The mobile phone market is a very aggressive one, so it’s no surprise that even big companies bow out eventually. Nokia raised the white flag after numerous failed attempts with both Windows Phone and Android. BlackBerry also closed shop after failing to find a profitable market for its QWERTY phones, while LG opted to focus on its other businesses other than mobile. Some brands, on the other hand, simply downsize their operations, like HTC mostly in China, and Sony only through online shops. Sharp, is part of this latter group, though its presence has been so small you’d hardly notice it still existed. In fact, it just announced its latest handset, and while the Sharp AQUOS R9 looks rather elegant in its simplicity, a single design element, unfortunately, mars its otherwise clean appearance.

Designer: Sharp

When it comes to minimalism, the two cultures that are considered to be the epitome of this style and lifestyle are Scandinavian and Japanese. In that regard, it shouldn’t be a surprise that Sharp’s new smartphone embodies minimalism almost to the extreme. It barely has any branding on the back of the phone aside from the small “AQUOS” and “LEICA” texts in the camera circle. With flat surfaces and edges, plain colors, and the lack of almost any embellishments, the Sharp AQUOS R9 is like a breath of fresh air in the smartphone market.

Unfortunately, it’s because of that very simplicity that your eyes are immediately drawn to the one conspicuous element on the phone’s back: its cameras. The design, while simple, looks a bit skewed, lopsided, and uncertain as if it can’t decide if it wants to be a square or a circle, the two predominant camera designs in the market today. Even more unbalanced, despite being an even number, are the camera lenses, positioned diagonally and off-center and with slightly different sizes. We’ll just have to take Leica’s unspoken word that this is the optimal placement for these cameras.

In terms of hardware, the Sharp AQUOS R9 looks quite competitive, at least on paper. It’s powered by a mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 processor with 12GB of RAM, with a large 5,000mAh battery to keep it running. The 6.5-inch Full HD screen boasts TV maker Sharp’s Pro IGZO OLED technology and is capable of 240Hz refresh rates. Those two odd cameras on its back both have 50MP sensors, and the front-facing camera for selfies and video calls has a similar 50MP hardware. As mentioned, Sharp is proudly flaunting LEICA’s brand, indicating how its imaging system has been approved by one of the biggest names in the optics industry.

There’s no word yet on how much the Sharp AQUOS R9 will cost or if it will even be available outside of Japan. It’s definitely an odd design choice, one whose elegant minimalism is juxtaposed with an asymmetrical camera bump. It’s not ugly, for sure, but it’s an appearance that looks a little confusing and disconcerting, creating a bit of a visual discomfort whenever you try to appreciate its clean looks.

The post Sharp still makes smartphones and its latest design is beautiful but a little off first appeared on Yanko Design.

Mother’s Day falls on 12th May, and it really is an incredible day, as we get a chance to celebrate our superhero moms! Although that is something we should do every day. But Mother’s Day is the day we get to pamper our moms and shower them with love, and also hopefully make their lives a little bit easier. If you’re looking to gift your mom with some thoughtful and wonderful presents, then we’ve got your back. We’ve curated a collection of minimal, elegant, and functional products that will easily fit into your Mom’s everyday life and make it a little easier this Mother’s Day!

1. Japanese Lantern Candle

Inspired by the traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, this pretty Japanese lantern has an adorable pillar shape. It is essential for self-care sessions that your mother can indulge in this Mother’s Day, giving her a chance to unwind, letting the worries and stresses of life fade away for a bit. And the best part, you can continue using the lantern body even after the candle inside is used up, giving a warm glow whenever they light it up.

Click Here to Buy Now: $62 $69 (10% off). Hurry, Mother’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

This pretty little candle offers a contemporary take on an age-old iconic Japanese lantern design. It gives a relaxing glow and has a minimalist and simple design ethos which lets it complement any living space. The candle is made by handcrafted artisans in Kurashiki, Japan.

