The Hong Kong Coliseum turned into a kinetic storytelling arena on September 10, 2025 when Ruby Law, founder of RULA Design Studio, unveiled a seven‑meter white cube that folds, glows and morphs throughout Terence Lam’s “White Summer” concert. The sculptural centerpiece sits beneath two circular LED screens, creating a striking contrast between the rigid square and the surrounding round light panels—a visual metaphor for the show’s theme of duality, where light and shadow, joy and melancholy intertwine .

From the opening act, the cube dominates the stage as a static, pristine block. Its stark white surface reflects the blinding summer sun projected from the overhead screens, casting deep shadows that echo the concert’s exploration of contrast. As the performance progresses, the cube begins to unfold, its panels swinging outward to reveal a glowing “+” symbol on the floor. This simple cross becomes a sign of unison, a visual cue that disparate elements are converging into a single narrative thread .

Designer: Ruby Law (photos by Right Eyeball Studio)

The circular LED screens above the stage act like abstract glasses, framing fragments of a love story that unfold in projected memories. Audiences watch tender moments turn bittersweet as Terence Lam, positioned outside the cube, observes past relationship scenes playing within the transparent interior. A backward‑running clock punctuates the segment, reminding viewers of the impossibility of reversing time with a loved one.

Colour gradually seeps into the scene, breaking the initial black‑and‑white palette. This shift mirrors the transition from memory to present emotion, while the audience’s light sticks synchronize with a smaller, 360‑degree flying prop—a miniature replica of the main cube—that changes hue in real time. The shared illumination blurs the line between performer and spectator, forging a moment of collective unity.

Aerial choreography defines the concert’s second half. Terence Lam lies on a bed as his “soul” lifts away, rising into a suspended space where his shadow drifts above him. The floating fragments of memory, rendered as weightless shapes, interact with the audience’s light, creating a sensation of gravity‑free movement. The design draws on Daoist ideas of transcendence, suggesting that letting go of past attachments can lead to a higher state of being .

Behind the spectacle, a dedicated engineering and construction crew rebuilt the flying mechanisms after a three‑year venue restriction. Their effort made possible the seamless transitions, rapid unfolding of the massive cube, and precise aerial lifts that kept the performance fluid and safe . The visual language of “White Summer” hinges on the interplay of geometric forms—square versus circle, static versus kinetic—and the emotional journey from recollection to renewal. Ruby Law’s modular cube not only serves as a stage prop but also as a narrative device, framing the concert’s story of love, loss and the hope of moving forward. The unfolding cube stands as a testament to innovative stage design, proving that a simple geometric shape, when engineered with imagination, can become a powerful conduit for storytelling.

The post Ruby Law’s Unfolding Cube Transforms Terence Lam’s “White Summer” Concert into a Live-Stage Narrative first appeared on Yanko Design.

Remember bendgate? That infamous moment when the iPhone 6 Plus buckled under pressure, quite literally bending in people’s pockets and sparking a global conversation about smartphone durability. Apple learned from that debacle, but SUPCASE has taken the lesson to an entirely different level with their new UB Grip Pro case for the iPhone 17 Pro series. SUPCASE has essentially built a fortress around Apple’s latest flagship, complete with military-grade protection that makes the original bendgate controversy look like a gentle warm-up exercise. This case doesn’t just protect your phone; it turns it into an indestructible communication device that belongs in a superhero’s arsenal.

The UB Grip Pro represents SUPCASE’s evolution from their legendary Unicorn Beetle Pro series, trading the aggressive angular ridges for what they call “structural elegance.” The company has managed to create something that looks like it rolled off the assembly line of a high-end military contractor, complete with precision-milled aluminum components and a design language that screams industrial sophistication. The case wraps around the iPhone 17 Pro’s new aluminum-glass hybrid back and that distinctive horizontal camera bar with the kind of protection typically reserved for equipment heading into combat zones. SUPCASE claims 20-foot drop protection, which means your phone could theoretically survive falling from a second-story window and still boot up ready for your next video call. The four-corner airbag design distributes impact forces like a professional stunt coordinator, ensuring that even the most dramatic accidents become mere footnotes in your phone’s survival story.

