Tag Archives: Product Design

5 Ways To Incorporate Minimalist Japanese Style Into Your Thanksgiving Decor

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Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and reflection. As we prepare our homes to welcome family and friends, our chosen decor can significantly impact the atmosphere. This year, consider embracing the minimalist elegance of Japanese style to create a serene and sophisticated setting. The minimalist Japanese aesthetic emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and beauty, focusing on quality over quantity.

By incorporating a few carefully chosen products, you can transform your Thanksgiving decor into a calming retreat that honors tradition and modernity. And we have curated a collection of five unique products that perfectly embody this style. Integrate them into your Thanksgiving celebration for a lovely Japanese-inspired atmosphere!

1. Use Mood Lighting To Create A Cohesive Ambience

Japanese style and philosophy have the innate gift of making one feel calm, at peace, and almost zen-like. And, that’s exactly the kind of environment you want to create at your Thanksgiving dinner. Create a cohesive and harmonious ambiance by integrating soothing lighting options. Pick a gentle light source to guide guests, and form a welcoming atmosphere. You can use these lighting designs as centerpieces or along pathways.

Consider subtle candle designs like the Japanese Lantern Candle, and group multiple candles on a tray with other natural elements like stones or leaves to elevate the minimalist and Japanese-esque aesthetic.  Your guests will feel welcomed, warm, and at ease, allowing them to shed their worries and truly make the most of Thanksgiving.

Japanese Lantern Candle

A great option would be the Japanese Lantern Candle. This lovely candle is inspired by the classic “chouchin” lanterns that were used to illuminate Japanese festivals and traditional bars. This candle will add a touch of historical charm and modern elegance to any space. It offers a warm and relaxing glow, which makes onlookers feel at ease. It is handcrafted, and blessed with a minimal aesthetic, making it an ideal addition to a Thanksgiving table setting.

The outer wax of the candle does not melt, thereby allowing the lantern to maintain its shape and beauty with time. It is a durable product that functions as a long-lasting source of ambient light while forming a peaceful atmosphere that is great for all those present at your dinner.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69.00

What we like

  • Showcase the beautiful craftsmanship of traditional Japanese artisanship.
  • Functions as a decorative piece and a functional light source.

What we dislike

  • Ideal for indoor use, but not may be able to withstand outdoor conditions.

2. Serve Traditional Japanese Beverages Or Whiskey To Add A Cultural Touch

If you want to fuse some Japanese culture into your Thanksgiving Day, you could consider serving some traditional Japanese beverages or whiskey in some Japanese-influenced glassware. This will help add a cultural touch to your meal, while also creating a unique visual appeal. The sleek and crisp aesthetic of Japanese glassware will elevate and enhance a sophisticated table setting.

You could pair up the glasses with minimalist tableware to create a setting that is classy, elegant, and refined. It will serve as a unique and refreshing change from the conventional Thanksgiving table settings we’ve all grown accustomed to over the years. You could consider the Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass for this job – it will add some cultural charm to your table!

Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass

Elevate your mundane Thanksgiving toast with the luxurious Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass! It is crafted by skilled Japanese artisans and has a sleek and classy appeal. It merges tradition with cutting-edge technology, to create a glass with unmatched durability. It is made from pure titanium which enhances the flavor of beverages, making it an ideal choice for your Thanksgiving celebration.

It is inspired by the Aurora, and cutting-edge tech was used to form a fascinating light and color play, creating a truly mesmerizing visual experience. It adopts advanced space development technology, which creates a product that is practical, functional, and beautiful. The glass is resistant to odors and stains, ensuring long-term hygiene.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65.00

What we like

  • Made with pure titanium which offers long-lasting use.
  • Titanium preserves the purity of taste and provides an enhanced flavor.

What we dislike

  • Limited use, since it is mainly designed for whiskey.

3. Use A Single Color Theme For Synchronicity & Seamlessness

A simple yet clever approach to creating a seamless table setting and incorporating some Japanese-inspired cleanness is to adopt a single-color theme. Try picking out tableware designs of the same color to create a streamlined and organized aesthetic that screams Japanese design philosophy. Stick to crisp and classy colors like black, for a theme that feels subtle yet sophisticated.

We would recommend avoiding loud colors, and instead sticking to the simpler neutral ones. You can never go wrong with black, and a stellar recommendation would be the Obsidian Black Precision Chopstick Tongs. It will create a unique table setting for your guests, and serve as an interesting conversation starter for your dinner, and the next few ones as well! You could win the title of a Thanksgiving trendsetter!

Obsidian Black Precision Chopstick Tongs

The Obsidian Black PrecisionGrip Chopstick Tongs are an excellent option to kickstart your single-color-themed table setting. They are a unique blend of tradition and modernity, and they’re great for both cooking and dining. They feature a sleek black color, which will support you in creating a cohesive all-black table setting. You could add other products to the mix like the Obsidian Black Salad and Serve Tongs too!

What makes these tongs even more unique is their chopstick style! They are inspired by traditional Japanese utensils, offering better precision handling and versatility. They add that extra touch of Japanese inspiration to your meal. Whether used in the kitchen or at the dining table, these tongs can add a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving meal.

Click Here to Buy Now: $22.00

What we like

  • Made from durable SUS821L1 stainless steel, these tongs are built to last.
  • Features an ergonomic design that ensures a comfortable grip.

What we dislike

  • May be a learning curve for those unfamiliar with chopstick-style utensils.
  • Use may be limited to certain types of food.

4. Integrate Essential Oils To Complement The Minimalistic Aesthetic

Essential oils are a gateway to peace and calm. Add essential oils to your Thanksgiving dinner atmosphere, to create a vibe that feels calming and relaxing. You can choose essential oils such as lavender, cedarwood, or sandalwood to complement the minimalistic aesthetic. These scents will create a lovely atmosphere, helping guests to relax and enjoy the celebration.

You can use diffusers to spread the scent of the essential oils throughout your living space. Place the diffuser in a central location to ensure the gentle aroma spreads and permeates your space. A diffuser to consider for this task could be the Batter-Free Aroma Diffuser. It will help your guests feel at ease in your home, encouraging them to unwind and have a wonderful dinner.

Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser

You can incorporate sensory elements into your decor to create a lovely overall experience for your guests. The Batter-Free Aroma Diffuser is an eco-friendly option that uses the power of a single candle to disperse calming aroma. This little diffuser will add a sensory dimension to your Thanksgiving decor, while also aligning with Japanese emphasis on environmental consciousness.

What makes the diffuser unique is that it doesn’t need any batteries or external power sources to operate. It uses the heat of a single candle to spread the calming aromatic scents. The diffuser is built using sustainable materials, adopting an eco-friendly and minimalist ethos.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

What we like

  • Made from recyclable materials, making it an eco-friendly option.
  • Suitable with all kinds of essential oils.

What we dislike

  • It doesn’t feature electric controls, making it tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma.

