You are what you eat, they say… surely the Bean Coffee Machine eats a whole lot of coffee beans, am I right?! A clever visual redesign of the standard coffee machine, this particular appliance by Juliana Juleva tries to make the ubiquitous coffee-brewer instantly recognizable. The way she does it is by making the machine look like a giant bean from afar. Look at it and even if you’re not a coffee drinker, chances are you’ll recognize exactly what it is and what it’s used for. The intuitive design is further complemented by an intuitive user interface, which employs a simple yet large touchscreen to help you brew the perfect cup of coffee ever. Place your empty mug, tap a button, and wait for the giant bean to give you a cup of pure bliss!
Designer: Juliana Juleva
The Bean Coffee Machine doesn’t try to be too fancy. It doesn’t look overtly industrial, or too high-tech like something Apple would have designed. Instead, it tries to opt for visual familiarity by taking inspiration from the shape of a coffee bean. The machine comes with an oval shape, sporting broad and gentle curves that make it look as smooth as a roasted coffee bean. It’s propped up vertically on four legs, and comes with a relatively simple front surface that has the interface on top, and a dispenser at the bottom.
Using the Bean machine is incredibly intuitive too. A transparent window on top lets you look into the machine’s coffee storage, letting you know if it has enough supply of roasted beans. If not, all you do is load fresh beans in, and you’re ready to brew. Right underneath the window is an interface that has the simplicity of a menu card. Tap the kind of coffee you want Bean to brew and it gets to work. The coffee gets dispensed right into your cup below, letting you choose from multiple options from the classic flat white or americano, to even more eclectic options like a decaf.
The Bean comes in 5 colors – black, white, bronze, silver, and our favorite, metallic brown. Sure, everyone’s entitled to having a coffee machine that complements their tastes and interior decor, but the metallic brown Bean just plays to the visual metaphor perfectly, and it kind of does look like an instant classic too, if you ask me personally. The machine was designed for a Russian coffee brand, although it hasn’t hit the market yet.
They say that algae, not trees, help produce a majority of the breathable air around us. Covering large parts of land and sea, this wonder-organism does a remarkable job of purifying the air and enriching it with oxygen… so imagine being able to harness nature’s purifier and have it in your home. Unveiled at Milan Design Week, the AIReactor by EcoLogicStudio is a sleek, three-foot-tall structure with a recycled birch plywood frame. At its heart lies a glass photobioreactor containing a vibrant green liquid teeming with microalgae cultures.
Designer: EcoLogicStudio
Through photosynthesis, algae naturally convert carbon dioxide and pollutants into clean oxygen. The AIReactor continuously pumps air into the bioreactor, mimicking natural water currents for optimal algae growth. As the algae perform their photosynthetic magic, they filter out harmful pollutants, leaving behind cleaner air.
“In addition to capturing pollutants, the microalgae cultivated in AIReactor can be harvested and utilized to produce biopolymers for 3D printing products,” said the studio. “After harvesting, the algae biomass can be dried and then undergo further processing to produce biopolymers, which are natural polymers derived from renewable plant-based sources.”
The biomass generated by the algae after it has filtered the air becomes a valuable resource. EcoLogicStudio harvests this biomass and uses it to create biopolymers, natural polymers derived from renewable sources. The studio recently unveiled the PhotoSynthetica collection, comprising the AIReactor, along with a stool and a ring made from the biopolymers generated during the air filtration process. Building on their 2018 research project, the PhotoSynthetica collection incorporates biomass, a waste material harvested from microalgae, into a series of everyday objects. This innovative approach expands upon the project’s initial exploration, which saw the creation of a large-scale tree sculpture.
The PhotoSynthetica collection is on display from 15 to 21 April as part of Isola Design Festival 2024 during Milan Design Week.
