As the boundaries between human experience and artificial intelligence continue to blur, designers are rethinking how we interact with technology on an emotional level. In the rapidly evolving landscape of domestic robotics, the conversation is no longer just about efficiency or automation—it’s about connection. While robots are becoming more capable, their integration into intimate human spaces still sparks discomfort for many. This friction doesn’t stem from technological limitations alone, but from the absence of a natural, empathetic bridge between user and machine. That’s the context in which Mimic emerges—not just as a wearable, but as a reimagined interface for trust-building with humanoid companions.

The next-gen wearable is designed to bridge the emotional and psychological gap between humans and humanoid robots. In a future where household humanoids are commonplace, Mimic enables users to teach robots actions based on their behavior data. Initially, humanoids perform basic functions, but over time, they learn to understand and personalize tasks for the user. Through this process, users actively teach humanoids, forming emotional bonds and overcoming psychological barriers.​

Designer: Dohyuk Joo

By wearing the device and performing desired actions, users provide real-time data that the robot uses to learn and adapt. This hands-on approach fosters a sense of control and agency, reducing feelings of unease and promoting a more harmonious relationship between humans and robots. The device is lightweight and ergonomically designed to be worn during daily activities. Its intuitive interface ensures that users can seamlessly integrate it into their routines without disruption.

The robot can adapt to changes in user behavior over time. By allowing users to wear the device and physically demonstrate tasks they want their robots to perform, Mimic shifts the paradigm from command-based interaction to embodied teaching. For example, if a user is preparing their own version of Korean stew, Mimic enables the humanoid to grasp more than just the recipe—it interprets the specific ingredients, motions, and subtle preferences involved. This context-aware learning gives the robot a far deeper understanding of the user’s world, moving beyond generic presets.

The device comprises two integrated modules: the Vision tracker and the Hand tracker. The Vision tracker collects visual and auditory data using an array of infrared sensors, tracking cameras, and vision-based AI. It maps the environment with Lidar and captures head movement using a 6-DOF camera alongside a front-facing RGB camera, forming a dynamic world model. It’s engineered to adjust comfortably to different body types through an adaptable rail system, ensuring seamless wearability.

Meanwhile, the Hand tracker—worn on the forearm—records nuanced physical data like grip strength, arm angle, and muscle activity through electromyography (EMG) sensors and precision tracking cameras. By analyzing electrical signals and motion patterns, it decodes how users interact with objects on a tactile level. This fusion of data is processed through deep learning to construct a comprehensive behavioral profile. Even passive moments become learning opportunities, as Mimic uses 360-degree and dual-facing cameras to observe environmental structure and object purpose, enabling the humanoid to understand intent even when it’s unstated.

Through these layers of sensory input and contextual modeling, Mimic doesn’t just teach tasks—it conveys intuition. It represents a new approach to robotics, one that leverages embodied cognition to break down psychological resistance and cultivate emotional resonance. As our homes evolve alongside technology, Mimic points to a future where machines don’t just serve—they relate, reflect, and respond.

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Talk of lightweight tents and Hyperlite is right up there with the best. Their popular options come as functional shelters that are easy to set up, even though they lose out on some features. Perhaps well suited for hikers and adventure seekers who want to keep things minimal and don’t require an extensive setup for creating a makeshift shelter. They’ve now bettered their lightest tent design to craft a lightweight freestanding tent dubbed Crosspeak 2 that weighs just 2 lbs. This outdoor gear brings them right alongside the likes of Durston and Six Moons Design when we talk of the best out there.

The biggest advantage of this outdoor accessory is the quick pitch feature in any kind of terrain without staking in the ground. This makes the tent ideal for casual adventure trips in the backcountry or overnight hikes in pleasant weather without any windy conditions. It can fit two individuals easily, making it an impressive proposition given its compact size that’s easy to haul.

Designer: Hyperlite Mountain Gear

To set up the Crosspeak 2 free-standing tent, all you have to do is create tension with the long crossed poles employing the webbing and ladder locks. Then, just tighten the thing using the small bridge pole on the top. When fully pitched, the tent stands at 42 inches tall, which is enough for most adventure seekers. The floor area of 88 x 48 inches is ample space to fit two sleeping bags. Given it is just 2 lbs, packing in other essentials like a 22-inch Dyneema vestibule area for the bags and boots, two storage pockets, or attachment loops for hanging clothes is nothing less than impressive.

