Tag Archives: accessories

AR/XR Glasses could get a lot slimmer thanks to this unique new hardware arrangement

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During the pandemic, we were stuck in our homes and we got used to watching video content through our smart TVs or mobile devices. Now that we can once again enjoy movies in cinemas, there has been a push and pull between the “regular” cinema experience and the comfort of watching these movies in the comfort of our homes through OTT platforms. There are still limitations with the latter but we’re seeing technology trying to catch up through various devices and gadgets that we can use at home.

Designer: Woojin Jang

Movi is a concept for an XR eyewear device that can make the movie watching more immersive even when you don’t have the benefit of a large screen. Compared to other existing VR glasses right now, this one is conceptualized to be a lighter version that you can also carry with you so you can enjoy movies on the plane or wherever you want.

It is lighter because it uses a lens called Lenslet Array which reduces the focal length and eye relief distance. The regular distance is one of the main reasons why most VR devices are heavier and bulkier this lens is a two-dimensional array of around 20,000 small lenses that have been arranged in parallel. It also uses transparent OLED so that our eyes look outward so the glasses can be designed like actual eyewear you would wear every day rather than the weird-looking bulky VR glasses we have now.

As a concept, Movi seems to be an interesting way to make watching videos on our TVs at home on our mobile devices. It would also probably rely on how movie makers and content creators can make films and videos that can adapt these kinds of technology, although that will bring about even more debate on how this may destroy the actual cinema-going experience.

The post AR/XR Glasses could get a lot slimmer thanks to this unique new hardware arrangement first appeared on Yanko Design.

Home tools displayed as chess pieces in unique metal display

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When you’re living alone for the first time, one of the things that people advice you to have at home is a box of tools for whenever something needs tinkering or fixing. I do have one but it’s mostly just stuck in a drawer somewhere since I don’t really know how to tinker or fix things. But for those who use these tools a lot, this concept for a set of tools and how they are stored would be pretty interesting.

Designer: Seongjae Park

Tips for Chess combines metal tools and a chess set so fans of these two will probably be interested to have such a thing displayed in their homes. In fact, even if you don’t use them a lot, it’s still an interesting piece to have in your home and may fool people into thinking you’re a toolhead or a chess aficionado. This is mainly made from metal, from the “chess board” to the various tools included in the set.

The different chess pieces are represented by different kinds of tools. You get hexagonal wrenches with different sizes to serve as your pawns. The rook is the square and triangular wrench, the Bishop is the crosshead screwdriver, while the Knight is a a flat-blade screwdriver. Representing the main pieces are the hexagonal wrench as the Queen and the U-shaped screwdriver as the King. In case you won’t be able to remember which is which, the chess roles and the tool roles are imprinted on the bottom of the tip.

To make it even more interesting (or confusing to people like me) the chessboard itself also provides information. The coordinate system (right angle and straight line) provides a scale of cm and inches. I would probably just have this as a display since it’s too pretty to actually use although they are built to be functional. Also, as mentioned, I don’t know how to use them so they’ll just be on display at home.

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Hyundai’s IONIQ Pixel Toy Illuminating the Future and the Evolution of EV Design

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In a dynamic era of electrified mobility, Hyundai Motor Company has embarked on a groundbreaking journey with the launch of its dedicated electric vehicle brand, IONIQ. Committed to redefining the automotive landscape, Hyundai’s vision for the future is not only reflected in its state-of-the-art electric vehicles but also in the innovative and visually captivating accessories that accompany them. One such standout item is the IONIQ Pixel Toy Flashlight, a creation by Citrus that seamlessly encapsulates Hyundai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of design and technology.

Designer: Citrus design

At the heart of the IONIQ Pixel Toy Flashlight lies the inspiration drawn from Hyundai’s main design theme, Pixel. The company has ingeniously utilized parametric pixel lights as a design signature across its award-winning electric vehicles. This unique design language is not just a visual delight but symbolizes a journey that connects the past (analog), present, and future (digital). This common thread is integral to Hyundai’s EV design philosophy, signifying a harmonious blend of heritage and futuristic innovation.

