– Article invité, rédigé par Vincent Lautier, contient des liens affiliés Amazon –

La Logitech MX Master 4 apporte quelques ajustements bien sentis à une formule déjà très aboutie. Haptique, gestes, ergonomie : tout est là pour une expérience fluide et efficace, que ce soit sur Mac ou PC. Je l’ai testé ici sur Mac, avec un constat simple : difficile de trouver mieux.

Une évolution, pas une révolution

Avec la MX Master 4 , Logitech ne bouleverse pas sa recette. Et tant mieux. Le design reste globalement le même que celui de la 3S : une souris sculptée pour les droitiers, pensée pour épouser la main sans effort. Les matériaux ont été revus : fini les revêtements soft-touch qui s’abîment vite et étaient vite sales, place à des plastiques plus bruts mais plus durables. Les clics sont encore plus silencieux, les boutons mieux positionnés, et la glisse gagne en souplesse grâce à des patins PTFE beaucoup plus larges. C’est une mise à jour maîtrisée, centrée sur l’usage et l’optimisation.

Screenshot

L’Action Ring change la donne

La vraie nouveauté, c’est l’Action Ring. Un menu circulaire qui s’affiche autour du curseur quand on presse le nouveau bouton sous le pouce, baptisé Haptic Sense Panel. On y place jusqu’à huit raccourcis personnalisés : apps, dossiers, fonctions système… Le retour haptique, ultra satisfaisant, vient valider les actions avec une petite vibration, discrète mais efficace. Le tout s’intègre parfaitement à macOS et Windows via Logi Options+, qui permet de créer des profils différents selon les applications. À l’usage, on gagne du temps. Beaucoup.

Une personnalisation très poussée

Comme les modèles précédents, la MX Master 4 mise sur la personnalisation : sept boutons configurables, deux molettes (verticale motorisée, horizontale crantée), capteur 8 000 DPI, compatibilité multi-appareils, et désormais une couche haptique ajustable.

On peut choisir l’intensité des vibrations, désactiver certaines fonctions, ou encore créer des macros avec les Smart Actions. Pour aller plus loin, un marketplace propose des plugins selon les apps : Adobe, Zoom, Excel, Figma, etc. Peu nombreux pour l’instant, mais en développement.

Screenshot

Mac vs PC : rien de majeur

La version Mac, testée ici, se distingue surtout par ses coloris exclusifs (Space Black, White Silver). Elle est livrée sans dongle USB-C (présent sur la version PC). Mais à l’usage, aucune différence en termes de performance ou de fonctions, contrairement à la MX Master 3S qui était moins performantes en Bluetooth (perso j’avais acheté le dongle à part). Dans tous les cas, la souris est pleinement compatible avec macOS ET Windows.

Une autonomie solide et une vraie réparabilité

Côté autonomie, Logitech annonce 70 jours sur une charge complète. Et bonne nouvelle : on peut recharger tout en continuant d’utiliser la souris (contrairement à la Magic Mouse…). Autre point à noter : la facilité de démontage. Pas besoin d’arracher les patins pour accéder aux vis, et des pièces comme la batterie seront disponibles en remplacement. Une rareté sur ce segment.

On en dit quoi ?

La MX Master 4 n’est pas une révolution, mais c’est clairement une des meilleures souris du marché pour un usage pro ou créatif. Confort, silence, fluidité, personnalisation : tout y est. L’Action Ring est au final un vrai plus une fois adopté, et l’intégration au système macOS est bien pensée. Même si vous avez une 3S, ça peut valoir le coup d’investir, croyez-moi ! Reste juste à espérer qu’un jour Logitech pense aux gauchers. Elle est dispo sur Amazon en cliquant ici !

Article invité publié par Vincent Lautier . Vous pouvez aussi faire un saut sur mon blog , ou lire tous les tests que je publie dans la catégorie “Gadgets Tech” , comme cette liseuse Android de dingue ou ces AirTags pour Android !

Sam Altman, Elon Musk et leurs copains courent après l’IA qui “pense” comme nous grâce notamment à des machines qui calculent plus vite que nos cerveaux, mais on n’a jamais vraiment réussi à créer des circuits électroniques qui parlent VRAIMENT à nos cellules. Enfin, jusqu’à maintenant.

Des chercheurs de l’Université du Massachusetts viennent de publier une étude dans Nature Communications qui explique un truc assez dingue. Ils ont fabriqué des neurones artificiels qui fonctionnent exactement comme les vrais. Ce qui est fou, c’est pas qu’ils imitent le cerveau, c’est qu’ils utilisent le même langage que nos cellules.

Leur super astuce ? Des nanofils protéiques extraits d’une bactérie qui s’appelle Geobacter sulfurreducens. C’est une bactérie qui vit dans les sédiments et les sols anaérobies (là où y’a pas d’oxygène) et elle a un super-pouvoir qui est de produire de l’électricité. Les chercheurs Shuai Fu et Jun Yao ont donc eu l’idée de prendre ces nanofils protéiques pour construire des “memristors” (une sorte de résistance à mémoire) qui fonctionnent pile-poil aux mêmes voltages que nos neurones biologiques.

Avant, les neurones artificiels fonctionnaient donc à 0,5 volt minimum alors que les vrais neurones dans notre corps tournaient entre 70 et 130 millivolts (soit environ 0,1 volt). C’était donc comme essayer de parler anglais avec quelqu’un qui parle français en gueulant plus fort… ça marchait pas terrible.

