Think of if a Piano, a Theremin, and ChatGPT had a baby.
I distinctly remember seeing the music video for Greyhound by the Swedish House Mafia (and if you haven’t seen it I recommend you do). The video has the three members of the EDM group standing in an empty space, wearing headsets and controlling virtual objects that help them play music while also racing robotic greyhounds on salt flats. The music video released 12 years ago, but painted a very different picture of how people would make music in the future – not with instruments, but rather with gestures. Today, the folks at ROLI unveiled the first step to that future in the form of Airwave – an AI-powered device that uses advanced image recognition to not only help you learn to play music, but perform music intuitively using unique gestures.
Known for its revolutionary Seaboard, ROLI broke away from traditional keyboards by enabling musicians to explore the microtonal spaces between notes, opening up a vast universe of expressive possibilities. Now, with the Airwave, ROLI is set to disrupt the industry again—this time, by using AI to transform how people learn to play music.
For decades, aspiring musicians have been limited to traditional learning methods like in-person lessons, online courses, or YouTube tutorials. While each of these has its strengths, they often lack real-time, personalized feedback that adapts to the learner’s unique progress. ROLI’s Airwave, powered by its Music Intelligence (MI) platform, changes this dynamic by acting as a bridge between instrument and instructor. It introduces a new era of “intelligent pianos” that use cutting-edge AI, vision, and voice technologies to offer a truly immersive learning experience.
“Music learning and playing have been far too difficult for too long: intimidating, expensive, and one-size-fits-all,” said Roland Lamb, CEO of ROLI. “With recent advances in computer vision and AI, we are finally able to innovate beyond the keys and bring this human-centric technology to music learners and creators alike.”
The Airwave works by utilizing 3D infrared cameras that, together with ROLI’s new Vision technology, can “see” your hands as they move across the keyboard, capturing intricate finger movements and gestures. This allows the system to offer highly personalized feedback based on precise tracking of your playing technique. Whether you’re a beginner struggling with finger positioning or an advanced player fine-tuning your dynamics, Airwave adjusts its guidance to match your skill level.
At the heart of this breakthrough is ROLI’s MI platform, which incorporates five key sensory technologies—sound, sight, touch, vision, and voice. These allow Airwave to not only track your hand movements but also respond to voice commands. Ask it to show you a chord, suggest a new piece to learn, or even guide you through tricky sections of a song. This transforms the learning process into an interactive, conversational experience that feels less like traditional lessons and more like having a personal music coach at your side.
The magic really comes alive when Airwave is paired with ROLI’s Piano M (formerly known as LUMI Keys). The Piano M’s light-up keys combined with Airwave’s real-time feedback make for a compelling, intuitive learning environment. Players can practice essential elements of piano technique such as posture, hand positioning, rhythm, and harmony, all while getting immediate, adaptive feedback. This system effectively builds better habits and speeds up the learning curve without the need for constant human instruction.
On the creative front, Airwave doesn’t stop at teaching—it’s also a powerful tool for composers and performers. Its gesture-based controls allow musicians to manipulate sound in novel ways. With a simple hand raise or wrist tilt, you can shift from a piano to a symphonic ensemble, blending different tones and effects in real-time. Marco Parisi, a renowned musician and producer, emphasized the revolutionary potential of Airwave: “Every movement and gesture creates a new sound unique to the musician. It will make music much more expressive and could even lead to new genres of music”.
Airwave is now available for pre-order, setting the stage for a new AI-powered era in human-led music technology. Whether you’re a budding musician looking for a smarter way to learn or a seasoned creator in search of fresh expressive possibilities, ROLI’s latest innovation promises to redefine what’s possible with music.
Ready to transform your night-time adventures? Meet the AKASO Seemor True Full-Color Night Vision Goggles—a game-changer that lets you see the world after dark in a whole new light. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, wildlife observer, security professional, or just someone fascinated by the nocturnal world, the Seemor goggles are designed to elevate your experiences to the next level. These aren’t just any night vision goggles; they incorporate cutting-edge AI-ISP technology and a high-performing CMOS sensor to deliver full-color vision even in ultra-low light conditions. Imagine stepping into the night and seeing everything in vivid, lifelike color instead of the usual green or black-and-white images. The AKASO Seemor promises to bring the night to life, making it an essential tool for anyone eager to explore, observe, and capture the beauty that unfolds after dusk.
At the heart of Seemor is the groundbreaking AI-ISP technology, a synergy of AI algorithms and Image Signal Processing (ISP) that effortlessly simulates and restores colors based on the current lighting conditions. With an exceptional color reproduction rate of up to 99%, it’s almost as if you’re looking at the world during the day. In addition, the larger 1/1.79-inch CMOS sensor captures more light, providing bright and clear full-color images even in low-light conditions. No more green-tinted or black-and-white views—experience the full spectrum of colors, even under the faintest ambient light, and witness nature’s true beauty after dark.
AKASO Seemor stands out by seamlessly integrating AI-ISP technology with CMOS, resulting in an exceptional color reproduction rate of up to 99% even in challenging ultra-low-light environments, surpassing other night vision products.