5. Use Seasonal Flowers To Capture The Essence Of Fall

Flowers are an evergreen addition to any decor or setting, they add a hint of fresh air and natural beauty. You can add seasonal flowers and foliage, using them as stunning centerpieces to capture the true essence of fall. They will beautifully embody the minimalist Japanese appreciation for nature and simplicity, adding some natural charm to your home.

Use unique and innovative flower vases or modular tubes to create an interesting setup. Pick geometrically fascinating ones to build some visual interest, urging your guests to ask you ‘Where did you get this piece from?’ One such worthy option can be the Modular Flower Tubes. The tubes feature different heights creating a visually intriguing experience.

Modular Flower Tubes

Called the Modular Flower Tubes, these beautiful little tubes are an interesting and fun alternative to the boring old vases we all tend to use. The container is built from metal and wood, and it provides flexible creativity to users, allowing them to create their own tailored flower arrangements according to their tastes. You can select seasonal flowers to create a wonderful floral arrangement to add to your Thanksgiving decor.

The tubes have different heights which adds some visual interest, while the use of copper ensures the water is clean and odorless. You can arrange the tubes in different configurations to complement your Thanksgiving decor theme. You can develop different patinas with time, enhancing the aesthetic sense, and adding more value to the vase. The wooden base offers stability and durability to the product.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

What we like

  • Provides users with creative liberation, allowing them to create their personalized arrangements.
  • Lets you display seasonal flowers, perfectly capturing the Fall spirit.

What we dislike

  • The patinas that will develop over time need to be well maintained.

The post 5 Ways To Incorporate Minimalist Japanese Style Into Your Thanksgiving Decor first appeared on Yanko Design.

ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Review: The Ultimate Gaming Smartphone Experience

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PROS:


  • More elegant, minimalist, and mature design

  • AniMe Vision display and AniMe Play features add a unique charm

  • Unbeatable performance and cooling system

  • Decent cameras for a gaming-centric smartphone

CONS:


  • Incremental upgrades only over the previous generation

  • 13MP ultra-wide camera feels a bit dated

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro offers great value, balancing advanced gaming features with an elegant and mature design.
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Mobile gaming remains a lucrative industry, with millions of gamers worldwide seeking the best devices to enhance their gaming experience. However, as mainstream smartphones improve their performance, the allure of dedicated gaming phones has diminished. Yet, a niche market persists for devices specifically designed for gaming enthusiasts. The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro emerges as a contender in this space, promising speed and flair. But does it meet the expectations of pro gamers?

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro launches at a rather critical time for gaming smartphones and it seeks to carve out its niche by offering features tailored to gaming. Packed with high-performance specs and unique design elements, it targets those who demand more from their mobile devices. This review delves into whether the ROG Phone 9 Pro truly delivers on its promises and whether you should upgrade from the brand’s previous model if you already have it in your hands.

Designer: ASUS Republic of Gamers

Aesthetics

Just like its predecessor, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro’s design marks steps away from the overtly flashy aesthetics typical of gaming phones. It adopts a minimalist approach that exudes maturity, appealing to both gamers and non-gamers. The geometric camera bump and off-center design elements subtly nod to its gaming roots, maintaining a distinct identity.

The back cover, crafted from a single piece of glass, showcases precision etching for added texture. This design choice not only enhances the phone’s visual appeal but also provides a tactile experience. The matte finish employs a crystalized nano-texture, ensuring a silky touch while resisting fingerprints, keeping the device pristine.

A standout feature for gamers is the AniMe Vision display that gives the smartphone a unique flair. The ROG Phone 9 Pro model utilizes 648 mini-LEDs to display icons, text, and even GIF animations, adding a dynamic element to the phone. Hidden animations can be unlocked when two ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro devices are near, using NFC technology, offering a novel interactive experience that creates a community of ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro owners.

Exclusive to the Pro model as well, the AniMe Play feature brings retro mini-games to the AniMe Vision display, further emphasizing the phone’s gaming focus. This playful addition caters to gamers seeking entertainment beyond traditional mobile games, enhancing the device’s appeal. Overall, the design balances sophistication with gaming-centric elements.

Ergonomics

Despite its large 6.78-inch display, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is designed for comfort. The textured finish provides a secure grip, making it easier to hold during long gaming sessions. This ergonomic consideration is crucial for gamers who prioritize comfort and usability.

However, the phone’s thickness, primarily due to its substantial battery, might be a drawback for some users. While it ensures extended gaming sessions, it adds bulk to the device. Balancing battery life with portability remains a challenge in gaming phone design.

The dual USB-C ports are a thoughtful addition, allowing users to charge the device without interrupting gameplay. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers who engage in prolonged sessions, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply. Such practical design choices demonstrate ASUS’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience.

Performance

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is a powerhouse, boasting the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Coupled with 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage in the Pro Edition, it ensures high-performance gaming and multitasking capabilities. This setup positions it not only as a formidable contender in the gaming phone market but also as a reliable everyday mobile device.

The GameCool thermal management system effectively dissipates heat, preventing build-up and ensuring sustained performance. This feature is crucial for maintaining optimal performance during intense gaming sessions, where overheating can be a concern. If you need even more cooling, the Pro Edition ships with the AeroActive Cooler X Pro which enhances cooling with a Pelter chip for passive cooling and larger fans for active cooling. It also includes physical left and right buttons, providing additional functionality similar to popular game controllers.

The 2400×1080 6.78-inch AMOLED display offers vibrant colors and exceptional brightness. It also comes with a 2400×1080 resolution and a 185Hz refresh rate that’s boasted to be the highest on a phone. This display quality elevates the gaming experience, providing immersive visuals. The phone’s performance is further enhanced by AI features, including automatic item pickup and moment recording. That said, these AI features are limited to a few titles like Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail, and Mobile Legends Bang Bang so they might not be generally useful.

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is equipped with a robust 5,800 mAh battery, ensuring extended gaming sessions without frequent recharges. It supports fast 65W charging and can go from zero to full in less than 50 minutes, a boon for gamers on the go. Additionally, the phone offers 15W wireless charging, providing convenient and flexible power options to suit various user needs.

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro surprises with its competent camera system, featuring a 50MP Sony Lytia 700 sensor at the helm. This primary camera delivers detailed images, a pleasant surprise for a device primarily focused on gaming. It challenges the notion that gaming phones must compromise on camera quality.

The 32MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens provide versatility in photography. While not extraordinary, they offer decent performance for everyday use. This well-rounded camera setup adds value to the phone, catering to users who appreciate photography.

Features like Photo Vibe enhance the photography experience, offering color and temperature presets. AI Object Sense provides auto-correction, optimizing photos based on scene elements. The AirTrigger Capture function utilizes the same capacitive side buttons used for gaming as a dedicated shutter button, adding a unique touch to mobile photography. The ROG Phone 9 Pro is not a pro camera phone by a long shot, but this powerful camera system at least adds to its versatility and usefulness outside of games.

