Bandit9 Motors is well respected here at Yanko Design for their unique sense of going about for restomod conversions that have a piece of history associated with them. Kickstarting their exciting journey with motorbike restomods, the custom tuning shop moved onto the four wheels with the stunning Monaco electric car in pure black, and then later on the improved version of EVE Odyssey arrived.

Going back and forth between two-wheelers and four-wheelers alternatively, they’ve revealed the War Truck restomod under their coachbuilding division VAN DARYL Gallery. This will be their second project after the electric Batmobile under this sub-brand. The donor jeep for this build has a lot of history behind it, as it is one of the jeeps used by U.S. troops after the Vietnam War. Otherwise lying abandoned in obscurity and inevitable deterioration, the VAN DARYL War Truck (yes that’s what it is called) is infused with new life.

Designer: VAN DARYL

At heart the War Truck is an amalgam of intense military history with modern automotive aesthetics, reviving the tough vehicle into a restomod highlighted by a sci-fi treatment. Once VAN got the first jeep into their shop the truck was stripped down to see what old parts could still be relevant in the modern build. First, the team reinforced the custom-designed body with steel and aluminum frames to make it highly durable just like the Tesla Cybertruck. They also decided to increase the ground clearance by refitting the independent coil suspension. The front and rear drum brakes have been retained, encapsulated by the more modern steelie-inspired forged alloy wheels that have light aero-disc influence.

The boxy look is complemented by the rear-mounted full-spare tire housing, side-running exhausts, lightly flared fenders, bespoke steel bumper, retro-inspired LED headlights, and taillights that carry the same neo-retro design ethos. The edgy silhouettes are matched well by the rectangular windshield and mirrors, as well as the low-cut doors having wooden handles for the classic feel. According to  Villanueva “The War Truck isn’t just some homage or remake. To call it a ‘restoration’ would be an oversimplification. It is reimagined, rehabilitated, revived, and refined.”

On the inside, the jeep is drop-dead gorgeous with a purpose-built theme in pearl white. It comes with sports seats, modern switches to choose from various options, bespoke knobs, an infotainment display and an audio system. The steering and custom shift knob get the wooden bespoke treatment, while the widescreen instrument cluster panel is nothing short of impressive. The spacious and functional boot derives inspiration from yacht designs having teak-style wood deck trims. The whole interior can be customized as per the client’s needs with plenty of options to choose from.

Powering the guts of this vehicle is the battle-tested 4-cylinder, 2.3L engine but buyers can also opt for the powerful upgraded version, including one that is fully electric. The original version churns out 71hp and 128 ft-lbs of torque for a top speed of 100mph and a range of 300 miles per tank. In this configuration, the buyers can go for automatic or manual transmission variants. The handling and performance characteristics have been tuned to deliver maximum driving pleasure which makes the Wat Truck a force to reckon with. The vehicle hand-built on a made-to-order basis is available for order right away.

The post War Truck is an open configuration restomod EV based on battle-tested Vietnam war jeeps first appeared on Yanko Design.

The iconic American roadster from the 1910s is marking its presence again with a modernized appeal all thanks to Stephen Wright. Yes, I’m talking about the Cyclone motorcycle designed and developed originally by Joerns Motor Manufacturing Company. This performance roadster was way ahead of its time as it was capable of reaching speeds over 150 km/h, driven by a 996cc engine.

The bike made frequent appearances at the board track racing circuits until 1917 when other bike makers offered cheaper versions. Ultimately the Joerns’ had to sell it to Ignaz Schwinn of Excelsior Motor Company who later developed many machines engineered on the two-wheeler. The Cyclone motorbike was officially discontinued in 1920, and to date, only a handful of examples have survived the sands of time. In fact, only 14 bikes exist in current times, and five of them are pure racing versions. That’s how exclusive this classic motorbike actually is!