Du coup, grâce à cette découverte, Jun Yao et son équipe ont réussi à créer le premier composant électronique qui parle exactement la même langue électrique que nos cellules. Et pour le prouver, ils ont fait un truc de malade. Ils ont branché ces neurones artificiels sur de vraies cellules cardiaques humaines (des cardiomyocytes)… et ça a marché ! Les neurones artificiels ont détecté en temps réel les changements d’activité des cellules quand elles étaient exposées à de la noradrénaline.

Ça ouvre ainsi la voie par exemple à des capteurs corporels qui comprennent vraiment ce que disent nos cellules, à des prothèses intelligentes qui réagissent naturellement, à des interfaces cerveau-machine qui ne forcent plus la communication…etc. Le neuromorphic computing devient enfin biocompatible.

Bon, évidemment je vous vois venir avec vos questions sur les implants cérébraux et tout le tralala futuriste à la Elon Musk mais calmos. On en est pas encore là. Mais on vient peut-être de franchir une frontière un peu bizarre qui est celle où nos machines arrêtent d’imiter le vivant pour commencer à vraiment dialoguer avec lui.

Et tout ça grâce à une bactérie qui bouffe du métal dans la boue sans oxygène…

C’est beau la science, non ?

Source

Vous le savez, j’ai toujours eu un faible pour les outils qui font des trucs qu’ils ne devraient pas pouvoir faire. Et mas-cli , c’est exactement ça : un petit utilitaire en ligne de commande qui permet d’automatiser le Mac App Store depuis votre terminal

Si vous êtes sous Mac et que comme moi, vous trouvez l’App Store d’Apple lent et peu pratique, cet outil open-source écrit en Swift va peut-être vous changer la vie. Il utilise des frameworks Apple privés non-documentés pour automatiser un store qui n’a jamais été pensé pour ça. C’est beau comme du Bruno Le Maire dans le texte…

Les développeurs Mac, supposés accepter l’expérience voulue par Apple, recréent donc secrètement leur propre système de paquets à la Unix. L’amour c’est compliqué, je sais…

Installation

L’installation se fait très simplement via Homebrew :

brew install mas

Vous pouvez aussi récupérer directement le binaire si vous préférez.

Utilisation au quotidien

Une fois installé, vous pouvez vous connecter à l’App Store directement depuis un terminal avec :

mas signin [email protected]

Pour lister vos applications installées via l’App Store :

mas list

Lancer une recherche d’app :

mas search MOTCLÉ

Et installer l’application de votre choix en utilisant son ID :

mas install 123456789

Gestion des mises à jour

Pour lister les applications qui n’ont pas été mises à jour :

mas outdated

Pour mettre une application spécifique à jour, utilisez l’ID de l’app en question :

mas upgrade 123456789

Et pour tout mettre à jour d’un coup :

mas upgrade

L’automatisation ultime

Là où ça devient vraiment intéressant, c’est que mas-cli, avec son intégration à homebrew-bundle, permet de scripter complètement l’installation d’un nouvel environnement Mac. Vous pouvez définir dans un Brewfile toutes vos apps, y compris celles du Mac App Store, et tout installer d’un coup. C’est exactement ce dont rêvent tous les développeurs qui passent leur vie dans un terminal.

Ça va être particulièrement pratique pour scripter 2 ou 3 trucs afin de gérer au mieux la mise à jour de vos applications ou la récupération régulière d’une liste de softs installés. Tout ça depuis votre terminal, sans jamais ouvrir l’interface graphique du Mac App Store.

Les limites à connaître

Comme l’expliquent les développeurs eux-mêmes , mas-cli utilise des frameworks Apple privés non-documentés qui peuvent changer sans préavis. C’est génial sur le papier, mais dans la réalité, vous ne saurez jamais si ça marchera encore demain car Apple peut décider de changer ses API.

Mais bon, en attendant que ça casse, profitons-en pour automatiser tout ce qui peut l’être !

Merci à Lorenper pour le partage.

Article paru initialement le 09/02/2017, mis à jour le 17/09/2025

Voici un site expérimental absolument génial qui va vous permettre de naviguer et rechercher des programmes anciens, des jeux rétro, et des magazines vintage dispo sur archive.org. Imaginez pouvoir retrouver les pépites de votre jeunesse et les jeux et applications qui vous ont fait rêver à l’époque des ordinateurs 8-bits. Et bien, c’est désormais possible !

Le site en question, c’est discmaster.textfiles.com, et il recense pas moins de 968 541 579 fichiers totalisant 59,6 To de données. Autant dire que vous avez de quoi faire ! Ce qui est vraiment cool, c’est que ce site est compatible avec les navigateurs modernes mais également vintage, ce qui signifie que vous pourrez l’utiliser aussi bien sur votre ordinateur actuel que sur votre vieille machine de guerre.

Creating a festive atmosphere in your home as the holiday season approaches can fill your space with warmth, joy, and the spirit of Christmas. From elegant candle holders to smart lighting solutions, incorporating unique designs can elevate your holiday decor and spread early festive cheer. We have curated a collection of ten designs that promise to bring magic to your home, each with its charm and functionality.

Whether you’re looking to add a nostalgic musical touch or a high-tech light display, these products offer a variety of ways to celebrate the season. Each item showcases innovative design and the ability to transform your space, making it perfect for your holiday decor.

1. The James Brand Throwflake

The James Brand Throwflake Ornament is the perfect blend of festive decor and functional design. It is a great choice for those who prefer practicality and style. It is designed to add a touch of adventure to your holiday celebrations. It has a snowflake shape, which is not only visually attractive but also successfully conceals the tool’s tactical nature.

It features six sharp points, which make it great for cutting through different materials. It is equipped with a lanyard, so you can easily hang it on your Christmas tree, allowing it to seamlessly blend with the other ornaments. It features a dual-purpose design which is great for modern explorers to want to incorporate the outdoor spirit into their holiday decor.