For those who value a well-maintained lawn but dislike manual labor in the hot summer sun, a solution is in sight. The Mowrator S1 is not just an average mower. This powerful, remote-controlled lawn mower does most of the work for you. It features a full-size blade for efficient cutting, a long-lasting battery, and built-in safety mechanisms to stay cool even in high temperatures. It also has smart sensors for easy navigation. When Autumn arrives with its inevitable blanket of fallen leaves, the Mowrator S1 shines again. An optional attachment transforms it into a powerful leaf vacuum, simplifying what could otherwise be a tedious cleanup task. Let’s explore how this innovative, battery-powered, remote-controlled mower, capable of handling slopes, can be the go-to solution for maintaining the neat look of your residential or commercial outdoor spaces.
The Mowrator S1 features a robust 21-inch blade, ideal for efficiently covering large areas and tackling dense, tall grass like St. Augustine, which can grow over 7 inches. The use of a standard-sized blade, similar to traditional mowers, ensures efficiency and reliability. Unlike many robotic mowers that struggle with tougher grass and even thick bushes of weeds due to smaller blades, the Mowrator S1 maintains consistent, high-quality performance across a range of lawn conditions.
Impressively, the company has tested this mower in some of the most demanding conditions, particularly on dense St. Augustine grass. This demonstrates that the Mowrator S1 can effortlessly manage what other robotic mowers can’t. It’s not just about cutting the usual lawn; even the tallest, driest grass doesn’t stand a chance. That said, the Mowrator S1 is also designed to conquer challenging terrains. From steep inclines to uneven fields dotted with ditches, its four-wheel drive system ensures smooth navigation and conquest – so powerful that it’s capable of pulling a car. No longer will you deal with the frustration of a mower that stumbles on uneven ground.
For anyone who’s ever struggled with the daunting hills and steep slopes of their property, the Mowrator S1 feels like a trusted landscaper, capable of tackling inclines that would make most mowers balk. The real charm lies in its remote control feature, offering a safer, more comfortable alternative to the precarious perches of riding mowers without any compromise on performance. And for someone like me, who battles fierce reactions to dust, pollen, or exhaust fumes, the ability to guide this mower from afar is nothing short of a breath of fresh air, making lawn care a breeze rather than a burden.
While not entirely self-operating, this lawn mower introduces an effortless approach to managing vast expanses of green. A simple button press activates seamless cruise control, propelling the device forward without constant guidance. Embedded within is a sophisticated IMU, ensuring it maintains a straight trajectory across uneven terrains. Another button press effortlessly makes a U-turn, easily laying down those professional-grade lawn stripes. It’s these intuitive, almost human-like touches that make the Mowrator S1 feel like more than just a machine; it’s a reliable tool that you can trust to get the job done right.
On top of everything the Mowrator S1 is capable of, from meticulously manicuring your lawn to bravely battling steep slopes, the real icing on the cake is its transformation into a formidable leaf vacuum. With just an optional add-on, this versatile mower becomes your garden’s guardian, wielding a specialized vacuum blade and a clever windshield design to summon suction power that rivals traditional gas-powered vacuums.
This upgrade enhances its utility and extends its reach to the nooks and crannies of your garden with an extendable vacuum hose, ensuring no leaf is left behind, even in the most delicate flower beds and around bushy areas. And the cherry on top? The Mowrator S1 simplifies your life with its one-button dumping system, allowing you to clear out collected debris effortlessly. This feature makes cleaning your lawn as relaxed as spending an afternoon in the comfort of your backyard.
Wrapping it all up, if tackling your weekend lawn care feels like going into battle with your yard, the Mowrator S1 is equipped and ready, from the front lines to the final retreat in the backyard. At its core lies a rechargeable 18Ah LiFePO4 battery, your secret weapon ensuring every inch of your terrain is covered on a single charge. This battery is built for the long campaign, with a lifespan of up to 1500 cycles, potentially serving you for a decade of weekly three-acre engagements. Its built-in cooling system and protective casing ensure it remains durable and reliable through every season.
The company is seeking TUV safety certification for the Mowrator S1 for enhanced safety. If granted, it will be the first RC Mower with this certification, further solidifying its reputation for innovation and reliability. Winning the lawn battle isn’t only about power. The Mowrator S1 uses advanced ultrasonic sensors to proactively detect obstacles, pets, or family members, temporarily stopping its blades to avoid accidents. And for those moments of unexpected encounters or curiosity, the mower features a quick-stop mechanism that immediately halts the blades if the grass discharge area is accessed, ensuring every surprise is safely managed.