Designer: Jet Weng

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The integrated kickstand is rated to survive over 55,000 open-close cycles as per SUPCASE’s testing. SUPCASE built this component from aluminum alloy, giving it the kind of durability you’d expect from your own MacBook’s hinge rather than a some nondescript smartphone accessory online. The kickstand offers 120-degree portrait positioning and 57-degree landscape angles, perfect for taking advantage of the iPhone 17 Pro’s enhanced dual video recording capabilities. The ring grip function doubles as a security feature, essentially making it impossible to drop your phone during those one-handed photography sessions. When folded flat, the kickstand disappears into the case’s contours like a hidden weapon in a spy thriller, maintaining that sleek profile while keeping serious functionality at your fingertips.

SUPCASE’s approach to MagSafe compatibility reads like something from a physics textbook. They’ve incorporated N52 magnets that generate seven times the magnetic force of standard cases, creating a hold strength of up to 1,800 grams. This means your iPhone will stick to magnetic car mounts with the tenacity of a gecko on glass, even during the bumpiest off-road adventures. The magnetic array ensures perfect alignment with MagSafe chargers, delivering the full 25W wireless charging speed without any of the positioning guesswork that plagues weaker magnetic cases. The magnets are strategically positioned to work seamlessly with the relocated Apple logo on the iPhone 17 Pro’s back panel, creating a perfectly centered aesthetic when using clear MagSafe accessories.

The camera zone usually wears the bruises, and the iPhone 17 Pro’s camera bar asks for dedicated protection. Reinforced impact zones wrap the rectangular module without turning it into a brick, a detail that matters in pockets and bags. Raised borders create clearance on tables while avoiding the harsh lip that snags on fabrics. Materials around this area feel denser and more resilient, which echoes the protective story without adding theatrical thickness. Photography stays comfortable to grip, especially when the ring is tucked and the case’s side texture takes over.

The Camera Control button features 19 copper conductors that deliver ultra-responsive feedback, making every shutter press feel as crisp and immediate as the bare phone. This level of precision engineering typically appears in professional camera equipment, not smartphone cases. The case’s textured surfaces provide grip security without sacrificing the premium feel that iPhone users expect. SUPCASE has managed to create a surface that feels substantial and secure in your hand while maintaining the kind of finish quality that wouldn’t look out of place in a luxury car interior.

The included 9H tempered glass screen protector completes the 360-degree protection package, turning your iPhone 17 Pro into a virtually indestructible communication device. Unlike many case manufacturers who treat screen protection as an afterthought or expensive add-on, SUPCASE includes premium glass protection right in the box. The 0.33mm thickness maintains touch sensitivity while providing hardness levels that rival sapphire crystal. The installation process integrates seamlessly with the case design, creating a unified protection system rather than a collection of separate accessories. This comprehensive approach means your iPhone receives laboratory-grade protection from the moment you unbox the case.

The UB Grip Pro comes in four colorways that complement the iPhone 17 Pro’s new finish options: classic black for stealth operations, Guldan for those who prefer darker sophistication, coral that matches the phone’s rumored new color options, and azure that adds a pop of personality to the industrial design. Each color maintains the same premium finish quality and attention to detail that makes this case feel like a custom piece of tactical equipment. SUPCASE has priced the UB Grip Pro competitively for what amounts to comprehensive protection that could save you from a costly device replacement. Available through SUPCASE’s official store and Amazon, this case promises to add armor-like properties to your phone, making it so strong even Hulk wouldn’t be able to bend it… probably.

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The post Don’t blindly trust Apple’s build quality… this durable iPhone 17 Pro case has 20-foot drop protection first appeared on Yanko Design.

Carl Pei’s ethos of injecting fun into technology culminated in not one, but two brands. Most people recognize a Nothing device in the wild, instantly spotting and identifying its transparent design. But as a little sibling to the Nothing brand, Pei also unveiled CMF – a design-forward tech brand that was specifically founded to bring great technology and great design to the masses.

CMF actually pre-empted Nothing on a few fronts, it launched the first 3-camera smartphone before Nothing, it rolled out GaN chargers before Nothing, it even still holds the mantle of being the only brand of the two to have a smartwatch… and now it seems like CMF is adding sneakers to its list. The sneakers come as a result of a collab with Indian sneaker brand Gully Labs, but rather than merely launching a sneaker line, the two brands decided to turn the exercise into a community design effort. The result, perhaps one of the most interesting pieces of footwear I’ve seen from the design community. This particular concept by Abhishek Mistry injects CMF’s design ethos into a piece of footwear brilliantly. Aside from just making a neon orange pair of shoes, Mistry wove CMF details into them too, ditching the laces for a BOA system, and translating the CMF Phone’s modular backplate into a modular heel counter. The result feels perfectly CMF, it’s edgy, wild, and has that iconic flair that Pei’s constantly spoken about injecting into the products he creates.