Sustainability

In terms of sustainability, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro follows the conventional smartphone formula, utilizing plastic, metal, and glass. Unfortunately, it does not incorporate recycled materials, a growing trend in the industry. However, it boasts an IP68 dust and water resistance rating, enhancing its durability and longevity.

While sustainability may not be its strongest suit, the phone’s robust build quality ensures it can withstand everyday challenges. This aspect is crucial for gamers who demand reliability and resilience from their devices, particularly during intense gaming sessions.

Value

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro offers impressive performance and a suite of features tailored for professional mobile gaming. Its beautiful screen and additional side charging port are standout features. These elements cater to gamers seeking a device that prioritizes performance and practicality.

However, for existing ROG Phone 8 Pro users, the upgrades may seem incremental, providing little incentive to switch. This aspect may affect its appeal to loyal ASUS customers seeking significant improvements. Nonetheless, the ROG Phone 9 Pro remains a compelling choice for new buyers.

Despite the incremental upgrades, the ROG Phone 9 Pro represents good value for those seeking a dedicated gaming phone. It combines high-end specifications with thoughtful design elements, appealing to gamers who value not only performance but also aesthetics. The phone’s value proposition lies in its specialized features, from ROG’s famous Armory Crate to the phone’s invisible AirTrigger buttons. Even the animated AniMe Vision display is a treat for mobile gamers who want to brag about their gear.

Verdict

Gaming smartphones are evolving, adopting more refined designs while maintaining their core gaming features. However, with regular flagship phones matching their performance, the reasons to invest in a dedicated gaming device are dwindling. Nevertheless, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro continues to offer great value, balancing advanced features with a mature design.

For gamers who demand the best, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro stands out as a worthy contender. It combines speed, style, and substance, making it a compelling choice for those who want a device tailored to their gaming needs. Despite the shrinking market for gaming phones, ASUS’s offering remains a testament to innovation in the mobile gaming arena.

The post ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Review: The Ultimate Gaming Smartphone Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

Elevate Your EDC with the CIVIVI Yonder Crossbar Lock Folding Knife

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Looking for a knife that can keep up with your adventurous spirit? Longing for a tool that can cut through any task with finesse? A folding knife is a common sight in EDC kits, but one that exudes both sharpness and beauty isn’t easy to come by. Enter the CIVIVI Yonder, a crossbar lock folding knife made for wanderers, adventures, makers, and everyone in between.

Designed by Zac Whitmore and winner of the “Best Buy of the Year” award at the 2024 Blade Show, this EDC tool is a testament to innovative design and master craftsmanship, inspired by the spirit of adventure embodied by the cowboys and pioneers of old. Drawing from Louis L’Amour’s “Education of a Wandering Man,” this folding knife embodies the essence of “Yondering” or exploring the unknown, blending classic cowboy heritage with modern design elements. Venture outdoors and face your tasks with confidence with the CIVIVI Yonder.

Designer: Zac Whitmore

Click Here to Buy Now: $56.95 $67 (15% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

At the heart of the CIVIVI Yonder is its remarkable design, seamlessly merging classic aesthetics with contemporary functionality. The knife features a compact 6.62-inch overall length, making it ideal for everyday carry. Its 2.88-inch blade is not only efficient but also visually striking, fitting snugly in the hand for an intuitive grip. This design ensures both practicality and style for any user, whether it’s enjoying an overnight camping trip or cutting pieces of food.

The handle options of the CIVIVI Yonder add a personalized touch to its design. Choose from textured G10, Micarta, or Guibourtia Wood, each offering durability and a unique feel. For those who seek sophistication, the premium variant with Damascus steel and Guibourtia wood handles elevates the knife’s aesthetic, combining elegance with everyday usability. This variety caters to diverse tastes and usage needs.

Underneath its elegant exterior, the CIVIVI Yonder’s blade construction is designed for performance. The G10 and Micarta versions feature Swedish 14C28N steel, known for its impressive edge retention, while the premium version boasts Damascus steel. The blade’s Spey Point profile, high flat grind, and curved belly enhance its slicing and piercing capabilities, making it versatile for a range of tasks.

The CIVIVI Yonder’s design incorporates a ceramic bead bearing system for smooth operation, allowing effortless opening and closing. Its ambidextrous crossbar lock is easy to operate with either hand, ensuring quick deployment to save you time and effort. The thumb stud on the blade adds to its quick-draw feel, reminiscent of a cowboy’s trusty sidearm, enhancing its appeal as a reliable everyday carry tool.

Weighing just 2.73 ounces (77.5 grams), the CIVIVI Yonder is lightweight yet substantial enough to feel dependable in your hand. Its compact design allows it to slide effortlessly into your pocket, secured by a practical pocket clip. While it lacks a traditional lanyard hole, users can creatively use the handle’s spacer to attach a lanyard, adding a personal touch to this versatile knife.

Designed with the adventurous spirit in mind, the CIVIVI Yonder is one of the Best Budget Hiking & Backpacking Knife, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and everyday users alike. Whether you’re opening packages or preparing for a camping trip, this knife combines aspirational design with practical functionality. It captures the essence of the cowboy lifestyle, making it more than capable of handling modern-day adventures with style and ease. And with this Holiday Sale ongoing, now is the best time to upgrade your EDC kit with some of the best knives in town!

Click Here to Buy Now: $56.95 $67 (15% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

The post Elevate Your EDC with the CIVIVI Yonder Crossbar Lock Folding Knife first appeared on Yanko Design.

Experience True Charging Freedom with the AL Stackable Cord-Free Portable Chargers

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Imagine a world where charging your phone is as seamless as grabbing a cup of coffee in the morning. That’s the magic of the AL Charger Stackable Cord-Free Portable Chargers. These wireless chargers are crafted to integrate effortlessly into your daily routine, offering the convenience of powering up your phone anytime, anywhere, without the hassle of plugs and wires. It’s freedom redefined in the world of charging.

Picture this: you’re at home, moving from the living room to the kitchen, perhaps even out by the pool. With the AL Charger, you have the liberty to charge your phone wherever you are. Forget about searching for outlets or untangling cables. Just grab a charger from the stack, place your phone on top, and watch it power up. When you’re done, stack it back to recharge the unit. It’s that simple.

Designer: Michael Walker

Click Here to Buy Now: $125 $150 ($25 off). Hurry, deal ends in 72-hours to go! Raised over $45,000.

What makes the AL Charger truly remarkable is its speed. With up to 15W of power, it can charge your phone from zero to full three times faster than traditional 5W wireless chargers. This means your device is ready to go when you are, no waiting around required. Each charger comes with a robust 5000 mAh battery, providing ample power to keep your devices running. The base unit, on the other hand, uses a single USB-C port that can charge AL chargers or your phone with the same 15W power as the portable chargers.

The genius of the AL Charger lies in its precision-placed magnets. These magnets ensure that MagSafe-compatible phones snap perfectly into place every time, maximizing charging efficiency. Plus, these magnets allow for flawless stacking with other AL Chargers, enhancing the charging capabilities of each unit. It’s a design that doesn’t just function well; it functions brilliantly.