The distinctive front pixelated lights of Hyundai’s electric vehicles are not merely a design choice; they represent a unique and unmistakable signature for the IONIQ series. These small cubic light clusters showcased prominently on the ’45’ concept EV and IONIQ 5, have become synonymous with Hyundai’s commitment to innovation. These pixel lights aren’t confined to the exterior; they also make an appearance inside the charging door, providing illumination regarding the charging status and the amount of charge.

As Hyundai Motor Company continues to shape the future of electric mobility, the Pixel Toy Flashlight serves as a tangible representation of the brand’s dedication to creating a cohesive and visually stunning ecosystem around its electric vehicles.

In the world of electric mobility, Hyundai’s IONIQ Pixel Toy Flashlight stands out as more than just an accessory; it’s a symbol of innovation, design excellence, and a bridge between the past and the future. As Hyundai Motor Company continues to lead the charge in the electric vehicle revolution, the Pixel Toy Flashlight serves as a shining example of how cutting-edge design and technological advancements can be seamlessly integrated into everyday products, bringing the future of mobility into the hands of consumers.

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This Flippable MagSafe ID Card Holder is the iPhone Accessory Professionals Need in 2024

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DuoFlip is a new gadget that makes carrying your daily essentials easier. With DuoFlip, you no longer need to search through a messy wallet to find your card or ID. All you need to do is flip it open, and you’re good to go. The design is simple and comfortable, making sure your belongings are secure. It’s the perfect investment for a more organized and stress-free lifestyle. Say goodbye to the hassle of carrying cards and IDs the old-fashioned way.

Designer: Stella Chang Chien of SleekStrip

Click Here to Buy Now: $28 $40 (30% off). Hurry, only 78/150 left!

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The Problem

Carrying multiple items such as a work ID badge, wallet, bag/purse, and phone can be cumbersome and often leads to forgetfulness of crucial IDs or cards when leaving home or the office. Additionally, while contactless card tapping offers convenience and hygiene benefits, current card holders and wallets still require physical card retrieval, making the process tedious and increasing the risk of card loss.

The Solution: DuoFlip – The Flippable MagSafe ID Card Holder

DuoFlip addresses these problems by consolidating your daily essentials (phone, ID, and cards) into one convenient accessory. With its innovative flip design and MagSafe compatibility, DuoFlip allows you to effortlessly switch between two cards with a simple flip for display or tapping. No more fumbling or risking card loss.

Streamlined Card Display and Tapping

DuoFlip features two card slots: one with a window and another covered. This design allows you to securely hold your essential ID and/or cards while keeping them easily accessible. The windowed slot is perfect for displaying your ID, while the covered slot ensures the safety and privacy of your other cards.

MagSafe Compatibility for Seamless Attachment

Designed to seamlessly and securely attach to your phone using MagSafe technology, DuoFlip eliminates the need to remember one more item to bring along. By keeping all your essentials in one place, you can simplify your daily carry and never forget your ID or cards again.

Hassle-Free Transitions with Innovative Flip Design

DuoFlip’s flip design enables seamless transitions between the windowed ID card slot and the covered card slot. This hassle-free solution allows for easy storage, display, and tapping of essential cards without the need for card removal. Say goodbye to the inconvenience of traditional cardholders.

Dual-Sided Card Tapping with Anti-Interference Design

DuoFlip takes card tapping to the next level with its proprietary 6-layer anti-interference card partition design. Unlike other card holders or wallets that claim to support card tapping but deliver poor results, DuoFlip has been extensively tested with over 230 anti-interference material combinations to ensure reliable and efficient dual-sided card tapping every time.

Integrated Phone Stand for Added Convenience

In addition to its primary function as an ID card holder, DuoFlip doubles as a phone stand, offering both portrait and landscape orientations. Now, you can enjoy hands-free video watching and easily make FaceTime calls without the need to find a cup or lean your phone against a surface.