Designer: Abhishek Mistry

The purpose of the community challenge was to rally the community behind the company – a classic move to build culture while also ensuring a strong, unwavering base of support. A side pursuit, however, is to also release a product that captures the brand’s essence perfectly – and Mistry’s design does that remarkably well. CMF’s design ethos has always been around building products that are fun, interactive, and modular. It’s practically baked into the Phone 1 and Phone 2 Pro’s designs, as well as the Buds series. The interaction manifests in the form of a laceless design that ditches conventional laces for a closed-loop BOA system. A knob, that looks very similar to the one found on the Phone and the Buds, lets you tighten or loosen the shoes, giving them a wonderfully tactile and enjoyable touch. You don’t need two hands to fasten your shoes, and you sure as hell don’t need velcro. Rotate the knob to tighten, rotate the other way to loosen. Genius.

The shoes also come in four colorways that match the CMF phones, you’ve got the iconic Orange color (which personally looks better on the shoes than on CMF’s tech), but then for the faint of heart, you’ve got more somber colors like white, black, and light green. The paneling feels exquisitely premium, as the shoes use cutting-edge new-age materials, or as Mistry calls, technical fabric. There’s an interplay of matte and metallic finishes, quite like on the Phone 2 Pro, and the CMF logo is confidently placed on the BOA knob, while the Gully Labs logo finds its way on the front.

That, however, isn’t where Mistry draws the line. Like the Phone 1 and 2 Pro, the sneaker builds modularity into its design too, giving the entire community the ability to customize their shoes while also opening up an entire third-party aftermarket for custom parts. The design borrows from the CMF Phones’ removable backplates, featuring a removable heel cover that’s held together by the same screws found on the Phone 1 and 2 Pro. Simply unscrew the heel cover on your existing shoe and swap it for something more funky or more your style. You could go for a color-change, a texture-change, even a material change should you choose! Want to go even more wild? Turn that modular heel into an accessory mount – maybe for AirTags, maybe a mount for a GoPro, the possibilities are quite literally endless, and let’s just say, CMF’s target audience has a surplus of creativity!

For now, Mistry’s footwear exists as a fan-made concept, but the competition’s underway, and with enough luck, designs like Mistry’s could get officially picked up by the brands and potentially turned into actual footwear. If you’d love to see modular sneakers with BOA fasteners, go check out Abhishek Mistry’s Instagram page for more photos. Or if you’re interested in designing your own shoes, check out the official competition page for more info.

The post Nothing’s CMF gets its own Sneaker Line with this edgy, modular Fan-made Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

In a world where housing costs continue to soar and living spaces shrink, Dragon Tiny Homes has introduced a game-changing solution that proves bigger isn’t always better. The Sora, their newest and most compact model, is making waves in the tiny home community by packing an impressive array of features into just 16 feet of living space.

At 135 square feet, the Sora challenges conventional thinking about what constitutes livable space. This ultra-compact tiny home on wheels demonstrates that thoughtful design can create a functional environment for full-time living, remote work, and even entertaining guests. The journey begins at the glass door entrance, which opens directly onto a surprisingly well-equipped kitchen. The kitchen maximizes every inch with essential appliances, including a full-size fridge/freezer, modern induction cooktop, and functional sink, with additional space allocated for supplementary appliances as needed. The integrated breakfast bar offers intimate dining for two while also serving as extra counter space during meal preparation.

Designer: Dragon Tiny Homes

Intelligent Layout Design

The Sora’s genius lies in its strategic zoning of living spaces. Adjacent to the kitchen, the living room creates an open, airy atmosphere through generous glazing that floods the space with natural light. The comfortable sofa bed serves dual purposes, providing everyday seating while accommodating two overnight guests when needed. Climate control is achieved through a mini-split air-conditioning system, complemented by a ceiling fan, ensuring year-round comfort regardless of the weather conditions.

Tucked cleverly under the staircase, a small desk creates a dedicated home office space, perfectly positioned for remote work without interfering with the main living areas. This thoughtful placement demonstrates how vertical space can be maximized in micro living environments.

