Tag Archives: Product Design

This Ultimate Magnetic Pen attaches to the side of any notebook like the Apple Pencil on an iPad

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If you love the idea of your Apple Pencil magnetically attaching to the side of your iPad, this ‘Inseparable Notebook Pen’ brings a similar concept to your analog diary or notepad. With a clever clip-on base and a magnetic pen, this piece of stationery ensures you’re never left searching for a pen. The magnetic interaction ensures the pen’s always attached to the side of your notebook, available at a moment’s notice whenever you need to sketch a concept, make a doodle, jot down an idea, or take notes during a meeting.

Designer: Yusuke Nagao

Click Here to Buy Now: $17

Inspired by Simplicity, Crafted for Perfection

Always Ready, Wherever Inspiration Strikes

The Inseparable Notebook Pen, as its name suggests, pairs your pen with your notebook to ensure they’re always together like the happy couple they are. The pen comes with a three-part design, featuring a plastic protector, a metal clip, and the ballpoint pen itself. The device works practically on any notebook, whether soft or hard-bound, giving you a convenient way to store your pen when not in use. However, just like the Apple Pencil sits diligently on the side of y23-our iPad, this pen waits patiently on the side of your notebook, diary, or pad too, waiting to be grabbed and used.

Effortless Writing, Anywhere You Go

To pair your book and pen, first start by placing the plastic protector on the edge of your book’s back cover. This ensures that the metal clip doesn’t accidentally damage your book (it would be a shame if your Moleskine had marks on them, no?) Once the plastic protector’s in place, fix the minimalist metal clip onto the back cover, ensuring it’s gripping your book cover securely. You can now ‘dock’ your pen onto the notebook of your choice. Once the notebook’s over, simply shift the protector and clip onto another notebook and you’re ready to go all over again!

A Daily Companion That Enhances Your Life

The Inseparable Notebook Pen is an adorably minimal piece of stationery that does something so simple, you’ll wonder why nobody’s ever thought of this before. We’re so used to placing pens in pockets or in stationery kits, it’s strange how nobody thought of putting it in the one place it NEEDS to be… your notebook! The pen sits flush against the side of your book, with a magnet that’s just strong enough to ensure that accidental bumps don’t dislodge the pen while in transit. A fabric pull-tag on top allows you to un-dock the pen when you need to write, and the clip’s satisfying magnetic action lets you snap the pen back when you’re done writing… or even if you just feel like fidgeting for a bit!

Click Here to Buy Now: $17

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Sony WF-C510 earbuds impress with Ambient mode, longer battery life and comfortable design

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The Sony WF-C500 earbuds have been the company’s budget true wireless option that may not rival the premium WF-1000XM5 but punch above their weight with a balanced sonic sound at a very reasonable price. The TWS earbuds were launched in September 2021 and have been a huge success all these years.

Now Sony has launched the successor to the WF-C500 earbuds with design tweaks, new features, and a price that’s hard to deny. In fact, the buds offer some advanced features that are rare for reputed budget options on the market. For example, including Ambient Sound Mode and multipoint connectivity for a price of $60 ($30 less than the outgoing model) is a deal-making prospect.

Designer: Sony

According to the Japanese consumer electronics giant, the WF-C510 earbuds are 20 percent smaller and 15 percent lighter than the outgoing model. These buds are the smallest ever closed-type designs by the company. The IPX4-rated buds can handle the odd splash or sweaty workouts, and they stay snug in place with a refreshed design that results from the analysis of users’ detailed ear shape data. So, one can be rest assured of a stable fit that’ll be comfortable for most people.

This time, Sony has gone for a more contoured shape on the outside, a flatter button surface and a matte finish for better grip and comfort. The cylindrical charging case made partially from recycled plastic is also thinner and smaller for convenience. Looks like they’ve taken a cue from the book of Jabra Elite 8 Active.

The battery also gets a bump up with a total time of 11 hours on the buds themselves and another 11 hours in the charging case. A quick charge of five minutes will give up to 60 minutes of listening time. Another lucrative feature users will cherish is the two-device Bluetooth multipoint connectivity compatible with Google Fast Pair and Microsoft Swift Pair. Supported audio formats on the C510 are SBC and ACC, making them ideal for music and gaming.

The sound signature from these earbuds will be balanced with not too much focus on any frequency range. That’s attributed to the 6 mm driver unit and a frequency response of 20 Hz – 20,000 Hz. Combine that with the in-app features including the 360 Reality audio, equalizer settings and DSEE upscaling, and you’ve got a very satisfying sound if you know how to tweak them right. Although ANC is missing, the buds make up with a far better passive voice isolation.

WF-C510 earbuds are now available in four color options – blue, yellow, black, and white – from Amazon. The eco-friendly initiative trickles down to the packaging too as it is 100 percent plastic-free. Being feature-packed and well-designed, the TWS earbuds are going to continue the success of the predecessor for sure.

