a score that helps you understand where you stand in your journey to a healthy life.

Available in 3 different colors, the Kuura Ring comes in 8 sizes that fit men and women of all ages and body types. Earlybird backers can grab the Kuura Ring for just $99, which also includes the ring’s contact-based charging cable, and the free Kuura smartphone app available on iOS and Android.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $248 (60% off). Hurry, only 62/1500 left! Raised over $190,000.

The post This sleek $99 health-tracking ring marks the death of bulky fitness-tracking bracelets first appeared on Yanko Design.

Google Pixel Tablet Relaunch: News, Rumors, Price, and Release Date

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Google isn’t exactly known for its love of tablets. Android 3.0 Honeycomb was the first version to support large-screen devices, but it was mostly seen as a quick stopgap measure to curb the growing number of tablets modifying an experience that was meant for phones only (looking at you, Samsung and HTC). The release, however, was considered to be so rushed and so bad that Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich was released half a year later. Google didn’t seem keen to make its own Android tablets either, be it the old Nexus brand or the short-lived Pixel C, but that’s not to say its own fans haven’t been clamoring for an official Google tablet for years. That finally happened nearly a year ago with the Pixel Tablet, which painted this large device as something different from an iPad or a Samsung Galaxy Tab. Rather than launch a new Pixel Tablet 2 this year, however, Google is apparently making the rather unorthodox move of relaunching the existing model, and it seems like it will be a mixed bag based on what we’re hearing so far.

Designer: Google

Google Pixel Tablet: Design

The most important thing about this “relaunch” is that there is no word on any major internal or external changes to the Google Pixel, and that’s not entirely a bad thing. There are some whispers about a new and darker color option, but that seems unlikely at this point. The Pixel Tablet’s design is largely driven by Google’s vision of what the tablet really is for, which all boils down to a device that’s meant more to stay at home than accompany you wherever you go.

The Google Pixel Tablet’s aesthetics are simple, homey, and a bit traditional. Unlike the flat and sharp edges of the likes of the current Apple iPads, Google’s design has curved sides and a gentler demeanor. It’s not something you’ll flaunt outdoors but will be perfectly at home inside the house. That’s primarily because Google’s purpose for its tablet isn’t on-the-go productivity or entertainment but as pretty much a portable smart display for controlling your smart devices, making video calls, or playing music. The fact that you can only buy the Pixel Tablet with its charging speaker dock pretty much drives home that identity.

This will be the exact same Pixel Tablet that Google is said to be “relaunching” in just two weeks but with a slight twist. The accessories for the tablet are being changed, and this speaker charger will no longer be bundled with the Pixel Tablet by default. Although it’s only the accessory lineup that will change, it also subtly changes the message that the product will be sending. Strangely enough, the design will also remain the same, so it’s not a complete overhaul of its identity either.

Google Pixel Tablet: Specs and Software

We’re unlikely to see any internal changes either, which means we’ll be seeing the same 2022-era specs like a Tensor G2 processor and 8GB of RAM, for starters. Truth be told, the Pixel Tablet hardware was plenty fine for what it was made for and can even support a bit of gaming on the side. Whether that holds true in 2024 and beyond is a bit uncertain, however, especially with Google opening up the device to new use cases that may demand more from the hardware.

What is basically changing is that Google will no longer ship the Pixel Tablet with the Charging Speaker Dock, which has important ramifications as far as pricing goes. More importantly, however, it is rumored to introduce new accessories, namely an official Google stylus as well as a keyboard for the tablet, most likely a keyboard cover like those sold for the Galaxy Tab S9, for example. Unfortunately, there are no leaks on the design that these products will take, but given the design of the official Pixel Tablet Case, we’re expecting something that will match the tablet’s aesthetics as well.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

Designer: Samsung

Of course, the Pixel Tablet has had support for a wide range of styluses implementing the USI 2.0 standard as well as the myriad Bluetooth keyboards in the market. But having Google’s official stamp pretty much sends the message that the Pixel Tablet is also good for creativity and productivity, whether it’s making art, scribbling notes, or typing documents. The keyboard case even makes a case (pun intended) for bringing it out of your home and setting up an ad hoc office in a cafe somewhere. The Pixel Tablet’s hardware could still be up to the task, but more resource-hungry apps could hit a wall easily with this configuration.