Complete Living Essentials

Despite its compact footprint, the Sora doesn’t compromise on essential amenities. The bathroom, positioned opposite the living room, efficiently incorporates a full shower, sink, and flushing toilet within its compact design. This layout ensures privacy while maintaining the home’s open flow concept.

The bedroom occupies the loft space, accessed via the staircase that doubles as storage integration. While featuring the typical low ceiling found in loft bedrooms, the space comfortably accommodates a double bed alongside built-in storage solutions, proving that even sleeping quarters can be both cozy and functional.

Exceptional Value Proposition

Perhaps most compelling is Sora’s price point. Currently available at a special inventory price of $39,750, down from the regular $45,000, this tiny home offers an accessible entry point into homeownership. For comparison, this price represents less than a typical down payment on a traditional home in most markets.

The move-in-ready status eliminates the lengthy construction wait times often associated with custom tiny homes. This immediate availability makes the Sora particularly attractive to those looking to transition quickly into tiny living or investors interested in rental property opportunities.

The post This 16-Foot Tiny Home Packs A Full Kitchen, Office, & Bedroom For Under $40K first appeared on Yanko Design.

Wireless earbuds reached a ceiling two years ago. Every major brand promises the same three things: decent sound, acceptable battery life, and noise cancellation that works sometimes. The result feels like choosing between different flavors of mediocre, where each model excels at one thing while failing at everything else.

Designer: Apple

Many years of testing dozens of wireless earbuds reveals the same pattern every time. Premium models cost $300+ but still can’t handle phone calls in windy conditions. Budget options sound terrible during workouts. Mid-range choices offer compromise everywhere without excellence anywhere.

After experiencing the AirPods Pro 3 this week, those industry limitations feel like ancient history. The difference becomes apparent the moment you slide them into your ears and feel that perfect seal lock into place. This isn’t another incremental upgrade promising slightly better battery life or marginally improved sound. These breakthrough capabilities work together seamlessly to redefine what wireless audio can accomplish in your daily life.

The Fit Changes Everything

Putting on the AirPods Pro 3 feels different from any previous generation. The internal architecture was completely re-engineered while the external geometry of the ear tip was aligned to the center of the body for increased stability. The pre-installed ear tips fit perfectly right out of the box, creating that satisfying acoustic seal without any pressure points. Having five different tip sizes available, including a new XXS size, means virtually everyone can find their ideal fit.

This improved design delivers the most secure and best-fitting AirPods ever, utilizing over 10,000 ear scans with more than 100,000 hours of user research and an unparalleled dataset of more than 300 million points. The IP57 sweat and water resistance marks the first time any AirPods model offers this level of protection, built to handle tough workouts and unpredictable weather.

Audio That Delivers on Over-Ear Promises

The new multiport acoustic architecture precisely controls the airflow that carries sound into the ear, helping deliver an exceptional spatial listening experience. With next-generation Adaptive EQ, this architecture transforms the bass response, widens the soundstage so you hear every instrument, and brings vivid vocal clarity to higher frequencies across music, shows, and calls.

Active noise cancellation delivers a massive leap forward, delivering up to 2x more effectiveness than AirPods Pro 2, with 4x more noise removed compared to the original AirPods Pro. Apple demonstrated this across multiple challenging environments during the demo: the constant drone of airplane cabins, the clatter and conversation of busy restaurants, and the persistent hum of office HVAC systems.

Across every environment during the controlled demos, the AirPods Pro 3 eliminated distracting background noise while preserving every nuance of your music, movies, and calls. The restaurant demo proved particularly impressive – cutting through the complex mix of conversation, kitchen noise, and background music that typically makes wireless earbuds struggle. The result is the world’s best ANC of any in-ear wireless headphones, made possible with ultra-low noise microphones and advanced computational audio combined with new foam-infused ear tips for greater passive noise isolation.

A more personalized Transparency mode means your own voice and the people speaking to you sounds more natural than ever, helping you stay connected to your surroundings without missing a beat. While listening to music with ANC enabled, AirPods Pro 3 now provide up to eight hours of music playback – a 33 percent increase over the previous generation.

Live Translation That Actually Works

Live Translation enables in-person communication across select languages and is available in beta. This transformational, hands-free capability is powered by computational audio and Apple Intelligence to help people easily connect whether they’re traveling to a new place, collaborating at work or school, or simply catching up with the people who matter most.