Designer: Stephen Wright

It is hard to believe that the motorcycle is more than a century old and still in sublime condition. Most of that can be attributed to Stephen’s effort in restoring the yellow-painted V-twin bike. For the unassuming, the two-wheeler could be nothing special, but for collectors, it is a prized possession. This was the first ever overhead-camshaft motorcycle and since there were only a limited number of units churned out in the three-year-long manufacturing run, the bike was second to none. Being powered by a 61ci air-cooled OHC engine configuration, having a Schebler carburetor mated to a single-speed transmission controlled via a foot clutch, the machine churned out 45 horsepower. That amount of thrust for a bike in the early 1900s was totally unheard of. Also, it is worth mentioning that the two-wheeler’s engine employed self-aligning roller bearings instead of the more commonly used plain bushes. These were in place to adjust for the misalignment of the engine due to vibrational movement.

The engine combustion chamber has an elongated dome-shaped configuration and classy fenders which lends the bike a distinct persona in the signature yellow hue. Joerns Motor Manufacturing Company also sold the bike in blue color, but for this one-off restoration, Stephen opted for the eye-popping color. As mentioned on the auction website, the bike was a bit fragile when going over speeds of 150 kilometers, since it depends on the small metal well filled with oil for lubrication that drips on the two camshafts.

To get over this issue, the rider has to stop occasionally and add more oil to the cam drippers. But that won’t be necessary as we rarely have street-legal bike riders get an empty stretch of the highway to take such an exclusive piece of history for a spin over speeds of 150 kmph. For the undisclosed proud owner who bought it off the auction for 1.32 million, this is going to be the centerpiece of the garage.

The post Century old Cyclone Motorcycle marks a comeback as restored roadster, sells for record-breaking amount first appeared on Yanko Design.

The alliance will promote and contribute documentation and use cases, collaborating with other standardization efforts.

As the automotive industry continues to expand the horizons of innovation and aesthetics, January 2024 has become a stage for some of the most breathtaking and avant-garde vehicle designs. This month, designers have introduced a diverse array of automotive masterpieces that seamlessly combine state-of-the-art technology with stunning visual appeal.

We have assembled a selection of the top ten automotive designs revealed in October 2024, showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship that propel the industry forward. Whether you are an automotive aficionado or someone who appreciates extraordinary design, these vehicles are bound to inspire and captivate.

1. MOD Easy Electric Cruiser Bike

Called the MOD Easy Electric Cruiser Bike, this innovative electric bicycle incorporates a sidecar that beautifully blends retro aesthetics with modern functionality. It embodies the essence of classic motorcycles while integrating practical features that ensure a smooth and enjoyable riding experience. It is designed for those who seek the pleasure of commuting from A to B with ease, and it provides the perfect balance of style and utility.

It focuses on allowing riders to enjoy the journey and exudes a rugged, vintage charm with its matte green frame accented by sleek black details. This color scheme is ideal for individuals who appreciate an evergreen and adventurous look. The addition of the sidecar, equipped with large wheels enhances its functionality and also adds a unique and distinctive flair.

2. TWR Supercat

Called the TWR Supercat, this model is a visually stunning and dynamic reinterpretation of the classic XJS. It was designed by Tom Walkinshaw Racing, and it was launched to coincide with Jaguar’s strategic shift towards an all-electric future. This classifies as an important moment in the brand’s growth and evolution. It draws inspiration from racing models like the XJR-15, and the XJ220.

The TWR Supercat features a sleek carbon fiber bodywork, which conceals a supercharged 5.6L V12 engine, tuned by the engineering masters at TWR. The car is a powerhouse, and it delivers 660 horsepower and 730 Nm of torque, which is channeled to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.

3. Ichiban

Dubbed Ichiban, this electric motorcycle is a perfectly balanced mix of an Akira-themed two-wheeler and low-slung sports bike aesthetics. This bike is a perfect representation of “riot and freedom”. It is supposed to be the first electric bike with a full-wheel drivetrain, thereby offering excellent performance and enhanced riding comfort, with digital intrusion kept to a minimum.

