Wireless charging is finally becoming more common but despite the freedom from tangling cables that the technology offers, wireless chargers still have a few inconveniences, especially when it comes to aesthetics. Only a few of these products can be considered pleasing to look at, especially when mixed with the rest of your room decor. And they still have at least one cable snaking out of their bodies, which might be difficult to hide depending on where you place the chargers. In an ideal future, almost any flat surface can become a wireless charger, immediately juicing up your phone or device the moment you put it down, anywhere you put it down. Part of that future seems to already be here, with a creative wireless technology that can hide that wireless charging space inside stone countertops, seamlessly blending with your choice of interior design.
Wireless chargers remove the messy cables from the charging equation, but the current state of technology requires you to still make physical contact between the device and the surface of the charger. Add to that the hard requirements on materials for the surfaces of wireless chargers and you will find yourself with a few of these products scattered around your house, often sticking out like a sore thumb. Some designs are admittedly more elegant and stylish, but they still add to the visual baggage on what would be an otherwise pristine table or countertop.
FreePower is a technology that tries to offer the best of both worlds, combining the liberating convenience of wireless charging with a clean and unblemished tabletop surface. In a nutshell, it embeds the wireless charger inside the countertop, and not just any countertop, mind you. It is compatible with different stone materials, including quartz, granite, or even marble, materials you’d never think could be used for wireless chargers. Thanks to this innovative design, you don’t need to actually put a charging mat or stand on your kitchen countertop, side table, or bedside table, because the countertop itself is the wireless charger.
Of course, only a portion of the countertop actually functions as the wireless charging zone, but you don’t have to worry about ugly and conspicuous markings that ruin the aesthetic of your beautiful stone top. A customizable LED halo glows around the area where you can place your devices, and you can even turn this light off when it’s not in use. FreePower does even better than most wireless chargers because you can place your phone or earbuds anywhere within that zone, no need to perfectly align with markers.
FreePower is the latest in a growing number of designs that aim to integrate wireless charging technology into every surface inside your home, completely freeing you from unsightly cables. Of course, such a design is also less flexible in that you have very little choice when you want to change furniture or designs. You’ll have to hope there’s also an invisible wireless charger version available for that or else you’ll have to go back to old-school wireless charging mats.
Storage containers are inescapable facts of life, especially in this day and age where we collect so many material possessions. These vessels can range from plastic boxes to wooden furniture like shelves and cabinets, all of which trade floor space for that storage capacity. Unfortunately, floor space is also becoming a luxury these days, and we can’t simply expand the area in proportion to our growing storage needs. We need to be smarter about the way we use storage and what we use for storage, and no, stacking them up to the ceiling isn’t a viable solution nor a safe one. These drawers, in contrast, do offer a better alternative by taking advantage of the free space that we have found on our walls.
Storage boxes are a common sight in many households. They’re simple, convenient, and often stackable. They also take up precious floor space, and stacking them so high can become a safety hazard if left unchecked. Ideally, we’d “Marie Kondo” our excess possessions, but we’ll always still end up with stuff we can’t simply throw out. We obviously need more storage, but we also don’t have more floor space to use. What we do have, however, is plenty of free wall space that isn’t even taken up by decorations.
The KGT Wall Units evolved from metal storage boxes that could be individually stacked just like any conventional storage box. As the name implies, these boxes are mounted on a wall rather than lying on the floor. In this manner, they actually behave more like drawers rather than boxes, but the function and purpose are the same: to hide your possessions from view.
Of course, these can’t be stacked like normal boxes because they have to be screwed to a wall for stability. In fact, each unit has a fixed number of drawers, either one, three, or six in a vertical arrangement. There is one other variant where the drawers line up side-by-side, creating a long horizontal row instead. Of course, there’s no limitation on how you combine those units and how many you use. You could even have a whole stack of three six-unit drawers for a total of 18, or 18 individual drawers, presuming you have enough vertical clearance.
More than just their practical utility, however, these wall-mounted drawers add aesthetic value to a space, something ordinary stacked boxes don’t often provide. The gaps between each drawer bring some negative space that visually balances the unit, and the top of each unit becomes yet another space to utilize for things you want people to see. With a powder-coated finish, these seemingly floating drawers provide more than just smart storage but also visual interest to your space, all without cluttering your floor even further.
We all know it’s bad for our physical and mental health, but there will always be times when we have to go through the late-night crunch at home. That’s not even considering how some actually have work hours that begin only after the sun has set. Working long hours into the night in the solitude of your home or room can be physically taxing and emotionally draining, which is why there’s now a trend to bring some joy into workspaces through accessories and decorations. This “deskterior” movement tries to energize and even help people remain productive even in the dead of night, and this collection of dark-themed product design concepts injects a little ingenuity and even some attitude to your nighttime quests.