What we like

• The outer wax of the candle is harder and comes with a patented tech that keeps it from melting easily, and crafting a clear body on the candle

What we dislike

• You need to be careful while using it around children and pets as an open flame is always a fire hazard

2. Pop-Up Book Vase

Convert your desk into a fairy tale scene using this lovely pop-up book vase. This new and elegant item can be opened to unveil a series of 3D vase cutouts, each cutout designed to present your floral arrangements in an enchanting and ever-changing manner. One design, multiple outputs – quite like our multi-tasking mom’s, isn’t it? The vase also folds back into a book and can be stored away easily, making it a must buy for every space – big or small.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39

Why is it noteworthy?

The book vase perfectly combines the timeless charm of a storybook with the utility of a flower vase, in turn forming a unique item that will bring some color and character to your desk, table, or wherever you place it. They’re the perfect Mother’s Day gift for your mother, letting her display her favorite flowers in style!

What we like

• Provides a unique and playful approach to showcasing flowers
• You can easily change the presentation

What we dislike

• It doesn’t have the durability of traditional vases
• Not a great option for heavy or water-filled arrangement

3. Jewelry Display Clock

Women and their jewelry are always inseparable – everyone I know of has that one iconic jewelry that they wear either everyday or keep it close by for any special occasion they have. In my opinion, jewelry is a women’s special talisman and I can bet our Mom’s have that one piece they want to keep safely in a proper home for that piece. This is where the Jewelry Clock comes in – allowing you to safely story your rings, bangles, necklace or even display your earrings as a pendulum by keeping the clock in your space. The design gives you time + a unique way to stay in touch with your personal belongings, giving you a chance to stop and stare before the day begins.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The delicate tongs can be used by you to prepare lunch boxes or to even eat some sushi. There is really no wrong way to hold the tongs, and they’re designed to last a lifetime. The tongs possess a special metal processing which ensures that the jet black color doesn’t easily scratch off.

What we like

• Minimal design with a quartz movement for precision.
• Made from bioplastic that contains a large amount of rice husks

What we dislike

• The jewelry storing space is minimal, not allowing you store more than 3-4 pieces with ease.

4. Legacy Precision Nail File

Designed by Yoshida Yasuri, the Legacy Precision Nail File is made in Japan using meticulous craftsmanship. The file is manufactured through an intricate three-stage sharpening process, making sure it is not dull, but nor does it have sharp edges like typical factory-made nail files. It makes for a wonderful grooming little gift for your Mom that is minimal enough to keep it handy and stay with her through the ages. After all, who but Mom’s can appreciate the quality of a heritage product that is crafted with an eye for details.

Click Here to Buy Now: $26 $29 (10% off). Mother’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The thick stainless steel plate is shaped in all directions six times, on both sides of the nail file, to ensure it is fine, durable, and smooth.

What we like

• Guarantees lifelong durability
• Comes along with a handmade leather sheath to safely store when not in use

What we dislike

• The intricate craftsmanship and quality materials make these files a significant investment compared to standard alternatives.
• It does not have an entire nail care kit to go along with this.

5. Painless Key Ring

The Painless Key Ring lets you bid farewell to traditional key rings with its revolutionary wave spring key ring. It has a unique design that is inspired by the mechanisms used in the aerospace and automotive industries, providing you with a smooth and hassle-free solution to manage your keys. Especially as a Mom whose responsibilities are almost proportional to the number of eyes she carries, this key ring stores the keys easily, gives great access all while protecting her nails!

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

This unique key ring organizes your keys using a high-tech and durable design that lets you secure your keys in an easily accessible manner. It has a lightweight and compact form which ensures your keys are always well organized and safe.

What we like

• Uses a wave spring technology for easy removal and addition of keys
• Cuts down the common struggle with tight or deformed key rings

What we dislike

• It is pricier than typical key rings due to its advanced design
• The individual key rings don’t have a color grading or any system to distinguish between the keys they hold

6. Moon Rocket Wall Clock

If your mom loves all things space, then you can gift her the Moon Rock Clock. This simple yet unique-looking clock brings outer space to your home. It is crafted from specially polished stainless steel and has a circular shape that manages to capture the mystique and beauty of the moon with numbers that float around the edges and all in a minimal package that blends into any existing space.