The post Sony WF-C510 earbuds impress with Ambient mode, longer battery life and comfortable design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple Watch 3 can sit and watch as Garmin Fenix 8 Smartwatch arrives with AMOLED display

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Lately, Apple has been all over the news for its slated launch of the Watch Ultra 3 but Garmin seems to have undercut the Cupertino giant by launching its own set of new-age smartwatches. Yes, Garmin’s anticipated Fenix 8 AMOLED smartwatch is here alongside the modest Fenix E model.

The sports smartwatch will get a bright screen similar to a smartphone, thus making it crisp and highly visible in broad daylight. If you don’t want to keep charging your watch after a while, choosing the standard solar version with the time-tested MIP (Memory In-Pixel) display is a better option since it delivers added battery life. Either way, the Fenix 8 series will give tough competition to the Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra and the upcoming Apple smartwatch.

Designer: Garmin

The Garmin Fenix 8 comes in two sizes – 47mm and 51mm – for both the AMOLED and standard solar versions. The AMOLED model however gets another 43mm variant well suited to small hands. All the Fenix 8 versions will have built-in speakers and microphone to take calls, trigger the phone’s voice assistant, settings timers hands-free, or even listen to music. This is new to the Garmin Fenix line and something users will value in daily usage. According to official figures, the Fenix 8 AMOLED 51mm lasts for up to 29 days on a single charge while the standard Fenix 8 51 mm variant can go for a stellar 48 days with the screen always on.

This smartwatch is tested strictly according to US military standards for protection against fire and sudden shocks. It comes with a 40m water-resistance feature, and the app interface now gets the scuba diving and apnea modes. Garmin has also added a built-in flashlight function which is a welcome addition. The watch now has strength training plans that come with four to a week mode to achieve fitness goals, and guided workouts for trail running and skiing. Durability has been boosted with the inclusion of a sensor guard and leakproof buttons.

Garmin claims that they’ve improved the navigation features as the user can now customize layers on the map screen. Alongside this, the new dynamic round-trip routing feature lets you set a target distance to create an automated route that updates in real time for you to achieve that distance.

Depending on the model and variant chosen, the smartwatch can cost anywhere from $1000 – $1200. The Fenix 8 AMOLED versions are priced at $1000, $1100 and $1200 respectively. The standard 47 mm and 51 mm solar variants will cost $1100 and $1200.

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Leaked Google Pixel 9a image shows a MAJOR Design Change and No Camera Bump

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It seems like the Pixel’s A-series is a victim of its own success. While the last few A-series phones like the Pixel 6a, 7a, and 8a have been phenomenal retail successes (sometimes even being preferred by people over the flagships), this year might be different. If these leaked images are any indication, the upcoming Pixel 9a might see a major design update… but there’s probably a good reason why.

The recent leak of the Google Pixel 9a suggests a fresh approach to design in Google’s mid-range offering, one that may mark a departure from the aesthetic norms established by previous Pixel devices. The leaked renders, shared by @VNchocoTaco on X, reveal a design that forgoes the familiar visor-like camera bar seen on its predecessors. Instead, the Pixel 9a opts for a sleek, minimalistic camera island. This module, positioned on a flat back panel, introduces subtle design refinements that indicate a clear intention by Google to redefine the visual identity of its A-series line. Why, you ask? I can think of a few potential reasons.

Rendered Image Representation of the Google Pixel 9a

Like I mentioned earlier, the Pixel A-series has a reputation for being a little too popular. Even though it’s touted as a budget phone, most YouTubers and reviewers claim that it’s just as good as its flagship counterpart, if not better. It looks just like the flagship, with a very similar design, and an equally good camera. The A-series only gets a few minor downgrades in the form of screen quality, processor speed, lack of wireless charging, larger bezels, and notably a lower price… all of which are fairly acceptable trade-offs. As a result, most budget phone lovers prefer the A-Series phones OVER the flagships, leading to more sales while Google tries to push the more expensive models instead by providing offers/discounts, etc. This dramatic redesign is probably Google’s way of making sure the Pixel 9a doesn’t steal the 9 and 9 Pro’s thunder. If Google’s last keynote was any indication, the company is making a HARD pivot to Gemini, and the Pixel 9a will probably get the same Tensor G4 chip to support those Gemini features (otherwise nobody will buy the phone). By cutting back on the design but still providing remarkable AI functionality (along with camera chops), the Google team seems to be future-proofing their flagship phone while still making the A-series fairly lucrative. It’s a nice strategy, although the Pixel 9a images (if they’re real) show a phone that lacks any character.

The images show a phone with flat sides that curve gently at the edges, just like the Pixel 9, 9 Pro, and 9 Pro Fold. This shift creates a more ergonomic experience, addressing one of the criticisms directed at the earlier A-series models, which were sometimes described as cumbersome in hand. Despite this redesign, the bezel size remains largely unchanged compared to the Pixel 8a. For some, this may be a missed opportunity for a more streamlined display experience, especially when considering the bezel trends across mid-range competitors. Nevertheless, these design choices suggest that Google is focused on maintaining the practicality and accessibility that the A-series has become known for, rather than chasing industry trends.