Versatile Accessories for Customized Experience

DuoFlip can be further enhanced with versatile accessories such as a lanyard, lanyard phone patch, or retractor, allowing you to tailor your experience based on your specific needs and use scenarios. Its magnetic design also enables convenient clipping onto your shirt pocket, ensuring easy access and safekeeping.

Premium Materials for Durability and Style

DuoFlip is constructed with tear-resistant fabric for its soft hinges, reducing weight and thickness while ensuring durability. The proprietary 6-layer anti-interference partition between card slots enables proper tapping without signal interference. The exterior of DuoFlip is made of vegan leather, available in three colors, providing a high-quality appearance, comfortable feel, and excellent protection for your cards. All layers are meticulously sewn together to enhance durability and longevity, with over 100,000 flips tested.

Eco-Friendly Packaging

At SleekStrip, we are committed to sustainability. That’s why we have designed the packaging for DuoFlip to be 100% recyclable and space-saving. Whether you purchase DuoFlip online or from a retail store, you can be confident that the packaging aligns with our eco-friendly values.

The development of DuoFlip has been an exciting journey for the SleekStrip team, involving initial research and concept development, design iterations, prototypes, testing, and pre-production setup. The company takes great pride in presenting this innovative design and believes DuoFlip can greatly simplify and streamline your daily life.

Click Here to Buy Now: $28 $40 (30% off). Hurry, only 78/150 left!

The post This Flippable MagSafe ID Card Holder is the iPhone Accessory Professionals Need in 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

“Dancing” opener adds to the fun of opening your drink

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One of the best and most relaxing sounds you’ll hear is that pop of the bottle cap and the initial fizz as you open a bottle of beer or, if you’re not the drinking kind, a bottle of soda or any bottled drink of your choice. Whether you’re drinking alone and relaxing at the end of a stressful day or if you’re hanging out with friends and enjoying their company over drinks, this is a sound that can make you go “aaahhh” or “ooohhh”. Now what if the instrument you use to open that bottle can share in your joy or add a bit more enjoyment to the moment?

Designer: Leemok Studio

That’s the thinking behind this simple concept for a bottle opener called the Dancing Opener. Lest you think that it’s a complicated gizmo that can show off the latest TikTok dance trend or something, it’s actually a pretty simple and functional accessory that you can bring along to your drinking sessions. It’s round shaped with a curved convex-like hole which is how you can use it to pop open a bottle. After you’ve opened the bottle, you take the opener for a spin, placing it on its circular head and sliding your fingers to make it “dance”.

Okay, dance is probably an exaggeration of what the opener actually does. It seems to be able to balance on its head and as you gently flip it, it goes round and round. Think of it more as a ritual you can do after you open the bottle or as you say “cheers”, “kampai”, “geonbae”, “prost” or whatever language you’re drinking to. It’s basically like spinning a top or coin on its head except that the circumference is a bit thicker so it’s easier to balance and spin.

Sure, if you want to see it as a “dancing opener”, you might as well call it that. The idea is to have a bit more fun as you open the thing that will be bringing you more fun (hopefully) the rest of the night. It’s a simple enough product that we won’t be surprised to see it in the market anytime soon.

The post “Dancing” opener adds to the fun of opening your drink first appeared on Yanko Design.

Modular keyboard concept employs hexagons to switch things up a bit

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There has been a great deal of effort and attention put on keyboards these past years, whether for actual products or for ideas that embody the hopes and wishes of both users and designers. From split-type ergonomic keyboards to keyboards with all sorts of knobs and touch screens, these designs are all made in an attempt to make people’s lives easier and to cater to their needs. Of course, not everyone’s needs are the same, so features on one keyboard might not work for different audiences. This keyboard design concept is already interesting because of its modularity, but it becomes even more eye-catching thanks to an unusual choice in the shape of its keys and controls.