For those juggling multiple gadgets, the AL Charger offers a unique advantage: the ability to charge multiple devices at once. Imagine hosting friends and having the capability to power up all their devices simultaneously — just as easy as grabbing a couple more coasters. It’s a host’s dream come true, ensuring everyone’s gadgets are ready for action.

Compatibility is key, and the AL Charger doesn’t disappoint. It works with both Qi-enabled and MagSafe devices, ensuring a wide range of gadgets can benefit from its innovative design. No need to hide this charger away, either. With a waterproof leather top designed to resemble a luxury set of coasters, the AL Charger blends beautifully into your decor. It’s a piece of tech you’ll be proud to display.

Life is full of unexpected spills and splashes, but the AL Charger is prepared for it all. Its water-resistant design means you can charge with confidence, whether you’re in the kitchen dealing with spills or lounging poolside. It’s charging made versatile, adapting to your lifestyle without missing a beat.

Whether you’re a tech enthusiast with multiple gadgets or someone who loves hosting guests, the AL Charger is the perfect solution for keeping everyone connected. It’s more than just a charger; it’s a lifestyle upgrade, making your daily routine smoother and more efficient. They’re designed to fit into your life, not the other way around. So why settle for anything less? Experience the freedom and convenience of cord-free charging today.

Click Here to Buy Now: $125 $150 ($25 off). Hurry, deal ends in 72-hours to go! Raised over $45,000.

The post Experience True Charging Freedom with the AL Stackable Cord-Free Portable Chargers first appeared on Yanko Design.

3D-Printed Banana Lamp is a Cheeky Nod to Maurizio Cattelan’s Most Iconic Artwork

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A glowing bunch of bananas might sound like a quirky Maurizio Cattelan artpiece that comments on society, but the Banana Lamp by Gazzaladra is a serious nod to creativity and clever design. Crafted using precise 3D scans of real bananas, this lamp leans into nature’s whimsy, turning an everyday fruit into an arresting piece of functional art. It’s not just about illumination—it’s about sparking conversations, turning heads, and challenging the mundane with a cheeky twist.

Each lamp in the collection captures the organic details of a banana bunch with startling authenticity. From the subtle ridges on the peel to the delicate curve of each fruit, it’s evident that this isn’t just a cartoonish attempt at mimicking nature. Gazzaladra’s design merges the accuracy of high-resolution 3D modeling with a sense of humor, resulting in a lamp that feels both oddly lifelike and undeniably modern. Whether perched on a desk or suspended from the ceiling, its playful design ensures it’s more than just a light source—it’s an experience.

Designer: Gazzaladra

The Banana Lamp’s charm lies in the marriage of form and function. It’s easy to dismiss a banana-shaped lamp as a novelty, but closer inspection reveals a thoughtful balance of aesthetics and utility. The design speaks to a broader audience—not just design enthusiasts but anyone with a sense of fun and a love for standout décor. The lamp doesn’t just sit quietly in the background; it demands to be noticed, celebrated, and even laughed about. It’s a rare example of how everyday objects, when reimagined creatively, can transcend their usual roles and become something extraordinary.

Available as a 3D model on the thangs.com 3D model marketplace, the Banana Lamp is designed to be tinkered with. The hollow bananas feature a 1.6mm wall thickness, making them ideal for translucent filaments that create a glowing effect. Want a more dramatic look? Play around with painting techniques to replicate anything from green, unripe bananas to the golden hue of perfectly ripened fruit. The lamp essentially invites you to collaborate with the design, making it a unique, hands-on experience for users.

Obviously it goes without saying, but the lamp’s designed only to be used with LED bulbs. Given that plastic (especially materials like PLA or ABS) melt fairly quickly under sustained heat, the Banana Lamp isn’t made for being used with incandescent bulbs. In fact, maker ‘gazzaladra’ even recommends trying out a bulb with a sample 3D print before installing one in your house. In fact, if your printer supports PET-G or Nylon filaments, opt for those over traditional PLA filaments that are very prone to warping or melting.

The Banana Lamp is available in four distinct versions, tailored to suit different needs and aesthetic preferences. Whether you’re looking for a pendant lamp to crown your kitchen or a desk version to brighten up your workspace, there’s a banana—or a bunch—for you. Each variant is compatible with common socket kits, such as the Ikea Strala, ensuring that even the technical side of this lamp remains approachable. A thoughtful design element allows for single or multicolor printing, so you can either keep it minimal or let your imagination run wild with custom-painted ripeness levels.

Gazzaladra’s Banana Lamp feels like an art exhibit brought into the home, a nod to the idea that even the most mundane objects can inspire joy. It’s a reminder to take design less seriously sometimes—to embrace the quirky and unexpected. Whether it’s lighting up a dinner party with its cheeky charm or simply sitting as a silent conversation starter in your living room, the Banana Lamp is an invitation to look at the world through a more playful lens.

The post 3D-Printed Banana Lamp is a Cheeky Nod to Maurizio Cattelan’s Most Iconic Artwork first appeared on Yanko Design.

Level Up Your Mechanical Keyboard: Yu-Gi-Oh! Artisan Keycaps Unleash Iconic Duel Characters

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Dueling monsters and legendary spells come to life on your keyboard with the Yu-Gi-Oh! Artisan Keycaps by Eminent Crafts and Dwarf Factory. Each keycap is meticulously handcrafted and hand-painted, capturing the essence of these legendary figures. rafted in the versatile SA R1 profile and compatible with Cherry MX switches, they’re perfect for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts who value both form and function. Each keycap is a visual masterpiece, created with exceptional attention to detail and finished with hand-painted artistry.

Encased in high-quality resin for durability and visual flair, these keycaps also allow for LED shine-through, enhancing their appeal in dynamic lighting setups. Whether you’re summoning nostalgic memories or personalizing your workspace, the collection—featuring the Dark Magician, Dark Magician Girl, and Blue Eyes White Dragon—adds a dash of personality to your keyboard. Priced at $64.99 each, these officially licensed keycaps are a treat for fans and collectors alike.

Designer: Eminent Crafts X Dwarf Factory

Dark Magician Keycap

The Dark Magician keycap channels the essence of Yu-Gi-Oh!’s most iconic sorcerer into a stunning, meticulously crafted design. Encased in crystal-clear resin, the figure is brought to life with flowing purple robes and a glowing staff, embodying the magician’s arcane allure. Hand-painted with precision, every detail—down to the sharp lines of the lightning strikes emerging from his scepter and the magical swirls of his attire—evokes a sense of motion and mystique. The vibrant colors and lifelike textures make this keycap a centerpiece for any mechanical keyboard setup.

More than just an aesthetic masterpiece, the Dark Magician keycap is engineered with functionality in mind. Crafted in the SA R1 profile, it offers a comfortable typing experience while fitting seamlessly onto Cherry MX switches and their clones. The resin casing doesn’t just protect the intricate design; it also enhances it, allowing LED backlighting to shine through, creating an ethereal glow reminiscent of the character’s magical power. It’s a seamless fusion of artistry and usability, ideal for fans and keyboard enthusiasts alike.