Click Here to Buy Now: $276 $325 ($50 off). Mother’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The numbers on the clock wane and wax just like the moon, creating a beautiful effect. The clock gives a gentle reminder to live life freely and with the spirit of adventure, in the same way, the rocket ship makes its way around the moon. This minimalist clock has a mesmerizing moon travel-inspired ethos.

What we like

• The printed numbers seem to float and merge into the surface of the moon
• The tiny rocket incorporated in the clock’s second hand is a beautiful, whimsical touch

What we dislike

• The seemingly floating numbers may make it difficult to read when the clock is wall mounted

7. Jewelvase Mirror Stand

Dubbed the Jewelvase Mirror Stand, this lovely little minimal mirror doubles up as an accessory stand or vase. It makes for a fantastic Mother’s Day gift for your mom! It features an elegant and simple design that adds loads of character to your dresser, or any surface where you place it – giving you a chance to observe yourself, share a floral design in the vase or keep your knick knack safe – all in one tiny minimal package!

Click Here to Buy Now: $59

Why is it noteworthy?

It has dual functionality, which allows it to serve as both a mirror and a vase/accessory stand. The stand is made from a bioplastic material, which includes rice husks. The mirror stand has a pretty decorative quality to it, and it functions as a stylish yet functional home decor accent.

What we like

• Elevates any dresser, table, desk, or furniture piece it is placed on

What we dislike

• The design cannot be folded/minimised and stored when not in use.

8. Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser

Called the Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser, this tiny product brings fresh air into your home, letting you take deep breaths and relax without causing any kind of harm to the environment. This unique diffuser harnesses the power of a single candle through the medium of simple physics and science. If de-stressing after a long day is the key to your Mom’s routine, this diffuser elevates the ritual, with every step of switching it on becoming a part of the wellness routine that is sure to bring joy.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser is battery-free, and it doesn’t need any external power sources to operate. It is crafted from sustainable materials, giving it a pretty eco-friendly ethos.

What we like

• Made from recyclable materials
• Compatible with various kinds of essential oil

What we dislike

• Lacks electric controls, so it can be tough to adjust the intensity of the aroma

9. Rin Harmony Incense Holder

Called the Rin Harmony Incense Holder, this thoughtful little design allows you to enjoy the smokey and relaxing aroma of your chosen incense stick. It is the perfect Mother’s Day gift, letting your mom relax and calm down after a long day. It is made from natural walnut wood and has a storage space for the incense sticks as well.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199

Why is it noteworthy?

The brass plate functions as a safe space to hold the lit stick, and a matching cover lets you snuff out the flame, while also making sure that the ashes don’t fly around.

What we like

• Unique dual-functional design with a minimalist form that amplifies any setting.

What we dislike

• Only allows one incense to be lit at a time, making the reach of the aroma limited

10. Bookish Bookmark

Called the Bookish Bookmark, this beautiful, minimal product allows readers to enjoy a hands-free reading session, letting them keep their books open without having to use any awkward workarounds. With the Bookish Bookmark, you don’t need to put down the book with something heavy and ugly. The transparent design is perfect for anyone who loves to read books or follow cook books – always have your last read page ready to access and stay there in case of people meddling in your reading time!

Click Here to Buy Now: $65

Why is it noteworthy?

The bookmark is an excellent choice for those who want to display their favorite books as an element in their home. The bookmark has a clean transparent design, and it lets you keep your book open while adding a visually interesting element to your desk or bookshelf.

What we like

• The bookmark allows you to display your favorite books in an aesthetic and neat manner

What we dislike

• It might be too large for small books, and disliked by those who prefer discreet bookmarks

The post 10 Best Minimal Design Gifts to Easily Improve Your Mom’s Life This Mother’s Day first appeared on Yanko Design.