Designers: Travis Ragsdale, Elijah Vary

The basic design of keyboards is almost set in stone, at least for the combination of letters and numbers that make up the essentials for keyboards of any size. The layouts might differ from region to region or from laptop to laptop, but there are more or less 80 keys even on the smallest configurations. Beyond that is almost fair game, with some preferring a numeric keypad to the side, while others probably wish for a different set of controls.

The K-Bird Spec Project is a concept design for a modular keyboard that tries to address that need by providing a different side module for different applications. You can have the typical numpad for fast numeric input or you can have a set of sliders and dials for quickly controlling or editing audio. You can even have a small drawing area with a groove to place a stylus. Or you can have no modules at all and be left with admittedly odd-looking handles protruding from the side.

The base shape of the keyboard theoretically allows for modules to be placed on either side, but the modules themselves would have to be designed to be ambidextrous. The default seems to presume the current convention of placing modules on the right side where the numeric keypad would usually be, and you can’t simply put it on the left because of the handle extending from that side.

What makes this design a little different from other modular keyboard concepts is its use of hexagons as the main shape for all the controls, even the sliders and dials on the modular extensions. The keys themselves are indented, which is already unconventional as far as keyboard designs go. It gives the keyboard a more visually interesting appearance, though it’s not clear whether that will have any negative impact on the ergonomics of typing on such a kind of keycap shape.

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A Bath Bot By Lush + More Accessories To Create The Bathtime Experience & Aesthetics You Want

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We may not pay attention to our bathrooms very often, but the truth is they’re the little alcoves we spend a substantial amount of our time in, carrying out our personal activities. It’s probably the only time we’re ever truly alone, and bathrooms are like our own personal zones. Hence amping up our bathroom with the correct accessories and products is quite important. These accessories can make a huge difference in our everyday bathroom experience, and we’ve curated a collection of unique and useful accessories for you. From a bath bot by Lush to high-quality Japanese towels – these are the accessories you need for the ultimate bathtime.

1. The Bath Bot

Designed by Lush, the Bath Bot is designed to be your very own “digital bath bomb”, that will provide you with a “custom light, sound, and color experience” every time you take a bath.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s the same size and shape as their bath bombs but is a water-proof speaker that you can put in the bathtub with you or on the sink near your shower if you don’t have a bathtub.

What we like

  • It offers a 180-degree sound show so you can play your favorite music audiobook or podcast while enjoying a bath

What we dislike

  • It’s not yet available yet, so we hope the product will live up to its description

2. Smart Bathtub

Cloudandco Design Studio created a Smart Bathtub, which has been specifically customized to provide comfort and automated relaxation. The bathtub doesn’t simply offer a bath, but it also gives a personalized massage experience.

Why is it noteworthy?

The personalized massage experience is learned from the user’s preferences over time. This ensures that bath time is a perfectly tailored and blissful activity for you!

What we like

  • The embedded artificial intelligence ensures that specific areas of your discomfort are addressed

What we dislike

  • Not everyone may be comfortable having AI integrated into their personal bath routine

3. Japarcana Imabari Towels

The Japarcana Imabari towels are a delicate and premium-quality solution to the annoying problem of finding A-grade towels at a reasonable and economical price.

Why is it noteworthy?

Simple and time-proven weaving techniques, high-quality cotton, and strict quality standards all come together to create a towel with excellent water absorption, soft texture, and long-lasting durability.

What we like

  • Uses an ukiyo-e illustration depicting traditional Japanese baths, indicating the towel’s primary function
  • Pretty economical and well-priced compared to other premium towels on the market

What we dislike

4. The Kohler Sprig Shower Infusion System

The Kohler Sprig Shower Infusion System retrofits into your existing shower with ease, diffusing aromatherapy into the water, and creating a relaxing and comforting bathing experience for you.

Why is it noteworthy?