Lighting plays a pivotal role in shaping the ambiance and character of a space. The Helix Lamp, a creation by innovative minds, redefines the concept of illumination with its striking 3D-printed coil design. Beyond mere functionality, this lamp serves as a statement piece, infusing spaces with a touch of whimsy and charm.
At first glance, the Helix Lamp captivates with its mesmerizing coil structure. Its appeal extends far beyond aesthetics. The genius lies in its remarkable adaptability. The central feature of the lamp is its inner light orb, suspended within the intricate coil. What sets it apart is the ability to adjust the height of the orb simply by rotating the coil. Imagining them moving, reminds me of the retro charm of lava lamps, this modern iteration brings a fresh twist to contemporary interiors. This interactive feature not only adds a playful element but also allows users to customize their lighting experience effortlessly.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the lamp is its versatility in lighting options. Users have the freedom to personalize their illumination by adding or removing orbs, thereby modulating brightness levels according to preference. Whether you seek a soft, ambient glow for relaxation or a brighter light for task-oriented activities, the Helix Lamp adapts seamlessly to meet your needs.
The lamp finds its perfect niche in vibrant, dynamic environments craving a touch of quirkiness. Ideal for kids’ rooms, play areas, or any space with a lively atmosphere, it injects personality and character effortlessly. Its ability to evoke nostalgia while embodying modern design sensibilities makes it a standout piece that sparks conversation and admiration.
From bedside tables to cozy corners beside a couch, the lamp effortlessly integrates into various settings, enhancing the visual appeal of any room. Its diffused outer layer ensures a soft, gentle glow that bathes the surroundings in warmth and comfort. The well-rounded shapes of the orbs further contribute to the overall softness of the lighting, creating a serene ambiance that invites relaxation and tranquility.
With an aesthetic reminiscent of Arya Stark’s sword, the needle, in Game Of Thrones, the CRKT Flat Out is best described as ‘functional art’. It’s small, and deceptively thin, yet packs an absolute punch with how sharp and spry it is. In short, it’s the kind of knife you underestimate the first time, and trust blindly every time after that.
Designed by veteran blade artisan Matthew Lerch, the Flat Out has a silhouette that feels instantly iconic. While most knives are made to be fairly broad (because nobody wants a flimsy blade), the Flat Out is exceptionally thin. Sure, vertically, the knife has a 4.42-inch handle with a sizeable 3.57-inch blade… but horizontally, it’s just about as thin as your finger, which makes it feel slim, and weigh less than most, at about 3.6 ounces or 102 grams.
The slimness, however, is just the first thing you notice with the Flat Out. It still sports a wonderfully ergonomic stainless steel handle, letting you firmly and reliably hold the knife during use, and an 8Cr13MoV steel drop-point blade that feels almost like a needle-point with how slim it is. The blade’s 3.57-inch edge puts it well in the ‘mid-size’ knife category, while still looking and feeling small… and is sharp enough to get any job done, whether it’s cutting, slicing, shearing, or carving. That pointed tip makes it absolutely lethal for piercing too, turning the EDC into a worthy opponent against everything from delivery boxes and envelopes to even wood and leather.
Trained initially as a jewelry designer, Matthew Lerch found himself with a penchant for knife design rather soon in life. Working extensively with CRKT, the Wisconsin-based designer has been honored with some prestigious awards for some of his EDC designs. Slim yet hard-working, understated yet powerful, Lerch’s Flat Out knife for CRKT is a beautifully badass paradox.
The Flat Out is slim yet grippy, giving you a long handle to hold comfortably onto. The assisted flip knife sports a frame lock that holds the blade in place, and some rather beautiful-looking jimping (serrated texture) on top of the blade to comfortably rest your thumb while using the knife for a perfectly dependable grip while cutting and maneuvering. Fold the knife shut and it easily slides into your pocket, with a clip that securely holds the EDC in place for you to easily retrieve whenever you need… whether it’s for cutting open boxes, slicing branches in the outdoors, defending yourself, or just admiring from time to time.