Why is it noteworthy?

The James Brand Throwflake Ornament showcases an innovative combination of form and function. While it serves as a beautiful addition to your Christmas tree, its tactical capabilities set it apart from traditional ornaments. This dual functionality makes it a practical choice for those who enjoy outdoor activities, offering a handy tool that can be easily accessed when needed. The Throwflake’s design reflects a modern approach to holiday decor, appealing to those who appreciate both aesthetics and utility.

What we like

•  Serves as both a festive ornament and a practical tool for various tasks.
•  Its snowflake shape adds a playful yet stylish element to your Christmas tree.

What we dislike

• The sharp points require careful handling, especially around children.
• Its tool functionality may not be relevant for everyone, limiting its appeal.

2. Govee Floor Lamp 2 with Matter

If you’re in the mood to create some early Christmas razzle-dazzle in your home, then you may want to consider the Govee Floor Lamp 2. Smart floor lamps aren’t something you’d typically use for holiday decorations, but the floor lamp could be an exciting and refreshing addition. The tall sticks of light can instantly elevate the mood of your home, whether you’re hosting a Christmas party or having a cozy night with your family.

You can leave the floor lamp in a corner or set it against a wall, enabling it to create a warm and festive environment. It is equipped with DreamView syncing, allowing you to connect it to other Govee lights, thereby creating a more seamless and unified environment. You can use the lamp to create an ambiance that perfectly matches your Christmas moodboard!

Click Here to Buy Now: $99.99 $149.99 ($50 off) | Amazon Link Here.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Govee Floor Lamp 2 is equipped with Matter support, so you can control the lamp remotely using your voice or an app. You can bring your party to life with ease! You can select a white theme to match your White Christmas party or choose colorful lights to create a dazzling and sensational atmosphere. It is equipped with RBGWWIC technology which delivers multi-color displays and adjustable 2200k-6500k warm/cool whites.

What we like

• Features 80+ preset scene modes and user-customizable DIY modes, Govee Music DreamView Syncing.
• You can sync it with other Govee lighting products for a harmonious setup.

What we dislike

• Some users felt the lamp wasn’t as bright as other Govee offerings.

3. Govee Curtain Lights 2

Say hello to Govee’s unique and innovative Curtain Lights 2. Christmas lights shouldn’t only be limited to ceilings or trees, you can now use any wall or window as a canvas for some beautiful light displays and animated light shows. If you’re in the mood to display a static logo or showcase Santa coming to town, then the Govee Curtain Lights 2 is a good bet.

They feature 1040 lamp beads in a 40 x 26-pixel arrangement. They deliver unparalleled flexibility in displaying retro-style images that will fit your mood, occasion, or idea perfectly. You can display colorful pixies dancing on your wall or any other image you wish to create. Use your imagination and AI prompts to create something fun and festive!

Click Here to Buy Now: $99.99 $149.99 ($50 off) | Amazon Link Here.

Why is it noteworthy?

The lights provide AI-generated visualized lighting effects that respond to user prompts, allowing for a highly personalized experience. Users can directly upload photos and GIFs to create unique curtain lighting effects, enhancing the customization options. With over 207 scene modes and 8 music modes that synchronize with your music, the product provides a dynamic and immersive atmosphere. It also features responsive voice control through the Govee Home App, Alexa, Matter, or Google Assistant.

What we like

• It is ideal for outdoor use since it has an IP65 waterproof rating.
• IoT compatibility makes the lights easy to control.

What we dislike

• Some users felt that the individual strings were a little far apart.

4. LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2024

Count down the days to Christmas with the LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2024. It is an exciting and interactive way to bring some early festive cheer into your home. You can introduce the beloved Star Wars universe into your holiday celebrations. It is a 368-piece set that delivers daily surprises. Each door unveils a new minifigure or vehicle to build.

The set features iconic characters and ships like the Holiday Princess Leia, Mandalorian Gauntlet, and Jabba’s Sail Barge, creating exciting entertainment for fans of all ages. It celebrates the 25th anniversary of the LEGO and Star Wars collaboration, so it is a truly special collectible for enthusiasts.

Why is it noteworthy?

The LEGO Star Wars Advent Calendar 2024 features the ability to merge the excitement of the holiday season with the adventure of the Star Wars saga. Its interactive nature engages both children and adults, offering a daily building activity that enhances the anticipation of Christmas. The inclusion of exclusive minifigures and vehicles adds collectible value, appealing to both casual fans and dedicated collectors.

What we like

• Offers a daily building activity that engages both children and adults.
• Features exclusive Star Wars items that appeal to collectors.

What we dislike

• May not appeal to those who aren’t fans of the Star Wars franchise.
• Contains small pieces that may pose a choking hazard for young children.

5. Stag Salt & Pepper Set

Nothing quite embodies the festive spirit of Christmas like a pair of ornamental-looking stags, capturing the essence of holiday charm and elegance. The stag salt and pepper set by Culinary Concepts is a delightful addition to your dinner table, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. These beautifully crafted shakers are designed to bring a touch of playful whimsy to your dining experience, making them an instant conversation starter.

Each stag is meticulously detailed, showcasing intricate craftsmanship that highlights the attention to detail that Culinary Concepts is known for. The shakers boast a stunning silver finish, which not only adds a touch of sophistication but also ensures they stand out as feature pieces on your tabletop, elevating your holiday decor with their festive allure.

Why is it noteworthy?