Though the images’ authenticity remains unverified, the source claims that the leak originates from a Compal employee. Compal, a well-known manufacturing partner for Google, has been involved in producing various Pixel devices. It’s also rumored that the Pixel 9a will drop at the end of this year (rather than 2025) and will be available in 4 colors. If this information holds true, it adds credibility to the likelihood that these design changes are indeed intended for the upcoming Pixel 9a. Such a move to alter the design language signals that Google is perhaps aiming to establish a different identity for its A-series, distancing it from the flagship models while still retaining core features that are essential for a consistent user experience across the lineup.

The post Leaked Google Pixel 9a image shows a MAJOR Design Change and No Camera Bump first appeared on Yanko Design.

Vivo V40 Review: Keeping Things Simple and Sweet

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PROS:


  • Stylish and slim design

  • Large 5,500mAh battery

  • Impressive triple 50MP camera system

  • IP68 dust and water resistance rating

CONS:


  • Same specs as the Vivo V30 from early 2024

  • No dedicated telephoto camera

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Vivo V40 puts a new chic style on a proven no-nonsense phone that delivers a solid experience at an accessible price point.

The smartphone market is a very congested and crowded place, not just with multiple competing brands but with each brand putting out multiple models per generation on multiple tiers. You’d think these companies want to just put their best foot forward, but instead, they try to target different audiences and budgets. Of course, there will have to be certain compromises for devices that aim for a lower market tier, but the question is just how much can you sacrifice before all you’re left with is an unusable, unappealing slab of metal, glass, and plastic. That’s the question that the Vivo V40 has to face in light of its well-received Pro sibling, and we give it a good try to see just how well it can perform under certain constraints.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

With so many smartphones now sporting more powerful and bigger cameras, it’s no surprise how many are scrambling to fit them in an elegant design and how some are failing to succeed. Given the two 50MP cameras on its back, it’s actually quite a pleasant surprise that Vivo managed to hit the nail on the head with its V40 series. There’s still a noticeable and technically thick bump on the rear, but it is presented in such an elegant way that you probably wouldn’t mind at all.

The key to this design is what Vivo dubbed the Gemini Ring, inspired by the constellation of the same name. It pairs two smaller circles in a bigger circle, playing on the “twin” theme. Technically speaking, the lower “ring” with the Aura Light is a bit taller and connects to the ring that houses the actual cameras, resulting in a shape that resembles a sleek keyhole. It’s an interesting visual element that grabs your attention but doesn’t scream at you.

The rest of the Vivo V40’s back is just as elegant as that camera design, with a variety of colors that add an artistic character to the phone. Our review unit, for example, is the Moonlight White which has a few patches of blue that resemble the surface of the moon at night. The back has a very glossy finish which, as you might have guessed, is a fingerprint magnet, though the color of the design at least makes those smudges harder to see.

The Vivo V40’s large screen curves to the side, giving it the illusion of a thin profile. We seem to live in an age of flat screens and flat edges, so this “classic” design might offer some relief to fans. It does come with some usability consequences, though, depending on how you hold it, and not everyone finds this aesthetic that appealing these days.

Ergonomics

At only 7.58mm thick and weighing only 190g (0.42 lbs), the Vivo V40 is incredibly thin and light, especially when you consider the extra-large battery it packs inside. It won’t strain your hand when holding the phone for a long time, but due to its size, you’re more likely to hold it with two hands unless you’re just idly scrolling away.

The curved edges of the screen are probably a bit more divisive. More than just a cosmetic design, it means that there will be parts of the screen at the edges that are not always visible, depending on the viewing angle, or might be accidentally triggered by parts of your palm or fingers. It doesn’t happen all the time, otherwise, this kind of design wouldn’t have lasted a year, but it might be something to consider when you notice “ghost” touches from time to time.

Performance

Underneath the sleek exterior of the Vivo V40 lies a rather sneaky secret. In many aspects, this is pretty much the Vivo V30 from early 2024, just with a few minor upgrades. It has the same Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor and the same basic memory and storage configuration. There are other similarities as well that we’ll get to later, but the bottom line is that, in terms of performance, you aren’t going to see a distinct generational upgrade.

That means that what was true for the Vivo V30 is true for the Vivo V40, which thankfully means you do get a solid mid-range performer. With enough RAM allocation, which is 12GB plus another 12GB taken from the 512GB storage of our review unit, you have plenty of silicon muscle to get apps moving smoothly and fluidly. You’ll have to turn down the settings for games, but you’ll still be able to enjoy the latest action-packed titles. That said, there is a Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 at this point, so it’s rather disappointing that Vivo didn’t push for that extra punch.

The screen is almost the same, a 6.78-inch 2800×1260 120Hz AMOLED display that’s quite vibrant and crisp. This year’s model, however, upgrades the brightness by a considerable margin, which makes the phone even more usable outdoors. It supports HDR10+ but oddly leaves out Dolby Vision, something that might be of concern to video aficionados.