AKASO Seemor stands out by seamlessly integrating AI-ISP technology with CMOS, resulting in an exceptional color reproduction rate of up to 99% even in challenging ultra-low-light environments, surpassing other night vision products.
That said, you also have full control over how you want to see the world at night. Versatility is key, and Seemor delivers two observation modes, AI full-color and a seven-level infrared (IR) black-and-white, allowing you to adapt to different lighting conditions with a manual switch. This flexibility means that no matter where you are or what you’re doing, Seemor provides the perfect view. With AI Full Color, you get to see the beauty of the night as if it were daytime, while IR mode enhances your ability to see even when there is no ambient light.
Night vision cameras often carry the stereotype of producing grainy, low-res images, but the AKASO Seemor will blow your mind with its 4K video and 4MP photo capabilities. Thanks to its large CMOS sensor, the night vision goggles ensure that every detail is sharp and vibrant. These high-definition captures ensure that every moment from your nocturnal adventures is preserved with exceptional clarity and vividness.
You can instantly watch these moments on the built-in 3-inch screen, making it feel like you’re right there up close, while 2.4G Wi-Fi connectivity lets you monitor using your phone and instantly share your nighttime shots with ease. This feature is a real game-changer when you’re out camping—check out what’s happening both inside and outside your tent without stepping into the cold night.
Worried about battery life cutting short your expeditions? Seemor’s got you covered with two replaceable 3250mAh batteries, each lasting up to 4 hours. With a total of 8 hours, you can explore all night long without a hitch. Plus, it comes with an accessory package to make your adventures smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re on a nighttime hike or a late-night wildlife observation, Seemor’s long-lasting battery life ensures you’re never left in the dark. More than just AI-powered night vision goggles, the AKASO Seemor is your new adventure partner, bringing the night to life in vivid color and incredible detail. Unlock the night and step into a world of colorful, clear, and exciting nocturnal adventures with the AKASO Seemor!
Artificial intelligence is stirring discussions within the creative realm. Regardless of where one stands on the “debate,” the democratization of graphic design, product concepts, and digital creativity spans diverse domains, and Artificial Intelligence is shaping various sectors. Certain AI tools not only enhance efficiency but also drive innovation. These inventive tools are capturing significant attention due to their remarkable impact. Although AI-generated designs might spark debate, some designers are harnessing their potential to shape unique interpretations of furniture, cars, shoes, mobiles, appliance aesthetics, and more.
Moss and Fog have used the AI generator tool “Midjourney” to bring together automobile design and architecture to create car designs inspired by famous architectural designers of the 20th century. By employing an AI-image generator, they have infused the essence of architectural marvels from around the world into a four-wheel automobile design. The design studio’s curiosity was centered on delving into the idea of “Imagine if acclaimed architects embarked on car design?”
Hailing from Spain, Antoni Gaudi i Cornet was a champion of Catalan Modernism, showcased through his distinctly personalized works in the sui generis style. His creations predominantly grace Barcelona, with the iconic Sagrada Familia church standing as a prime example.
Recognized as the “foremost American architect in history” by the American Institute of Architects, Frank Lloyd Wright has revolutionized our perception of modern constructions. His portfolio includes a staggering 1,114 architectural marvels, of which he brought to life a remarkable 532.
Frank Owen Gehry, a Canadian-American designer, has gained widespread acclaim for crafting some of the globe’s most iconic landmarks. His avant-garde approach to design is highly regarded within the architecture realm. In 2010, he was rightfully bestowed with the prestigious accolade of being named “the preeminent architect of our era” by the prominent Vanity Fair magazine.
Paying homage to Zaha Hadid’s distinctive design vocabulary, this avant-garde vehicle embodies her iconic design style. The AI tool beautifully integrates the concept of abstracted layers, similar to the series of modular steel panels with remarkable precision.
Shared among most superheroes is an iconic trait—an impressive set of wheels that elevates their heroic aura. Amid the enthusiasm for AI-crafted helmets and footwear, a latent aspiration lingered: a motorcycle seamlessly resonating with beloved superheroes. The AI-generated amalgamation of cars, crafted in renowned designers’ styles is a creative visualization of superhero sports bikes that have taken form, and the outcomes are truly astounding. The commendation largely rests on the Midjourney AI tool, collaboratively guided by the creator’s unique cues to generate the envisioned artwork.
Some interesting concepts have been shaped using Artificial Intelligence and some designers’ wild imagination, which may someday become reality. The Mutated School Bus was created with the help of the AI design tool Midjourney and is both playful and functional and offers a practical mode of transportation. The bus looks like a rolling classroom with its multi-story stacked bus structure with the signature yellow color while its vertical form is a combination of circular, oblong, and square windows and rooms, that is reminiscent of the look of Minions and transforms into a fun mobile school where children can study while going around the city.
4. Gaudi’s Home Appliances
Inspired by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, these household appliance designs use an AI image generator to mimic Gaudi’s aesthetics when applied to everyday items. The best part about these designs is that they resemble museum pieces and can infuse charm into the kitchen with their flowing contours and unique textured surfaces. These designs blend neo-gothic, art nouveau, and modernist styles from toasters and mixers to vacuum cleaners and coffee machines.