Designers: Jiye Lee, Seoyeong Jang, Junhong Yang, Taeyoon Kim, Jeongeun Kim
There’s no shortage of desk accessories and gadgets that try to boost your productivity at work, but most of them make the presumption that you’re on a regular 8 to 5 clock. Of course, those products would work any time of the day, but there’s something to be said for products designed for a specific purpose or around a certain theme. YAZAK, which is a play on the Korean word for midnight snacks, is a collection of these “deskterior” accessories that help keep you company and stay productive during those late-night shifts, and not just because they have a dark color scheme that better fits that time of the day.
TEMPO, for example, is both a desk lamp and a timer. In addition to the main overhead light, its arm also has a trail of light that decreases as time passes until it’s completely empty, at which point the lamp itself turns off. It’s meant to tell you to take a break and visually inform you of the passing of time.
TEMPO probably works well with DODULE, a modular scheduler that’s made up of a stack of discs. Each disc represents a project and the deadline for that project. A tiny ball that sits on top marks the passage of time, letting you know how long it will take to finish the project that the disc represents.
Still somewhat related to the notion of time, PLOP is a cup coaster that has a simpler mechanism. You simply push the ball down to its lowest point to start the timer. The sphere will slowly rise and give you a signal when it reaches the top. That’s time for another break, this time to reach for a glass of water to keep you hydrated.
BITLE is a bit more sophisticated and abstract, a device that’s meant to let you know if you’re not sitting properly. It uses sensors to detect your body’s posture and move the top plate to symbolize the lack of balance. The concept doesn’t indicate if the ball will fall off unless you sit with the correct posture, though that’s more likely to increase your stress rather than relieve it.
Last but definitely not least, SWIBLE is a side table with a swiveling top, offering extra space to place other things without messing up your desk, including those “Yasik” snacks you might need to keep yourself awake. It also has a hidden compartment under the lid for even more storage, though you probably need to remember to take things off it before opening it up. And when you’re work is finally done, the underside of the table can actually hold a tablet so you can sit back and relax with your favorite shows.
It doesn’t matter where you’re working, whether at home or in a commercial life, both these scenarios involve a desk! A desk is probably one of the most important pieces of furniture in our modern lives, only because we spend the majority of our day on it. You may be typing away to glory, munching away on a snack, or simply fidgeting with a random object – you do end up spending hours on your desk. And hence, your desk must be neat, tidy, and uncluttered. Not only will this improve your work routine and productivity, but it will also help you maintain a clearer and more streamlined mindset. And, I’ve discovered that adding limited, quality, and innovative products to my desk setup can help me in achieving these goals! And we’ve curated a collection of smart and well-designed desk gear to help you achieve peak productivity. Happy working!
1. POD
This little minimalist timer is designed to help you enjoy the benefits of a Pomodoro timer, without having to depend on a clunky analog timer, especially one that will end up looking like an awkward little tomato on your desk. It has a simple and compact form that will occupy minimum space on your desk.
Why is it noteworthy?
Called POD, this innovative tool merges the feeling of an analog timer with the convenience and utility of an electronic device in a minimalist, simple, and appealing form. You can start the countdown by pushing the puck down like a button.
What we like
It is minimally distracting and uses only flashing lights rather than vibrations or sounds to get your attention
What we dislike
You need to replace the battery which can seem a bit annoying and tedious
Quite tiny, so you can easily misplace it
2. Pen Fan
Named the Pen Fan, this unique stationery design is a must-have for your desk. It is intended to be a cross between a Pantone shade card, and a stationery set. It holds 8 different flat-head sketch pens in a set that is compact, neat, and easy-to-carry along everywhere with you.
Why is it noteworthy?
The various pens of the Pen Fan are interconnected, which forms an adorable Japanese-fan-style layout that beautifully showcases all 8 colors, allowing you to pick and choose from them. The pens are detachable, so you can quite easily snap them on and off, building a palette that caters to you.
What we like
Easy-to-carry and portable set
Eliminates the risk of misplacing the pens
What we dislike
There are only 8 colors to pick from, which can be limiting. There could have been more color options
3. Serenity Pen Stand
Dubbed the Serenity Pen Stand, this minimalist design features a metallic hint that is designed to hold your pen upright, keeping it ready for you to use. And since pens are quite easy to use, this pen stand makes sure you never lose track of your prized pen, and that it is always in your sight.
The Serenity Pen Stand makes sure that you will always have easy access to your pen, protecting it, and ensuring you never lose it. It is made using aluminum and copper and makes for a well-balanced cylinder, that will add a burst of color and personality to your work desk.