Crosspeak 2 is quite airy on the inside with two doors and an adjustable ventilation system for proper circulation if you are cooking inside. The magnetic tie-backs on the doors make it very easy to close the tent opening when compared to other tents. The tent doesn’t come with any guy lines or hiking poles, which are vital in maintaining structural integrity in case of inclement weather conditions. However, the lack of them also makes the thing ultra-compact and only advised for use in perfect weather. Hyperlite has created two separate Dyneema stuff sacks for stashing the tent body and the pole for convenience.

Looking to create the ideal balance between low weight, weather-resistant features, and the ease of setting up the tent; Crosspeak 2 isn’t affordably priced at $950. The major reason is the use of Dyneema Composite Fiber (DCF) and the lightweight make – both of which add to the overall cost of this outdoor accessory. If this tent perfectly fits your requirements, only then is it advisable to buy this free-standing tent, else other options are more suited for the varying dynamics.

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If you run a few miles every morning, play football regularly, or spend occasional time on the track, you know the importance of a recovery footwear. It allows the body to recuperate, providing relief to the feet, ankles, and knees. While most of the available shoes/slides meant for recovery cost under a $100, they are well within the range we can afford. It is not the case with the new Nike x Hyperice Hyperboot. It costs a staggering $899, and is therefore only something serious athletes would put their money on.

Nike and Hyperice both obsess about the athletes. They create and innovative, putting an athlete at the center of the idea. Such is the case with Hyperboot, which reimagines what a recovery shoe can be and how it can better assist an athlete in warm-up and recovery. It is a silhouette that uses heat and compression in tandem to help with the foot recovery. And since it’s from Nike, rest assured it is made from premium footwear materials, which should together with the imbibed tech, justify the tag.

Designer: Nike x Hyperice

For every athlete competing at the world stage – or even for the other competitive performers – recovery is most important to get their bodies ready for the next day. It is also equally imperative for them to warm-up the body, especially the feet and legs, to avoid injuries and perform better. This is what Nike x Hyperice intends to provide with the Hyperboot: A shoe that combines Nike’s footwear experience with the Hyperice expertise in recovery technologies.

The Hyperboot is built ground up for a purpose. Therefore, performance was never a question with this silhouette. The idea was always focused on helping the wearer recover, for which Hyperice had to stick within the Nike shoe design and integrate recovery tech into it, without changing the elegance of the shoe. So, for the interplay of design and functionality, the Hyperboot uses dynamic air compression to provide, recovery essentials, heat, and compression around the Achilles and the heel area of the wearer. Using the air compression, the shoe is able to drive heat deeper into body, which can better assist with the warm-up and recovery process of an athlete.

With the better mobility in the joint and deeper penetration of heat into the tissues, the Hypeboot can create a wonderful recuperating experience, which not only helps around the foot but also allows the heat to travel up to the calf and the leg for more relief and comfort. Athletes can customize compression intensity and temperature modules to their preference pre- and post-workout using the Hyperice App. Interestingly, the Hyperboot is not only about recovery, its midsole and outsole are designed to increase toe spring and add the heel spring, which makes it feel lighter when worn. For further stability and comfort, the shoe is high ankle, has an engineered mesh upper for breathability, and features removable insoles. Releasing May 17, 2025, this recovery silhouette for serious athletes will set you back $899.

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People who are deaf or cannot speak, or both – have long been aided by the American Sign Language (ASL) in communicating with people. Although the accuracy of the communication solely depends on the understanding of people on both ends, that can be a problem if one or more conversants are not that fluent in ASL. Researchers at Cornell University have recognized this problem and want to leverage the goodness of wearable technologies to make it smoother for people who are differently abled to communicate with the world as they intend to.

The experts at the university have employed the smart ring platform to develop a wearable that tracks the American Sign Language gestures of the wearer to accurately transcribe them into understandable text or audio to a computer or a smartphone. They call it the SpellRing, and it can be worn on the thumb to get the desired input for the translated data. The wearable comes with embedded sensors including a mini-gyroscope to measure the angular data from hand movement. The on-board speakers and mic detect the inaudible sound waves from the movement. All these components are housed inside a 3D-printed housing that’s no more than the size of a quarter.

Designer: Cornell University

The smart AI ring can detect all 26 letters in the English language with micro-sonar technology to precisely track the fingerspelling of the wearer. For more accuracy sonar images are also fed into the system. The data that is received from all the sensors and hardware is then processed by a deep-learning algorithm. All of this is done in a split second time to predict the ASL fingerspelled by the wearer. To make possible an in-depth and unbiased view of the wearable for further development, the researchers from Carnegie Mellon University and Stony Brook University, along with the researchers from Cornell University have tested the wearable thoroughly.