Kohler is building on this system with a range of pods that offer a variety of fragrances like eucalyptus, chamomile, rose, lavender, and lemongrass, along with minerals and ingredients that are supposedly good for your skin, like hyaluronic acid and sodium.

What we like

  • The pods utilize paraben-, phthalate-, and cruelty-free ingredients

What we dislike

  • You can only utilize Sprig Shower Pods with this system, and there’s currently no way of breaking away from Kohler’s tight ecosystem

5. usmile Y10 Pro

Dubbed the usmile Y10 Pro, this cutting-edge device is designed to provide you with an excellent and elevated dental care experience. It merges advanced technology with user-friendly features, providing you with a bright and healthy smile

Why is it noteworthy?

It features intelligent sensors that monitor your brushing technique. It also offers real-time feedback for a more effective and efficient cleanup. It has customizable modes to meet every user’s individual needs.

What we like

  • It has a long-lasting battery, reducing the need for frequent charging
  • Features a sleek and ergonomic design

What we dislike

  • Aesthetics are quite similar to other electric toothbrushes on the market, nothing too unique

6. The VEAU LED Mask

Designed by COZCORE, this new-age LED mask is meant to revolutionize skincare practices. The innovative product utilizes LED technology to offer users an effective and personalized skincare experience.

Why is it noteworthy?

The VEAU LED Mask is a premium facial mask that uses light therapy to improve the health and look of the skin. It has an ergonomic shape that fits the curves of the face gently, allowing for a relaxing and effective treatment.

What we like

  • Features multiple modes, so you can pick your favorite LED light colors based on your unique skincare needs
  • Can be folded, so users can wear it with ease and comfortably

What we dislike

  • We’re not fully aware of any side effects the mask could have on the skin

7. MYCO-ALGA

If you’re in the mood to redesign your bathroom, then you may want to consider the MYCO-ALGA interior tiling system, which is made from natural and organic waste, that has been upcycled together with actual living organisms.

Why is it noteworthy?

There are different sustainable processes involved in coming up with this including designing them digitally, 3D printing, growing the organisms, enriching them with bio-pigments, fabrication, etc. It begins with the waste materials being ground into a paste-like substrate as a foundation.

What we like

  • Strong and rigid yet lightweight
  • 100% sustainable

What we dislike

  • May not complement bathrooms with modern interiors

8. Tiles Weight Scale

Called the Tiles Weight Scale, this bathroom scale is quite literally bathroom-inspired. It features a glossy, tiled design and would fit well with modern contemporary bathrooms.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Tiles Weight Scale looks like a panel of your quintessential ceramic bathroom tiles. They aren’t made from ceramic, which means they aren’t slippery, and the white panel has an LED display that shines through the material, activating the moment you stand on it.

What we like

  • Blends right into the bathroom’s decor when not in use

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept currently, so we’re not sure how well it would translate to a real tangible product

9. one&done

With the one&done, the designer integrates and combines a toothbrush and a candy dispenser. Inspired by a PEZ dispenser, the toothbrush features a convenient little storage space to hold toothpaste tablets, completely eliminating the need for toothpaste tubes.

Why is it noteworthy?

This allows you to carry your toothbrush and toothpaste in one compact form and prevents the mess that ensues with carrying and dealing with a tube of toothpaste.

What we like

  • Ensures that you use the right amount of toothpaste every day, something that isn’t easily achieved when you’re squeezing paste out of a tube

What we dislike

  • The toothbrush is pretty thick and may be difficult to brush with and carry out different motions to clean your teeth

10. Face à face

Italian bathroom brand Agape teamed up with French architect Jean Nouvel to create this beautiful collection of sinks and baths. The name Face à face is derived from the dual meaning of the word ‘face’ in French.

Why is it noteworthy?

The collection essentially consists of a stunning sink and a bathtub. Both products have a pretty angular feel to them and are highlighted by upright slabs of marble, as well as a tilted backrest in the tub.