Vadim Sadovski’s ‘Alternate Reality Retrofuturism’ series envisions a realm where steampunk and transparency meld into dominant design themes. AI tools like Midjourney played a pivotal role in bringing these imaginings to life and each product within this collection features a captivatingly intricate and chaotic otherworldly aesthetic. While the series exudes a mesmerizing visual frenzy devoid of a defined pattern, its allure is unanimous. Yet, retrofuturism encompasses more than mere transparency. It’s an amalgamation of retro and futuristic elements, with exquisite creations that seem plucked from a parallel universe. Notable examples, such as the Macintosh computer and Netflix TV, epitomize the successful execution of retrofuturism, at least in the visual sense.
6. iPhones in Ancient Civilizations
Designer: Niels (@appledsign)
The designs of these iPhones are deeply rooted in the echoes of our ancient civilizations. Each product encapsulates the fusion of form and function and pays homage to the timeless elegance and ingenuity of the past, drawing inspiration from cultures like the Roman, Greek, Egyptian, Chinese, and more.
Influenced by concepts from the past, these computer peripherals draw inspiration from Renaissance-inspired designs. The mouse designs seamlessly integrates ergonomic precision with the aesthetics of a bygone era. As a result, the fusion of an old-world charm with modern functionality infuses a slice of history into the daily tools we use.
Designed by the AI artist Str4ngeThing, this collection of footwear showcases a variety of styles intricately capturing the intricate architectural and artistic nuances reminiscent of Renaissance Architecture. Crafted to mimic the appearance of finely sliced wood veneer or cork, these shoes showcase an abundance of intricate details. While typical footwear often aligns with the “less is more” principle, these Renaissance-inspired footwear concepts challenge this norm. In contrast to the simplicity seen in Chuck Taylors, Crocs, or Christian Louboutins, these designs embrace intricate complexity. Each shoe manages to encapsulate an entire era of iconic architecture within its compact structure. Although the AI-generated images might occasionally miss certain details and incorporate assumptions, the resulting visuals remain undeniably captivating.
Amid the sea of Marvel merchandise, designer Paul Parsons has conjured a creation so compelling that I’m genuinely wishing it into reality. Collaborating with MidJourney’s innovative resources, these Marvel X Nike football sneakers exude the essence of the MCU’s iconic heroes and anti-heroes. Striking a balance between sporty footwear and a tribute to comic-book protagonists, these football boots boast standalone excellence even when detached from their context. Comprising a collection of 9 distinct footwear models, each dedicated to a particular character from the Avengers filmography… along with Wolverine.
South African designer Grant Franck’s AI-generated product concepts intertwine gaming, introducing a captivating visual narrative. The assortment of AI-created products, spanning sneakers, helmets, backpacks, music players, and game controllers, weaves futuristic shapes reminiscent of computer games. The designer’s intent is to distance these items from the influence of “idols” and narcissism—likely alluding to popular brands shaped around personalities, often priced exorbitantly. The collection features vibrant designs harmonizing chrome, purple, green, and transparent hues, primed for discussion if they transition to reality. However, concerns arise over practicality and durability, particularly for sneakers and backpacks due to their seemingly delicate design. These accessories prioritize aesthetics over functionality, although they undeniably attract attention. Merging gaming items with fashion resonates with gamers, providing an alternative outlet beyond their consoles when they venture outdoors.
Apple is preparing to introduce a smart home device that blends the capabilities of an iPad, Apple TV, and HomePod. While we’ve seen hints of this over the past year, it’s clear that Apple is aiming to offer something more streamlined and familiar for those looking to automate their homes. These new devices are set to roll out in 2025 and are powered by Apple’s homeOS, an operating system specifically designed to simplify home management.
Designer: Apple
At the heart of these products is Apple’s design philosophy: simplicity, usability, and seamless integration with everyday life. For instance, one of the upcoming models will focus on essential tasks like FaceTime, controlling smart home devices, and using apps. It’s not overcomplicated or cluttered with unnecessary features—it’s practical. The goal is clear: offer consumers a device that fits easily into their routine without feeling like they’re learning a whole new system. The design reflects that, with a clean, intuitive interface that works well for families or anyone who wants to manage their home easily.
For those looking for something a bit more premium, Apple has a model that takes things a step further. This version includes a robotic arm that automatically tilts and adjusts the screen for optimal viewing, creating a hands-free experience. Whether you’re in the middle of a FaceTime call or watching something while moving around the kitchen, the device adapts without needing constant attention. This sort of design choice speaks to Apple’s focus on making technology work around the user, not the other way around. Its functional design is meant to simplify, not complicate.
Apple’s homeOS ties everything together, offering a smarter, more intuitive way to control devices. It’s a natural extension of what Apple already does with products like the iPhone and iPad, but homeOS is explicitly designed to manage smart homes. This isn’t just about setting up timers for lights or adjusting the thermostat—Apple Intelligence learns your habits, automating tasks without you even thinking about it. It adjusts based on your routine, handling everything from lighting to temperature so the home feels like it’s working for you.