The bike delivers the ideal mix of EV performance and HUD elements that are analog, creating and supporting a unique and surrela interaction between the vehicle and the rider. According to the design, the bike isn’t simply a mode of transportation, it is a “liberating streak of freedom in an excessively connected world.”

4. Bugatti Avallon

This Bugatti Avallon concept refines and fine-tunes the elements that define the marque. It adopts the brand’s iconic split body aesthetic, showcasing the mechanical heart-like kinetic. The vehicle integrates aerodynamics so naturally and harmoniously, that they seem like natural extensions, rather than add-ons.

Each vent, crease, and intake plays some kind of role in the design, by creating a visual language that is both traditional and futuristic. The Avallon showcases Bugatti’s iconic horseshoe grille with a sharper and more modern design language. It is surrounded by big, angular air intakes that channel the airflow around the nose, thereby providing better aerodynamics.

5. Twike 5

Say hello to the Twike 5—a pedal hybrid vehicle crafted for environmentally conscious individuals seeking a sustainable mode of transportation. Designed by automaker TWIKE GmbH, this innovative vehicle is a three-wheel trike featuring one wheel at the front and two at the rear. It combines an electric motor with a pedal trike, and offers a unique travel experience, accommodating two passengers while maintaining a lightweight profile of approximately 600 kilograms.

It can reach speeds of up to 190 kilometers per hour and can travel up to 500 kilometers on a single charge. This velomobile-style electric trike provides both efficiency and versatility. Instead of a traditional steering wheel, the Twike 5 is equipped with dual joysticks positioned at the sides of the operator, allowing for intuitive control while in drive mode.

6. Ducati Odioso

Revival Cycles built the Ducati Odioso – a sidecar cross bike blessed with flamboyant and unique looks to impress. This build is truly one-of-a-kind since the Donar two-wheeler is the Ducati ST4 – a sports touring bike that is powered by a 916cc desmodromic engine made between 1999 and 2005. The motorcycle is equipped with a trellis frame and an outlandish exterior. It is outfitted in vibrant and peppy hues of green, pink, and blue.

The builders took an ST4 and modded it into a sidecar cross-bike. “Odioso” actually means obnoxious in Italian, and this bike truly does justice to its name. The sidecar-cross-inspired design looks quite different from the original Ducati ST4, but it is quite impressive. It is equipped with a996cc L-Twin motor four-stroke engine that generates 120 horsepower.

7. Infinite Machine P1

Meet the Infinite Machine P1 Electric Scooter—a state-of-the-art personal transportation device that draws inspiration from the futuristic design of the Cybertruck. Designed by Eddie and Joseph Cohen, this e-scooter boasts a sleek yet sturdy construction, utilizing anodized aluminum and steel to achieve a durable and stylish exterior.

The Infinite Machine P1 is engineered to deliver exceptional performance and a seamless user experience. It features Apple CarPlay integration, enabling riders to access turn-by-turn navigation directly from the scooter’s interface, ensuring a hassle-free journey to their destination. The scooter also allows users to enjoy their favorite playlists on the go, transforming each ride into a practical and enjoyable experience with a touch of modern convenience.

8. E-THUNDER

Called the E-THUNDER – a high-performance electric bike designed to turn heads wherever it travels. It features a striking and aggressive handlebar design, paired with large wheels, this bike commands attention and respect on the road. Its bold aesthetic extends throughout the frame, which features a high saddle that echoes the sleek, stealthy profile reminiscent of a Stealth bomber aircraft.

E-THUNDER offers a modern solution for both daily commuting and intensive lower-body workouts, particularly in challenging hilly terrains. Its advanced suspension system, combined with wide tires, delivers a smooth and comfortable ride, even on steep inclines. Riders can also adjust the handlebar positioning, providing optimal comfort and control, making each journey as pleasant as it is efficient.

9. Garage 54’s SUV With Springs

Youtuber Garage 54 embarked on an interesting experiment and created a pretty intriguing and one-of-a-kind automotive design. He equipped the car with wheels of springs, instead of the conventional rubber treads. He wanted to outfit and empower the vehicle to travel on off-road trails and snowy roads without any hassles or problems.