As for the software, the Pixel Tablet will still be running Android 14 by the time it launches, but we’re expecting to see more AI-related features drop through updates. Circle to Search, in particular, will be easier to do with a stylus, and Google’s NotebookLM AI-powered app will be more useful if you can quickly type with a keyboard. The Google Pixel Tablet will be growing up from being a homebody to a digital nomad, allowing you to enjoy and utilize Google’s services anywhere you go and on a larger screen.

Google Pixel Tablet: Price and Release Date

Google’s new pricing strategy will be a mixed bag. On the one hand, you will finally be able to buy a Pixel Tablet on its own without having the Charging Speaker Base forced on you. Presuming the standalone base still costs $129, then the solo Pixel Tablet could be made available for only $379, hopefully a bit lower. This makes the tablet more accessible, especially for people who have better-sounding speakers anyway.

On the other hand, all accessories will have to be purchased separately, and the price tags might be hard to swallow. According to the rumors, the Pixel stylus and keyboard could amount to around $100 each, setting you back $579 for the complete mobile office package. A total of $699 if you also want a home base at, well, home. Granted, the Apple Pencil is already $120, but that’s normal for an Apple product. One can only hope that these figures are ballpark estimates instead.

As for when all these will drop, signs point to a May 10 “relaunch” for the Pixel Tablet. That’s a pretty odd strategy given that Google I/O 2024 will be taking play on May 14. The only way this will make total sense is if there’s a new Pixel Tablet 2 or even Pixel Tablet Pro being announced there, but that will immediately make the Pixel Tablet relaunch dead on arrival unless the accessories are 100% compatible with the new Google tablet.

Google Pixel Tablet: Final Thoughts

Although it might not launch a new tablet, it’s actually encouraging to hear that Google is continuing to support its only tablet not just with software updates but new accessories as well. These are accessories it could have launched on day one, however, but that would have probably muddled the message it was trying to send. It tried to set the Pixel Tablet apart from the iPads and Galaxy Tabs of the market by focusing on its benefits at home. Now it’s sending a different message, one that says it’s finally safe to go out.

At the same time, however, it does make the Pixel Tablet feel old and stale, which is a bit worrying considering Google’s history with Android tablets. It won’t kill off its tablet line immediately, but not having an immediate successor makes one wonder if Google will simply milk the existing model dry and then call it quits. Then again, Google has also been notorious for killing off successful products after a few generations, so the Pixel Tablet’s fate will always be in the air anyway.

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Transforming Field Photography with The Ultimate Modular Backpack

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The COALAX LANCER 300 has redefined what it means to be a top-tier travel and photography backpack, seamlessly merging state-of-the-art features with meticulous design enhancements to cater to the modern adventurer and photographer. As a self-proclaimed bag enthusiast, my extensive collection ranges across backpacks, messengers, and travel luggage in all sizes, shapes, and colors. Yet, it wasn’t until I came across the LANCER 300 that I truly appreciated what an exoskeleton with a modular design, complemented by dual multi-angle selfie rocker-arms, could offer—a photographer’s dream for capturing moments effortlessly during rugged travels or in the quiet wilderness.

Designer: COALAX

Click Here to Buy Now: $169 $299 ($130 off). Hurry, 118 of 200 left!

From the outset, the LANCER 300 impresses with its robust modular exoskeleton, providing unmatched adaptability and resilience. This allows photographers to tailor the compartments to fit a diverse array of equipment, from cameras and lenses to drones, while outdoor adventurers find its flexibility ideal for stowing varying gear like hydration packs and climbing ropes. The integration of dual multi-angle selfie rocker arms elevates its utility, enabling dynamic self-portraits and breathtaking panoramas without halting the journey. These arms, designed to withstand the elements with their waterproof build, cater to a wide range of devices, ensuring no memorable scene goes uncaptured.

Never miss a moment with the selfie-stick arm.

Enhancements in design from recent updates introduce an advanced modular system with increased customization capabilities, allowing even greater precision in configuring storage spaces to fit oversized camera bodies or additional personal gear. An innovative addition is the side flap for quick access to the backpack’s lower segment, which proves invaluable when quick retrieval of equipment is crucial, eliminating the hassle of rummaging through the top layers.