In the conducted tests, 20 amateur and experienced ASL signers were asked to spell more than 20,000 words to see the accuracy of the AI-assisted wearable ring. The 3D-printed wearable passed with a combined accuracy of around 90 percent with both signed words, as well as, sentences. It was even tested to perform actions such as web search, map navigation, or typing in notes with the input. According to Hyunchul Lim, lead author of SpellRing’s papered documentation, “ASL is a very complicated, complex visual language,” and the focus is right now on tuning the algorithm to make the AI ring understand words and phrases with maximum accuracy.

The SpellRing is currently in the prototype stage and there is no word on the availability of the ring yet. The team is confident that even in the current stage, ASL fingertyping will be significantly faster than typing on your smartphone’s keyboard. Researchers want this ring to be a tool for fast and accessible text entry with a niche set of benefits targeted toward a set of users. The prospects of this AI ring graduating to the wearable market are very high since it costs just $30 to make the current prototype AI ring. When it will be mass produced that cost can be further trimmed down.

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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.

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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.

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Switch 2 is agonisingly close to release at the Nintendo Direct event which will be held on April 2, 2025, at 9 AM Eastern and 6 AM Pacific. The company teased the highly anticipated handheld console in January, and many speculations have ignited the upcoming release since then. At that time Mario Kart 9 was shown off being played using revamped Joy-Cons. The accessory was also used as a mouse, sliding on a flat surface, which is interesting.

The upcoming event that’ll now officially reveal more technical details of the home console cum hybrid handheld that’s bigger than the predecessor. We eagerly await the sequel for a clearer picture of the ‘C Button’ functionality, USB-C ports, and the Joy-Con being used as a mouse input. It is also expected that the price and availability of the Steam Deck killer will be announced at the upcoming event. While a deleted Reddit account had a post revealing the launch date for Nintendo Switch 2 to be May 22, we’ll look at what’s just ahead of us.

Designer: Nintendo

Keeping our focus on the Joy-Cons that were briefly shown to have a mouse-like input, there’s more on this development. A patent filed in August 2023 by Nintendo was published yesterday, giving more details about what the controller can do. There are multiple use case scenarios for this input device, one of them being the mouse functionality along with the associated control schemes. We have to keep in mind though, there’s no mention of Switch 2 anywhere in the patent description, and the assumption is purely based on the factual probabilities.

The renders of this patent clearly show a Joy-Con-like device being used as a mouse. The gadget has a front surface, a first slide surface, directional inputs, an upper surface button, and a sensor for mouse operation. In one of the rendered diagrams, the controller is held horizontally with the thumb of the player on the control stick and the SR and SL buttons facing downwards. By reasonable logic, this means the optical sensor will be downwards, so that the device input can be registered in a mouse-like orientation. It looks like the right side of the controller can be placed on a flat surface for mouse-like functionality. In this orientation, the controller can be docked and charged by the look of things.

This mystery device will have a wrist strap attachment slot with a mention of the “magnet” word 355 times indicating the attachment mechanism to be a more convenient magnetically attaching mechanism. We can also not rule out the possibility of Joy-Cons attaching to the Switch 2 magnetically too. Given the rumors that have surrounded the Switch 2 and the Joy-Cons lately, these seem like the missing pieces in the puzzle of what mouse-like controller we have in hiding when the console is finally in our possession.

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Introducing a “Camper you can build your way.” That’s a bold statement to make, but the entire idea of the CampOut series by Four Wheel Campers is based on this idea alone, and we are accepting it with both hands. In the world of truck campers crammed for space with some essential and some not-so-required amenities on board; this camping solutions giant is giving us a pop-up truck camper that evolves with your adventure requirements.

Provided with some standard and other optional modules to choose from, the CampOut modular slide-in truck camper interior can be customized to suit yourself. Buy it completely built-out with all the modules or invest in the stock option and build upon it as and how your adventures demand – no paying for a feature you didn’t want!

Designer: Four Wheel Campers

Camper vans and RVs have their own advantages: primarily comfort; but truck campers are my preferred option for their inherent off-roading capabilities. Now with the CampOut series, pop-up truck campers could suddenly find themselves in the league of adaptors that didn’t choose such camping alternatives because of their rigidity but were always lured by the off-roading abilities.