What we like
Has a heavy copper bottom, that will lower the center of gravity, providing it with a stable form
Has a sleek minimal design that is easy to set up and carry
What we dislike
It is quite small in size and can be easily misplaced
Not a lot of color options to pick from
4. World Clock
If you often find yourself lagging, and unable to complete tasks in the required time, then you may want to consider this unique clock design to keep a check on the time. Called the World Clock, this isn’t your typical desk clock, and it features a dodecagonal shape, with only one hand and a minimalist face.
The World Clock has an innovative design and form, as it not only gives you the correct info about your country but also some fun extra details on the time in other parts of the world. With one glance, you can tell the hour, while a closer look will tell you which quarter of the hour it is.
What we like
Features 12 sides that have individual markings for a city that represent a particular timezone
What we dislike
The World Clock has only 12 set time zones, so you may miss out on some other time zones
5. Planet Pins
Called the Planet Pins, this colorful and quirky little creation is hand-painted planet pins that look like the solar system. It includes eight extraterrestrial shapes, each one hand-painted and stored in a compact polished acrylic display case. The pins were hand-painted in Tokyo.
Why is it noteworthy?
The pins include Mercury in metallic silver, Venus in metallic gold, Earth in painted blue and green, Jupiter in yellow, dark orange, and translucent orange, Mars in red, Saturn in yellow with a metallic silver ring, Uranus in a metallic blue with a metallic silver ring, and Neptune in blue and a lovely white.
What we like
Delivered in serial-numbered display cases, so when not in use, you can store them in the boxes and display them
What we dislike
The pins are quite tiny, so you can easily misplace them if they’re not handled with care
6. Precision Sakura Metal Puzzle
Named the Precision Metal Sakura Puzzle, this little puzzle will give your brain the satisfying yet challenging game it needs. It is shaped after Japan’s most iconic flowers, and the pieces look so similar, that you’ll be wondering where to put them and how to place them together!
As you assemble the metal puzzle, it will take on the shape of Japan’s iconic sakura flowers. The little puzzle is made from mirror-finish stainless steel with tiny pieces that seamlessly and perfectly fit together, challenging your mind, and putting your brain to the test.
What we like
Compact, no-frills design that you can carry anywhere with you
What we dislike
It can be challenging to put together, so it is not the best option for users who want a relaxing puzzle-making experience
7. Effortless Standing Letter Cutter
Called the Effortless Standing Letter Cutter, this little tool is one of the essentials you need on your work desk. It is a simple tool that can boost your daily productivity, and help you maintain an organized desk, as it doubles up as a paperweight as well!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Effortless Standing Letter Cutter reimagines a standard office cool, and cuts through your paper efficiently and effectively, while also doubling up as a chick paperweight, that ensures your desk is neat, clean, and tidy. It is the ultimate solution for boosting productivity!
Functions as a paperweight as well, ensuring less clutter on your desk
What we dislike
Not versatile enough to deal with bulkier packages or intricate mail
8. Blocco Calculator
The Blocco Calculator is a functional and aesthetic calculator, unlike other ordinary calculators on the market. The calculator perfectly merges precision and beauty in a sincere and minimalist form, functioning as a visually attractive addition to your desk. It occupies minimum space on your desk while doing its job.
Why is it noteworthy?
The calculator features an ergonomic and universal design which is great for both left-handed and right-handed users. It has an angular chamfered surface that ensures effortless and quick typing while elevating the calculator’s visual appeal.
What we like
The calculator projects calculations onto the paper
Aesthetic and good-looking design
What we dislike
The usage is limited, as the calculator needs a flat surface to project the equations out clearly
9. Everlasting All Metal Pencil
The Everlasting All-Metal Pencil is a much-needed addition to your desk! It lets you bid farewell to the eternal cycle of pencil sharpening and dealing with mechanical leads. It allows you to harness your creative ideas, and let them flow freely without any hindrance.
The special pencil has been crafted with a special alloy core and features an aluminum body that doesn’t need any sharpening. It leaves marks without wearing down the core, making it quite a practical and durable writing instrument.
What we like
Easily erased by regular erasers
Provides a smooth and seamless writing experience
What we dislike
The pencil doesn’t provide the same grip and comfort as traditional wooden pencils
10. ForeverPen
Named the ForeverPen, this unique pen is made from Ti + Ag, and it sits neatly on your desk! It is said to be the world’s smallest inkless pen and doesn’t need refilling ever. You can even write underwater with it, or open boxes – it isn’t an ordinary everyday pen.
Why is it noteworthy?
The ForeverPen is made from a specialist Silver composite, and you can combine it with the material of your choice. It measures only one inch in length and can jot down all your notes, while also letting you slide open packages and boxes.