Further developments include a reinforced anti-theft system featuring cut-proof materials and strategically hidden zippers that offer an added layer of security, essential for protecting valuable equipment in high-risk areas. The ergonomic design, too, has seen improvements, with advanced lumbar support and a sophisticated strap adjustment system that enhances comfort and ensures even weight distribution during extended treks.

The bag doesn’t stop there; it incorporates a detachable power station extended by a solar panel, providing a sustainable source of energy to keep devices charged in the most remote locations. The commitment to security is robust, with lockable zippers and discreet compartments providing peace of mind. Practicality is woven into every aspect of its design, from quick-access pockets to dual-access points that allow for the easy retrieval of gear. A newly integrated LED lighting system in the main compartments ensures visibility in low-light conditions, proving indispensable for early morning or late evening shoots.

Constructed from eco-friendly materials, the brand’s commitment to sustainability is clear. It reduces environmental impact while ensuring durability for continuous, rugged use. A built-in weather cover quickly deploys to protect against sudden downpours or dusty trails, securing the backpack’s contents and providing reliability regardless of external conditions.

With each iteration, the LANCER 300 backpack adapts to meet its users’ challenging demands, integrating the latest technology and materials to deliver a more effective, secure, and comfortable experience. It stands as a sophisticated solution for anyone serious about their outdoor and photographic endeavors, blending advanced technology with thoughtful design to create a backpack that is as versatile as it is vital for the modern explorer.

Click Here to Buy Now: $169 $299 ($130 off). Hurry, 118 of 200 left!

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Air drying rack can make your clothes smell nice and your room look pretty

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One of the most annoying smells I can think of are clothes that dried indoors and did not get any air circulation. That musty smell can be suffocating, even if the clothes were actually cleaned upon washing. Those living in houses or condo units that do not have proper airing space for wet clothes may be familiar with this smell. But what if you can have a drying rack that not only helps your wet clothes dry but also add a pleasing scent to it even as it’s not actually aired outdoors?

Designer: Seungbin Lee

This is the idea behind Air Blossom, a concept for an air drying rack for those living in single households that don’t have proper air circulation. It lets your clothes dry while getting rid of the musky smell that comes from drying indoors through scent filters that are part of the drying process. Aside from this fragrant innovation, the rack can also turn into a display when not in use. Clothes drying on a rack are not the most aesthetically pleasing sight but afterwards, you can turn the rack into a piece of art in the background of your space.

On the surface, it looks like a folding table when not used for anything. When you unfold it and lock it down, it turns into an air drying rack that can is able to rotate your clothes as they dry. There is a filter on the side where you can put your preferred scent so your clothes will not have that dried inside musty smell. When you fold it up and want to use it as a display, the “blinds” close together to form a photo or a painting. It’s unclear if the image and the scent can be customized or if you have to choose from the different options available.

The photo renders show the air drying rack in different pastel colors so maybe you can choose from the one that can fit your home. As someone who lives alone and barely does any clothes washing but maybe still needs it every once in a while, something like this can come in handy.

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Palais de Tokyo artisanal objects are open-ended art and functional pieces

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When it comes to furniture and accessories, most people probably look for things that are functional rather than just decorative. Of course it would be nice if it can be both but for those that are more concerned about budget and usage, then the former is more important. But there are also products that serve more as decoration or art pieces that also has a secondary function as an actual piece of furniture or accessory that you can use.

Designer: Aequo Design

The OBJ Collection from the Palais de Tokyo is one of those that are derivative products that look more like art pieces that belong in an actual museum. They were commissioned to present the essence of the modern and contemporary art museum into miniature artwork that can still serve some function if the user so wishes to use them. But their purpose or function are actually “open-ended” so it’s up to the user to use them whichever way they want, therefore making them part of the creative process.

For example, the travertine stairs sees several blocks put together as “stairs” so you can use them as a candle holder, bookends, or whatever else you can use it for. The Zinc container, which is made from actual zinc pipes, can serve as a flower vase, pen holder, or even just as a design for your desk if you’re into the aluminum aesthetic. There are other things in the collection like concrete columns, powder coated rod, and a stainless steel pin, which you can use whichever way you want.

The design company says that there are two levels of reading the objects in the OBJ Collection. The first is to your “memory of the place”, which probably means how you interacted with the artwork in the Palais de Tokyo. The second level is where the function of the object comes in. It would be interesting how they will actually be used by people who buy these artisanal pieces.