The Dark Magician keycap is a refined addition for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts and collectors. Its high level of detail and compatibility make it an excellent choice for those who value both aesthetics and usability. By combining skilled craftsmanship with durable materials, it transforms any keyboard setup into a visually captivating workstation.

Dark Magician Girl Keycap

The Dark Magician Girl keycap radiates charm with its vibrant color palette and exquisite detail. Her signature pink-and-blue outfit is meticulously rendered, with every element—from her wide-brimmed hat to her magical staff—perfectly sculpted and hand-painted. Encased in transparent resin, the design is preserved against wear while allowing your keyboard’s lighting to bring her to life. This keycap effortlessly balances fun and nostalgia, making it a must-have for fans of this beloved character.

Like its counterparts, the Dark Magician Girl keycap is built for both beauty and functionality. Its SA R1 profile ensures compatibility with Cherry MX switches, while the durable resin makes it a lasting part of your keyboard collection. The keycap is ideal for those looking to add a playful yet iconic flair to their setup, bringing the magic of Yu-Gi-Oh! into everyday use.

Blue-Eyes White Dragon Keycap

The Blue Eyes White Dragon keycap is a showstopper, embodying the raw power and majesty of the franchise’s most iconic creature. The intricate sculpting captures every detail, from the beast’s sharp claws to its meticulously scaled body, while its piercing blue eyes dominate the design. Encased in clear resin, the keycap allows for LED shine-through, adding a dramatic lighting effect that mirrors the dragon’s legendary “White Lightning” attack.

Beyond its impressive aesthetics, this keycap is designed with functionality in mind. The SA R1 profile and Cherry MX compatibility make it suitable for a wide range of mechanical keyboards. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Kaiba’s favorite monster or simply appreciate intricate artisan craftsmanship, the Blue Eyes White Dragon keycap offers a striking blend of design and usability. It’s the ultimate statement piece for any keyboard setup, channeling the spirit of this legendary dueling monster.

The post Level Up Your Mechanical Keyboard: Yu-Gi-Oh! Artisan Keycaps Unleash Iconic Duel Characters first appeared on Yanko Design.

Candy-like cylindrical tables change color when you nest them

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Tables come in a wide variety of designs ranging from the basic flat surface on a stand to elaborate sculptural objects. There is also a spectrum of colors and materials, like wood, plastic, metal, or glass. Given their permanent functions, you’re often forced to choose one of these permutations upon purchase and be stuck with them forever.

Fortunately, there are some creative ways to get around that with a simple play of color and materials. These cylindrical side tables might look simple in their forms, but their playful colors give life to the room. Putting one inside the other, however, creates an almost magical appearance that also looks good enough to lick, though we definitely don’t recommend it, no matter how tempting it might seem.

Designers: Kristýna Mikolášková, Tereza Drobná

In terms of function, the Candy Tables collection is pretty basic. It comes in two variations – a solid cylindrical side table and a slightly larger hollow cylinder with an open bottom. They can be used independently, leaving you with two tables, but they can also be nested inside each other if you need to save space.

The magic happens through their colors, using a simple principle we all learn in grade school art class. Mixing two colors together creates a third color, depending on the ratio. In this case, the taller cylinder made of glass lets the metallic table inside show just a little of its color, mixing the two to create a visual effect that almost looks like hard candy.

The collection is available in six smaller metal tables and six larger glass cylinders. You can mix and match them, provided you have more than one pair, to create different combinations as the need arises. Or you can also just nest tables with the same hues to really highlight the color. It still looks pretty either way.

Candy Tables combines simple shapes and color theory to create a very pleasing and interesting aesthetic. The design also cleverly offers the benefit of having two tables or a single one, depending on the need and situation. More importantly, the lively design brings joy into any space, be it residential or commercial, completely transforming the room without complicated and sophisticated gimmicks.

The post Candy-like cylindrical tables change color when you nest them first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Products To Make Your Home A Cozy Welcoming Escape

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Creating a cozy home setting is about selecting products that enhance comfort, warmth, and relaxation. If you pick the right collection of products, you can create a home environment that is inviting, comfortable, and your haven. We have curated the top 10 products that can transform your space into a welcoming retreat – ranging from a no-spill couch buddy with a gyroscope to make TV time an absolute delight to a Japanese lantern candle with the most relaxing glow to help you unwind after a long day at work.

By incorporating these ten products into your home, you can create a cozy and inviting environment that reflects your style and enhances your daily living experience. Whether you’re relaxing alone or hosting guests, these items will help you achieve the perfect balance of comfort and aesthetics. Dive in, and make your pick!

1. Couch Console

Named the Couch Console, this innovative and unique solution is created for modern living spaces. When you’re relaxing on a couch, you often find yourself juggling multiple things like your drink, remotes, phones, and snacks. This is where the Couch Console comes in, it provides a seamless and neat way to keep everything within reach.

It isn’t simply an accessory, it is designed to meet the needs of tech-savvy individuals and families who need some convenience and organization in their lives. It makes your home more comfortable and cozy, ensuring all your essentials are around you as you unwind. It features a sleek and modular form that will complement different interior styles.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Couch Console integrates a gyroscopic cupholder, which is a blessing for those who often spill while lounging. This nifty feature provides stability and peace of mind, even if the console is placed on uneven surfaces like couches and recliners. It has different modular compartments that can be customized to fit personal preferences, allowing users to customize and tailor their consoles according to their specific requirements.

What we like

  • Prevents spills with a gyroscopic cupholder.
  • Modular design keeps essentials organized.

What we dislike

  • May take up substantial space on smaller couches.

2. Japanese Lantern Candle

A lovely candle is a must-have to create the perfect cozy home ambiance. Called the Japanese Lantern Candle, this little candle is a beautiful homage to the traditional “chouchin” lanterns that are a part of Japanese culture. The lanterns are known for their soft beauty and the ambient lighting they provide.

The candle holder is made by skilled artisans in Kurashiki, Japan, and they use techniques that have been passed down through generations. It features a minimal design that is elegant and functional, making it a wonderful addition to your home, to create a cozy setting, while displaying an appreciation for cultural heritage.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Japanese Lantern Candle beautifully merges cultural significance and modern functionality. The outer wax does not melt, which allows the lantern to maintain its shape and beauty with time. It is a unique and durable product that serves as a long-lasting source of ambient light while creating a serene atmosphere that is great for meditation, relaxation, or unwinding after a long day at work.

What we like

  • Provides a soothing and relaxing glow.
  • Handmade by skilled craftsmen.

What we dislike

  • Limited to indoor use for safety.

3. Panama Banana

Called the Panama Banana, this furniture design is an interesting hybrid between a hammock and a rocking chair. The hammock chair makes for a perfect addition to your backyard, porch, or poolside, as it is perfect for outdoor lounging, serving as a cozy space to rest and relax in.