However, sadly, the experiment did fail since metal isn’t the best alternative, and the springs were welded to the tires. But, Garage54’s ambitious project highlights the creative potential and exploratory spirit within the automotive community. It opens up discussions on how traditional materials can be reimagined and how innovations can be developed to enhance vehicle performance in challenging environments.

10. Robo-EV

The Robo-EV by the PIX Moving Team is a cutting-edge micro car, uniquely crafted entirely through 3D printing in a single piece. Designed specifically for congested city mobility, its construction process is both straightforward and efficient. The recently developed prototype showcases its impressive capabilities. On the inside, the Robo-EV is equipped with smart technology designed to enhance the driving experience.

One of its impressive features is its AI system, which can analyze the mood and tone of the driver in real-time. This intelligent vehicle provides emotional support via its language processing capabilities, allowing for engaging two-way interactions. The car’s voice system doubles as a sophisticated voice assistant, contributing to a seamless user experience.

The post 10 Best Automotive Designs Of January 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple’s latest experiment in robotics feels like a love letter to Pixar’s Luxo Jr. The tiny, energetic desk lamp that hops onto the screen before every Pixar film has always been more than just a mascot—it’s a symbol of character-driven storytelling. Now, Apple’s researchers have taken that same playful, emotive energy and brought it into a real-world robotic lamp, designed not just to function, but to interact, express, and even entertain. Researchers at Apple presented a paper titled ‘ELEGNT’ (Expressive and Functional Movement Design for Non-Anthropomorphic Robot) along with a comprehensive video of the lamp in action.

There’s a poetic connection here. Steve Jobs, the man who shaped Apple’s design philosophy, was also the visionary who helped Pixar become an animation powerhouse. The DNA of both companies has always been about creating technology that feels approachable—whether through the friendly curves of an iPhone or the lifelike expressions of an animated toy. Apple’s robotic lamp embodies that same philosophy, proving that robots don’t need to be powerful to be meaningful. They just need to be relatable.

Designers: Apple Machine Learning Research Division

Developed by Apple’s Machine Learning Research division, this robotic lamp is more than an automated light source. It gestures, reacts, and even sulks when it’s left behind. A demonstration video shows it performing tasks in two modes: “Functional,” where it simply executes commands, and “Expressive,” where it adds personality to its movements. The difference is striking. Instead of cold efficiency, the expressive mode makes interactions feel natural—like the lamp is part of the room’s social fabric, not just an object within it.

In one scene, the lamp hears music and starts swaying, an irresistible display of curiosity. In another, it glances outside before describing the weather, as if pausing to check for itself. When it reminds a user to drink water, it nudges the glass forward—not as a command, but as a gentle encouragement. These small but thoughtful gestures tap into something deeply human: the way we naturally ascribe personality to objects that behave in familiar ways.

This is why anthropomorphism in robotics matters. People don’t just want machines that work—they want machines they can connect with. A robot that can convey joy, hesitation, or even mild disappointment is far more engaging than one that simply executes tasks. It’s a lesson we’ve seen play out in animated films for decades, and it’s one that robotics engineers are beginning to embrace. In a way it also helps shed the impression of robots being scary (Skynet, Terminator, Transformers, Ultron) by embracing more delicate, humane characteristics instead.

Apple’s research aligns with earlier reports from Mark Gurman suggesting the company is developing a home robot with an articulating arm and an iPad-like interface. Speculated to launch by 2026 or 2027, it could integrate with smart home systems and even act as a companion device. If Apple is serious about bringing robotics into consumer spaces, this expressive lamp could be a glimpse of what’s to come.

For now, this experiment serves as a reminder that technology doesn’t have to be rigid or clinical to be useful. The best machines aren’t just the ones that perform tasks efficiently—they’re the ones that make us feel something. And if a desk lamp can make you smile just by hanging its head in disappointment, Apple might be onto something special. You can read the entire research paper on Apple’s website here.