For growing kids having a brand new pair of shoes can be a nightmare in just a year as their feet grow. Sure, they can get a new pair even though the last one is fairly good to use, but there are environmental impacts to this if that concerns you. A pair can generate up to 30 pounds of CO2 emissions which is something you’d want to avoid at all cost.
The 4Steps 3D-Printed sneakers concept by Michele Di Carlo wants to get over the issue of growing kids and piles of shoes that end up in landfills every year. In works ever since 2017, the project wants to help address the problem of eco-sustainability in the footwear industry. The use of a 3D printer to make a pair further lessens the environmental impact.
The target audience for this resizable pair of sneakers weighing 123 grams is kids aged between 6 and 14 who can use the same shoe for almost five years (that’s if they use them with care) before needing a new one. Each separate part of the shoe can be replaced for easy recycling and repair if needed. The use of molded parts having a honeycomb structure adds to the lightweight aesthetics of the pair. Michele has created a prototype of the sneakers using Filafex filament, a type of thermoplastic polyurethane known for its softness and durability.
The level of customization is not just restricted to size, the kids can choose to replace the style of uppers and sides, and also change the color or personalize them with logos or characters. Changing the size or replacing new customizable sections is as easy as taking them apart and assembling the pair again. The adjustable sneakers come with retractable heels to fit the new shoe size and all the pieces can be stringed back easily under the supervision of an adult.
4Steps sneakers are held together with the elastic strings and the adjustments can be made by unclipping and then clipping these strings back. For the summertime, the shoes have a breathable mesh while for the winter season, a layer of insulation can be put. For now, the cool sneakers are in the concept and prototyping phase, and we hope to see them as a real product soon.
When we’re doing up our home, we always focus on the furniture we place in it or on the interior decor style we prefer, but focusing on home decor accents is equally important. These little decorative items can truly uplift the aesthetic appeal of a space, adding a personalized touch that will resonate with you and your visitors. A well-selected set of home decor accents can truly set the perfect tone for your home, and if they’re minimal and super-functional, well they tick all the boxes then! We’ve put together a collection of functional, nifty and visually pleasing home decor accents that you need to check out!
1. Pop-Up Book Vase
This enchanting pop-up book vase holds and presents your flowers in a manner that is truly fairy tale-ish! You can open the cover to reveal a 3D cutout of the vase, which is designed to showcase the colorful beauty of your precious floral arrangement. You can flip a page to unveil another graceful vase design, allowing you to have a fresh presentation when you feel like it.
You can even turn the book upside down, to get another pretty view from a different perspective. This pop-up book vase is a simple yet creative way to make your flowers stand out, and truly pop. You can start your flowery adventure with this clever pop-up book vase.
What we like
It features three unique and graceful pop-up vase designs
Crafted from 100% natural pulp with water-resistant coating
What we dislike
Looks a bit difficult to clean and maintain, no clear instructions on how to do so
2. Battery-free aroma Diffuser
Dubbed the battery-free aroma diffuser, this little product is an excellent option to bring some fragrant and fresh air into your home. You can take deep breaths and relax without causing any harm to the environment. The diffuser harnesses the power of a single candle by using simple physics and science.
This unique diffuser is battery-free, and you don’t need any external power sources to operate. It only relies on the heat of a single candle, spreading relaxing and calming aromatic scents through your house. The diffuser is also made from sustainable materials, lending it an eco-friendly ethos.
What we like
The diffuser is crafted from recyclable materials
It is compatible with different kinds of essential oils
What we dislike
Since the diffuser doesn’t have electric controls, it can be tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma
3. CD Jacket Player
Relive your favorite musical moments with CDs, while also appreciating their accompanying album art no matter where you may be with this CD Jacket Player. The CD Jacket Player not only accommodates classic audio CDs but also uplifts their aesthetic appeal by merging with their jackets.
This CD Jacket Player not only boasts the CD jacket art but can also be mounted on your wall functioning as a minimal and decorative element in your home. The jacket player lets you display your favorite album art, while also elevating the visual appeal of your living space.