It merges style and comfort and is equipped with arched birchwood strips and polyester straps. The Panama Banana provides a spacious and tranquil spot for relaxation. You could place it indoors if you have a lot of space to spare, if not, it is certainly perfect to place by your pool.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Panama Banana features a unique design that merges the comfort of a hammock with the soothing motion of a rocking chair. Coated with a water-resistant wax, it is ideal for outdoor use, bringing a touch of the tropics to any setting. Its spacious design accommodates personal items, enhancing the lounging experience.

What we like

  • Combines hammock comfort with rocking chair motion.
  • Water-resistant for outdoor durability.

What we dislike

  • May require ample space for optimal use.

4. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Called the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this product will bring the calming essence of nature to your home. It draws inspiration from the refreshing scents of the mountain and forest environment, offering a lovely aromatic escape from the chaos of daily life. It is made from rust-resistant stainless steel, ensuring longevity and durability.

It serves not only as a diffuser but also as a pocket stove, making it a versatile addition to your home. This multifunctional piece is ideal for those who appreciate the beauty of the outdoors and want to incorporate some of it in their indoor spaces.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set can transform your home with the natural fragrances of essential oils. The scents capture the essence of Mt. Hakusan, providing a sensory experience that promotes relaxation and well-being. It combines aesthetic appeal and versatility to create a cozy and nature-inspired atmosphere in your home. It evokes a sense of peace and tranquility, making it an invaluable addition to your relaxation routine.

What we like

  • Provides calming fragrances with essential oils.
  • Dual functionality as a diffuser and pocket stove.

What we dislike

  • Requires essential oil refills.
  • Limited cooking capacity as a stove.

5. Gravity Weighted Blanket

Named the Gravity Weighted Blanket, this product redefines the concept of comfort and relaxation. It was created keeping in mind the principles of deep touch stimulation. It distributes gentle pressure across the body, replicating the sensation of being hugged. It adopts a therapeutic approach that calms the nervous system.

The Gravity Blanket is made with high-quality materials to ensure durability and comfort. It serves as a staple for homes where relaxation and wellness are prioritized. It is an excellent option to improve sleep and reduce stress, without relying on artificial sources.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Gravity Weighted Blanket is amped with scientifically-backed benefits that enhance sleep quality and overall well-being. The blanket increases serotonin and melatonin while decreasing cortisol. It promotes a restful sleep cycle and reduces anxiety. It is beneficial for individuals with sleep disorders, anxiety, or sensory processing issues. It is available in a variety of weights and sizes and can be tailored to individual preferences.

What we like

  • Promotes restful sleep through deep touch stimulation.
  • Increases serotonin and melatonin levels.

What we dislike

  • May be too heavy for some users.

6. Patella Crescenda

The Patella Crescenda is a compact and innovative planter that is created for modern gardeners who want some convenience and sustainability while growing their microgreens. Having greens in your home creates an organic and calming environment. They bring life and freshness to your home. They improve air quality, reduce stress, and add a natural element to your decor.

The Patella Crescenda features an ergonomic form that fits comfortably in both palms, making it a great choice for those with limited space in their homes. The planter is ideal for urban dwellers, busy individuals, or anyone interested in cultivating fresh greens without the problems of traditional gardening.

Why is it noteworthy?

It adopts an innovative approach to home gardening, providing a simple yet effective solution for growing microgreens. It contains four components –  a base tray, two reusable steel seed plates, and a water bulb that ensures consistent hydration. This simple and unique setup supports the seamless growth of greens within a week, cutting down the need for soil, and reducing the mess that is usually created with indoor gardening.

What we like

  • Improves air quality and reduces stress.
  • Adds a natural touch to home decor.

What we dislike

  • Requires regular care and watering.
  • May cause allergies for some individuals.

7. Retio

Dubbed the Retio, this captivating retro speaker is a tribute to the timeless charm of vintage technology. It merges modern audio capabilities and is made using genuine Nixie tubes which were originally manufactured between the 1970s and the 1990s. The tubes function as the centerpiece of the Retio, and they offer a nostalgic glow.

Having a lovely speaker helps you play the music you like, creating a home setting that feels cozy and comforting to you. Besides serving as a Bluetooth speaker and a clock, Retio also adds classic design elements to your home, creating an environment that feels warm and welcoming. Its elegant and compact form makes it an ideal addition to any space, whether it be a living room, office, or study.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Retio successfully manages to blend vintage aesthetics with modern tech. It is both highly functional and visually striking. It features a portable form that is easy to move around and provides up to 6 hours of playback time, powered by a robust 6800mAh battery. It was built with meticulous attention to detail, making it a desirable piece for lovers of retro-tech and steampunk-inspired design.

What we like

  • Harmoniously combines the nostalgic appeal of Nixie tubes with the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity.
  • The artisanal construction and steampunk aesthetic of the Retio adds a distinctive charm.

What we dislike

  • The Nixie tubes offer a beautiful visual effect, but their readability may be compromised when viewed from afar.

8. Purple Pillow

Neck support completely evacuates to either side of your head, forcing you to fluff all night.

Introducing the Purple Pillow – a revolutionary design in sleep technology that will transform your nightly rest experience. It is the world’s first no-pressure pillow, and it addresses common issues such as lumpy forms, annoying feathers, and sinking memory foam. It provides unparalleled comfort and support, ensuring you wake up fresh and free from any neck or shoulder pain.

It is crafted with precision and includes three components – the patented Hyper-Elastic Polymer, an adjustable air booster, and a super soft polyester cover. Each element has been thoughtfully designed to improve your sleep quality, making it a great choice for those wanting the best in sleep comfort.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Purple Pillow uses the patented Hyper-Elastic Polymer which creates a unique triangular grid structure at the core of the pillow. This delivers excellent material strength and head-cradling comfort, ensuring the shape is maintained throughout the night, without the need to readjust or fluff the pillow. It also includes an adjustable air booster that allows you to customize the pillow’s height, catering to individual preferences and requirements.

What we like

  • The super soft polyester cover is designed to be gentle and soothing against the skin.
  • Excellent option for side sleepers and individuals who snore, as it helps maintain an open airway and proper spinal alignment.

What we dislike

  • Some users may find the pillow’s height unsuitable for back or stomach sleeping positions.

9. Casamera Bathrobe

Called the Casamera Bathrobe, this luxurious garment is designed to provide the ultimate in comfort and functionality. It is made from premium Egyptian cotton, and it uses a honeycomb weave to offer a thick yet breathable feel. This bathrobe is designed to be stylish and practical, ensuring you can lounge around it with all the benefits.

A bathrobe is essential to feel cozy at home, and the Casamera Bathrobe tickmarks all the boxes. It dries quickly, resists odors, and is made from sustainably sourced materials, ensuring it meets high standards of quality and environmental responsibility.

Why is it noteworthy?