The post Apple Researchers Built A Pixar-Style Robot Lamp That Moves And Emotes Like A Living Creature first appeared on Yanko Design.

Here’s my hot take for 2025, technology that cannot be upgraded is genuinely consumer-unfriendly. Framework proved it was possible by designing a sleek laptop that featured totally upgradable components – most gaming PCs are entirely upgradable too – so why not phones? Why not tablets? And why not drones?

Drones are devices that you probably buy once or twice in your lifetime. Nobody buys a new drone every 2 years – they use the one they have for as long as possible before upgrading (that’s only if they need to upgrade)… which really means you’re stuck with backward tech for a fairly long time. To combat this, Ethan White designed the ARK – a modular drone with an architecture that features removable and upgradable components. Need a new battery? Swap it out. Want a better camera lens? Substitute the older one for a newer model.

Designer: Ethan White

“Traditional drones require complete hardware changes or airframe redesigns to perform different roles. The ARK, however, offers an integrated solution with the simple act of swapping module pack,” says Ethan. Although the drone references Noah’s Ark, it quite literally represents the metaphor of the ‘Ship of Theseus’ – a thought experiment revolving around a ship that remains constant, with its parts gradually replaced over time.

The way the ARK is designed balances purposeful bulkiness with aerodynamics. Sure, laptops can be sleek for cosmetic reasons – but drones need to shed every single ounce they can for efficiency – a heavy or bulky drone can’t fly as well as a lithe, aerodynamic one – so making a drone that’s easy to disassemble, modular, and upgradable presents a unique challenge.

Components can’t be interwoven with each other inside a single outer body. The battery needs to exist independent of the PCB. The motors, sensors, cameras, every element has to be positioned very thoughtfully, so that they can be individually removed and replaced.

To that end, the ARK has a remarkable design, featuring components that interlock together when in use, and separate when you need to perform a swap. All this while still making sure you’ve got a drone that’s portable, foldable, and aerodynamic. The modularity also means you can purpose-build your drone based on your needs. Want something for entertainment, choose a basic package. Want a multimedia beast, upgrade your camera. Want to record at night, swap the daytime camera for a module that supports night vision. Want better range, add better antennas on top. You can build your drone with precise intent, just like you would your PC.

The drone features upgradable PCBs, cameras, propellers/motors, battery packs, and even other components like anti-collision sensors. Although conceptual, Ethan is working on a proof-of-concept and states that he’s aiming for IP43 water and dust resistance, along with a 30-minute flight-time. That might sound dull on paper, but I’d choose 30 minutes of flight with an absolutely incredible camera lens and sensor over 50-60 minutes with a fairly basic lens array. Plus, things will only get better with time – and as a consumer, you directly benefit from it.

The post If Framework Designed A Drone: Meet the Modular Drone Concept with Fully Upgradable Components first appeared on Yanko Design.

Leica has long been synonymous with precision craftsmanship and a refined photographic experience. With the Lux Grip, the brand extends its expertise to smartphone photography, bringing DSLR-style ergonomics to the iPhone. Designed for enthusiasts who demand more than the standard touchscreen interface, this MagSafe-compatible grip transforms an iPhone into a more intuitive and tactile shooting tool. With its premium build, mechanical controls, and seamless software integration, the Lux Grip introduces a new level of control for mobile photographers.

Designer: Leica

Design and Build Quality

Leica’s Lux Grip embraces the brand’s signature minimalist aesthetic, crafted from high-grade aluminum with a matte black finish that exudes professionalism. Unlike many plastic alternatives, the metal construction adds a reassuring heft without making the iPhone cumbersome to hold. The cylindrical grip on the left side enhances ergonomics, providing a natural resting position for the fingers, while the MagSafe attachment ensures a secure fit across iPhone models from the iPhone 12 onward.

A key design feature is its two-stage shutter button, reminiscent of traditional cameras. This mechanical button allows for half-press focusing and full-press image capture, bringing a level of tactile precision rarely seen in mobile photography. A dedicated dial on the grip enables quick adjustments to exposure settings, zoom, and other camera functions, mimicking the manual control dials found on Leica’s flagship cameras. The inclusion of customizable function buttons further enhances usability, allowing photographers to map key controls to suit their shooting style.