Offering versatile customization in a lightweight and durable construction, the CampOut is designed to slide into place on any size truck. It has been created in various configurations to fit 5-, 6-, and 8-feet beds. The 5-foot model weighs 860 pounds, while the 8-foot option tips the scale at 1,030 pounds. What actually sets the CampOut models apart is their modular platform that allows adventurers to start with limited modules and then build their way up.

The soft-top, pop-up truck camper comes with a few standard modules. The sleeping area above the cabin, a power module (housing the battery, power monitor, multiple ports, and solar connectivity), and a utility module with top and bottom storage (lower section usable for a propane tank and accessible from the outside). The latter module is topped with a wooden tabletop usable for placing the propane or an induction cooktop. On the outside, as a standard you get L-track and molle panels for gear hauling, USB A, USB-C outlets, and Starlink port.

As an option, depending upon the size of your truck bed, you can choose a seating module comprising benches and a dinette with a swivel table. A water module featuring a sink, faucet, and water tanks for fresh and gray water. fridge module with chest fridge and storage space. For that additional power requirement, CampOut comes with an optional 2000W inverter, a second battery, and 500W rooftop solar panels. Available in the US, the camper starts at $25,995 with the standard modules.

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Richard Mille is generally known for fascinating timepieces that are apparently robust and intriguingly complex. This time, to kickstart the new year, the brand has launched a brutalist architecture-inspired RM 16-02 Automatic Extraflat, which is a modern take on the RM 016, Richard Mille’s first rectangular automatic watch, an embodiment of ergonomic perfection and minimalist aesthetics.

If there is one architectural style that has influenced watchmaking more than others, it has to be Brutalism. Since its buildup in the 1950s, the brutalist style – characterized by blocky forms and geometric shapes – has found its way into the best of watches including a Patek Philippe, a Vacheron Constantin, and even a Richard Mille. The RM 16-02 Automatic Extraflat reflects on the architectural style, while staying aesthetically within the RM’s signature style: so apparently what we get is a rectangular-shaped, skeletonized watch that resembles Ariadne’s thread, by an intricate maze on the dial.

Designer: Richard Mille

Even though the fit and ideology of the original RM 16-02 are upheld, the new iteration of the watch excels in its interpretation of the rectangular shape and the complex, skeletonized dial that screams with brutalist boldness. Richard Mille has made the new RM 16-02 Automatic Extraflat available in two vibrant colorways:  Terracotta Quartz TPT and Titanium Creamy White Quartz TPT.

Made in about 10 percent smaller size than the original RM016, the new RM 16-02 measures 36mm in width, 45.64mm in length, and 9.5mm thick. Retaining its curvature reminiscent of Richard Mille watches, it comprises a full-grade 5 titanium case in the first model, while it’s the interesting new Terracotta Quartz TPT model that catches the eye, not only because it’s a first for RM but also for its process of achieving the color. The unique color is achieved by infusing 45 microns of thin silica threads in a colored matrix and then subjecting them to high temperature and pressure.

Of course, both the color variants of the 2025 RM 16-02 Automatic Extraflat captivate with their aesthetics and rectangular cases, their story is not limited to appearance. The watches are powered by a new in-house CRMA9 calibre skeletonized automatic movement with hours and minute hands on the dial. The movement measuring 26mm wide, 31.25mm long, and 4.12mm thick – specially made for the watch – helps maintain the RM 16-02’s slim profile and provides it with up to 50 hours of power reserve. Richard Mille watches, we have come to understand, don’t sell for affordable rates. Somehow the company has tried to keep the RM 16-02 watches within the range of affordability for most collectors. To ensure that, RM 16-02 Automatic Extraflat Terracotta Quartz TPT is priced at $156,000 and Titanium White Quartz TPT is retailing for $134,000.

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Graphene batteries are developing into the next big improvement in our everyday devices. As opposed to Lithium-ion, these have the potential to improve the performance of our gadgets, but their disposal (like that of their counterparts) is also going to be a hazardous problem. This is where a new biodegradable fungal battery from the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa) may help.

Courtesy of this breakthrough by Swiss researchers, fungi – which can feed on sugar instead of charging – could be used to power devices in the near future. This is achieved through a 3D printed fungi for battery, which is biodegradable. It can digest itself from the inside once it has served its life purpose, a researcher suggests.