Design plays a significant role here, too. For instance, one of the models will have a magnetic mount, making it easy to place wherever you need it, whether on the wall or a table. It’s simple, and that’s precisely the point. You don’t have to redesign your home to fit this device; it adapts to your space. With its adjustable screen, the premium model’s robotic arm offers even more flexibility. It’s a device that can move with you, keeping convenience and usability front and center.
Apple’s approach to smart homes feels different because they’ve always been about creating an ecosystem that works together. This new device is no exception. If you’re already using an iPhone, Mac, or Apple TV, this product will slot right into your life. You won’t need to learn a new platform or jump through hoops—it’s designed to be intuitive for anyone already familiar with Apple’s ecosystem. And for those who aren’t, it’s still easy to use.
As we move toward the 2025 launch, it’s clear that Apple is focusing on making home automation feel more natural. These new devices are not just about throwing in more features but offering a thoughtful design that blends into everyday life. Whether it’s the magnetic mount or the robotic arm, Apple’s design choices always come back to one thing: how can this make the consumer’s life easier? And that’s why their approach makes sense.
Apple is preparing to introduce a smart home device that blends the capabilities of an iPad, Apple TV, and HomePod. While we’ve seen hints of this over the past year, it’s clear that Apple is aiming to offer something more streamlined and familiar for those looking to automate their homes. These new devices are set to roll out in 2025 and are powered by Apple’s homeOS, an operating system specifically designed to simplify home management.
Designer: Apple
At the heart of these products is Apple’s design philosophy: simplicity, usability, and seamless integration with everyday life. For instance, one of the upcoming models will focus on essential tasks like FaceTime, controlling smart home devices, and using apps. It’s not overcomplicated or cluttered with unnecessary features—it’s practical. The goal is clear: offer consumers a device that fits easily into their routine without feeling like they’re learning a whole new system. The design reflects that, with a clean, intuitive interface that works well for families or anyone who wants to manage their home easily.
For those looking for something a bit more premium, Apple has a model that takes things a step further. This version includes a robotic arm that automatically tilts and adjusts the screen for optimal viewing, creating a hands-free experience. Whether you’re in the middle of a FaceTime call or watching something while moving around the kitchen, the device adapts without needing constant attention. This sort of design choice speaks to Apple’s focus on making technology work around the user, not the other way around. Its functional design is meant to simplify, not complicate.
Apple’s homeOS ties everything together, offering a smarter, more intuitive way to control devices. It’s a natural extension of what Apple already does with products like the iPhone and iPad, but homeOS is explicitly designed to manage smart homes. This isn’t just about setting up timers for lights or adjusting the thermostat—Apple Intelligence learns your habits, automating tasks without you even thinking about it. It adjusts based on your routine, handling everything from lighting to temperature so the home feels like it’s working for you.
Design plays a significant role here, too. For instance, one of the models will have a magnetic mount, making it easy to place wherever you need it, whether on the wall or a table. It’s simple, and that’s precisely the point. You don’t have to redesign your home to fit this device; it adapts to your space. With its adjustable screen, the premium model’s robotic arm offers even more flexibility. It’s a device that can move with you, keeping convenience and usability front and center.
Apple’s approach to smart homes feels different because they’ve always been about creating an ecosystem that works together. This new device is no exception. If you’re already using an iPhone, Mac, or Apple TV, this product will slot right into your life. You won’t need to learn a new platform or jump through hoops—it’s designed to be intuitive for anyone already familiar with Apple’s ecosystem. And for those who aren’t, it’s still easy to use.
As we move toward the 2025 launch, it’s clear that Apple is focusing on making home automation feel more natural. These new devices are not just about throwing in more features but offering a thoughtful design that blends into everyday life. Whether it’s the magnetic mount or the robotic arm, Apple’s design choices always come back to one thing: how can this make the consumer’s life easier? And that’s why their approach makes sense.
The Internet has made the world a smaller place, but it hasn’t completely taken down the language barriers that divide us. Translation services, both traditional and those now powered by AI try to bridge those gaps, but many of them require fumbling with apps on phones or computers. With more people from around the globe now communicating with each other, whether online or in person, we need a translation tool that isn’t just instant and seamless but also integrates with our modern lifestyles. That’s the value that VocaEase is bringing to the table, offering a slim and compact AI-powered translation device that easily snaps to the back of your phone, translating more than 138 languages with just a press of a button.
Anyone who has worked with languages will know that supporting 138 languages is no easy feat, especially when it also takes into account regional dialects and local expressions. Thanks to ChatGPT, that’s exactly what VocaEase does, providing the speed and accuracy you need to hold a conversation in another language in real time. Whether you’re making friends in other countries, holding an international business meeting, or simply enjoying videos or music in other lanugages, this comprehensive linguistic tool has all your language bases covered.