Advantages of the Leica Lux Grip

The Lux Grip stands out by offering features typically reserved for high-end cameras. Unlike touchscreen-based smartphone controls, this grip provides:

• A True Photography Feel: The two-stage shutter button offers mechanical feedback that mimics a traditional camera.
• Improved Ergonomics: The cylindrical grip ensures a stable hold, reducing strain during prolonged shooting sessions.
• Customizable Controls: Two assignable function buttons allow photographers to personalize their workflow.
• Enhanced Stability: A firmer grip reduces unintentional shakes, resulting in sharper images.
• MagSafe Convenience: The attachment is secure but allows for quick detachment when needed.

These advantages make the Lux Grip a compelling choice for content creators, street photographers, and professionals who rely on mobile photography for rapid image capture.

Hardware and Software Integration

Leica’s implementation of a two-stage shutter button brings professional-grade control to mobile photography. The button operates similarly to those found in high-end DSLR and mirrorless cameras, allowing users to engage autofocus and exposure metering with a half-press. This ensures the subject is sharp and well-exposed before taking the shot.

A full press then captures the image with immediate response, eliminating the lag typically associated with touchscreen-based controls. This precise physical interface provides a more stable and reliable shooting experience, reducing camera shake and allowing for smoother action photography.

This advanced shutter system seamlessly integrates into the Lux Grip’s overall hardware and software design. By allowing photographers to lock focus before recomposing their shots, it enhances precision, particularly in portrait and street photography. Additionally, it offers better timing control for capturing fast-moving subjects, ensuring that users don’t miss critical moments. Since it eliminates reliance on touchscreen input, accidental misfocuses are significantly reduced, allowing for greater accuracy in framing and exposure. This integration between the physical shutter button and Leica’s Lux App ensures a fluid shooting experience that mimics traditional cameras, offering professional-level control in a mobile package.

The Lux Grip’s shutter button functions exclusively within the Leica Lux App, unlocking additional features tailored to professional shooting. The app provides quick access to shooting modes, manual exposure adjustments, and real-time focus controls. Users can fine-tune settings such as shutter speed, ISO, and white balance, making it a powerful tool for those who demand full control over their mobile photography workflow.

Bluetooth Connectivity and Battery Life

• Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Connection: Ensures real-time responsiveness without significant battery drain.
• Battery Capacity: The built-in 300mAh battery supports approximately 1,000 shots per charge.
• Charging Method: Uses USB-C for convenient recharging alongside an iPhone.

Leica Lux App: Free and Pro Subscription Options

The Leica Lux App operates on a tiered subscription model, offering both a free version with basic functionality and a premium Lux Pro subscription for advanced features.

The free version provides essential tools such as Auto and Aperture modes, a selection of standard Leica lens simulations, and basic editing capabilities. To help new users explore its full potential, Leica includes a two-week trial of Lux Pro, granting temporary access to the premium toolset.

For users seeking greater control over their photography, Leica offers the Lux Pro subscription at $6.99 per month or $69.99 per year—the latter offering an approximate 17% savings. However, customers who purchase the Leica Lux Grip ($329) receive a complimentary one-year Lux Pro subscription, strengthening the connection between hardware and software.

Premium Features and Market Position

• Lux Pro unlocks Leica’s signature features, including:
• Advanced Leica lens simulations, featuring the renowned Summilux-M and Noctilux-M characteristics.
• Professional tools such as RAW capture and processing, real-time histograms, and focus peaking.
• Custom presets and advanced color profiles for a tailored photographic experience.

This premium positioning places the Lux App above competitors such as Halide ($11.99/year) and ProCam ($7.99 one-time purchase). While some photographers appreciate Leica’s refined imaging capabilities, others question the necessity of an ongoing subscription after investing in the hardware. Nonetheless, the basic features remain accessible without a subscription, allowing users to determine if the enhanced tools justify the additional cost based on their workflow and appreciation for Leica’s distinct photographic approach.