The biggest difference between the two generations is the 5,500mAh battery inside the Vivo V40, a whopping 500mAh increase from its predecessor. It does make the phone heavier and thicker than the V30, but not by much. The battery life gains pretty much make up for that anyway, with an uptime of almost 20 hours, depending on usage. It charges fast, too, at 80W, though not exactly record-breaking. The plot twist here is that Vivo doesn’t include a charger in the box, so you’ll have to find an 80W charger or higher on your own.

The cameras are where it’s all at, of course, and here the Vivo V40 doesn’t disappoint except in one aspect. Again, it’s the same combination of a 50MP f/1.9 main camera with OIS and a 50MP f/2.0 119-degree ultra-wide shooter. The front also gets a 50MP front-facing camera capable of shooting in 4K 30fps, which should probably make you a star in video meetings.

In practice, these ZEISS-tuned cameras deliver as promised, producing detailed and clear shots with natural colors and good exposure. That’s true both in broad daylight as well as low-light or nighttime shots, though the latter sometimes tend to get a little bit overexposed to the point of looking unnatural. Bokeh is pleasant and the separation of foreground and background is quite accurate. The Studio-quality Aura Light ring offers more flexibility with light temperature and intensity, creating more natural-looking lighting when needed. This stellar performance stops when you try to zoom in, though, even at just 2x. At that point, quality starts to degrade, which is to be expected from a camera system without a dedicated telephoto lens.

Sustainability

Vivo has been making big steps in improving its commitment to a greener future, and every little bit counts toward that goal. It might not be using recycled metals and plastics yet, but it might be slowly but surely getting on with the times. The Vivo V40, for example, doesn’t ship with a charger, helping decrease the potential e-waste from owning multiple chargers that do the same thing. Yes, you might have to buy a compatible charger if you still don’t have one, but that’s an investment that you will be able to use for other devices as well.

Perhaps the bigger step forward is taking this mid-range V series phone’s durability to the next level. From a measly IP54, the Vivo V40 now boasts an IP68 rating, putting it on the same level as more expensive flagship smartphones. What this means is that your phone won’t die on you so easily, prolonging its longevity and delaying its inevitable fate in the trash heap or recycling plant.

Value

To be painfully blunt, the Vivo V40 doesn’t exactly have a standout feature. Yes, the 50MP ZEISS cameras perform well, but other mid-range phones can match its output and even have a telephoto shooter in the gang. Its hardware isn’t exactly fresh or notable, but it does get the job done. The slim and sleek design is definitely eye-catching, but they always say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

Instead, it’s actually the sum of its parts that give the Vivo V40 its value. It’s a solid performer with dependable cameras wrapped in a premium-looking design, delivering long battery life and durability on par with high-end rivals. And when you slap on the $430 price tag, you basically get a mobile partner that you can rely on, as long as you don’t make too many demands.

Verdict

It is getting harder to stand out in a very crowded smartphone market, and some vendors have started making gimmicks, adopting exaggerated designs, or adding over-the-top features just to differentiate themselves. Sometimes it works, but most of the time you end up with an outlandish design that costs more than it’s worth. In contrast, the Vivo V40 opts for a simple yet solid design, delivering a well-rounded experience with a camera system that you can be proud of and a large battery that won’t let you down.

The post Vivo V40 Review: Keeping Things Simple and Sweet first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Must-Have Outdoor Lighting Solutions To Illuminate Your Camping and Backyard Adventures

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If you’re someone who loves spending time in the outdoors, camping and trekking through the woods, or simply enjoying a hot coffee in your backyard or garden, then you need to stock up on some excellent outdoor lighting designs. Gone are the days when outdoor lighting designs were boring and typically designed objects that did nothing but add light to a space. They usually tend to be extremely utilitarian, and serious. But we’ve managed to find some truly interesting outdoor lighting designs that don’t just illuminate, but manage to be versatile and aesthetically attractive as well.  From an easy-to-assemble Tomori Lantern Kit to a bioethanol brass fireplace – these clever and well-designed lights are all you need for your outdoor illumination requirements.

1. HOTO Flashlight DUO

This is the HOTO Flashlight DUO, an excellent lighting solution for outdoor scenarios. It features different modes and inclusions which allows the flashlight’s functionality to expand and improve. It is a practical and unique camping gear that will make for a great sidekick on your outdoor trips.

Why is it noteworthy?

The flashlight features a retractable magnetic hook, a magnetic base, and a strap to offer functionality in all kinds of situations. Users can go hands-free, helping them focus better on the tasks at hand. You can put the flashlight in a hanging space, or magnetically hook it onto a metal object.

What we like

  • Equipped with a simple interface that is honed by a knob and button which provides 13 light combinations

What we dislike

  • Expensive price tag that may not be appreciated by everyone

2. Harmony Flame Fireplace

Coined the Harmony Flame Fireplace, this sophisticated brass lamp lets you build a safe fire within your home, or outside. The lamp utilizes bioethanol to light up your home or backyard, spreading warmth wherever it is placed. The fireplace was made using the same technique adopted to build musical instruments.

Click Here to Buy Now: $239

Why is it noteworthy?