What we like
The CD Jacket Player is designed to add some style and personality to your living space
What we dislike
Digital music streaming reigns supreme nowadays, so a CD player is a limiting product
4. Bookish Bookmark
Named the Bookish Bookmark, this little product lets you enjoy a hands-free reading session while letting you keep your book open without having to employ any awkward workarounds. You don’t need to put down the book with something ugly and heavy.
The Bookish Bookmark is great for those who want to showcase their favorite books as an element in their home. Equipped with a clean transparent design, it keeps your book open while adding a visually interesting element to your desk or bookshelf.
What we like
The Bookish Bookmark lets you display your favorite book in a neat and aesthetic manner
What we dislike
It might be too large for small books, and disliked by those who prefer discreet bookmarks
5. Moon Rock Clock
You can now bring your love of outer space and the Moon to your home with the Moon Rock Clock! This simple yet striking clock lets you live your space travel fantasies, within the comfort of your own home. It is made from specially polished stainless steel and features a circular shape while capturing the mystique of the moon with numbers that artfully float around the edges.
The numbers seem to wane and wax around just like the moon. As you take a glimpse of the clock, it gives you a subtle reminder to live life with a spirit of adventure, just like the rocket ship that makes its way around the moon. The minimalist clock with its moon travel-inspired ethos is a reminder to follow your dreams.
What we like
The printed numbers seem to float and vanish around the moon
What we dislike
It is a big and bulky design and will occupy substantial space on your desk or table
6. Invisible Shoehorn
Meet the Invisible Shoehorn, a nifty product designed to save your back and socks, as it will harmoniously disappear into the background when it isn’t being used. The Shoehorn features a long stainless steel body which prevents any kind of snags and tears in the stockings and shoes.
The Invisible Shoehorn is super unique as it artfully disappears into the background when it is not in use. It features a transparent stand and makes for an attractive and intriguing decorative element for your home. The shoehorn has a practical utility and decorative appeal.
What we like
Seamlessly merges with the background of your home when it isn’t being used
It is a functional product with aesthetic appeal as well
What we dislike
Not very economically priced
7. The Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set
This tiny relaxation-inducing product is called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, and it lets you enjoy an outdoor fire within the comfort of your own home. This little set captures the various scents, smells and joy of a lovely outdoor fire, without any of the issues of a massive outdoor fire.
The mini hardwood used for the diffuser is collected from branches that were intended to be discarded away. They give off a warm smoky smell when burnt on the stainless steel mini oven, giving off a comforting aroma. You can add a few drops of the essential oils extracted from Mt.Hakusan trees, and an authentic outdoor scent will spread through your home.
What we like
The diffuser can be used as a cooking or heating stool as well, by adding a piece of solid wood, making it a multifunctional design
What we dislike
Requires small pieces of wood
8. Jewelvase Mirror Stand
Called the Jewelvase Mirror Stand, this lovely mirror is designed to also function as an accessory stand or vase. You can not only look at your face in it, but it also elevates anything that is placed on it. The simple and elegant design adds character to your dresser, while also providing essential functionality.
The Jewelvase Mirror Stand has dual functionality which allows it to function as a mirror and a vase/accessory stand. Made using bioplastic material, which includes rice husks, the mirror stand has an elegant decorative quality to it. It serves as a stylish yet functional home decor accent!
What we like
Uplifts any dresser, table, desk, or furniture piece it is positioned on
What we dislike
Since it is a dual-functional product, the effectiveness of either role could be hindered
9. Retro Candle Lamp
Dubbed the Retro Candle Lamp, this vintage-inspired lamp will make a lovely addition to your bedside table or desk. It emits a soft subtle light, while also holding your scented candles. The scented candles in the lamp help spread a relaxing and sweet scent in your room.
Why is it noteworthy?
The warmth of the lamp helps activate the fragrance molecules in the candle, which lets out a pleasant and lovely smell, without even lighting it. This cuts out the danger of having an open flame near our bed or on your desk.
What we like
The handle on top lets you control and move around the lamp without touching any of the hot parts
What we dislike
Not a great option for those who like watching an open flame flickering
10. Key Holder Wakka
Always put your keys in the right place with the Key Holder Wakka! This nifty little product features a stylish key ring and a lovely wooden base which merge to form a functional and aesthetic home accent that stores your key efficiently and well.