Comparative Analysis: Leica LUX Grip vs. Lower-Priced Competitors

The iPhone photography accessory market offers several options catering to different budgets and needs. At $329, the Leica LUX Grip positions itself as a premium tool, while alternatives like the Belkin Stage PowerGrip ($149.95) and ShiftCam SnapGrip ($130) provide more budget-friendly choices.

Build Quality and Design

The Leica LUX Grip features a precision-engineered aluminum build, weighing 130 grams and incorporating a two-stage shutter button, customizable function buttons, and a control dial. In contrast, the Belkin Stage PowerGrip prioritizes utility with a plastic body, focusing more on battery power, while the ShiftCam SnapGrip offers a modular, expandable design with a more compact profile.

Power Management

• Leica LUX Grip: 300mAh battery supports approximately 1,000 shots per charge with USB-C charging (2-hour recharge time).
• Belkin Stage PowerGrip: Features a 10,000mAh battery, doubling as a power bank with 7.5W wireless charging.
• ShiftCam SnapGrip: Offers wireless charging but with a smaller battery capacity compared to the Belkin.

Software and Compatibility

• Leica LUX Grip: Requires the Leica Lux App, offering manual controls, Leica lens simulations, focus peaking, and histogram tools.
• Belkin Stage PowerGrip & ShiftCam SnapGrip: Work seamlessly with any camera app, offering more flexibility but fewer pro-level tools.

Value Proposition

• Leica LUX Grip is ideal for professional photographers seeking precise controls and premium build quality.
• Belkin Stage PowerGrip is best for users needing longer shooting sessions and on-the-go power.
• ShiftCam SnapGrip is a great budget-friendly choice for casual photographers wanting better handling without a steep price.

Key Takeaways

• Leica’s Lux Grip is the only option with mechanical camera controls, a significant advantage for serious photographers.
• Belkin’s PowerGrip offers an integrated power bank but lacks physical controls.
• ShiftCam SnapGrip is a budget alternative with a basic shutter button but lacks the Lux Grip’s refined ergonomics.
• Peak Design’s Creator Kit focuses more on mounting flexibility than advanced shooting features.

For professionals and enthusiasts seeking DSLR-like control in a mobile format, Leica’s Lux Grip remains the most refined choice despite its premium pricing.

The post Leica Lux Grip: A Premium Camera Grip for iPhone Photographers first appeared on Yanko Design.

Researchers from Abnormal Security discovered an advert for the chatbot on a cybercrime forum and tested its capabilities by asking it to create a DocuSign phishing email.

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Robot vacuum cleaners are so advanced these days that some of them barely need human intervention. Of course, that wasn’t always the case in the earliest days of this market segment, with the first generations relying on some very basic technologies and software by today’s standards. Although its name has become synonymous with robot vacs, the Roomba has almost all but faded into that background.

Some, however, have found some rather creative uses for older models, with a bit of hacking and ingenuity. Giving a very old rolling robot a better brain and literally space-grade software, this mod turns a cleaning machine into a mess-making one, albeit not by intention. Instead of picking up dirt or even clothes, the “Space Vacuum” will instead drop pieces of food for your canine companion to munch on when it’s near.

Designer: Joaquim Silveira

Most of us probably have a file of unused and abandoned electronics that are still a bit functional except for one broken or missing part. We don’t have much practical use for them, so they just end up gathering dust and taking up space, sometimes forgotten until the next Spring cleaning. A few people, however, have the fortunate skill to bring these machines back to life, though sometimes with a different function so different from the original.

This Roomba, for example, once cleaned up dirty floors in a previous lifetime. But with some clever use of off-the-shelf hardware like an Arduino and some skilled DIY electronics, it has been given a new lease on life as a dog food dispenser. Ironically, it now does the opposite of cleaning the floor and instead makes a mess, presuming the canine doesn’t gobble up the treats first.