Unlike ordinary salt and pepper shakers, these stags serve as charming decorative elements, enhancing the overall ambiance of your dining setting. Their intricate design reflects the artistry and creativity behind their creation, making them a perfect addition for those who appreciate unique and artistic home accessories. This set embodies the spirit of the holiday season, blending functionality with festive flair, and is sure to delight guests with its whimsical yet elegant presence.

What we like

• Serve as functional and decorative pieces.
• Compact designs that won’t occupy much space on your dining table and kitchen.

What we dislike

• The ergonomics don’t seem very comfortable to use.

6. Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass

Some luxurious and refined glassware can help to add some early holiday cheer to your home. Add a touch of luxury to your household with these sleek and sophisticated whiskey glasses. Dubbed the Unfiltered Titanium Whiskey Glass, this drinkware will deliver a unique and refined drinking experience.

It is inspired by the Aurora and is reinforced and coated with pure titanium. This offers durability and longevity which preserves the purity of taste. Cutting-edge technology was used to create a fascinating interplay of light and color, which forms a fascinating visual experience. The cup merges traditional Japanese craftsmanship with advanced space development tech.

Click Here to Buy Now: $65.00

Why is it noteworthy?

As the name implies, the glass was made using titanium, which is a strong and biocompatible material. This makes the glass pretty durable, and it is also odor and stain-resistant. It draws inspiration from natural phenomena, which forms a visual drinking experience. It serves as a functional and interesting piece of drinkware that looks like art.

What we like

• Built titanium, hence it will last long.
• The purity of taste is preserved, offering better flavor.

What we dislike

• It is intended for whiskey and similar beverages, so it has limited use if you’re not someone who drinks alcohol.

7. Diptyque Refillable Candle Holder

This refillable candle holder is a wonderful way to bring some early festive cheer to your home. It embodies elegance and innovation and is inspired by the brand’s iconic oval shape. It includes a trio of glass rings stacked to build a monolithic yet tactile structure. It is made using a traditional pressed glass technique, and it serves as a tribute to the artistry of glassmaking.

The candle holder pays homage to Diptyque’s three founders, beautifully displaying their creative union and shared vision. It serves as a perfect and thoughtful centerpiece for your holiday gatherings, as it successfully merges beauty and modern functionality.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Diptyque refillable candle holder demonstrates exquisite craftsmanship and an interesting narrative. It’s more than just a decorative item; it’s a piece of art that tells a story. The use of a pressed glass technique gives it a unique, tactile quality that invites admiration and touch. Its refillable nature not only highlights a commitment to sustainability but also ensures that the holder remains a cherished part of your decor long after the holiday season.

What we like

• The unique glass structure adds a touch of sophistication to any space, making it a standout piece in your holiday decor.
• Being refillable, it reduces waste and offers a long-term decorative solution.

What we dislike

• Made of glass, it requires careful handling to avoid damage.

8. Muro Box

Called the Muro Box, this innovative device showcases a revolutionary leap in the world of music boxes, as it provides a customizable and modern twist on a truly beloved classic. It allows you to play any tune you please – ranging from Christmas carols to the latest pop hits. It features app connectivity and a MIDI interface. The design is quite nostalgic, featuring a rotating cylinder with strategically placed studs.

You can change the song and play an entire track, owing to the patented dynamic cylinder. This overcomes many of the issues of older music boxes, which could only play a single tune. The innovative box provides a unique personalized musical experience, so it is a great addition to your early holiday preps.

Why is it noteworthy?

Its ability to customize and play a wide variety of songs sets it apart from conventional music boxes, offering endless possibilities for personalizing your holiday soundtrack. This innovation allows you to create a unique atmosphere in your home, tailored to your musical preferences. The Muro Box’s nostalgic design, combined with its modern capabilities, makes it a captivating addition to any decor.

What we like

• Play any song you desire, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations.
• Combines the classic charm of a music box with modern technology.

What we dislike

• May require a learning curve to fully utilize its features.

9. Twinkly Net Lights

Called the Twinkly Net Lights, this lighting design is a state-of-the-art solution for enhancing your outdoor holiday decor. It serves as a flexible and customizable lighting experience. It is a smart LED grip that can be wrapped effortlessly and easily around hedges and bushes. It can adapt to any shape, offering full coverage for a beautiful display.

It features 16 million colors and smart multicolor LEDs. You can create personalized effects via a user-friendly app. These lights provide endless customizations, allowing you to pick the style that perfectly suits you. You can transform your backyard into a lovely and breathtaking spectacle.

Why is it noteworthy?

The lights can create a personalized light display with millions of color options sets them apart from traditional string lights, offering a unique and dynamic decorating experience. The seamless integration with smart home systems provides convenience and ease of use, allowing you to control your lights with simple voice commands. The weatherproof design ensures that the lights can withstand the elements, making them a reliable choice for outdoor use.

What we like

• The app allows for endless color and pattern combinations.
• Durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions.

What we dislike

• Requires a smartphone and internet connection for full functionality.

10. Titanium Artisan Spirits Cup

Another way to add some early festive cheer to your home is by having a drink or two in some fancy drinkware. Called the Titanium Artisan Spirits Cup, this classy and unique cup combines elegance and craftsmanship. It will uplift your drinking experience, especially if you love fine spirits.

It originates from Tsubame City in Niigata Japan, which is known for its masterful metalwork. The cup beautifully demonstrates the meticulous artistry of Japanese craftsmen. It weighs 22 grams and is designed to make every sip memorable and cherishable. It elevates your spirit-drinking experience, adding some Japanese flair to it.

Click Here to Buy Now: $27.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Titanium Artisan Spirits Cup displays some beautiful and precise craftsmanship. It creates an incredible sensory experience for you, showcasing a hammered texture that uplifts the aromatic profiles of spirits. The vibrant anodized finish provides a personalized touch to your drinkware collection. Since it is built from premium titanium, it is lightweight and durable.