Designer: Empa

The fungal battery is 3D-printed using fungi cells mixed with printing ink (which is nutritious for the fungi and completely biodegradable) that can feed on sugar and be stored in a dried state for transportation and activated by “adding water and nutrients.” This is for the first time, according to the researchers that two types of fungi – yeast fungus for negative (or anode) side and a white rot fungus on the positive (cathode) side – have been combined to create a functioning fuel cell.

“Strictly speaking, the cell is not a battery, but a…microbial fuel cell.” Empa researcher Carolina Reyes informs. The fungi fuel cell has been developed over a period of three years. It does not generate a lot of electricity to maybe power your smartphone today, but can produce enough to “power a temperature sensor for several days.”

So, if you were thinking, these fungi cells are not going to replace the batteries in your everyday devices, instead such batteries when encased in beeswax “can power small sensors to monitor temperature, light, and humidity in agriculture and environmental research in remote areas.” In addition to running devices in the outdoors, these can decompose safely leaving no harmful traces behind. There is no information about making these cells commercially available anytime soon, but the research opens new horizons for the use of fungi to produce electricity and become probable battery alternatives for our portable devices.

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Mobile gaming has evolved over the years primarily because of the processing power at hand on these devices. This has led to brands coming out with dedicated gaming controllers for both iOS and Android-powered phones. Razer Kishi series, GameSir, Backbone One and 8BitDo all offer good options for mobile gaming without breaking the bank.

8BitDo in particular has portable and compact gamepads for gaming on the go. In fact, they are so compact they can fit easily in the pocket of your pants. Yes, I’m talking about the Micro and Zero 2 gaming controllers that are tailored for 2D games on your Android device. Now the brand has released another accessory compatible with Micro and Zero 2 tailored for gaming with emulators or gaming titles that have on-screen controls at the bottom of the screen.

Designer: 8BitDo

The Mobile Clip clamps onto your mobile device, so that you can use it in a more ergonomic playing positioning. This is a unique idea for a mobile gaming accessory and should do good with gaming emulators that mostly have the controls set up at the bottom of the screen with the remainder of the screen real estate reserved for the in-game action. It should be great for playing retro 2D games as the Micro/Zero 2 controller sits pretty snugly on the display of any Android or iOS phone.

Priced at $10, this clip-on accessory is a no-brainer if you own any of the two compact gamepads. It comes as a three-part bundle with a clip-on clamp that attaches to your device, and the other two are shells for the respective controllers. You just have to hook together the combination and attach it to your phone. Even if you are planning to buy any one of these two compact gaming controllers, it would be a wise choice to bundle it up with this mobile clip to open up the possibilities for a set collection of gaming titles on your phone.

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Most of the traditional backpacking tents need some help to pitch or take considerable time if you are pitching it solo. This could spell trouble for backpackers who like to travel alone in territories unknown. If you are spending quite a chunk of your backcountry excursions erecting a tent, you are risking exposure to elements and wildlife. Not to mention the headache of the traditional tent’s weight. On the flip side, you lose out on comfort if you go for the lightweight options.

Hitting the sweet spot between the two, the all-new Lunar Orbiter tent manages to merge comfort and convenience with a lightweight construction for solo campers. The ultra-light tent from Six Moon Designs forgoes traditional internal poles in favor of a wide exterior pole configuration that offers freestanding stability and fast pitching capability.

Designer: Six Moon Designs

The easy-pitch alternative of the Lunar Orbiter features a crisscross four-corner frame made of DAC Featherlite aluminum poles. The tent sets up quickly with hovering top sleeves, cross hub clips, and corner pockets. Its external pole design ensures that the walls are stretched outward, increasing the interior space.

According to the outdoor gear company, the frame can withstand storm-worthy winds, rain, and snow, making Lunar Orbiter a perfect all-season companion in the backcountry. The tent has a hybrid single/double-wall design with plenty of mesh lining and a roll-back waterproof outer layer on the doors to provide ventilation and weather protection.

Since it is designed for solo travelers, the tent offers 90 x 44 inches of sleeping area, enough for a grown man and his gear. The 48-inch high ceiling helps create an open feel inside the one-person tent. Additionally, there is a removable interior gear loft and two storage pockets, so you can keep your things safe and nearby without compromising valuable floor space. The dual vestibules further enhance its functionality.

The only downside is that the tent weighs 2.8 lbs, which isn’t the most lightweight option on the market, which comes well near or under 2 lbs. However, if you are fine ignoring a little extra weight, this could be a good addition to your outdoor gear. The Lunar Orbiter is currently retailing at $435 and is an option that very well overshadows your conventional tent.