What we like
Easy-to-carry and portable design
Functions as much more than just a simple pen
What we dislike
It is not the best option for users with big hands, as they may find it tough to hold
There are plenty of tips and pieces of advice on how to decrease stress levels at work, particularly on your desk. Keep your workspace clean and tidy, put objects and pictures that inspire, and add green plants that remind you to take breaks and live. The latter, however, isn’t always possible in all environments, and some might not be too keen on the added responsibility of keeping that plant alive, even if it’s a succulent. That’s not to say you have to give up the benefits of having some green on your desk, especially not with this collection of accessory concept designs that try to bring life to your work by taking inspiration from Nature’s miracle workers.
Designers: Gahnghyun Yi, Jiwon Lee, Chaeyeon Ha
Plants have long been a source of inspiration for creators of all disciplines, including scientists, engineers, architects, and, of course, designers. The natural beauty these silent creatures possess is surprisingly not that easy to recreate, but we can easily distill the essence of their forms and translate them into designs that hold meaning in our lives. These desk accessories, for example, try to nudge your mind to think about real greenery, eliciting the same emotions of peacefulness, calm, and relaxation that a plant would bring if it were actually standing on your desk.
It’s not a literal imitation, of course; just an interpretation of the basic forms and shapes that plants possess. The Greenery Pencil Holder, for example, is a cylinder with a curved plate partially wrapped around it at an angle, almost like a bamboo stem with a leaf growing out of it. This “leaf” actually functions as a container as well, creating two spaces to place your pens, pencils, and other long stationery tools.
The Greenery Clock is a bit more abstract in comparison, with a stem that curves upward and a leaf that droops down from the top, forming a minimalist digital clock. There is actually a second leaf that’s less visible since it’s lying flat on the desk, creating a space to put small items on. The latter design is repeated in the Greenery Tray with two horizontal “leaves” providing the same flat container. What makes it different, other than the lack of a clock, are the elongated “stems” that act as a hook for hanging key rings and other items.
The Greenery Cable Holder is admittedly a bit of a stretch to imagine as leaves growing on a leaf vein. After all, it’s just a set of circles with cutouts for inserting a cable. One side of the circle is flat, allowing the cable holder to be stuck on desks or walls. With this set, you can add some green hues to your desk without sacrificing space, deriving both utility and aesthetic from simple designs, thanks to some inspiration from Mother Nature.
Everywhere you look whether on Instagram, YouTube or Facebook, people are jet-setting about freely. My travel bucket is currently brimming with places I need to visit. But as any experienced traveler will definitely tell you, before you set off on your next adventure, you need to put together a collection of handy, reliable, and well-designed travel accessories. Great travel accessories are essential, they have your back in the most sudden and spontaneous of situations, providing you with aid and relief when you least expect it. And, we’ve put together a bunch of innovative and functional travel-friendly products that you need to pack in your suitcase for your next trip! From a sushi-themed suitcase to a wireless speaker/power bank– these products are the must-haves you need for your next holiday.
1. Audio 1
Braun is known for its functional, durable, and timeless products that never seem to fall short. And this wireless speaker power bank concept called the Audio 1, takes inspiration from Braun’s evergreen legacy, borrowing the brand’s principles and presenting them in a beautiful fusion of modern technology and retro design.
Why is it noteworthy?
The Audio 1 has two sides – one dedicated to the speaker functionality, and the other one for the integrated power bank and controls. This elevates the user’s experience, while also signifying Braun’s design theme of limiting clutter, and creating a clean, neat, and organized appearance.
What we like
Ensures a hassle-free experience and eliminates the need for multiple cables
What we dislike
No LCD display to show critical battery information
2. Nothing Power Bank
Called the Nothing power bank, this little gadget is the perfect companion for your travel adventures. It has transparent aesthetics that beautifully showcase the innards’ glory and beauty. The interior elements are illuminated by small warm-toned LEDS, which give the little accessory a Cyberpunkish look inside and out.
Why is it noteworthy?
This power bank is a perfect match for Nothing as it is quite functional, and has a no-frills nature. Although there are many options in the market, this transparent power bank would be an excellent addition to Nothing’s ever-growing ecosystem of product lines.
What we like
The power bank complements the Nothing Phone (2)
Features sleek transparent aesthetics
What we dislike
It’s a concept, so we’re not sure how well it would translate into a tangible product
3. DOTS
Named DOTS, this portable coffee machine is a perfect fit for an automated vehicle, but it can be utilized for other on-the-go scenarios as well. The DOTS can be used for those long and tiring car journeys, where you need to get somewhere fast, but cannot stop for a quick coffee break.
Why is it noteworthy?