What the Space Vacuum basically does is detect the presence of a dog, while differentiating it from other living critters in the house, and drops dog food from a paper cup that has its bottom partially cut out. Curiously enough, the software used for this project is NASA Jet Propulsion Labs’s (JPL) Fprime flight software used for space missions and controlling drones, which sounds a bit overkill for a food-dispensing robot. That, however, gives it the right to call itself a “Space Vacuum,” though the vacuum part is in question.

It’s definitely not going to win any awards for aesthetics or practicality, but the project does spark curiosity and maybe inspire a few more experiments using these house robots. The rather odd clothes-picking Roborock vacuum at CES 2025 demonstrated what these machines are actually capable of, especially with their advanced sensors and AI-powered brains. All they need is a robot arm or a proper food dispenser, and they have the makings of a general-purpose robot that won’t take up too much floor space.

The post Modified Roomba becomes a smart robot for dispensing doggie treats first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Inspiration often emerges from unexpected sources. A walk in a forest can have you stumbling on fungi that become the inspiration for a new kind of sustainable material. Watching a crowded concert could give you an idea for the next big social media app. Those “aha!” moments often lead to interesting designs, even for the most mundane household items.

One such innovative fusion is the Grip Hanger, a clothes rack that draws its design from the unique forms found on sport climbing walls. These walls mimic the natural rock formations climbers encounter, yet they are crafted with intentional shapes to enhance grip practice and skill development. It’s almost a very loose and random association between two uses of the word “hang,” and yet it yields quite a stunning implementation that can add a bit of joy to your everyday life.

Designer: Junho Kang

Unlike the randomness of natural rocks, the holds on climbing walls are meticulously designed to challenge and train climbers. The Grip Hanger cleverly incorporates this concept, with its “Hold” component mirroring the playful shapes of climbing holds. Their seemingly deformed shapes hide a deeper meaning to them, something you might not realize unless you take a closer look.

This whimsical design gives the hanger itself a distinctive personality, Its hook mimics the way climbers’ hands grasp these holds, with thin metal fingers trying to grip those stone-like holds. This subtle design adds a touch of sport climbing flair to any room, or at least makes you pause and wonder why a hanger would look that way.

Constructed from bent sheet metal, the clothes rack itself mirrors the angular, rugged aesthetic of artificial climbing walls. Its raw, brutalist design speaks to the architectural style often seen in urban landscapes, making it a bold statement piece. This edgy design goes beyond mere looks and provides sturdy support and a unique visual appeal that catches the eye.

The Grip Hanger stands out with its modular functionality, featuring perforations that allow for the attachment of detachable shelves. This adaptability makes it not only a stylish addition but also a practical solution for organizing clothes and accessories. The design invites users to think creatively, transforming a simple clothes rack into an engaging, interactive piece of home decor.

This innovative design challenges the conventional view of everyday objects, infusing them with creativity and fun. The Grip Hanger encourages us to look beyond traditional designs and embrace the unexpected, turning a mundane item into something extraordinary. Its playful yet functional approach serves as a reminder that inspiration can be found anywhere, even in the most unexpected places.

It also demonstrates how anything can be a source of inspiration and ideas, even the ones you least expect. Its blend of sport climbing elements and practical functionality makes it a standout piece, adding character and charm to any space. The Grip Hanger is a testament to the endless possibilities that arise when creativity meets everyday utility.

The post Sport Climbing Meets Design: The Playful Hanger for Active Homes first appeared on Yanko Design.

Google Colab and Jupyter Notebook are powerful tools for coding and data analysis, each offering unique features and benefits. Compare them to choose the best fit for your needs.

The tasks feature, now in beta, can provide daily weather reports or send reminders.

Google Colab and Jupyter Notebook are powerful tools for coding and data analysis, each offering unique features and benefits. Compare them to choose the best fit for your needs.

The tasks feature, now in beta, can provide daily weather reports or send reminders.

Once your header and footer are complete, you might want to protect that area so others can’t change it while leaving the body of the document available for edits.