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RVs cater to many needs depending on the outdoorsy lifestyle you prefer, and there’s one for every adventure seeker. However, only a handful of trailers can be on the A list of almost every enthusiast. Meet the Aucta Sycamore camping trailer by inTech who have a tenacity for making spacious and rugged trailers for big families. Superseeding Luna and Sol, this one is the biggest of them all and it looks like an extraterritorial teardrop from Men in Black, to be honest.

Derived from the Latin name Aucta, meaning enlarged or abundant – this dual axle trailer stays true to its name in every aspect. The trailer has a spanning front window for panoramic views, ideal for people who love the basking sunshine all day long. Sycamore impresses with a rear bunk room that has enough bed space for two to sleep. During the daytime, this section doubles as an office space, cargo closet, and bunkhouse retreat for the kids. The transformation is done as the bunk bed rises up and slides back in to create seating. This makes the trailer ideal for vacation trips that require logging in some hours of work time.

Designer: inTech

The RV has a master bedroom at the far end with a queen bed that has enough adjacent space for nightstands on either side. Storage space takes precedence as there are dedicated sections overhead, under the bed, and in a closet. There is another bedroom at the other end, leaving the center area to be used as a multipurpose space. On one side is the fully equipped kitchen having a dual-burner cooktop, a convection microwave oven, a farmhouse sink, and a standing-height refrigerator. The other side has a sofa with a movable table (also functions as a coffee table when needed) and a slide-out footrest to create a dining section. The table can be raised to create a workspace area, and the sofa can be configured as a makeshift bed for two at night.

There is more, as the hideaway 40-inch TV slides out to turn this section into an entertainment hub. A four-way speaker system ensures the kids have a darn good time watching their favorite movies. Sycamore has a hidden dry bathroom in the rear corner of the bunk office. It comes with a shower, a basin floor, and a door to seal the steam during bathing. To extend the comfort, there is an AC system, water storage system (separate fresh, gray and black tanks) 25,000-BTU furnace, LPG water heater, and an off-grid power system with a 200-Ah lithium battery. Solar panels on top add another 400W for the 2,000W inverter system. There’s even a slide-out kitchen with a propane griddle, 33-L fridge, and an 18-foot power awning with wind retract function. What more could you ask for?

With all these amenities in a spacious layout, the Aucta Sycamore trailer will give anyone all the more reason to hit the road for the next adventure. The trailer made its debut at the 2025 Florida RV SuperShow where the starting price of $80,150 was also revealed.

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Folks over at 8BitDo are on a role this year with the release of high-quality gaming controllers (most often officially licensed) that cater to the needs of every kind of gamer. Just when you thought what more could come from the house of this innovative tech company, they have the perfect gift this holiday season for kids and people with small hands.

The peppy gamepad is basically a compact and lighter version of the Ultimate 2C controller. The officially licensed Xbox controller is 20 percent smaller and 10 percent lighter than its predecessor, thus making it a good option for gamers who think the Xbox Series X|S controllers are a bit of a handful. Weighing just 189.6 grams the controller is well-suited for long playing sessions which can fatigue your wrists and hands.

Designer: 8BitDo

The layout on the controller is similar to the regular ones by Xbox – the only difference being the more crammed positioning (or compact alignment if you have small hands) of buttons. The buttons, joysticks, and triggers are full-sized, so that you don’t miss any input during crucial gameplay action. Although the main target audience of this gaming peripheral is teens and younger gamers, it’ll be the most cozy option for female gamers who tend to have smaller hands and males with average-sized hands.

The action buttons, directional pad, and the magnetic Hall effect joysticks are positioned very close together. This while keeping in mind ergonomics and a clear distinction in gaming inputs when multiple buttons or joysticks are pushed. 8BitDo has also included Hall effect triggers on the rear, and slightly smaller shoulder buttons. The visually striking gamepad comes wrapped in a translucent shell with white, green and pink hues along with the matching button and joystick color theme. Whenever a button is pushed or the joystick rolled, the cool LED lights react with flashes or follow the direction of the movement. This they call the Fire Ring and it looks amazing.

Ultimate Mini is going to be available in wired option only, so that there is no extra battery weight just like in other wireless controllers. It is compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series S|X, and Windows 10 or higher PCs. The compact gamepad can be ordered right away in the US for $35 from the official 8BitDo online store or Amazon.