What we like

• Showcases a lightweight and durable titanium construction.
• Elevates the flavor profile of spirits with its hammered texture.

What we dislike

• Requires careful maintenance to preserve its finish.

The post 10 Best Designs To Add Some Early Festive Cheer To Your Home first appeared on Yanko Design.

Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed a pair of Christmas trees made from different components that will become furniture at the Edition Hotels in Toranomon and Ginza, Tokyo. The trees are made from timber components, which have been arranged to form a traditional Christmas tree. Once the holiday season ends, the trees will be disassembled and converted into furniture by Japanese wooden furniture manufacturer Karimoko.

“I designed the Christmas tree as an architectural structure for this project,” said Kuma. “The trees have a story of their own assembly; even after it is finished, they will live forever. In this sense, I realized the ideal way of architecture in the future through the Christmas tree.”

Designer: Kengo Kuma

The first tree is called Kigumi and will be situated in the lobby of the Tokyo Edition, Toranomon Hotel. The hotel was also designed by Kuma. The tree is made using linear timber pieces, made from six types of wood – oak, magnolia, castor aralia, Japanese walnut, Japanese maple, and North American walnut. These woods are paired with silver and bronze metallic finishes. The elements will be utilized as table legs once the tree is disassembled.

The second tree is called Komorebi, and it is placed in the lobby bar of the Tokyo Edition, Ginza. The tree is made from rounded elements that have been built from oak, castor aralia, Japanese walnut, Japanese maple, and magnolia. The different elements have been made from curved timber. The elements will be converted into table tops and hollow pieces of legs for a desk.

“This project of reusing the wood used for the event as furniture is very attractive because it aligns with what we cherish daily,” said Karimoku board director Eiichiro Kato. “We hope that by purchasing the table, you will be able to enjoy the variety of the wood used in the table and feel the charm of the wood and the individuality of the forests we benefit from through our daily lives.”

The post Kengo Kuma Designs Unique Christmas Trees Using Timber Furniture Components first appeared on Yanko Design.

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The beauty of my job lies in not just discovering the new and innovative, it’s also in discovering the bizarrely futuristic… and the Bodyfriend Quantum robotic massage chair firmly fits the latter. Spotted at IFA 2024, the chair feels less like your average massage lounger and more like a Gundam suit with a touch of luxury. Nestled in its sleek, premium leather, with built-in Bang & Olufsen speakers, the Quantum manages to blur the line between high-tech gadgetry and a luxury spa. I didn’t think a chair could make me feel this pampered, but after spending some time in it, I’m convinced—this isn’t just a massage chair; it’s a full-fledged bodygasm.

Sinking into the Quantum was like stepping into a different world, where every detail is designed to make you feel like royalty. But what really sets it apart isn’t just the leather or the fancy tech specs—it’s the attention to detail in how it delivers its massages, all while serenading you with crystal-clear audio from none other than Bang & Olufsen. Let’s just say, it’s not your average chair.

Revolutionary Design Meets Functional Innovation

At the core of the Bodyfriend Quantum is its Robo Walking Technology—a first in the industry—that gives each leg its own independent movement. And trust me, it’s not a gimmick. Sitting in the chair, you immediately notice how much more natural and personalized the massage feels, especially around the lower body. My desk-hunched spine and worn-out calves felt like they were getting precisely the kind of treatment they needed. It’s as if the chair knew what my body was asking for before I did.

This independent leg movement is more than just for show—it makes a real difference in how effectively the chair targets specific muscles. Whether you’re using it for muscle recovery or just as a fancy way to unwind after a long day, the Quantum feels like it’s been engineered with a deeper understanding of how to work the human body. After just a few minutes in it, my lower back and legs were thanking me.

Immersive Sound Through Bang & Olufsen Partnership

The partnership with Bang & Olufsen might raise a few eyebrows. Do you really need top-tier audio in a massage chair? After my experience, the answer is a pretty confident yes. The moment I leaned back and let the chair do its thing, the speakers came to life, filling the space around me with rich, immersive sound. Whether you’re into lo-fi beats, classical symphonies, or nature sounds, the high-quality audio adds a layer of relaxation that most massage chairs simply don’t offer.

It doesn’t feel like a bolted-on extra. The audio blends seamlessly with the massage itself, so whether you’re zoning out to music or catching up on your favorite podcast, the chair’s sonic experience pulls you deeper into that calm state. Benny Kang of Bodyfriend mentioned that the speakers can be used to play binaural beats too, stimulating the mind along with your body.

Precision Massage and Intuitive Control

Bodyfriend has packed a lot of tech into this chair, but it’s the execution that stands out. The XD-PRO thermal module and Finger Moving Massage Module work together to give an eerily human-like touch. It doesn’t just knead your muscles in broad strokes; instead, the chair moves in subtle, calculated increments—80 movements in 1.25mm steps to be exact. For someone who carries a lot of tension in their shoulders and lower back, it’s like having a physical therapist who knows exactly where to focus.

Then there are the finer touches—literally. With 81 air pockets wrapping your body and heat therapy zones that bring the warmth up to a balmy 50°C, the Quantum creates an environment that’s both soothing and deeply therapeutic. The heat applied to the back, calves, and soles not only relaxes muscles but also feels fantastic on sore feet, thanks to its three-step foot roller system. It’s an experience that goes beyond simple pampering.