The coffee machine has a removable button, so you can adapt it however you want, depending on your need for it. It uses coffee capsules instead of the usual brewing method, making the coffee machine easier to use.
What we like
Features a control or lever that lets you adjust the intensity of the extraction method
What we dislike
It has a lid to place a straw on it, but sipping hot coffee with a straw seems weird and uncomfortable
4. Aroma Fragrance Pin
When you’re traveling around, you’re bound to get hot and sweaty, and if you want to maintain a lovely aroma around you at all times, then you may want to get your hands on the Aroma Fragrance pin. This tiny pin is a little holder that can hold cotton dabbed with your essential oil of choice. This allows a strong yet subtle fragrance to envelope you throughout the day.
The Aroma Fragrance pin forms an individual fragrance bubble for you, which follows you around everywhere. You can top it up, once the smell begins to fade away, and is an excellent option for those with sensitive noses who may get affected by the aerosol particles in typical perfumes.
What we like
The pin looks like a fashionable button-style accessory and has color options to choose from
What we dislike
The aroma will last depending on the quality of the aromatic oil, so you will need to partake in some trial and error till you find a long-lasting fit
5. Monos Luggage
Monos’ luggage collection is designed to be whimsical, fun, and yet super functional. They have a diverse and fun range of suitcases including the Monos x Magnolia Bakery collaboration with the iconic NYC-based Magnolia Bakery. They also have a sophisticated Terrazzo which is a limited edition and involves a hard shell luggage option that looks very much like Terrazzo.
Why is it noteworthy?
The carry-on and check-in bags have aerospace-grade, water-resistant polycarbonate hard shells that feature 360° spinner wheels. The inside of every case is lined with an anti-microbial lining made from 100% recycled polyester, which is further adorned with ultra-microfiber vegan leather detailing.
What we like
Equipped with TSA-approved combination locks, dual Y-shaped compression straps, and dividers, accentuated with YKK reverse coil zippers, and a flexible telescopic handle
What we dislike
A bit on the pricey side
6. AirPods/AirPods Pro Neck Strap
This AirPods/AirPods Pro Neck Strap is great for listening to tunes on your next journey. It features a woven necklace that is designed for globetrotters who own AirPods. You can forget about the days you spend rummaging through your backpack or the panic of misplacing an earbud in busy airports.
The chic and functional accessory keeps your AirPods safely around your neck at all times, perfectly merging fashion with practicality. It has a patented One-Click Magnetic Lock that keeps your earbuds secure and safe, whether you’re boarding a flight, or roaming around a new city.
What we like
Eliminates the chance of losing your AirPods
Keeps your AirPods within reach and easily accessible
What we dislike
It could expose your AirPods to damage, dirt, and the weather elements
7. Sushi Suitcases
These adorable suitcases are inspired by sushi! They were created keeping in mind the dual tones of nigiri, with an element of ‘white rice’ topped up by a colorful ingrediant. Merging luggage with sushi doesn’t seem so odd, when you imagine these containers on airport conveyor belts and how similar they look to sushi on food conveyor belts in Japan!
Why is it noteworthy?
The luggage come in three popular types of sushi – yellow egg “tamago” design, brown eel “unagi”, and orange salmon “sake”, giving you the choice between three adorable, functional and whimsical suitcase designs.
What we like
Features a strap with an area for writing your information
What we dislike
Isnt a groundbreaking new design, and is more focused on aesthetics than functionality
8. G5 Clothes Steamer
Designed by Nesugar, the G5 clothes steamer is much like the G2 and G3. It packs the reliable and durable functions of the predecessors, while also merging new functions that are functional and innovative. It is ultra portable, and the perfect companion for your travel adventures.
Why is it noteworthy?
The clothes steamer doesn’t need any water addition for a week or so, and doesn’t compromise the daily ironing needs. This is because it has larger panels, and three-layer heating bodies which support an efficient vaporization and better steam volume.
What we like
Equipped with a new feature to prevent high-temperature water splashes
What we dislike
It’s a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product
9. Carry On Shampoo
The Carry On is a ingenious yet super simple solution that lets you carry a dedicated travel mini-bottle, and it comes along with your existing at-home shampoo bottle! It has a compact design that comes conveniently packaged with your regular bottle of shampoo. You can carry the mini bottle with you on your travels, and refill it when you’re running low!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Carry On is an economy-sized 1 liter, and it comes with its own handle built into the bottle’s design. But when you buy it off the shelf, the handle has a carry bottle that perfectly fits into it like a jigsaw puzzle. The smaller one is 50ml, and can get you through a week-long holiday.