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3D-Printed from food-grade silicone, Reusable is a collapsable, pocket-friendly cup you can carry anywhere

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Recycle and Reuse have become the buzzwords today. Most materials – single-use plastic excluded – are being recycled, and some plastic items such as bottles are reused to restrict them from reaching the landfills. Plastic pollution is therefore a big menace globally that designers are trying to solve with potentially innovative ideas. In that league we came across the Reusable: a collapsable, reusable cup that is made from food-grade material and fits right in your pocket so you can carry it wherever your routine takes you.

Disposable paper cups have been around for a long time now. Not essentially made with the purpose of being reused, such cups have to reach the landfills after one time use. All right, some of these to-go cups are recyclable, but some paper cups contain a plastic or wax coating – to prevent leaks – rending their unrecyclable. This is where a solution like the Reusable makes a lot of sense, not essentially because it can be recycled at the end of life, but since it can be reused a multitude of times before it can be retired from the lifecycle.

Designer: Kalina Gotseva

The brainchild of British-designed Kalina Gotseva, the Reusable has been 3D printed from durable, food-grade silicone. Made in a unique twisted design, after thousands of iterations on paper and other materials, the Reusable is made collapsable, transforming the cup from a full-sized option to a compact form factor that allows it to fit in the pocket.

Making a silicone cup with all the intricacies to make it reusable, the cup is a direct benefit product for millions of tea and coffee drinkers around the world, whose day wouldn’t start with the pipping hot beverage picked from the driveway in a throwaway one time use cup. This scenario could change with the benefit of Reusable which you can flip out of your pocket and have your drink served to you in it.

With the foldable and reusable design, the question of safety and convenience does arise in the mind. Gotseva has taken care of every detail, starting with making the entire foldable design self-contained. For that, the designer ensured that the body of the cup folds down flat and it can then fit securely in its cap to remain intact and dust-free in your pocket/bag. The protective cap is not just the Reusable’s case, in fact it has a tested push-and-pull slider on the drinking hole, which offers leak-proof convenience, so you can carry and drink your beverage safely, at your convenience.

The Reusable despite all the nifty features has sleek aesthetics paired with an ergonomic grip and three interesting color choices to pick a cup that matches your style. Created from BPA-free silicone, the cups are colored – with food-safe options – during the injection molding process. These are available in dark blue, light aquamarine, and vibrant orange colors to choose from. I don’t know about you, but I’m waiting for the Reusable to hit the market. My pick is orange, what’s yours?

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Elago Game Boy style MagSafe iPhone charger looks fun but comes up short

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Nostalgia is a powerful emotion, as proven by the number of successful crowdfunded projects and launched products that try to capitalize on this ongoing retro trend, especially in the gaming industry. Vintage designs of the past are today’s quirky oddities, and there are many who are quick to jump on the bandwagon. While many of these retro designs try to also recreate the experience of holding a real gaming console or turntable with some modern features and conveniences, others are just content to copy the aesthetics of old-school products and leave it at that. This MagSafe iPhone charger might be in that latter category, and while it is charming in the way it brings back fun, playful memories, it could have probably gone further if it really wanted to.

Designer: Elago

To be fair, the Elago WS M5 Charging Stand does exactly what it says it does, which is to offer a fun MagSafe charger in the design of the Nintendo Game Boy Advance SP. In that regard, it does its job well, providing a stable and useful stand for charging the phone. The fixed 30-degree angle, for example, is claimed to be perfect for watching videos or using iOS Standby Mode at night. It even has helpful support on its back to prevent the charger from tipping backward from the weight of the phone.

Elago never claimed that the stand was a functional gaming device, despite all visual indicators. It’s simply meant to inspire a trip down memory lane and nothing more. The buttons do nothing and you can’t fold the charger close like the original handheld it was based on. For a $25 MagSafe charging stand, that’s a bit disappointing. It sort of raises expectations and then dashes them quickly, making those good old days really feel more like a distant memory.

It’s also a missed opportunity for innovation and distinction. Sure, it won’t make much sense to turn it into a makeshift game controller, but having the buttons trigger some action on the phone or do anything at all is significantly better than making you feel like an idiot for expecting that a button press would actually result in something. A clamshell design would have also made this charging stand a bit more portable while relying on a kickstand mechanism to provide that same stability and support.