A Touch of Luxury (and Functionality)

The 10-inch Full HD tablet mounted on the chair is intuitive and easy to navigate. There’s no fumbling with a million buttons—you can switch modes, adjust settings, or dive into the chair’s “High-End Healthcare Massage Mode” with just a tap. If you’re someone who likes control over your relaxation routine, this tablet makes it easy to fine-tune everything from intensity to heat levels without pulling you out of the experience.

It’s also worth noting that the Quantum is clearly built for longevity. The leather is buttery-soft yet durable, and the entire build feels solid and well-constructed—something you’d expect for the price tag this chair is likely to carry. But for anyone serious about integrating relaxation or recovery into their daily routine, it’s hard to imagine anything better.

A Luxurious Experience for the Wellness-Focused

The Bodyfriend Quantum is positioned for those who are serious about wellness and ready to invest in high-end healthcare technology. Its meticulous design, advanced massage features, and thoughtful additions like Bang & Olufsen speakers make it a standout product in the luxury massage chair market. While it caters to those with specific muscle stimulation needs—such as the elderly or individuals recovering from injury—it also serves as an indulgent piece of tech for anyone looking to upgrade their relaxation routine.

After my session with the Quantum, I can safely say it delivers on its promise of providing a unique massage experience. I hate to be the cliche, but I’m the millennial with lower back pain (I lugged a laptop bag around through IFA 2024), so even a 5-minute cycle with the Quantum felt like absolute bliss. Sure, it may come with a premium price, but for those looking to pamper themselves or take better care of their health, the Bodyfriend Quantum is like Chandler and Joey’s Barca-lounger on absolute steroids. You’ll probably spend hours in the chair without realizing it.

Now, if only it came with a built-in coffee machine.

The post I Sat In The $15,000 Robotic Massage Chair at IFA 2024: A Luxurious Hands-On with the Bodyfriend Quantum first appeared on Yanko Design.

With each knife having a pattern that is unique to it, almost like its own fingerprint, the Greno puts the beauty of hand-forged VG-10 Stainless Damascus steel in your grip, giving you a knife that’s equal parts magnificent and masterful.

They say that the true process of making Damascus steel was lost to history, although the art has certainly flourished again, with a lot of forgers building their own techniques of making the gorgeously marbled metal. One such creator is Shaggs LLC, the designer and builder behind the Greno – a hand-forged fixed-blade knife with perhaps one of the most unique-looking marbled steel blades we’ve seen. While most Damascus steel blades rely on a dual-color design that highlights the marbling, the Greno is different. It employs VG-10 steel – a premium cutlery-grade stainless steel produced in Japan, which results in a marbling quite like no other. Add that to a 4.5-inch blade with a 4.3-inch handle and you’re left with a knife that doesn’t disappoint. When not in use, the Greno is an art piece, a visual representation of a one-dead handicraft… and when in motion, it’s a knife designed to dominate and get the job done every single time.

Designer: Shaggs LLC

Click Here to Buy Now: $69 $100 ($31 off). Hurry, only 23/70 left!

Measuring a staggering 9 inches from tip to end, the Greno is fairly larger than any of the flippers or folders we feature here. It comes with a fixed blade design too, and ships with a Top Grain Italian cow leather sheath to help you carry it around wherever you go. The knife’s handle comes crafted from green Micarta, used extensively in the knifemaking industry for its durability, balanced weight, and the unique texture it provides to the handle, giving it a superior grip. To supplement this, the Greno’s handle boasts an ergonomic grippy design that’s innately ambidextrous, allowing you to grab it confidently as you maneuver its crown jewel – that spectacular blade.

A self-taught knifemaker, Shaggs managed to master the art of forging Damascus steel, although their experiments with the Greno are different from any other Damascus steel you’d find on the market. To state things plainly, a lot of the Damascus steel you see today is simply a laser-etched marbling pattern on regular steel. True Damascus steel is created by folding and forging two different kinds of steel together, before acid-etching the blade to reveal a zebra-like pattern. Greno’s take on Damascus steel is similar, but the results are stunningly different. The blade shimmers with a chrome-like finish, but instead of being dual-colored, comes with contour lines, almost like the knife has its own fingerprint.

The blade itself has a drop-point design, a very popular template in the knife world. With a long 4.5-inch edge that culminates in a sharp tip, the Greno is perfect for pretty much any indoor or outdoor tasks. Whittling wood, slicing paracord, cutting meat or veggies, and self-defence, the Greno’s blade holds up remarkably well to any form of abuse. The VG-10 steel is inherently corrosion-resistant and has remarkable edge retention, which means spending more time using the knife and less time sharpening it. The rest of the blade travels through the handle, or what the industry calls a ‘full tang’ format. This effectively boosts the knife’s overall durability and allows you to lean into the Greno while using it. The full tang design means being able to apply forward and downward pressure with ease, along with also being able to twist your knife while using it to do things like open metal cans or gut your hunt.

When all’s said and done, the knife slides right into its cowhide sheath, which encases the blade so it doesn’t accidentally hurt anyone. Owing to its large size, the Greno definitely doesn’t come with a pocket clip, but it does boast a lanyard hole at the end of the handle, allowing you to loop a paracord or lanyard through the knife to make it easy to carry around with you on outdoor trips, whether it’s camping, hunting, or even showing off to your EDC-enthusiast friends!

Click Here to Buy Now: $69 $100 ($31 off). Hurry, only 23/70 left!

The post This hand-forged Damascus Stainless Steel Knife boasts a spectacular mirror-finish marbled blade first appeared on Yanko Design.

San Francisco-based design studio Whipsaw has unveiled its latest innovation, the Aescape—a robotic massage system that merges artificial intelligence with cutting-edge robotics to offer a personalized and efficient massage experience. This groundbreaking product is set to redefine the future of massage therapy, addressing both the demands of users and the constraints faced by the massage industry.