The Harmony Flame Fireplace was created to elevate the mood and ambiance of indoor and outdoor spaces. It is equipped with reflective surfaces which work well with the vivid flames, to create an interesting play of shadows and lights. The fireplace serves as a decorative piece, which is pretty aesthetically pleasing as well.

What we like

  • Allows you to enjoy a cozy fire inside your home and outdoors

What we dislike

  • Since it is powered by bioethanol, there is a risk of fuel dependency, since you need to purchase fuel again and again

3. FLEXTAIL Tiny Pump 2X

Meet the exceptional FLEXTAIL Tiny Pump 2X- the handiest travel EDC you will probably get your hands on. This innovative design can inflate beach balls and air mattresses, vacuum-pack clothes, and light up spaces! It is a tiny palm-sized gadget which helps you with a whole bunch of tasks while you’re in the outdoors.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Tiny Pump 2X inflates, deflates, and illuminates. It is equipped with a magnetic surface which allows you to mount it on different surfaces like the underside of the hood of your car. This is a really useful and nifty feature for when you’re using the gadget’s lamp to light up your surroundings.

What we like

  • Radiates 4500K white light (8 LED beads) for wide-range lightning and high-brightness
  • Paired up with diffuser attachments which give it a soft glow

What we dislike

  • The pump is pretty loud when it is on, which can be quite annoying

4. Japanese Lantern Candle

This soft lighting design is called the Japanese Lantern Candle, and it is inspired by the traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern. It has an intriguing billowy pillar shape which radiates a calming and ambient aura. The serene lighting design is great for romantic dinners in your backyard or garden! It will add a romantic and tranquil touch to your outdoor dinner dates.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

This candle design is designed to be a contemporary take on a beloved Japanese object. It features a tiny and minimalist ethos which doesn’t take up much space in your home. The lantern candle has a rather ethereal-looking glow which instantly puts onlookers at ease.

What we like

  • Made with non-melting wax which offers great clarity on the candle
  • Handcrafted by artisans in Kurashiki

What we dislike

  • The lantern candle is a fire hazard and must be steered clear from children and pets

5. Tomori Lantern Kit

Tomori Lantern Kit

Named the Tomori Lantern Kit, this one-of-a-kind kit lets you build your own compact little lantern! The lantern can be easily disassembled and put aside when you’re done using it. It cannot be used as a ready-made lantern, and you can collapse it once you’ve finished utilizing it. A traditional flashlight can be outfitted into the lantern.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39

Why is it noteworthy?

This innovative lantern includes a foldable cardboard piece that serves as the kit’s base and as a flashlight holder. The cardboard piece also offers structure to the lamp. It consists of an LED flashlight which can be used separately as well. The base can accommodate any other cylindrical flashlight as well.

What we like

  • The kit can be folded into a flat A4-sized package and packed away
  • Features a portable and easy-to-carry form

What we dislike

  • The lantern kit cannot deal with rain and other harsh weather conditions

5. Anywhere-Use Lamp

Anywhere-Use Lamp

Anywhere-Use Lamp

Named the Anywhere-Use Lamp, this portable lighting design is great for the outdoors and indoors. The minimal table provides gentle lighting in a world where harsh lighting and massive glaring screens reign supreme. It has a mushroom-inspired head, which emits a soft and warm glow while providing a comfortable ambiance.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

Why is it noteworthy?

It is equipped with a modular form which elevates the atmosphere no matter where you place it. It has six high-color rendering LEDs and offers a soothing luminescence, which transforms any living space into a soothing oasis of peace and calm.

What we like

  • Features 4 brightness levels
  • Can be assembled and disassembled, and carried anywhere with you

What we dislike

  • It isn’t water-resistant
  • It needs four AA batteries to function

7. Adaptev Headlamp

Meet the Adaptev Headlamp! This Porche-inspired adaptive tech allows you to make the most of hands-free illumination. This outdoor lighting design adapts to your every move, eliminating manual adjustments for good. It is designed to be a durable, reliable, and stylish product that empowers and supports you during your outdoor adventures.

Why is it noteworthy?

As you move your head, the Adaptev Headlamp automatically adjusts its light output, offering you a smooth and natural lighting experience that follows your gaze. The dynamic light is always directed exactly where you need it, ensuring you don’t need to constantly adjust it, and improving your overall visibility.

What we like

  • Adjusts the light output based on the wearer’s head movements
  • Builds confidence as you can focus on your outdoor task, instead of illumination

What we dislike

  • There is no tilt to it since the strap is rubber

8. Plisy Up Light

Named the Plisy Up light, this portable lighting design was reimaged as a floor lamp by the Spanish outdoor furniture brand Diabla. The lamp has maintained its characteristic pleated shade, and the updated variant is designed by Alejandra Gandia-Blasco. It features a powder-coated aluminum base with a polyethylene shade.

Why is it noteworthy?

The lampshade’s pleated personality is a tribute to the classic indoor reading lights, while the aluminum base has been blessed with a playful-looking jagged edge. Diabla describes Plisy Up as a “stylish and technological reinvention of the garden lantern”.