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In the world of trikes powered by a front or rear-positioned engine, the Dragonfly VIN #1 is an exception. Perhaps the world’s first mid/rear engine three-wheeled ride, it boasts superior handling and stability. The vehicle is designed and handcrafted by American mechanical engineer Greg Kunsch who has experience in designing aircraft carriers and nuclear submarines.

This road-legal car-cum-motorcycle vehicle is a testament to his skills. The two-seater trike has a classic tadpole design with two wheels at the front and one at the rear. Seats of the VIN #1 are positioned between the front wheels and frame made out of stainless steel to keep the center of gravity low. This helps in taking corners at considerably high speeds without any abrupt body roll.

Designer: Greg Kunsch

Dragonfly is powered by a 200-hp, 2.4-liter DOHC gas engine (not an electric motor) and the designer plans to make an electric version once the gas-powered variant hits mainstream markets. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission to utilize the superior traction produced by the mid/rear configuration. Safety and comfort take precedence with the fitted 8-point rollbars and removable roof. The whole front section raises courtesy the canopy design, so that the riders can enter the vehicle. Optionally, the driver can open the doors with the remote too. For enhanced comfort, the vehicle comes with a self-leveling adjustable-height air suspension system and power steering.

Although looks are subjective, Dragonfly is quite edgy and disproportionate at the front. It seems as if its teeth are crooked. That said, the teardrop-shaped trike is aerodynamically sound which will be important once the electric version hits the roads. This is just the prototype version we are looking at and the production-ready version could have a more subdued design for mass acceptance. Compared to other similar vehicles this one is more practical, still nowhere near compact enough to make the cut for futureproof prospects. The electric version could change that with a more narrowed-down aesthetics for city travel.

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Lexus has collaborated with Bratislava-based research and design studio Crafting Plastics to create an installation that revolves around material objects. Dubbed Liminal Cycles, the creation is inspired by the all-electric Lexus LF-ZC (Lexus Future Zero Catalyst), implementing an abstract installation that explores the various senses and elements of a vehicle. This is in tune with the brand’s AI-driven software.

The mesmerizing kinetic structure is a layered skeletal made out of 3D-printed bioplastic (called Nuatan) in the shape of LF-ZC’s body. This installation designed by Germane Barnes, Michael Bennett (Studio Kër), Suchi Reddy, and Tara Sakhi is on display at the sculpture garden of the Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami. This breathable sculpture acknowledges the adaptability and responsive technology of the developing concepts of SDVs (Software Defined Vehicles) that envision the software-enabled customization of luxury vehicles.

Designer: Lexus and Crafting Plastics

The culmination of automotive technology and global art and design audience, the installation is a first mover advantage in the “bold and uncompromised experiences for the next generation,” according to Lexus’ press release. This 1:1 version of the real thing is not harsh to the environment in any way as the bioplastic material is based on 100% renewable resourcing with no traces of microplastics left behind. To enhance the dynamism of the sculpture it is coated with UV-responsive material skin. Thus, it reacts to environmental stimuli including changing position of lights, the intensity of UV radiations, or the viewer’s proximity. Based on these dynamic changes the sculpture can expand or contract in real-time, just like breath-like movements, thus representing the harmony between nature and technology.

Along with the replica of the LF-ZC, there are three complementing satellite installations that incorporate the design elements of the car to showcase the sensory inputs ranging from audio and visual cues. One of them is a flower-like sculpture representing the futuristic steering wheel of the car in a rugged earthy texture. It reacts to the user’s touch, responding with fluctuation in the volume and intensity of the sound composition. The second complementing installation is a reinterpretation of the headrest that emanates a Lexus-inspired perfume in response to the user’s interaction. The last one is a wind-activated lattice-like sculpture that responds to any active stimuli to reveal the brand’s logo, owing to the sensitivity of the bioplastic material in response to the shift in UV radiation.

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There are a few iconic Seiko watches that can make heads turn. The H-Timetron from the late 90s being one of them. No wonder then, the timeless classic – designed back in the day with consideration of affinity and a sense of technology – is a motivation for a designer to interpret the watch in 3D. The contemporary interpretation of the Seiko H-Timetron digital watch is as close as it can be in representation, functionality, digital display, and style.

The idea of the H-Timeteon kicked off two decades back with the vision to develop a new brand of watch targeting young people. Going through the renders, chief designer Hiramatsu was impressed by a dot-matrix caliber that reminded him of an old PC from his childhood. Immediately, the dial and the complete structure of the Timetron with dot matrix display were born and developed by Seiko.