Designer: Whipsaw

The Aescape features metal arms with silicone-covered “hands” that mimic the feel and function of human hands, providing a realistic and soothing massage. The massage table is luxuriously wrapped in vegan faux leather, ensuring comfort and durability. Underneath the headrest lies a user-friendly display, allowing clients to tailor their massage sessions to their specific needs and preferences.

Aescape is engineered to deliver deep-tissue massages with unparalleled precision. The system’s metallic arms are securely attached to the massage table, while silicone pads on the “hands” replicate the natural contours of human hands, enhancing the authenticity of the massage. The innovative design is the brainchild of Aescape founder Eric Litman, who initially created a prototype before collaborating with Whipsaw to develop the final product.

In one of his interviews, Dan Harden, founder of Whipsaw, explained that they were challenged to integrate new technologies, define an all-new physical form factor, explore and create the essence of an Aescape brand through color, material, and finishes, and refine every single design detail. He noted that its appearance had to look very friendly and approachable, especially considering that robotic arms can be intimidating to some. Additionally, it also had to fit all types of user sizes, shapes, and ages.

To cater to diverse body types, the Aescape system uses suspended sensors to perform 3D scans of a user’s body before the massage begins. These sensors are discreetly placed inside light rings to minimize any discomfort or anxiety users might feel about being observed. The collected images and user data are processed through an AI-driven program, which is continuously updated with new data from each massage session. This ensures that every stroke and technique applied by the robot is informed by professional massage therapists and extensive robotic research. The users have a screen below their headrest to even customize their experience and get the most out of it.

The company emphasizes that every stroke the robot is commanded to do has been informed by licensed professional massage therapists, numerous prototype experiments, and years of robotic research. Aescape employs a formidable amount of AI and machine learning technology, enabling it to constantly improve and build its database, which informs its programming.

An Aescape representative mentioned that the machine is designed not to replace human masseuses but to supplement the industry by addressing the shortage of qualified massage therapists. It was stated that Aescape is much more efficient and sustainable than large groups of massage therapists, who often require significant health care due to workplace injuries. Additionally, using robotics reduces commuting-related environmental factors, such as vehicle pollution and energy usage.

The system’s efficiency allows users to enjoy a comprehensive massage in just 30 minutes, fitting seamlessly into busy schedules. With an on-demand booking app, users can easily find and book massage sessions ranging from 15 to 120 minutes, ensuring that personalized care is always within reach.

The post Would You Want To Be Massaged By Robots? Meet Aescape, a Massage Bot Disrupting the Spa Industry first appeared on Yanko Design.

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One of the world’s biggest computer-centric tech expos has just ended and, unsurprisingly, a lot of the rhetoric revolved around AI. But if you walk around the showroom floor, another theme quickly becomes evident in the midst of new products as well as some not-so-new wares. Consumer tastes have evolved once again, even among those who would embrace the label of being a gamer. Design is no longer just a feature for the few but an important part of a product’s DNA. We’ve seen quite a wide range of designs across an equally wide range of products, from the eccentric to the elegant. Here are some of the most notable designs to grace our paths at Computex 2024 in Taiwan, showcasing not just the trends but also the innovations in the computing industry.

Cool Computing: PC Case Designs

Desktop computers have evolved from uninspiring towers to smoldering workstations with over-the-top lighting to a smorgasbord of designs that cater to a variety of tastes and interests. Computex 2024 is a glowing testament to not only the changes in design trends but also to the extent that some manufacturers will go to in order to appeal to their loyal fans.

ADATA XPG Invader X

Designer: ADATA

Winner of an iF Design Award, the ADATA XPG Invader X values transparency in more ways than one. Its clear front and side panels let you marvel at the neatly arranged components that power this gaming beast, including the tubes and RGB-lit fans that keep the box operating at maximum efficiency. Equally interesting, however, is the chassis’s ESG-compliant design, utilizing post-consumer recycled plastics and upgrade-friendly components. It’s a stylish, eco-friendly computer that tries to offset the carbon emissions of your gaming lifestyle.

Cooler Master Mecha Cases

Designer: Cooler Master

Who said computers needed to come in the form of boxes? Cooler Master definitely didn’t. With designs that come in the form of a robotic shark and a giant mechanical sneaker, these PC cases shatter expectations and misconceptions about how our computers should look like. And as hardware becomes smaller even as they become more powerful, it’s only a matter of time before these become the standard rather than the outlier.

PNY Aftershock Bubble Tea PC

Designer: PNY x AftershockPC

Electronics and liquids don’t mix but it becomes a mind-blowing mystery when you see the two together. And now, we don’t mean liquid cooling. From the makers of ramen-themed desktop towers, this Bubble Tea PC will have you not only scratching your head but also craving a cup of boba. Instead of a sugary and milky drink, however, it’s a luscious-colored coolant that has faux tapioca balls swirling around as it keeps your cool-looking PC thermally cool. This collab between PC maker PNY and case designer Aftershock isn’t a joke either but a fully functional gaming PC that’s ready to put a new spin on your cravings.

Power In Your Hands: Handheld Gaming PCs

While there are plenty of AI-toting laptops scattered around Computex this year, they are hardly the only computers vying for attention. Gaming handheld PCs are pushing the envelope not only in performance in a small form factor but also in terms of design. There’s definitely plenty of room for experimentation, and there are a few that have caught our attention and fancy.

ADATA XPG Nia

Designer: ADATA

An unexpected contender from a brand better known for its memory and data storage hardware, the XPG Nia focuses on the aspects often left out in the wake of specs and benchmarks. A tilting screen, for example, can drastically improve the comfort of staring at a handheld computer for long periods of time, while upgradable RAM in addition to upgradable storage gives the device a longer life than even some of the smartphones we have today.