VocaEase isn’t just some voice translation gadget, though. It can work in different modes, handle languages in different formats, and meet the needs of anyone dealing with both spoken and written languages. Voice and Video Call translation enables smooth-flowing and natural conversations that are automatically transcribed and translated into subtitles. Cross-App translation covers your social media needs, translating text and voice messages with a super-fast 0.5-second response time. VocaEase can also record and translate meeting transcripts that you can share with other people in the team. And with Dialogue Translation, you don’t even have to press the ring’s button and simply touch the voice button on the screen for that same convenient and speedy translation.
Best of all, you don’t have to bring a bulky and blocky recorder to enjoy all these features. VocaEase comes in the form of a thin magnetic ring that you can stick on the back of phones or even laptops. Constructed using lightweight aluminum alloy, the resilient yet elegant ring can turn 360 degrees to provide your phone with a reliable grip or a stand for watching videos or doing voice calls, maybe in other languages as well. It also boasts an impressive battery life and a 10-minute charge is enough to last up to 30 days on standby.
Say goodbye to the days of manually copying and pasting text between apps or carrying and fumbling with a separate device just for translations. Powered by ChatGPT AI and supporting over 138 languages, this linguistic tool offers fast and accurate translations that keep the conversation flowing. Whether for business, travel, education, or fun, the VocaEase 360° MagSafe AI Translation Ring not only brings people closer together but also delivers a stylish and versatile accessory for your smartphone.
I can still remember the time when Samsung was all but ridiculed for launching the 12.2-inch Galaxy Note Pro in 2014, but who would have known that it was just too ahead of its time? Fast forward a decade later, even Apple has a 13-inch iPad Pro, and unsurprisingly, Samsung won’t be outdone. Of course, there might be a limit to what can still be considered a portable tablet, but those lines are being blurred now that “Pro” tablets are being positioned as laptop replacement. And just like many Windows laptops today boast Microsoft Copilot features, Samsung is bringing the full power of its Galaxy AI to its largest mobile screens.
Designer: Samsung
With a 14.6-inch screen, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra might be stretching the definition of a tablet, but it’s undoubtedly a very portable size for a detachable laptop and a digital drawing pad. Of course, Samsung has been marketing its Tab S series as a tablet for pros, but this time it’s adding a new element to the mix to make that even more plausible. Its putting AI, its own Galaxy AI, of course, front, center, and across the full width of that large screen, promising to upgrade your productivity as you upgrade your hardware.
In terms of design, the Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra is a dead ringer for last year’s Samsung flagship tablet, which means you’re still getting a simple and no-nonsense design. Mirroring the aesthetics of its current Galaxy S smartphones, it has flat edges, a flat back, and two separate rings for the 13MP and 8MP cameras. There’s still that magnetic charging groove across the back for the included S Pen, making sure you don’t lose the all-important accessory too easily.
Samsung is making a lot of noise about the AI features on the tablet, all of them geared for productivity and creativity. Note Assist and Handwriting Help make it easier to make sense of notes, while Sketch to Image lets your artistic spirit free. There’s also Google’s now famous Circle to Search gesture, and the official Book Cover Keyboard naturally has a dedicated Galaxy AI Key to launch your AI assistant of choice, whether it’s Samsung Bixby or Galaxy Gemini.
In terms of specs, Samsung naturally crammed the best of mobile hardware inside, except for one curious but critical compoment. Samsung opted to use a MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor instead of the usual Qualcomm Snapdragon, and some might have doubts about whether it can handle heavy AI loads, among other tasks. Regardless, the 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X screen, 12GB of RAM, and 11,200mAh battery all come together for a premium experience. The Galaxy Tab S10 Ultra starts at a rather eye-watering $1,200, but those who prefer slightly smaller screens can opt for the 12.2-inch Galaxy Tab S10+ with a matching $1,000 price tag. Sadly, no smaller Galaxy Tab S10 model this year.
Ever since it relaunched the ill-fated Galaxy Note 7, Samsung has been launching a new “Fan Edition” S series flagship every year. The Samsung FE series is supposed to bring the most wanted features of its high-end phones down to a more affordable price tag, which means it does have to cut some corners to reach that price point. Cameras and battery life have always been the main focus of the Galaxy FE phones, but this year brings an unsurprising addition to that set. With the Galaxy S24 FE, Samsung is making an even bigger push for its Galaxy AI suite, trying to push it to more people with a handset that won’t kill their budget too much.
Designer: Samsung
In terms of design, the Galaxy S24 FE strangely stands in between the Galaxy S24+ and the Galaxy S24 Ultra. It has an unapologetically large 6.7-inch screen, but its actual size is made even bigger by the wider bezels you won’t see on the more premium Galaxy S24 series. It does at least have the same elegant minimalist design as the Galaxy S24 and Galaxy S24+ with its rounded corners, flat edges, and flat front and back.
Of course, the “Fan Edition” phones come with plenty of compromises if you compare them to the standard flagship. In this particular case, the Galaxy S24 FE has a slightly dimmer screen that has fixed refresh rates of either 60Hz or 120Hz only, an underclocked mid-range Exynos 2400e processor, and only 8GB of RAM. That said, it does have a larger 4,700mAh battery compared to the 4,000mAh battery on the Galaxy S24, and it has almost similar 50MP main and 12MP ultra-wide cameras. The 3x telephoto camera, however, only has an 8MP sensor.