What this Game Boy-like MagSafe charger really accomplishes is to demonstrate the biggest benefit of this magnetic wireless charging technology. Sure, charging without cables is convenient, but its speed still leaves a lot to be desired. Instead, it’s the freedom to design a wider variety of accessories, from chargers to stands to docks, that MagSafe really shines, and this Elago WS M5, underwhelming as it might be, is just the tip of the iceberg of what’s possible.

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Unlock Seamless Connectivity with a Tiny Device That Redefines Device Integration

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The AURGA Viewer transforms connectivity by serving as a versatile, lightweight wireless HDMI dongle that seamlessly integrates a wide range of devices across various platforms. It combines the functionalities of a wireless video streamer, mouse, keyboard, touchscreen, and digitizer pen, extending the usability of devices far beyond their standard capabilities. This dongle supports high-definition video streaming at 1920x1080p 60Hz alongside 48K audio, ensuring a high-quality viewing and interaction experience.

Designer: AURGA Design

Click Here to Buy Now: $72 $99 (Use coupon code “YANKO” to get an additional $7 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

Ideal for diverse applications, the AURGA Viewer can be used with computers, laptops, single-board computers like Raspberry Pi, and gaming consoles such as the PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series, and Nintendo Switch. It also connects seamlessly with mini PCs, cameras, DSLRs, and TV boxes, enhancing its versatility. The device itself is incredibly portable, measuring only 79.4mm by 26mm by 11mm and weighing just 14.5 grams, making it easy to carry and use anywhere.

For Designers – Turn your tablet into a pen display for Windows 10.

For Professionals – More screen space by seamlessly extending your desktop.

For PC enthusiasts and technicians, the AURGA Viewer offers a particularly valuable solution. Typically, setting up a computer to access BIOS settings or conduct tests requires a complete setup with a monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The AURGA Viewer simplifies this process dramatically by allowing for platform-agnostic remote control with just an HDMI and USB connection—eliminating the need for a monitor or even an operating system installed on the PC. This can be a game-changer for testing PCs, bare motherboards, or any “headless” device, providing both display and control access directly from a mobile device or tablet via the AURGA app.

Amplify your Mini PC – Connect your iPad for greater computing power.

For Photographers & Videographers – A larger monitor screen to make sure your videos are perfect everytime.

A compelling use case also exists for Nintendo Switch users. The Switch operates in different performance modes—handheld and docked. In handheld mode, the display is limited to 720p, reducing visual quality to conserve battery life. However, when connected via the AURGA Viewer, the Switch can output its display to devices like PCs or tablets, allowing users to enjoy the enhanced visual quality of docked mode on a larger, more vibrant screen. This feature is useful when the TV isn’t available or when traveling, ensuring gamers still enjoy high-quality gameplay.

For Developers – Seamless coding experience with extra screen real estate.

For Gamers – Turn your mobile device into a portable gaming console.

Acting as an extension for PCs, the AURGA Viewer serves multiple purposes beyond entertainment, such as allowing a tablet or a second laptop to function as an additional screen. This element is particularly valuable for professionals looking to increase their productivity by expanding their available screen real estate. Additionally, it also allows for interactive control over the primary device using the secondary one, which includes using touch inputs or connecting peripheral devices.. This capability adds significant flexibility and efficiency to any workflow, enabling users to manage tasks and execute commands directly from their secondary screens. Whether for complex professional tasks, creative projects, or general multi-tasking, the AURGA Viewer integrates smoothly into a variety of digital environments, streamlining operations and extending the functionality of connected devices.

The device operates by connecting to devices through HDMI for video output and USB for power and peripheral connectivity. It does not require any software to be installed on the host device, making it a plug-and-play solution that’s easy to set up. The video and control signals are transmitted over a local Wi-Fi network, accessible through the AURGA app available for Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and even Android TV with some additional setup.

The AURGA Viewer is a versatile tool that broadens the functionality of electronic setups from gaming consoles to professional workstations. As a compact device, it offers robust solutions for enhancing connectivity and streamlining the use of various devices, making it an essential addition for anyone looking to optimize their digital interactions.

Click Here to Buy Now: $72 $99 (Use coupon code “YANKO” to get an additional $7 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

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