ASUS ROG Ally X

Designer: ASUS ROG

The ASUS ROG Ally X is a fine example of refinement over sensational changes. The base design remains the same, but the subtle and sometimes invisible improvements deliver an almost totally different experience that’s a step above in terms of usability. Best of all, however, ASUS isn’t removing the OG ROG Ally from the market just yet, leaving consumers with the choice between affordability and power.

MSI Claw 8 AI+

Designer: MSI

The MSI Claw A1M was an odd one when it came out, but the Claw 8 AI+ cements the manufacturer’s position in the young handheld gaming PC segment. With newer, AI-friendlier hardware comes significant improvements that are necessary for such a small gaming device. It’s still rather unique in its use of Intel silicon, and it will live or die by that commitment. Its design, however, is also enough to make it a noteworthy contender in this fast-growing arena.

ZOTAC ZONE

Designer: ZOTAC

ZOTAC is another new contender, one that has its sights set on the name that started it all: the Steam Deck. While it resembles this progenitor in some aspects, the ZOTAC ZONE tries to take the design where Valve seems reluctant to go. Better hardware and configurable controls will sing to the hearts of many gamers, but the steep price tag could be a major deterrent as well.

Material Matters: Aesthetic and Sustainable Designs

Design innovation doesn’t just have to come from wild new forms or combinations of ideas. Even the materials used for products can have a notable positive effect on the user experience, especially when they delight not just the eyes but also other senses like touch. Bonus points if they also benefit the environment, ensuring there will still be a planet for consumers to live on.

ASUS Ceraluminum

Designer: ASUS

Laptop users are becoming more and more design-conscious. Even those who don’t tend to personalize the backs of their laptops want it to be something that will leave a lasting positive impression on bystanders, not to mention on themselves. Combining the durability of metal with the luxury of ceramic, ASUS’s new Ceraluminum material subtly elevates the laptop from a technological product to an art object. First used on the new ASUS Zenbook S 16, this material exudes beauty that you not only see but also feel every time you touch the laptop or lift its lid.

TECNO CAMON 30 Series LOEWE Design Edition

Designer: TECNO

Paying homage to both coffee lovers and environment-conscious consumers, TECNO and LOEWE designed a back cover material that gives waste coffee grounds new life. Using an equally eco-friendly process, this more sustainable material gives the TECNO CAMON 30 Series LOEWE Design Edition a distinctive appearance and texture that easily sets itself apart from the crowd. Plus, the use of color blocking also marks the phone with a modern style to fit the discerning tastes of modern consumers.

Creative License: Tools for Designers

All these wonderful designs don’t just pop out from thin air. Someone has to make them, from initial ideation to prototyping to manufacturing. Designers and creators naturally need tools that can meet the growing complexities of their work, and Computex definitely has quite a few in store for them.

Acer SpatialLabs Eye 3D Camera

Designer: Acer

Spatial computing, mixed reality, and the metaverse require a special kind of content, one that breaks free from the confines of flat, 2D space. Even in video meetings and live selling streams, 3D objects are becoming more in demand, offering not just viewers but also presenters new ways to connect and communicate. Acer’s new SpatialLabs Eye 3D camera tries to democratize that process, effectively giving anyone the ability to capture, record, and stream any real-world 3D object as a digital copy.

ASUS ProArt PZ13 Detachable Laptop

Designer: ASUS

As computers become more powerful and geographical boundaries become shorter, content creation can no longer be confined to a desk in an office or room. The ASUS ProArt PZ13 gives designers, artists, engineers, and everyone in between that kind of flexibility with its portable and detachable design. What makes this 2-in-1 computer different is that it’s part of the new breed of Windows computers running on the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon X chip, promising improved performance and, of course, on-device AI capabilities.

Power to the User: Empowering Gamers and Creators

One thing that gamers, creators, and power users have in common is their need for power, both literally and figuratively. The ability to customize not only their experience but also the appearance of their equipment goes a long way in giving them the confidence to get their job done, and these designs definitely deliver that with a touch of pizzazz!

ASUS Project DALI E Ink Cover Laptop

Designer: ASUS

E Ink is no longer just for eBook readers. Now that it has color and is being used in signage, the eye-friendly and power-efficient display technology is finding its way to the most unexpected places, like the back of this laptop concept. Project DALI turns the laptop cover into a canvas for users of all walks of life to express themselves or simply have a different design every day if they want. All without draining the battery even when the laptop isn’t running.

ASUS ROG Mjolnir Portable UPS

Designer: ASUS ROG

Nothing scares a gamer or designer more than losing power in the middle of an intense playing or working session. Uninterruptible power supplies are a staple for these people, but if you’ll be getting one, why settle for a boring box when you can have one of the most powerful weapons in the universe? Shaped after the mythological hammer of Thor, the ROG Mjolnir is a power station with an attitude and, more importantly, the power and features to actually match.

Cooler Master MasterHUB Modular Stream Kit

Designer: Cooler Master

A typical computer keyboard has 87 to 101 keys or more, but sometimes even those aren’t enough for content creators, streamers, gamers, and advanced computer users. When you have to remember a bunch of keyboard shortcuts that differ from program to program, you’re putting a heavy burden on your mind that could be used for actual creative thinking instead. This modular MasterHUB stream kit and control center not only offers the power of programmable buttons but also lets you decide how you want those controls to be arranged and look.

The post Top Design Innovations from Computex 2024: Where Technology Meets Aesthetics first appeared on Yanko Design.