The bathrobe is blessed with material quality and an excellent design. The honeycomb weave channels air pretty efficiently, ensuring the wearer doesn’t feel sweaty. The moisture is absorbed by the robe pretty quickly. This makes it a great option for post-bath relaxation or lounging at home. It features a built-in hoodie, which provides added comfort and convenience, allowing users to dry their hair effortlessly.

What we like

  • Made from Egyptian cotton, the bathrobe offers a luxurious feel against the skin, combining softness with durability.
  • The honeycomb weave allows for excellent air circulation.

What we dislike

  • May not suit everyone’s preference, particularly those who prefer a looser fit, since the robe has a snug fit.

10. MoodMist Lamp

Called the MoodMist Lamp, this innovative device merges light and scent to form a personalized environment tailored to the user’s emotional state. It was designed on the understanding that light and aroma can impact a person’s mood and productivity. It uses advanced technology to elevate your living or working space.

It features a central camera and sensors, thereby detecting the user’s emotional state, and adjusting its light and scent output accordingly. This is an excellent way to reduce stress, increase focus, and create a harmonious and peaceful home or work environment.

Why is it noteworthy?

The lamp merges technology and sensory experience by using adjustable sensors and a camera. It can detect if a user is feeling tired or distracted, and it then releases calming aromas when emotions are a bit low. This sort of real-time adjustment helps users remain calm and focused, making it a valuable tool for personal and professional settings. It emits soft, warm light and mood-matching scents creating a soothing and personalized atmosphere.

What we like

  • Adjust lights and scents based on the user’s mood and emotional state.
  • Features a sleek and modern look that will complement different interior styles.

What we dislike

  • The lamp’s functionality relies on sensors and a camera, which may raise privacy concerns for some users.

The post 10 Best Products To Make Your Home A Cozy Welcoming Escape first appeared on Yanko Design.

How Collaborative Tools are Revolutionizing the Design Pipeline: An Interview with KeyShot

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The journey of creating a product doesn’t end at design—it’s where it begins. KeyShot, a trusted name in product visualization and rendering, is evolving that journey with its innovative Product Design-to-Market Suite. Imagine a world where designers, developers, and marketers don’t work in silos but move together in perfect sync. That’s the vision KeyShot is bringing to life, and it’s already shaking up workflows for companies big and small.

We sat down with Garin Gardiner, Product Director of KeyShot Hub, to uncover how this suite is solving challenges designers didn’t even know had solutions. From effortless collaboration to smarter asset management, KeyShot isn’t just keeping up with the demands of the design world—it’s rewriting the rules. Dive into this conversation to explore how KeyShot is empowering creators to dream big and deliver faster.

Click Here to Download Now: The whitepaper for an in-depth look at how this new framework can transform your business.

Yanko Design: What specific areas in the product design process does KeyShot’s new Product Design-to-Market Suite address? How does this optimize a business’ workflow in ways that older versions of KeyShot didn’t?

Garin Gardiner: Our flagship product, KeyShot Studio, is primarily geared towards the individual designer. It was the first scientifically accurate rendering engine, now used in over two-thirds of Fortune 500 companies, with thousands of customers around the world. We’ve always worked closely with our customers to keep Studio relevant to their needs, and over two decades of development, we learned about other significant needs related to the design process, team workflows and business logistics. We saw a huge opportunity to help – and to revolutionize the way products are brought to market.

We’re introducing a concept called Product Design-to-Market, which is a holistic strategy that connects the many departments involved in product creation and market delivery. You can think of it as bridging the product design and go-to-market processes. Instead of working in silos, we’re encouraging a smooth exchange of information and assets across design, development and marketing teams. The result is faster iteration, better alignment, and a seamless transition from first sketch to market delivery.

Of course, you need the right tools to make this vision a reality. Our Product Design-to-Market Suite, which includes KeyShot Studio, also provides comprehensive design team support in KeyShot Hub and connection to the management and distribution of marketing assets in KeyShot Dock.

Yanko Design: How have early adopters responded to KeyShot Hub’s collaboration capabilities, and can you share how it has improved their design process?

Garin Gardiner: It is amazing how nearly every customer we’ve talked to, when we ask them how they’re navigating team workflows, say they struggle managing a central repository for their team to find the core items they use frequently. When individuals can’t find what they’re looking for, they often create duplications, and there’s so much time wasted in that. Hub provides that central repository, so everyone has access to the current version of the file, meaning no duplications are necessary. Plus, changes to the file can automatically be tracked and you can easily revert back to a previous version.

Another favorite is the shared material library in Hub. Customers say being able to work from the same material library makes a huge difference. If a material gets modified, the entire team will automatically get the latest and greatest the next time they use a material. They are also able to tag it for easier searchability, so they aren’t creating duplicate materials, like they often do today.

Hub’s related assets feature is really resonating with customers. When you apply materials to a scene and save it to the Hub, you are able to see all those materials linked to the scene in the Hub for a quick CMF view of your scene.

Tagging is another feature customers appreciate. When saving a rendering to the Hub it will automatically attach tags – Model Sets, Camera, Studio, Environment, Image Style, Colorway, and Materials. These tags can then be used to search for renderings. Searches can be saved for later re-use by all members of the team. Our customers care a lot about their CMF – it’s a key aspect of what they do. They can also manually update tags if they prefer.

Customers are also loving the side-by-side comparison feature between versions. You can select two versions and real-time compare them using a dynamic slider; it’s really helpful to compare differences between versions, especially when the differences are in small details. Our customers create a lot of versions of the same rendering and being able to compare versions side-by-side is helpful.

These are all features that Hub users say address the team and workflow challenges they’re facing today. Ultimately, it’s all about saving time and enabling easy collaboration, so designers can focus on their craft rather than administrative tasks. And you can see how everything works in a full demo of Hub available on YouTube.

Yanko Design: What developments in other industries are providing inspiration for KeyShot as it paves the way forward with its new Product Design-to-Market Suite?

Garin Gardiner: There’s certainly movement toward breaking down silos and supporting cross-collaboration. We have seen how companies like Microsoft have enabled richer collaboration using the cloud through their Teams platform. We have also seen design tools like Fusion transform how their customers work with Fusion Team.

These developments were part of what inspired us to offer a purpose-built Product Design-to-Market Suite to better support our customers. Now KeyShot provides speedy and intuitive rendering, support for design team workflows, and support for marketing.

Yanko Design: We’re very excited about KeyShot Dock’s enhanced Digital Asset Management system! How do you envision it helping companies better organize and distribute their 3D assets across marketing and sales channels?

Garin Gardiner: Right now, marketing teams are typically responsible for generating their own images and animations, separate from product design. They budget for product visuals and often make them from scratch, spending time and money on photography and design work. But they could be saving time and money by repurposing the 3D renderings already produced by design teams, which make it easy to create an infinite amount of marketing-worthy product visuals. CAD models and KeyShot scenes can be stored in KeyShot Dock, providing a connection between marketing and product design and empowering marketing to use those assets across go-to-market channels.