You’ve probably had your share of seeing articles, YouTube videos, and Instagram posts about beautifully crafted notebooks and journals. Despite the prevalence of smartphones, computers, and digital devices, there is still a very strong culture around paper notebooks and the tools that support their use. That said, notebooks aren’t the only medium for this kind of creative activity, and loose-leaf paper has some benefits as well, at least as long as you have a way of keeping them together or writing on them on a flat surface. This extremely simple clipboard offers that kind of experience for artists, architects, and engineers, and it even adds a feature you’ve probably never seen on any clipboard before.

Designer: Studio SHFT

Clipboards have been around for decades, maybe even centuries, but very few people actually give them a second thought. You’d usually see them in offices, store rooms, or even on the field to hold a few sheets of paper together, mostly checklists or forms to be filled while standing up. Unfortunately, that underestimates the utility of this tool, and this all-metal clipboard demonstrates how you can take advantage of its features with a few ingenious design details.

The most striking thing about the FOLD B is that it’s made from a single sheet of stainless steel. Although most clipboards are often made with plastic, cardboard, or even cork, a steel one isn’t at all unheard of yet extremely rare. Even rarer is the fact that it’s really just one flat sheet of metal, without even a clip to keep paper in place.

That function is instead delegated to two small cylindrical magnets that are strong enough to hold the paper down, though probably only a single sheet as well. The idea is to use the clipboard not as an organizer for loose-leaf paper but as a drawing board or canvas. You place a sheet of paper, “pin” it down with those two magnets, and start drawing, drafting, or writing to your heart’s content. The clipboard’s elevated rear drives home the fact that it’s really made for this kind of use case.

While it doesn’t have a paper clip, The one thing that does protrude from the top of the clipboard is a small rechargeable lamp. This assists the user to keep on working even in darker spaces, though it’s still better to have a properly lit environment anyway. This lamp is connected to the clipboard with screws, so it’s completely possible to remove it if you feel that it hinders rather than helps. Curiously, this built-in lighting also opens the design to more uses, like a guest book or a menu holder for restaurants.

The post Ultra-minimalist clipboard made from a sheet of metal has a built-in light first appeared on Yanko Design.

There are plenty of productivity techniques floating around the Internet, but one of the most popular ones has actually been around even before the Web as we know now came to be. Named after a tomato-shaped kitchen timer, the Pomodoro technique is so simple that it’s too easy to brush it off as trivial, but its effectiveness has also been known for decades. Of course, that has also led to plenty of apps and gadgets that embrace the hype while forgetting the spirit and actually induce stress and distractions rather than productivity. Fortunately, there are better and more creative ways to design a Pomodoro timer, like this minimalist beauty that allows you to enjoy the simple benefits of the technique without having to rely on a clunky analog timer, especially one that looks like an awkward tomato on your desk.

Designer: Gary Peng

The Pomodoro technique is extremely simple and takes advantage of the fact that the human brain can only concentrate on a single thing for a short period of time. In theory, you do that single thing for 25 minutes and then take a break for 5 minutes before repeating the process. Because it’s that simple, you really don’t need complicated tools other than a timer, whether it’s a mechanical kitchen timer or a smartphone app, both of which come with their pros and cons. That kitchen timer can look odd on your desk and a mobile app risks distracting you with other things on your device.

POD is a tool that combines the feeling of an analog timer with the convenience of an electronic device in a simple yet attractive form. It’s nothing more than a small white puck that has five very discreet dot lights on top arranged in an arc. There is no control other than pushing the puck down like a button, which is what starts the countdown.

Each dot of light represents either five or one minutes, depending on the mode. When you’re in “work” mode, the lights count down to 25 minutes in total, while “break” mode is the usual five-minute period of rest. The POD is also minimally distracting, using only flashing lights to get your attention rather than sounds or vibrations. This means you can easily use it in environments where you need to be very quiet, like in a library.

The POD also relies on trusty CR2032 batteries that you can easily replace, so you won’t have to worry about running out of juice for a long time. Its minimalist charm will make it look at home on any desk, table, or shelf, and doesn’t induce the same tension and stress the same way that a ticking kitchen timer would.

The post Minimalist Pomodoro timer promises distraction-free productivity first appeared on Yanko Design.