Unsurprisingly, a lot of the focus in this release is on Galaxy AI and the features that it enables. Those include retouching photos, making amusing compositions, and of course, Circle to Search with Google. Hopefully, the phone’s modest specs will be able to catch up with the demanding AI features without making the phone too hot to handle.
What is surprising is that Samsung is making the same support commitment it made with its more expensive phones, namely seven generations of OS upgrades and seven years of security updates. The phone also uses some materials made from recycled plastics, aluminum, glass, and rare earth metals, which is pretty impressive for a “cheaper” variant of a flagship phone. All of these come with a $649.99 price tag for 128GB of storage ($709.99 for 256GB), which isn’t all that bad considering you’re getting a solid phone from a reputable brand.
Ray-Ban’s Meta Wayfarer glasses have quickly become the intersection of fashion and technology, combining classic style with advanced smart features. Recently, Ray-Ban and Meta unveiled the new Shiny Transparent Wayfarer, featuring exposed internal components and Clear to Sapphire Transitions lenses. While this new model pushes the boundaries of what smart glasses can look like, the big question is: should you upgrade, especially if you already own a pair? Let’s break it down.
Designer: Ray-Ban + Meta
If Money Is No Object, Then Yes—Go for It
If price isn’t a barrier, the decision to upgrade is straightforward. At $429 USD, the Shiny Transparent Wayfarer offers a visually striking design that showcases the internal technology, creating a futuristic look that stands apart from the Matte Black version. The Clear to Sapphire Transitions lenses add another layer of sophistication, adapting to light conditions and giving the glasses a sleek sapphire tint when outdoors. This is an easy yes for those who enjoy staying at the forefront of wearable tech.
If You Want the New Lens Transition, It’s Worth Considering
If your current Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer comes with standard clear lenses or basic non-adaptive sunglasses, upgrading to the new Transitions lenses could make a big difference in how you use the glasses day-to-day. The Clear to Sapphire Transitions lenses offer a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor settings, making it easier to adapt to different lighting conditions without needing to switch eyewear. When you’re indoors, the lenses remain clear, providing a natural and unobstructed view. However, once you step outside, they automatically darken to a sleek sapphire tint, adding a touch of style and protecting your eyes from harsh sunlight. For anyone who finds themselves frequently moving between environments, this flexibility could be a major convenience.
On the other hand, if you already own a pair with Clear to Green Transitions lenses, the upgrade may not offer enough of a difference to justify the change. Both lenses provide the same adaptive functionality, adjusting to light to enhance your vision while adding a color tint. The real difference lies in the aesthetic—whether you prefer the cooler sapphire tint or the more classic green hue. If you’re satisfied with the current performance and look of your lenses, there may be little reason to make the leap unless the sapphire color truly appeals to you.
If You Want a New Design with Exposed Tech, Then Yes
The most noticeable difference in the new model is the Shiny Transparent frame. This design exposes the inner workings of the glasses, giving them a high-tech look that contrasts with the more traditional Matte Black frame. The transparent frame brings an aesthetic shift, showcasing the cutting-edge technology that powers the glasses in a more visually pronounced way. It’s an intriguing design choice for those who appreciate a bold, futuristic look.
If you’re drawn to a more tech-forward, modern aesthetic, this new design is worth considering. The transparent frame is eye-catching and adds a fresh dimension to the Ray-Ban Meta Wayfarer collection. For those who want their eyewear to make a visual statement, the exposed components are a step forward in wearable tech design. However, if you prefer a more classic and understated look of the Matte Black Wayfarer, you might find that the new frame doesn’t offer enough reason to make the switch.
For Me, It’s a Hard No
For anyone who already owns the Matte Black Wayfarer with Clear to Green Transitions lenses, upgrading to the new Shiny Transparent model may not be necessary. Your current pair offers the same core features—AI-powered assistance, a 12MP camera, open-ear speakers, and a touchpad for easy control. The Clear to Green Transitions lenses provide excellent functionality, and if you’re happy with the design and tech you already have, there’s no pressing need to make the switch.
The Introduction of AI-Powered Features
With the recent updates, Ray-Ban and Meta have significantly improved the AI capabilities of the glasses. Now, you can use voice commands by simply saying “Hey Meta” and follow up with additional commands without repeating the wake word. The glasses can also remember important details like where you parked your car or set reminders for when you land after a flight. The ability to send voice messages via WhatsApp or Messenger while your hands are occupied adds an extra layer of convenience for staying connected on the go.
One of the more impressive AI features is real-time video assistance. Whether you’re exploring a new city or browsing the aisles of a grocery store, Meta AI can offer real-time help by identifying landmarks or suggesting meals based on the ingredients you’re looking at. Additionally, real-time language translation for Spanish, French, and Italian can remove language barriers, and future updates will likely support more languages.
Expanding Partnerships with Major Platforms
The glasses also support deeper integrations with platforms like Spotify and Amazon Music, but Ray-Ban has expanded these offerings to include Audible and iHeart as well. Now, you can use voice commands to search and play music or audiobooks without touching your phone. This makes the listening experience even more seamless, allowing you to ask questions like “What album is this from?” while on the move. These expanded partnerships deepen the glasses’ role in day-to-day media consumption.