What we like

  • Adds a chic and fun touch to your outdoor evenings

What we dislike

  • The lamp looks a bit delicate, unsure how well it will handle weather conditions

9. LOVORK

Named the LOVORK 7-in-1 Modular Camping Lantern, this innovative lighting design is a versatile essential for your outdoor adventures. It is designed to elevate and enhance your camping experience, as it features a 1+6 magnetic modular combination. It is a state-of-the-art design offering unmatched versatility.

Why is it noteworthy?

The LOVORK offers powerful lighting a 500lm floodlight/mosquito repellent lamp and a 300lm adjustable focus spotlight. It is also equipped with a 10W 2.5KPA air pump, 5.5m/s fan, and 5W Bluetooth speaker. Amped with a 2X mosquito repellant effect, and a 5000mAh battery, you can have a stress-free camping experience with the LOVORK.

What we like

  • Features a compact form for easy storage and transport
  • Builds the perfect ambiance for a cozy night outdoors

What we dislike

  • Its single colour design makes it difficult to keep track of when travelling in a group.

10. Luminoodle Basecamp

The original Luminoodle light rope has been updated with the Luminoodle Basecamp which is twice as long,  and almost 10 times brighter at 3000 lumens. The light rope can also produce 15 colors of diverse brightness and strobing, including three white modes. These varying modes can be controlled in-line or through a wireless remote.

Why is it noteworthy?

At its full power, the Luminoodle Basecamp is super bright, and it can illuminate a VW engine block with ease. The various modes and colors can be easily controlled directly on the rope, or through a wireless remote as mentioned. So you don’t need to worry about working through the different modes.

What we like

  • Amped with 15 colors (three white), 10 brightness settings, and 4 strobe/fade modes
  • Waterproof design

What we dislike

  • It cannot be powered by USB

The post Top 10 Must-Have Outdoor Lighting Solutions To Illuminate Your Camping and Backyard Adventures first appeared on Yanko Design.

Lexar’s Tiny SSD lets you record 4K ProRes Video without clogging your iPhone’s Storage

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Everyone knows the iPhone has a great camera – Lexar gives you a great SSD to match.

When I bought my iPhone 15 Pro Max, I knew for a fact that storage was going to be a problem in the long run. With the ability to record in 4K ProRes, and shoot high-quality images, the iPhone’s cameras are pretty state-of-the-art. The problem is that they’re so good they blast through your phone’s internal storage in a month or so if you’re not careful. It’s all by design, unfortunately. Apple also makes money off its iCloud subscription. iCloud might work for a solid 80% of regular consumers out there, but for mobile photographers/videographers, content creators, and camera enthusiasts, having to constantly interface with a cloud drive isn’t just a hassle, it’s counterintuitive.

That’s where Lexar comes in with its Go Portable SSD and Multiport Hub, designed specifically for people recording media in high-res formats. Barely the size of your thumb, the Go SSD boasts a capacity of up to 2TB and plugs right into your phone, giving you the benefit of recording directly on the device without clogging your phone’s storage or having to upload to the cloud. It plugs right into your phone, eliminating the need for extra wires. Alternatively, it can be paired with Lexar’s USB-C hub, which also lets you connect other devices like a power bank to keep your iPhone running over long shoots that can take multiple hours.

Designer: Lexar Design Team

Click Here to Buy Now: $129 $189 (32% off). Hurry, only 267/500 left! Raised over $771,000.

Designed specifically to complement the iPhone 15 Pro models, this innovative SSD + Hub tag-team offers up to 2TB of additional storage, a significant boost for those who demand ample space for their projects. In fact, Lexar designed the SSD specifically for people who like recording in ProRes 4K@60fps.

With up to 2TB storage and extra USB-C ports, it’s perfect for shooting bulky ProRes videos.

By offloading footage to the SSD, users can continue recording without interruptions, allowing for longer takes and more ambitious productions. However, the benefits extend beyond storage capacity. The integrated USB-C hub transforms the iPhone into a versatile production hub, enabling the connection of essential accessories such as microphones, lights, and external power sources.

Both the SSD and Hub boast the same machined aluminum design, with a slim form factor that complements the iPhone and MacBook’s anodized metal finish. The SSD and Hub click together perfectly too, becoming almost one product visually, with a mere thumb dimple to help you unplug them once you’re done. The Go Portable SSD and Hub are envisioned to be used together but can operate independently depending on the filmmaker’s specific needs. The SSD itself is particularly compact, measuring just 1.71 x 0.98 x 0.32 inches. It has a bent connector to neatly fit behind the iPhone when plugged in, maintaining a streamlined setup without protruding cables.

The Hub, which is slightly larger at 2.71 x 1.71 x 0.32 inches, sits flush with the SSD, offering four USB-C ports for connecting additional peripherals like microphones, power banks, gimbals, and other accessories. The thoughtful design also includes a 30W power delivery feature, making it easy to charge devices while simultaneously supporting data-transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps.