What we like
Lets you use your favorite shampoo, instead of the substandard ones you get in hotel
What we dislike
The carry on bottle is quite small, so there is a chance of easily losing or misplacing it
10. Taco Device
This little taco device is inspired by the metaphor or pun “Let’s taco ’bout it”, and slowly evolved into something that is inspired by the shape of a taco, and is designed to help you connect with people from different countries and regions. It looks like a taco and can be used by both the speaker and listener!
Why is it noteworthy?
Looking like a little taco, the device can be utilized by both the speaker and listener. It is like those two-way cup devices you may have used when you were younger, but this time it is equipped with digital technology!
What we like
Makes communicating more fun and functional
What we dislike
The shape is good for holding and gripping, but not great at catching sound correctly
It’s 2024 and if you’re bummed that you can start your EV with your mobile phone, but can’t open the door to your house with it, the folks at SwitchBot just designed the perfect little accessory. Designed to retrofit onto your existing deadbolt door lock, the SwitchBot Lock Pro has 15 different unlocking options, from letting you use your phone or Apple Watch, to voice commands, biometrics, numeric PINs, or hey, even your regular key if you’re feeling a little old-fashioned. Or maybe get it to unlock when you say “Open Sesame” if you’re feeling extra whimsical!
The Lock Pro follows in the footsteps of the original SwitchBot Lock, which retrofitted onto deadbolt locks to turn them into smart IoT locks. The new Pro variant still transforms deadbolt locks into smart ones, but comes with a sleeker design that integrates right into your door frame, a higher torque output that unlocks and locks doors with absolute ease, and even the inclusion of a number pad and biometric sensor that lets you unlock doors with a PIN or your fingerprint. There’s a minimal amount of assembly, the Lock Pro runs on replaceable AA batteries, and it also supports the Matter IoT protocol which means the Lock Pro can seamlessly communicate with all your other smart home devices, whether they’re from Google, Apple, Amazon, or any other third party company running on the Matter protocol.
Designed with both American and European markets in mind, this retrofit smart lock integrates seamlessly into existing hardware, supporting all common deadbolt locks. Installation is a breeze, taking a mere 5 minutes – for US deadbolts, SwitchBot Lock Pro comes equipped with tailored adapters that allow for effortless cylinder changes, while European users can opt for different mounting plates based on the protrusion of their cylinder. This ingenious design eliminates the need for complex DIY modifications, making the transition to a smart lock a minimal-effort experience without any specialist tools or even requiring calling a handyman. You visit SwitchBot’s website to check whether the Lock Pro is compatible with your door lock for the US or the EU.
At the core of the SwitchBot Lock Pro lies an upgraded motor that boasts an impressive 20 kgf/cm² of torque – more than double the force of its predecessor. This increased power ensures smooth operation, even with multiple locks, and faster unlocking times, providing effortless entry every time. Whether you’re a tenant, apartment resident, or a smart home enthusiast, the SwitchBot Lock Pro is a must-have addition to your connected living space.
Fingerprint Enabled
In essence, the Lock Pro builds on the sheer elegance of its predecessor, which allowed wireless locking and unlocking using Bluetooth devices like your phone or Apple Watch, or through smart home commands via the SwitchBot Hub. Retaining those existing features, the Lock Pro adds a few more for good measure, including a numeric keypad that sits on the outside, allowing residents (or any of your guests) to enter the house with a bespoke PIN code. Aside from the keypad, the SwitchBot Lock Pro sports a biometric sensor too, with a lightning-fast fingerprint recognition time of just 0.3 seconds. It can store up to 100 fingerprints and supports virtual passwords, emergency passwords, and fingerprints for enhanced security.
With up to 15 unlocking solutions available, including one-time passcodes, expiration passcodes, remote unlocking, voice unlocking, and Apple Watch unlocking, the SwitchBot Lock Pro offers a variety of usage methods that cater to pretty much all kinds of people whether they’re tech-savvy or tech-averse. Yes, you can still use your regular key, just in case you’re wondering! Support for Matter means your Lock Pro can also communicate with all your smart home devices, allowing you to remote lock/unlock your door or even set up routines (like automatically locking all doors after midnight). The Lock Pro, however, still requires the use of SwitchBot’s Hub to communicate via WiFi with other devices.
The SwitchBot Lock Pro runs on standard 4 x AA batteries, offering an impressive battery life of 6-9 months, 1.5 times longer than other retrofit smart locks. An optional SwitchBot Dual Power Pack offers an eco-friendly alternative to standard single-use batteries, with a rechargeable design and an ingenious relay power system that ensures uninterrupted use by letting you hot-swap one battery pack at a time while the Lock Pro runs solely on the second battery pack while one of them charges. Additionally, the Lock Pro features passive power supply unlocking, allowing access even if battery replacement is delayed.