What we like

  • The collection truly celebrates the beauty of marble
  • Comes in various versions to choose from

What we dislike

  • Space-consuming designs that are better suited for larger bathrooms

The post A Bath Bot By Lush + More Accessories To Create The Bathtime Experience & Aesthetics You Want first appeared on Yanko Design.

Airpods charger cover brings you the Nintendo Gameboy feels

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When we use chargers for our devices, we usually just go for the ones that come with said device and don’t really think about other accessories to go with it. That’s because they’re almost always used exclusively for one purpose only: to juice up our smartphone, tablet, and other accessories. But who says you can’t have fun with it right? If you’re into the whole retro is cool again thing, then this new wrap for a charger from elago may be the one for you.

Designer: elago

Elago has been bringing their nostalgic accessories a-game as we’ve seen some Nintendo-inspired designs from them this year. The newest one that they’re releasing is a Game Boy cover for your Airpods charger. Basically, the “wrap” will turn your charger into the coolest thing ever, at least for those who can recognize the now-classic Game Boy design. It’s similar to the MagSafe wallet that they recently announced as well.

The wrap is compatible for the Apple 35W Dual USB-C Power Adapter that powers up your Airpods. It basically looks like the Game Boy interface with the face buttons, D-Pad, and other elements that you’re used to seeing in the Nintendo device. Of course these don’t have any function except to be nostalgic aesthetic. It uses soft silicone material and has a larger cutout around the dual USB-C jacks so it can be used with any cable thickness.

It is a pretty cute addition to your charger and aside from looking cool, it is also able to protect it from scratches, bumps, drops, dirt, and oils because of the material. It is available in Light Grey, Black, and Sand Pink and costs only around $15.

The post Airpods charger cover brings you the Nintendo Gameboy feels first appeared on Yanko Design.

5 of the Best Tech Accessories To Prepare For A Cozy & Comfy Winter

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Winter is by far my favorite season of the year, as the temperature drops, my excitement rises! Chilly nights followed by frosty mornings, cozy naps in bed with blankets wrapped around me, and cups of hot cocoa – it all sounds like heaven to me. As blissful and beautiful as winter can be, it can also be harsh on our bodies and our lifestyles, if we don’t equip ourselves for it. So, we’ve curated a bunch of super interesting and functional tech designs to get you through this winter season…in style! These innovative designs are the ultimate winter essentials for you.

1. Bio Heater

Designed by Unichest for their client Flint Lab, the Bio Heater is an ingenious and novel way to make judicious and good use of cooking oil that is otherwise considered waste after use. This cooking oil is used as fuel for the Bio Heater.

Why is it noteworthy?

Flint Lab utilizes the cooking oil to produce an eco-friendly fuel for the Bio Heater. The heater is equipped with a unique combustion technology under its belly which is used to transfer heat energy, which is then further radiated in the room.

What we like

  • Neat and minimal design that blends perfectly with modern homes
  • The rounded top can be used to place things when not in use

What we dislike

  • Bulky and space-consuming design, not intended for smaller homes

2. Thermaphones

Designed by Kevin Chiam, the Thermaphones are a pair of unique cans designed to alter the temperature to nullify the effect of an extremely hot temperature or the cool chill of winter.

Why is it noteworthy?

The innovative headphones feature a hybrid design, where the temperature-changing earbuds provide unique thermal comfort. The earcups on the headphones are quite compact and comfy.

What we like

  • Eliminates any chances of vertigo induced by the extreme variation in temperature
  • It provides you comfort during the winter and summer

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we don’t know how the final tangible product will turn out to be

3. Harmony Flame Lamp Fireplace

You can now enjoy a beautiful and safe fire indoors with this stunning brass lamp. It utilizes eco-friendly bioethanol to spread illumination and warmth in your home. The fireplace is made using the same technique that is adopted to build musical instruments.

Click Here to Buy Now: Harmony Flame Fireplace ($239)

Why is it noteworthy?