The Go Portable SSD stores all your media locally, letting you access/transfer/process media files on multiple devices without needing a stable internet connection. This SSD offers read speeds of up to 1050MB/s and write speeds of up to 1000MB/s, providing near-instantaneous access to files and allowing quick data transfers that boost workflow efficiency. This makes it a compelling option for photographers, videographers, and other digital professionals who need reliable, high-speed storage solutions.

With your data stored offline, it’s impermeable to hacks, leaks, and breaches. For users concerned about theft, the Go Portable SSD also has 256-bit AES encryption, allowing you to password-protect your media from being accessed by unauthorized people. Go ahead, sign that NDA before filming!

While the focus is largely on iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max users, Lexar’s new products are also compatible with the iPad and Android devices that support USB-C and OTG functionality. This widens the scope for mobile filmmakers across platforms, although the primary market remains centered around Apple’s latest devices. The Go Portable SSD is available in 1TB and 2TB capacities, catering to different storage needs, and both models boast IP65 ratings, ensuring protection against dust and water splashes, enabling users to film in a variety of conditions.

You can either spring for just the SSD, or opt for the SSD + Hub combo. The latter also includes a silicone protective case, a male-female adapter, a male-male adapter, a cold shoe adapter cable for camera rigs, a storage box, a storage bag, and 20 label stickers you can apply onto the SSD to help you keep track of the media stored on it. The Lexar Professional Go SSD and Hub both ship globally, with a 5-year warranty on each product.

Click Here to Buy Now: $129 $189 (32% off). Hurry, only 267/500 left! Raised over $771,000.

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Wearing this gadget for 45 minutes a day can fix your sleep cycle

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Your sleep health is more linked to your regular health than you think. A lack of sleep (or just bad quality sleep) can lead to fatigue, cognitive issues, or even physical illnesses… and 1 in 3 people are at risk of these, because of bad quality (or quantity) sleep. The reason? Exposure to screens, working odd hours/shifts, inconsistent bedtimes and wake-up times, or even jet lag. However, this slick wearable device hopes to remedy this problem using just light.

Designer: Re-Time

Click Here to Buy Now: $129 $200 (35.5% off). Hurry, only a few left!

The retimer 3 emits specific wavelengths of blue-green light underneath your eye, retimer 3 works in tandem with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. This light has been scientifically proven to adjust the body clock and regulate melatonin production, the hormone responsible for inducing sleepiness. Consequently, consistent morning use of retimer 3 can help regulate the body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep at night and wake up refreshed.

Designed by Re-Time, an Australian sleep-tech company working in tandem with researchers from Flinders University in Adelaide, the retimer 3 builds on an existing ecosystem of healthcare wearables… but in a different way. “We are seeing a proliferation of wearables like smartwatches, smart rings, and apps designed to monitor and track sleep behavior,” say the folks at Re-Time. “While improvements in sensor technology and AI have made these wearables increasingly sophisticated, they primarily serve as monitoring tools.” The retimer 3, on the other hand, gives you control over your sleep patterns. The retimer 3, comes with its mobile app, which provides consumers with a simple method to create, manage, and monitor the usage schedule to effectively address sleep issues – whether arising from travel, odd-hour work, or misaligned body clock.

The retimer 3 sports a slick form factor, reminiscent of an under-eye rimless spectacle frame. It is designed to rest on the bridge of your nose, with under-eye light delivery. In fact, the retimer 3 can even be worn with your spectacles on. The device is designed to be fairly lightweight at just 36 grams or 1.2 ounces, and comes with a foldable design that makes it easy to carry around to work or even to travel with.

The folks behind the retimer 3 recommend wearing it for just 45-60 minutes each day for the device to help restore your circadian cycle and body’s melatonin production. The app offers personalized recommendations based on individual sleep patterns and goals. Users can set sleep schedules, create personalized light therapy routines, and monitor their progress over time. Integration with popular health platforms like Apple Health and Android Health Connect further enhances the device’s utility by syncing sleep data along with fitness data and overall health metrics. This data-driven approach allows users to identify potential correlations between sleep patterns and other health metrics, alongside actually seeing a difference in sleep scores over the weeks and months.

While light therapy is a cornerstone of retimer 3, the device’s impact extends beyond simply regulating sleep-wake cycles. Your sleep quality is intrinsically linked to your mental and physical health. By improving said sleep quality, users can expect enhanced cognitive function, mood elevation, and increased energy levels. Adequate sleep is also essential for physical health, aiding in muscle repair, immune function, and overall well-being.

The retimer 3 builds on over 25 years of research, and 12 years of market understanding (the first Re-Timer launched in 2012). Whether dealing with onset insomnia, struggling to adjust to new time zones, or facing the challenges of shift work, retimer 3 offers a practical method to regain control over their sleep patterns without medication or side effects. retimer 3 is now available for pre-order, with international shipping as early as October 2024.

Click Here to Buy Now: $129 $200 (35.5% off). Hurry, only a few left!