The collaboration with Be My Eyes is another significant step in making the glasses more accessible. This app, designed for individuals who are blind or have low vision, pairs users with sighted volunteers who provide real-time assistance. The glasses’ camera allows the volunteer to see what the wearer sees, enabling them to help with tasks like reading mail or navigating new environments.
Are You Going for It?
Ultimately, the decision to upgrade comes down to personal preference and how much you value the new design and lens options. If money isn’t an issue or you’re drawn to the transparent frame and sapphire lenses, the upgrade makes sense. However, if you’re content with your current Matte Black Wayfarer with Clear to Green Transitions lenses, there’s no pressing reason to switch. The new features and design are exciting, but your existing pair still holds up as a stylish, highly functional piece of wearable tech.
ASUS has long been recognized for its forward-thinking approach to technological innovation. With Ceraluminum, the company shifts focus, moving beyond performance metrics and engaging users on a sensory and emotional level. At the “Design You Can Feel” exhibition during the London Design Festival, ASUS presented this unique material in an artistic context, blending technology, material science, and human-centered design. This exhibition explored how technology doesn’t need to feel cold or distant but can foster emotional engagement and tactile experiences that draw users in.
Designer: ASUS
At the core of this shift is Ceraluminum, a revolutionary material that merges aluminum’s structural benefits with the tactile qualities of ceramic. With its four-year development, this material represents a significant leap forward in the functionality and aesthetics of ASUS’s products. Ceraluminum invites users to touch, explore, and experience their devices in a more intimate, human-centered way. It’s a breakthrough that combines art and technology, reshaping how we engage with our tech.
Ceraluminum: A Material with Presence
Ceraluminum reflects ASUS’s focus on creating materials that enhance functionality while fostering a more personal and tactile user experience. From my interpretation of their design philosophy, ASUS aims to develop materials that resonate emotionally with users, evoking a sense of warmth and connection—without suggesting metaphysical attributes like having a soul. Unlike traditional metals that feel cold and impersonal, Ceraluminum exudes warmth and tactility. It absorbs light and reduces glare while offering a textured, matte finish that invites interaction. Chief Design Officer Mitch Yang elaborated on the significance of this during the panel discussions, emphasizing that the texture and feel of Ceraluminum are key to fostering a deeper connection between users and their devices.
Developed through a unique micro-arc oxidation (MAO) process, Ceraluminum begins as lightweight aluminum and is transformed into a hybrid material through a high-voltage plasma discharge. This creates a ceramic oxide layer that maintains aluminum’s strength and lightness but offers ceramic’s hardness, scratch resistance, and tactile warmth. This unique combination gives ASUS’s devices a distinctive feel and presence, setting them apart from the sea of cold, reflective metal gadgets on the market.
Yang explained further, “Ceraluminum allows us to create devices that don’t just look good but feel meaningful to the touch. It changes how users interact with their technology, inviting them to explore the material with their hands, not just their eyes.”
SUSA: Embodying Calm Technology
At the center of the “Design You Can Feel” exhibition was SUSA, a conceptual AI-powered device designed by London-based Future Facility. This device embodies ASUS’s philosophy of calm technology, where tech is designed to be intuitive, unobtrusive, and calming rather than overstimulating. Encased entirely in Ceraluminum, SUSA represents the potential of this material to facilitate more mindful, tactile interactions with technology.
SUSA’s design is deliberately minimalist. It features a perforated screen that subtly filters its digital display, minimizing distractions while maintaining core functionalities such as photography, navigation, and calls. By encouraging users to engage with the physical object rather than becoming consumed by the screen, SUSA promotes a more intentional relationship with technology.
Leo Leitner, a designer at Future Facility, explained this during the panel discussion, stating, “SUSA is a reflection of how we can rethink the role of digital devices in our lives. By using Ceraluminum, we create a product that feels more natural and calming. It’s about slowing down, encouraging the user to focus on what’s important rather than being overwhelmed by constant notifications.”
Kim Colin, also from Future Facility, expanded on this by adding, “The tactile nature of Ceraluminum allowed us to create a product that feels inviting and grounded. It shifts the focus from what the device can do to how it feels when used. That tactile warmth is crucial to fostering a more mindful, human-centric interaction.”
SUSA is more than a concept. It represents a future where technology is integrated into our lives in ways that promote mental well-being, offering a calming influence rather than a constant source of overstimulation.
Collaborations with Global Designers: Ceraluminum Through the Eyes of Art
The “Design You Can Feel” exhibition also served as a platform for international designers to reinterpret and manipulate Ceraluminum in their own creative ways, showcasing its versatility beyond traditional tech applications. By inviting leading artists and designers to explore the material, ASUS highlighted how Ceraluminum can inspire new forms of user interaction. Each designer’s work emphasized tactile engagement and explored how material science can evoke emotional responses while remaining functional.