This beautiful brass fireplace is designed to enhance and uplift the mood of all indoor spaces. Both the reflective surfaces and flames play around with light and shadows to create an aesthetically appealing decorative piece that is excellent for your dining table or patio.

What we like

  • Lets you enjoy and experience a safe and pretty fire inside the comfort of your home

What we dislike

  • The lamp utilizes bioethanol which is eco-friendly, but will need to be purchased and refilled, creating a fuel dependency
  • The fuel capacity and compact size of the lamp may not support extended use, which some people need for longer-lasting illumination

4. POCO

Dubbed POCO: Portable capsule coffee machine, this compact and lightweight device can slide easily into your backpack or bag along with coffee pods, making it an exceptional coffee maker on the go for the winter.

Why is it noteworthy?

You can recharge POCO via a USB-C, charging it on the go using your laptop or a portable charger. It is an excellent device for people who are always on the move.

What we like

  • Equipped with a built-in thermal insulation function
    It enables you to enjoy a cup of coffee anytime anywhere

What we dislike

  • Since it’s a concept we don’t know how functional and credible it will be as an actual product

5. Breez Desktop Hand Warmer

You know how difficult texting in the cold can be, so imagine how tough it is to type on a keyboard in the cold. This is where the Breez desktop hand warmer swoops in!

Why is it noteworthy?

Designed to keep your fingers warm and toasty, the Breez desktop hand warmer lets you clack away on your keyboard without feeling cold. It features a horizontal form that uniformly warms your hand as you type.

What we like

  • It covers the entire keyboard leaving no cold zones or spots

What we dislike

  • There aren’t any color options, besides pastel blue, so not a lot of variety

The post 5 of the Best Tech Accessories To Prepare For A Cozy & Comfy Winter first appeared on Yanko Design.

Standalone AirPods Pro 2nd-Gen USB-C charging case might not be worth the price

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The newest iPhones have finally jumped on the USB-C bandwagon, but there are still a few Apple products that still cling to the older Lightning technology. That includes all iPhone models before the iPhone 15, older iPads, and the majority of charging cases for the AirPods. A few months back, Apple did release a version of the 2nd-gen AirPods Pro with a USB-C charging case, but you’ll have to buy the whole set to enjoy this upgrade, both earbuds and charging case. If you already have a 2nd-gen AirPods Pro that came with a Lightning charging case, however, you can now just buy the USB-C case on its own, but the price tag on this very optional accessory could have you thinking twice why you’d want to buy one in the first place.

Designer: Apple

To be fair, the USB-C charging case does have a few advantages, though the biggest one would be consistency between the most recent Apple devices. You won’t have to carry a separate Lightning cable, presuming you’ve gone all-in on USB-C already. There’s also this convenient reverse charging feature where you can charge the AirPods Pro case from an iPhone 15 using a USB-C to USB-C cable. Handy in an emergency but not exactly a ground-breaking game-changer.

Given the nearly similar features, the $99 price tag on this standalone USB-C charging case for the AirPods Pro 2nd-Gen might seem a little excessive. It also only makes sense if you already have the Lightning version of these AirPods Pro and only want to enjoy the benefits of USB-C mentioned above. Otherwise, it doesn’t offer any charging speed advantages between these two models and both support the same wireless MagSafe capability.

That said, you might want to upgrade from the 2nd generation Lightning AirPod Pro to its USB-C sibling for future-proof durability and features. The USB-C AirPods Pro 2nd-Gen has an IP54 rating, up from last year’s IPX4, which means it’s better protected against dust and small particles, though it’s still only splashproof rather than waterproof. It will, however, support lossless audio when paired with the Apple Vision Pro headset, at least if you can get your hands on one next year.

The USB-C case itself is also IP54 rated, but you won’t get the dust-proofing upgrade for the earbuds just by switching cases. That makes the standalone case less appealing for the majority of AirPods owners. Then again, there will always be someone who wants a complete and consistent set of products or may have had the misfortune of losing their original charging case. Fortunately, now you won’t have to buy a new set just to replace that.

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