The keyholder utilizes a powerful neodymium magnet that keeps the keyring in place, and a brisk tapping sound is created at separation. You can pick between iron, brass, or stainless steel in material choices with Silver/Maple and Silver/Walnut options which contribute to its decorative qualities.
What we like
Transforms the simple act of putting your key into something fun and interactive
What we dislike
It features a neodymium magnet which cannot hold heavy sets of keys well
More people are discovering the joys of the great outdoors, but they are also learning some of the challenges that come with living off the grid, especially when it comes to the unpredictability of weather. And then there are some outdoor adventures that really expose you to the elements, whether it be on land or especially at sea. During these moments, you need more than just a portable power source that can deliver the necessities and conveniences of modern life. You also need a reliable power source that can weather any storm, almost literally. That’s the kind of power that the new Bluetti AC240 Weatherproof Portable Power Station delivers, keeping up with life’s adventures even when Mother Nature has other ideas.
Designer: Bluetti
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Even with all the science and technology at our disposal, changes in weather can throw a wrench in anyone’s plans, especially when those plans happen to involve staying outdoors. Traditional power stations, while extremely useful, might not be a good fit for this situation considering the safety risks involved. That’s where the Bluetti AC240 and its IP65 dust and waterproof rating come in, offering a clean, quiet, safe, versatile, and rugged power source that can withstand the harsh conditions you might find yourself in.
With the AC240’s modular design, it practically is! Stack up B210 expansion batteries and watch your power options multiply.
The Bluetti AC240 is rated IP65, which means it’s certified to withstand the intrusion of dust as well as low-pressure water jets from any angle, but that’s only the tip of the iceberg. The weather-hardened solar generator boasts a variety of patented technologies and safeguards that protect it from the elements, including independent air ducts, sealed electronic compartments, a special drainage system, vacuum-coated fans, and, since they’re always exposed to the outside world, double-layer protected ports. In the event that water does manage to get in, built-in exhaust fans and the heat dissipation system will make sure the water gets out or evaporates quickly before it does any damage.
Whether you’re basking in the sun’s energy with solar panels, plugging into a wall outlet, staying juiced on the move with a car charger, or even tapping into a lead-acid battery or shore power, the AC240 ensures you’re always powered up and good to go.
Of course, the Bluetti AC240 is more than just a large weatherproof box. It’s a portable power station first and foremost, and it does an incredible job at that as well. With an output of 2,400W and a 1,536Wh LiFePO battery, the AC240 can easily power anything from a phone charger to a 20 cubic feet fridge for at least one day. A 3,600W powerlifting mode can even power that hot plat to make sure you get warm meals even when it’s pouring outside your RV. The plethora of charging ports, which include 2 standard AC outlets, 1 NEMA TT-30 port, a car outlet, 2 USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, and a 12V/30A RV port, make sure every electronic machine is supported, even an RV or a boat.
Whether you’re navigating the high seas or driving into the unknown wilderness, the AC240 reliable enough to keep your adventures smooth from start to finish.
If that’s already impressive, then you’ll probably be blown away by what the Bluetti AC240 can do when paired with the B210 expansion battery, which itself is also IP65 weatherproof. Each B210 adds 2,150Wh of power and you can have as many as four packs connected to the AC240 for a whopping 10,135Wh total capacity. And if that weren’t enough, you can link two AC240 using Bluetti’s unique parallel technology with the Parallel Box P480, delivering 4,800W output (without expansion batteries) without doubling the voltage. With this much power and flexibility, including simultaneous connection to the power grid while powering your devices and a responsive 15ms UPS function, the Bluetti AC240 can even provide enough power to your house to weather out a storm.
When it comes to charging the power station itself, the AC240 offers a variety of options, from super-fast 1.1-hour AC charging at 2400W max input (when paired with a B210 expansion battery) to completely green solar charging at 1200W intake in just two hours. Weighing only 72 lbs (33 kg) and almost as big as a microwave, the Bluetti AC240 offers portable, reliable, and durable power that you can take with you anywhere you go, confident that it can handle anything thrown its way, whether by you or by Mother Nature herself.