Designer: Artem Rudenko

Undoubtedly, groundbreaking tech for the time, the matrix display was the main highlight of the watch, which was well complemented by its accompanying polyurethane strap. The modern take on the watch carries that look and feel with clean lines, vibrant color palate, and a minimalist composition.

The idea of visualizing the H-Timetron in 3D is more than just recreating the watch. The project intends to reintroduce the timeless Seiko H-Timetron classic watch to the Gen-Z. The 3D design preserves the retro charm of the display and the aesthetics. The letter “h” in “h-timetron” is said to stand for happy. And this representation of the iconic watch would really make many in the modern audience happy to own one.

The minimalistic recreation displays the concise digital dial with green matrix typography. The time, date, and other functions displayed on the liquid crystal dial rest within a case with rounded corners and are reminiscent of the PC in the 80s, which essentially gives the watch its distinctive personality. The watch comes in a vibrant teal finish from dial to strap with a contrasting center pusher. On pushing the orange button, the watch changes the size of the characters displayed, while the other two – on either side of it – can help change modes and different settings on the watch, which may include alarm, reminder, stopwatch, and even health tracking, maybe!

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Ever since the Caterham launched in the early 1970s, the hip roadster has been popular with motorheads who love the thrill of driving and the wind in their hair. The current model Caterham Super 7 has not changed much from the original in terms of looks and that can be a boring side of evolution.

Camal Studio, the Italian design company that’s renowned for its sublime creations like the world’s first hyperlimousine has derived inspiration from the Caterham and the sports cars of the 50s and 60s to come up with the renders of an open-top sports car. Dubbed Scoperta, the sexy barchetta binds a timeless aesthetic with modern elements any car enthusiast will find hard to resist.

Designer: Camal Design Studio

The performance car weighing just 1,235 pounds is based on the Caterham Seven 485 platform. The hunk is powered by a 2.0-liter Ford Duratec engine churning out 240 horsepower to complement the bold looks. The design team at Camal has given the car a front half with a big clamshell-styled hood that is identified by its curvacious magnetism and subdued creases. This is exemplified further by the front splitter and large grille that are head turners. The flowing aerodynamic shape flows to the sides contrasted by the classic mirrors and side exhausts. Move to the rear and you have a bespoke decklid housing the spare wheel and contoured tail embellished with sleek LED taillights.

On the inside, the Scoperta cocoons the riders in an elliptical cabin that has a single panel flowing over the dashboard. The speedometer and tachometer are positioned horizontally in this section. What I love to the core is a three-spoke steering wheel having a five-speed gated manual shifter. The headrests also have their distinctive curvaceous shape for a sense of security. Other modifications on the inside include a carbon fiber roll bar for driving safety.

This stunning barrechta is yet to go beyond the concept stage but Camal Studio reassures a limited series production for homologated road legal driving could be a possibility in the future. When it does arrive, the car will cost around $159,000. Whether the cost is inclusive of the donor car is not yet clear, however, this price tag will make it one of the costliest Caterham to ever hit the road.

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Ducati stable is loaded with high-performance road-legal bikes, but none better than the Panigale V4 S.  For those who cannot afford the real thing, LEGO has the next best option – a buildable set that’ll be the perfect gift for a motorhead.

The Italian marque’s DNA flows in this breathtaking design of a racing demon that comes with the rush of acceleration and precision handling on the chicanes. Now it’s your chance to build the iconic Ducati bike from scratch and show off on your workstation setup or living room shelf.

Designer: LEGO Group

This lifelike recreation in a 1:4 scaled-down version replicates every little detail of the racer and the mechanical intricacies as well. When put together the 1603-piece brick model is strikingly close to the real thing. The builders have gone down to the level of emulating the sophisticated 3-speed pedal gear shift that sets the 1 cm plastic Desmosedici Stradale 3 hp engine in motion. The rear wheels spin to engage the chain, setting the cool LEGO bike in motion. Add to that the realistic front and rear suspension, and a mechanically similar steering input, and you have a simulated experience of a MotoGP or Superbike.

LEGO Technic Ducati Panigale V4 S model measures more than 30 cm in height, 43 cm in length and 15 cm in width when completely put together by experience or using the companion app. Draped in the signature Ducato red, the set can be displayed on a dedicated stand to look like a miniature copy of the Panigale V4 S. Priced at $200, the LEGO set is slated to go on sale in stores and online portals on January 1, 2025. The set is targeted towards people aged 18 or older, and we already love the idea.

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