Our customers tell us that 3D visuals are much more effective than 2D images or product photography; 3D visuals lead to higher conversions and lower return rates.

Customers can expect regular updates to Dock. Over time, we are looking to enable viewing 3D interactive files like GLBs and even the possibility of generating on-demand 3D viewables from CAD models like SolidWorks, STEP and more.

Yanko Design: How do you see technologies like AI and machine learning influencing the future of 3D rendering and Digital Asset Management, and will KeyShot incorporate these innovations?

Garin Gardiner: We’re considering how to incorporate AI into our tools in a way that adds value to users. While generative AI can provide impressive results in image generation, we still believe that accurate rendering – down to highly detailed materials and brand elements – will require physics-based rendering. However, we are analyzing how AI can help our customers achieve greater efficiency in their workflows or increase the speed and quality of rendering, through processes like sampling light rays used by rendering algorithms or denoising rendered images.

On the marketing side, AI has the potential to make it faster and easier for teams to generate 2D renderings as a replacement for physical photography. Imagine feeding AI with 100% accurate product data and using it to generate creative environments around accurate renderings.

These are all possibilities we’re looking at right now. AI has so much potential to provide creative and logistical support – it’s all about making the most of it.

Image Credits: Silvester Kössler

Click Here to Download Now: The whitepaper for an in-depth look at how this new framework can transform your business.

The post How Collaborative Tools are Revolutionizing the Design Pipeline: An Interview with KeyShot first appeared on Yanko Design.

This Compact E Ink Phone Promises to Simplify Your Digital Life

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This year’s been exhausting, hasn’t it?! Especially the last few weeks have been emotionally and mentally draining, and it isn’t just the news, but more specifically, it’s the information overload we’ve been subjected to. Even for a device small enough to fit in our pockets, the smartphone is capable of creating a lot of ‘noise’ in the form of news, texts, calls, notifications, ads, and a lot of data clutter that can overwhelm our brains. This data clutter and relentless bombardment of information is what led to the creation of the Mudita Kompakt, a phone that prioritizes mindful living over doomscrolling.

Created by the minds behind CD Projekt (think The Witcher, Cyberpunk 2077), Mudita Kompakt reflects co-founder Michał Kiciński’s personal journey toward a more balanced life. After years in the gaming industry, where endless connection was the norm, he sought a solution to keep people both connected and grounded. That drive led to Mudita’s mission to design devices that encourage simplicity, privacy, and a conscious digital experience.

Designer: Mudita

Click Here to Buy Now: $316 $465 (32% off). Hurry, only 2/900 left! Raised over $336,000.

The Mudita Kompakt keeps things refreshingly simple. Its 4.3-inch E Ink display is easy on the eyes and demands very little power. That’s right—this phone’s battery can last up to six days, which, in today’s daily-charging world, feels almost revolutionary. Inside, it packs a quad-core MediaTek processor, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage (expandable via memory card). Sure, these aren’t flagship specs, but that’s really not the point. It’s all about cutting the clutter and retaining only the things that ‘spark joy’ here. Mudita keeps it lean, pre-loading only the most basic apps like phone, SMS, a calculator, and a voice recorder—none of those attention-demanding apps or bloatware that love to ping you at all hours.

For a phone, the Mudita Kompakt offers dual-SIM capabilities, with 4G LTE compatibility. You can make and receive calls on either SIM and even make/receive VoLTE or Wi-Fi calls, offering connectivity without much of a compromise. Given its entire premise is to stay disconnected from the clutter of the internet, it clearly doesn’t come with 5G, but that’s more of a feature than a bug, truth be told. There’s even support for eSIMs, which is perfect for carriers that don’t traditionally offer SIM cards.

For a phone that strives to be different from the status quo, it still makes a conscious effort to retain features that are cutting-edge… only if they matter to Mudita’s overarching ethos. You may not have a flashy screen and 5G connectivity, but the Kompakt DOES come with a fingerprint sensor to unlock your phone, ensuring biometric-grade security feels reassuring. Surprisingly enough, the phone comes with NFC support too, allowing you to use existing NFC tags around the house, as well as ensuring future compatibility with NFC-ready apps that Mudita may introduce down the road.

What’s remarkable about the Kompakt is its genuine intent to keep users focused on the real world, not the screen. It features an Offline+ mode activated by a physical switch, cutting off cell networks, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, and even disabling the mics and camera for a true offline experience. Think of it as Airplane Mode on steroids, with no features that cause you to linger on your phone for too long. You can read existing messages (you won’t receive new ones), browse through your gallery, or listen to music without any distractions. All these actions have heavy intent behind them, so you’re less likely to end up in a doomscrolling spiral.

Tailored for E Ink®

On the design front, the Mudita Kompakt feels compact, sturdy, and unassuming. It boasts an IP54 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and splashes, so it can hold up to daily wear without needing a bulky case. While it does include a modest 8MP camera, this isn’t about capturing every detail of your day—just the moments you truly want to remember. Photos get displayed in greyscale on your E Ink display, adding a rather retro touch to your photography chops. And for the rare occasion you need to recharge, it’s conveniently equipped with wireless charging and a USB-C port, keeping up with modern conveniences.

The Kompakt’s software is built on a custom OS based on the Android Open Source Project. The twist? There’s no Google lurking in the background, collecting data. Mudita promises three years of software updates to keep things smooth, even though this isn’t the kind of phone that’ll be weighed down by big updates. That’s another angle to the Kompakt’s appeal: minimal fuss, minimal distraction, and maximum control over what you interact with.

Of course, going minimalist does have its trade-offs. There’s no Google Play Store here, so you won’t find a wide selection of apps. Mudita provides basic offline maps, a music player, and a few utilities like a meditation timer, voice recorder, an e-reader, and even a chess app that promises you won’t find yourself getting bored. You can, however, sideload other Android apps, although compatibility isn’t guaranteed. For those of us used to feature-packed smartphones, adjusting to a stripped-down OS could be tricky. But that’s the appeal—it’s a purposeful move away from digital noise, offering just enough functionality to meet core needs without temptations. A true digital detox, if you will.

Another perk of the Kompakt is privacy. Since it doesn’t sync with most cloud services, your data stays on your device. Sure, it may feel a bit old-fashioned to manage contacts and files through Mudita’s desktop app, but for privacy-minded users, this setup grants peace of mind. It’s a minor detour to ditch the endless cloud syncs and data-hungry services tracking your every move. The Kompakt is available starting at $316 for early adopters, with a 14-day money-back guarantee just in case the Kompakt feels like too much of a culture shock. Mudita offers Global and North American versions of the Kompakt, so it’s compatible with networks worldwide. Just don’t expect it to work everywhere yet—currently, it’s only shipping to select countries in Europe, the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Oh, and just in case you were wondering… it has a 3.5mm audio jack!

Click Here to Buy Now: $316 $465 (32% off). Hurry, only 2/900 left! Raised over $336,000.

The post This Compact E Ink Phone Promises to Simplify Your Digital Life first appeared on Yanko Design.