Giles Miller Studio (UK) approached Ceraluminum from a design perspective that blurred the lines between industrial application and artistic expression. Miller’s work focused on transforming the surface texture of Ceraluminum, turning it into a canvas for intricate patterns and reliefs. By manipulating its reflective qualities, Miller demonstrated how Ceraluminum could become a material that protects and decorates, elevating everyday technology into something more visually dynamic.
Designer: Giles Miller Studio
The studio used light to reveal hidden details in the material, inviting users to interact with their devices in new ways. Miller explained during the panel that they wanted to capture the subtle shifts in light as users moved their devices, turning a practical surface into an artistic experience. “Ceraluminum gave us the ability to create a surface that changes with the viewer’s movement, transforming the device from an object of utility into something more engaging,” Miller noted. This emphasis on the material’s light-reflecting properties invited deeper emotional engagement, making the device feel more personal.
Natural Material Studio (Denmark) took an organic approach to Ceraluminum, focusing on its ability to mimic natural textures. Their contribution aimed to highlight the material’s matte finish and tactile softness, drawing inspiration from natural elements like stone and sand. By working with Ceraluminum’s porosity, they created objects that felt grounded and familiar, offering a contrast to the typically sleek, hard surfaces of most technology.
Designer: Natural Material Studio
The goal was to craft a sensory experience that reminded users of nature. Their work emphasized the tactile qualities of Ceraluminum, offering an experience that felt like the material had been shaped by natural forces rather than human technology. “We wanted the object to feel as if it had always existed—like a pebble-shaped by the sea,” the studio shared during the exhibit. Their designs provided a sense of calm, reinforcing ASUS’s broader mission to create technology that connects users to the natural world while still harnessing advanced materials.
Nice Workshop (South Korea) explored the application of Ceraluminum in larger-scale objects with their “Aluminium Formwork Series”. Moving away from electronics, they demonstrated how Ceraluminum could be used in furniture design by applying ASUS’s ceramicization process to aluminum forms. This process resulted in furniture pieces with a textured, stone-like finish that invited touch and interaction. Founder Hyunseog Oh said their goal was to make aluminum—a traditionally cold, hard material—feel softer and more approachable.
Designer: Nice Workshop
Their work showed how Ceraluminum’s unique texture could be adapted to everyday objects, making them more inviting and user-friendly. “We wanted people to feel comfortable interacting with furniture in the same way they interact with their devices,” said Oh. This exploration of Ceraluminum’s versatility in non-tech applications expanded the material’s potential, proving it could enhance electronics and the physical spaces we inhabit.
Fernando Laposse (Mexico) brought a sustainability-focused lens to the exhibition, concentrating on how Ceraluminum could be repurposed and recycled to reduce environmental impact. Known for his work with natural fibers, Laposse saw potential in Ceraluminum’s longevity and durability. He explored how the material could be integrated into sustainable design practices, offering a responsible alternative to more wasteful production methods.
Designer: Fernando Laposse
Laposse’s work aligned with ASUS’s vision for creating long-lasting products that reduce waste and contribute to a circular economy. By focusing on Ceraluminum’s recyclability, he highlighted its potential to contribute to sustainable design efforts. “Ceraluminum’s strength and durability mean it can be repurposed, not discarded, ensuring that our devices leave a smaller environmental footprint,” Laposse explained. His approach resonated with ASUS’s commitment to sustainability, demonstrating that high-tech materials and responsible design can coexist.
Studio Furthermore (UK) embraced a more experimental approach, pushing Ceraluminum’s potential beyond the traditional limits of material design. Their contribution focused on the material’s transformation through ceramicization, exploring how different textures and surface treatments could evoke new tactile experiences. By experimenting with forms and patterns, Studio Furthermore demonstrated how Ceraluminum could serve as a medium for creative exploration, where users could discover new ways to interact with their devices.
Designer: Studio Furthermore
The studio’s work underscored how Ceraluminum is durable and capable of provoking emotional and tactile connections. By emphasizing the material’s sensory qualities, they invited users to engage more profoundly and rigorously with their devices. “We wanted to encourage users to touch and feel their devices, not just see them as tools,” the studio remarked. Through their experimental processes, Studio Furthermore showcased how Ceraluminum could foster more profound, more meaningful interactions between users and the objects they use every day.
Final Thoughts: A Sensory Future for Technology and Design
ASUS’s “Design You Can Feel” exhibition and the development of Ceraluminum represent a forward-thinking approach to how technology integrates into our lives. With this material, ASUS bridges the gap between the tactile and the technological, offering users an experience that goes beyond performance to touch the soul of design.
Ceraluminum’s durability, tactile warmth, and matte finish go beyond aesthetic choices; they reshape how we interact with devices moving forward. This material reflects ASUS’s commitment to creating devices that resonate emotionally, offering comfort, engagement, and fostering a deeper connection.
Through collaborations with global designers, ASUS has highlighted the potential of Ceraluminum to transform not just technology but how we live, interact, and engage with the objects around us. As we move forward, Ceraluminum is poised to lead a new design wave that prioritizes emotional resonance, environmental responsibility, and the fusion of art with cutting-edge material science.