Employing AES-128-CTR encryption at the software level, the Lock Pro provides robust protection against potential virtual threats. On the hardware front, the lock sports an auto-lock feature that utilizes a magnetic sensor, ensuring heightened safety and reliability by automatically securing the door based on its open/closed state, and surpassing the effectiveness of timer locks. Users can stay informed with real-time updates on lock and door statuses via their phones, and receive automatic reminders, ensuring peace of mind with every exit.
This isn’t SwitchBot’s first IoT rodeo – the company’s product roster features both standard as well as creative IoT devices like their award-winning curtain-opening robot, the button-pusher that turns regular switches into smart ones, and the Meter – a temperature and humidity sensor that lets you ensure every room in your house is at the right environment setting. The Lock Pro is a perfect addition to SwitchBot’s ecosystem, advancing their existing Lock product with newer features and more unlocking methods including keypad and fingerprint-based input. Whether you’re a family seeking convenience and security, an Airbnb host managing guest access, a fitness enthusiast with hands full of groceries, or a smart home aficionado seeking seamless integration, the SwitchBot Lock Pro offers a tailored solution. From fingerprint unlocking for family members to remote guest access for hosts, quick access for post-workout arrivals, and automated routines for smart home enthusiasts, the Lock Pro quite literally ‘unlocks’ a whole world of possibilities!
Crafted out of either walnut or ash wood, the Arch headphone stand rests majestically on your desk, allowing you to place headphones on its gently arched top. The stepped design in the wood feels reminiscent of Bauhaus-style architecture, and adds an understated beauty to your table with how it creates bands of light and shadow. Designed for people serious about maintaining a theme around their workspace, the Arch is an alternative to those rather industrial-looking hooks and metal headphone stands. If you’re a fan of Grovemade‘s stuff, this one might just be perfect for you.
The Hrdwood Arch is perfect for desk setups dominated by earthy tones and the use of wooden elements. The stand can be placed anywhere on your desk (although we recommend placing a cloth below to prevent it from scratching your table). Each stand is meticulously crafted from three wood panels joint together, creating a beautiful wood grain that almost follows the arch around its bend.
At its narrowest point, the Arch is just above an inch wide (1.18 inches to be precise), and therefore accepts pretty much any headphone. The wooden grain provides just the right amount of friction to ensure the headphones don’t go sliding off, and the solid wood stand is heavy enough to not lift upwards when you try to take the headphones off.
The stand comes in two variants – one made from a darker walnut wood, while another employs a lighter ashwood construction. Both have their own distinct flavors, so to speak, and fit in well with different kinds of decor. The ashwood blends seamlessly with bamboo-based furniture, while the walnut works supremely well with darker wood or black anodized metal. Both pair perfectly with glass tables too… and that tiny space underneath the arch is sort of perfect for storing your AirPods Pro case just on the off-chance you happen to have those too.
We wear watches on our wrists because that’s been the standard design of wristwatches, hence the name, for decades or even centuries. It’s a more convenient design compared to the classy yet antiquated pocket watches, but that doesn’t exactly mean they’re the best design available. For some people, that design can actually cause some pain in the wrist whenever you have to lift your hand and turn it so that you can see that time. That action is perhaps even worse with smartwatches, considering how often you have to do that to see not just the time but other information and notifications as well. That’s the kind of design flaw that this odd-looking Apple Watch “band” tries to address by simply moving the smartwatch from the back of your wrist to the back of your hand.
The appearance of this Apple Watch accessory looks a little ridiculous, at least until you hear the reasonable explanation behind its design. The band, which is actually more like a strap, looks like one of those thumb or hand braces that athletes use for protection. The Apple Watch, sans the straps, is locked in place using clips that utilize the standard lugs and is placed below the joint of your thumb.
This location isn’t based on a whim but on how it makes the screen almost always visible without having to twist your wrist. At least that will be the case for people who need to see the watch face while holding something or with their hands swinging in front of them, like athletes doing training or people exercising. In fact, this kind of ergonomic design was made exactly for sports uses, though that doesn’t stop it from being used by anyone interested in a different way to wear a smartwatch.
While the theory might does sound plausible, there might be a few practical hurdles to such an ergonomic design. For one, waking up the Apple Watch is often done using that twisting gesture, so you’ll have to resort to actually touching the screen or pressing a button to turn on the screen. That defeats the purpose of not requiring your other hand just to glance at information quickly, which ironically makes it a bit less ergonomic in the process.
The other issue is that this kind of band might get in the way of using your hand for other things, especially ones that could make the strap dirty. Most of us are probably unused to wearing such a strap, so there will be some awkwardness and discomfort at the start. The hand-stitched leather material does try to make it a little bit comfortable and stylish, but that might also raise concerns about using it for intense workouts and sports activities. The ErgonBand is admittedly a curious attempt at solving this ergonomic problem, but it might remain just a curiosity rather than a solution that Apple Watch owners can rely on.