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Apple’s budget iPhone is due for a refresh and for the first time ever, it’s getting a major design upgrade that does away with the TouchID, finally putting the technology in the rear mirror for the smartphone industry. Leaked images from China (you can see them at the end of this article) show dummy units of an upcoming iPhone SE with a refreshed design that now features the notch and FaceID system, along with a flat body reminiscent of the iPhone 12 and 13. Chances are that Apple’s probably repurposing older iPhone 12 chassis for the new 4th Gen SE that’s rumored to drop along with Apple’s iPad refresh next month.
With four straight years of the iPhone SE having the same design (both Gen 2 and Gen 3 models used the same chassis as the iPhone 8), the iPhone SE 4 finally gets the upgrade we’ve all been waiting for. Now that the notch is pretty much history for the flagship iPhone, which has adopted the dynamic island, it makes sense for the technology to finally arrive to Apple’s budget line. The new SE 4, as indicated by pretty credible leaks at this point, uses the same body as the one used in the iPhone 12 and 13, sporting what leakers indicate is a 6.1-inch display on the front, a single-lens camera on the back, a FaceID system for facial unlocking, and a mute slider as opposed to the Action Button which Apple unveiled with the iPhone 15.
The 4th Gen iPhone SE is rumored to be a pretty big upgrade for budget customers, allowing Android users to make the iPhone shift with zero compromises. The large screen and thin bezels look just as gorgeous as the iPhone 14 from 2022, and the new SE is rumored to have 5G too, along with what I can only hope is USB-C, because of strict EU regulations that kick in at the end of the year. It’s still conceivable that Apple sticks to their guns and keeps the lightning connector on the SE, while just limiting sales within the EU, which isn’t really its budget market anyway.
Notably the new iPhone SE 4 has a pretty large camera, which may make up for past models not having great photography capabilities. While details are scarce on what this new camera will be, the big sensor is probably rumored to be an all-purpose lens WITHOUT ultrawide capabilities to keep costs lower.
The above renders, created by Yanko Design, are based on leaked images from a Weibo user, showing case designs for the upcoming iPhone. The dummy model, which clearly reads iPhone SE 4, comes with a notched display, a single-shooter primary lens along with a flash, a flat aluminum frame, and all indications that the mute slider will still remain as a detail in the SE 4. As far as colors go, there’s really no concrete indication that Apple plans on adding any new colors to the range. The existing SE range has only 3 colors – black, white, and Project RED. For visualization purposes (and also because of an initial render found on the internet), we’ve also added a Forest Green color variant.
There’s something magical about audio accessories that grabs my attention without bounds. This concept floor-standing speaker conceptualized for LG piqued my interest for more reasons than one. The primary one is the versatility of use and the multifunctional properties that in no way overpower the minimal aesthetics.
Picturing the LG PICK speaker in a living room or a geeky WFH setup won’t be hard, and I already wish this was a real product coming out of the South Korean electronics giant’s production lines. The movable speaker rightly called the Sound Tree Audio System brings with it maximum freedom to set up your audio listening space without too many frills.
The standing base of the speaker has one resounding advantage of fitting in one more useful gadget and functionality that any user will love. Case in point a beam projector and a clamp to hook on your smartphone for watching content. That’s not it, the rear side of the speaker is a display that shows vital information like current weather, music playing interface, clock, or anything a widget is good for. The speaker module can be oriented in any direction or simply taken out to function as a portable speaker.
The beam projector can be used in conjunction with the speaker to enjoy multimedia content like movies or videos. You can project the image on any plain surface such as a wall or ceiling. On the lower end of the floor stand is the mount compatible with most devices like a smartphone or tablet. On the base lies the charging port to keep the whole thing juiced up and act as a charging pod for the detachable speaker and the projector.
Overall, the concept envisioned for LG seems like a practical product for modern lifestyle needs. The aesthetics are also on point to please any enthusiast no matter the age or gender. For me, the PICK Sound Tree System scores very high in terms of a winning design.