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Game Boy-inspired Nintendo Switch Console Features Unique Tiny Swappable Joy-Cons

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This Nintendo Switch redesign gives the epic console a major blast from the past. From the mind of Carota Design, the concept comes with a Game Boy vertical form factor, but still retains the essence of what gave the Nintendo Switch cult status – swappable Joy-Cons. The Nintendo ‘Switoo’, as Carota Design calls it, comes with two swappable controller modules (very similar to PhoneBloks or Google’s Project Ara) that can be replaced/interchanged, allowing you to build a control layout of your choice. The D-Pad and Action buttons can be ditched for a steering wheel and pedals while playing racing games, or create your own combination of control modules depending on the sort of interface you crave. The console itself comes with what I can only describe as a very contemporary tech device, with the use of slick machined metal parts along with a transparent housing on the back that hat-tips the current transparent design trend seen on a lot of popular tech devices.

Designer: Carota Design

The Switoo gets its name from an abstract visual representation of the two modular controls on the sides of the console. The logo also shows how the modules slide in and out, locking into place when you want to play a game, and docking out when you want to swap controls depending on the next game you’re looking to play. Aside from these interchangeable modules, the Switoo has two triggers on the back, accessible with your index fingers while gaming.

The Switoo features a fairly ergonomic design, thanks to the fact that it has a thicker base. The side profile shows a stepped design, resulting in a screen area that’s fairly slimmer than the overall device, giving you a perfect stepped ledge to place those two trigger buttons. The front features a pretty clean almost edge-to-edge square display (presumably touch-sensitive), under which lie the swappable control mods. A front-facing speaker at the bottom fires audio towards the user as they game, quite similar to the front-facing speaker grills on the original Switch.

The controllers are the highlight of the Switoo’s unique design. Available in a variety of styles, they slide right into the sides of the console, snapping in to connect, just like Joy-Cons. A yellow guide helps you make sure you’re sliding the controllers in the right way, and switches on the side help lock the controllers in place so they don’t fall out accidentally during a rather enthusiastic gaming session. It’s safe to speculate that these controllers work only by being plugged in, and not wirelessly, like the Joy-Cons. Since they’re this tiny (and are individual controls like the D-Pad being its own module, and the action buttons having their own separate module), one can assume there’s no wireless chip or even a battery inside the controllers. Instead, pogo-pins help connect the controllers to the main console.

The square screen, Game Boy-inspired format, and modern design make the Switoo a unique successor to the Switch. One wouldn’t really call it a Switch 2 or a 2nd-gen version of the Switch console, but it definitely feels like a nice spin-off, marrying existing classic design formats with the unique appeal of Nintendo’s Switch console. There’s an understated simplicity to the Switoo’s design that you immediately appreciate. The sleek metal body, USB-C charging, minimal detailing, and transparent caseback, all make the Switoo look pretty modern. The only problem is the fact that this is a fan-made concept and not something I can throw my money at!

The post Game Boy-inspired Nintendo Switch Console Features Unique Tiny Swappable Joy-Cons first appeared on Yanko Design.

Artistic unibody chair concept is simple, stackable, and stunning

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All chairs have a common, standard purpose, but there is no hard rule to follow when it comes to their design. As long as they offer a stable seating surface, and in most cases, some form of back support, they qualify as an acceptable piece of furniture, even if the actual experience can be a bit uncomfortable at times. It’s only by convention, for example, that most chairs have four legs or are made of different pieces, and some designs try to push the boundaries of what’s physically possible when it comes to the composition and form of chairs. This concept, for example, does away with the standard makeup of this kind of furniture and instead embraces a single flowing form that, surprisingly enough, works just as well in terms of practical use.

Designer: Deniz Aktay

Bending a single sheet of material, be it metal or plastic, into a less trivial form isn’t exactly easy, especially when you have to make sure that it is stable enough to sit on. You need not only balance but structural integrity as well since it will be something that humans expect to be safe to use. Some designs tend to overcomplicate things to meet those goals, but this chair concept goes in the completely opposite direction with its extreme simplicity.

Named after the last Greek alphabet, the Omega design concept simply takes a single folded sheet of material and bends it at the sides and back to create the two wide legs and backrest of the chair. There are no sharp angles in this design, giving the seamless form a smoother and more organic appearance. While it is aesthetically pleasing, it isn’t just an art piece, and at least based on the concept, it is just as functional as your stereotypical four-legged plastic chair.

In particular, the design of the Omega chair allows it to be stacked together, rather unexpected given its nontrivial shape. It doesn’t even take up more space than most stackable chairs, which makes the design practical for widespread production and use. It definitely offers an interesting alternative to common mass-produced designs as it offers both a compact shape as well as an attractive appearance.

On the surface, the Omega design also looks sturdy, with the legs angled inward to cover a bigger surface area than a normal straight edge. There might, however, be some concerns with the comfort of the seat itself, as the curved sides could make some slide off too easily. The backrest might also be too short for comfort, with the top edge digging into people’s backs when they lean backward. Nonetheless, it’s a beautiful and simple design that could be improved on for an even more comfortable and ergonomic experience.

The post Artistic unibody chair concept is simple, stackable, and stunning first appeared on Yanko Design.