The reinvention and return of MagSafe were an instant hit! There is a great sense of satisfaction, in my opinion, to have things just stick to your phone. Be it a pair of earphones (maybe that’ll be the next generation of AirPods) or have your phone just conveniently stick to a charging pad – it’s almost like magic. The reintroduction of the MagSafe led to a whole new world of accessories being unleashed. Designers and creatives were racing to create a whole range of products for the repurposed MagSafe. And we’ve been loving every bit of it! From a MagSafe power bank that cools your phone to a handcrafted MagSafe charging stand – there’s a MagSafe accessory out there for your every need. And, we’ve curated many products that we truly believe are worth buying and investing in. This army of accessories will truly amp up your Apple experience!
1. UPRO Ostand Case
Called the UPRO Ostand case, this device is the winner of the iF Design Award, and it provides your iPhone’s MagSafe with a whole bunch of cool upgrades. It can make your phone stand, hang, or stay securely in your hands as you click a selfie or mindlessly scroll through Instagram. The Ostand case may look like your mundane and average iPhone case, but it is equipped with the familiar magnetic ring which gives it a nice upgrade!
2. 2-in-1 Wireless Charger Concept
This 15W MagSafe compatible iPhone 15 charger concept can be placed in a laid-down position or an alternate orientation, allowing the phone to be set up in portrait mode for productivity. The charger’s alternate pad can be utilized to charge your earbuds or Apple Watch in a laid-down position. Although currently, the charger is in the conceptual phase, it does seem interesting enough to be executed by major accessories providers.
3. Icemag
Designed by Sharge, the Icemag is the world’s first power bank with its unique turbo-cooling feature. The power bank keeps itself and your phone cool and breezy during charging. It is equipped with an ultra-silent fan that moves at a speed of 8000 RPM, which actively cools the battery pack inside, while the power bank wirelessly charges your phone, ensuring nothing gets heated up during the charging process.
4. The MAG:3
Designed by Courant, the MAG:3 is a MagSafe wireless charging device that looks like a minimalist valet tray for your iPhone, AirPods, and other little items that you can place on it to make your side table and desk look more organized. The charging device is available in both leather and linen finishes and in several colors, so you can pick the one that perfectly suits your home and work aesthetics.
5. Shin & Han’s MagSafe Accessory
This unique MagSafe-compatible accessory is designed to help you get over digital addiction and spend less time on your phone. You can attach the accessory to the back of your smartphone. It is equipped with a real clock with a single-hour hand to keep you updated on the passing time, making sure that you don’t spend too much time on your phone. The accessory also functions as a holder for your cards and quick cash.
6. Belkin iPhone Mount
The new Belkin iPhone Mount with MagSafe transforms your iPhone into a webcam for the Apple 4K TV! The versatile mount can be attached directly to your TV with a thickness of up to 40mm without wires or tools. It lets you use your iPhone’s rear camera for FaceTime or Zoom calls. You can also fold the iPhone stand in landscape or portrait mode on a table or wall through magnetic attachment.
7. 6-in-1 MagSafe Charger
This is the world’s first Apple-Certified 6-in-1 MagSafe Charger from ESR that is equipped with a GaN semiconductor, and it doesn’t just charge your small Apple devices, but it also delivers up to 100W of power to your MacBook, providing an all-in-one solution for all your modern day charging requirements. It has three dedicated slots for your iPhone, AirPods, and Watch, as well as three output ports for charging your laptop, tablet, and power bank.
8. Electric Trout Charging Docks
David Stychno’s Electric Trout charging docks are made from acrylic and are newly introduced accessories in the list of metallic and plasticky MagSafe accessories. They have a productive and sleek silhouette that is meant to redefine efficacy and convenience. It is designed for a large spectrum of users and is intended for one, two, or an entire range of Apple’s wearables and handhelds.
9. Side Note
Called the Side Note, this compact leather-bound notebook features an integrated pen and a MagSafe-compatible design that lets you snap it onto your iPhone or any magnetic surface. This little accessory provides you with an analog notepad by your side, letting you quickly and efficiently note down ideas and journal. You don’t need to reach out for a separate physical notepad, as you have a handy one attached to your phone.
10.The MAG.L MagSafe Powerbank
The MAG.L MagSafe Powerbank has a 10000mAH capacity that is designed to improve the wireless charging and power bank experience for everyone. Designed by Neo Bie and Leigui Lui for Stylepiece and has four usual operation buttons: SELECT, START, A, B, and a d-pad (directional pad). The lower portion of the yellow power bank has a cover that slides to work as the stand of the power bank.