The system works through three key components, as demonstrated during Apple’s presentation. First, the AirPods microphones capture speech from both conversation participants. Second, computational models on your iPhone process the audio and generate translations using on-device Apple Intelligence. Third, the translated audio plays directly in your ears while simultaneously lowering the volume of the original speaker, creating space for you to process and think about what you’re hearing.

Unlike many translation devices that get confused when multiple people speak simultaneously, the AirPods Pro 3 handle complex audio environments with remarkable precision. The advanced microphone array and computational audio processing can isolate individual voices even in group conversations, ensuring accurate translations without the frustrating errors that plague other devices.

The deliberate pacing is intelligent. The system includes natural pauses that give your brain time to absorb the translated information before continuing. During the demo, these thoughtful breaks became essential for processing complex conversations rather than getting overwhelmed by a constant stream of translated audio.

When both people have AirPods with Live Translation enabled, the experience becomes seamless. Each person hears the other’s words translated into their preferred language, with the original speech automatically dimmed in the background. For conversations where only one person has the capability, your iPhone transforms into a horizontal display, showing live transcription of your words in the other person’s language.

The on-device processing means everything works without Wi-Fi or cellular connectivity once the language models are downloaded to your iPhone.

For international travelers, the AirPods Pro 3 become your essential translation partners that hear what you hear. Having traveled extensively to Japan and China where English isn’t widely spoken, this feature is a genuine game-changer for navigating foreign countries. The AirPods don’t just translate conversations – they should theoretically work for train announcements, airport boarding calls, and street-level interactions that make international travel challenging.

Think of it this way: your AirPods Pro 3 are constantly listening to your environment, ready to translate whatever audio reaches your ears. Whether it’s a subway announcement in Tokyo, a restaurant server explaining the menu in Shanghai, or directional help from locals, your translation partners are always active and processing the world around you.

Live Translation launches with support for English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish, with the crucial additions of Japanese, Korean, and Chinese (simplified) arriving before year-end – perfectly timed for travelers heading to Asia.

Heart Rate Sensing That Means Business

AirPods Pro 3 introduce Apple’s smallest ever heart rate sensor – a custom photoplethysmography (PPG) sensor that shines invisible infrared light pulsed at 256 times per second to measure light absorption in blood flow. Combined with sensor fusion from the AirPods Pro accelerometers, gyroscope, GPS, and a new on-device AI model on iPhone, users can start up to 50 different workout types, track their heart rate and calories burned, close their Move ring, and earn awards in the Fitness app.

With just AirPods Pro 3 and iPhone, you’ll also have access to Workout Buddy, a fitness experience powered by Apple Intelligence that incorporates your workout data and fitness history to generate personalized, motivational insights during your session. For added motivation, Apple Fitness+ users with AirPods Pro 3 can now view real-time performance metrics directly onscreen, such as heart rate, calories burned, progress on their Move ring, and the Burn Bar.

AirPods Pro 3 also increase battery life in Transparency mode by 67 percent over the previous generation with up to 10 hours with a single charge.

Hearing Assistance That Actually Matters

Beyond fitness tracking, the AirPods Pro 3 is a breakthrough for anyone with mild hearing loss. The automatic conversation boost feature dynamically elevates voices while reducing background noise, making conversations clearer and more intelligible in challenging acoustic environments.

Having mild hearing loss myself, this feature addresses one of the most frustrating daily experiences: trying to follow conversations in restaurants, offices, or crowded spaces where background noise overwhelms speech. The AirPods Pro 3 act as sophisticated hearing aids, amplifying the specific frequencies needed for speech clarity while suppressing distracting environmental sounds.

The 10-hour battery life in Transparency mode with hearing aid features enabled means all-day support without worrying about power. More importantly, both your own voice and others speaking to you sound more natural than ever, eliminating the artificial or echo-like quality that can make traditional hearing aids feel intrusive.

The Verdict After Initial Testing

After extensive testing with everything from $2,000 custom-fitted Breggz earbuds to premium over-ear headphones like the AirPods Max I reviewed for Yanko Design, the AirPods Pro 3 delivers something genuinely surprising. While the Breggz offered exceptional three-dimensional spatial audio and perfect custom molding, they came with significant downsides: unreliable touch controls during workouts, unknown long-term support from a new brand, and connectivity uncertainties that made them impractical for daily use despite their audio excellence.

The AirPods Pro 3 eliminates these compromises entirely. The audio quality matches what you’d expect from earbuds costing eight times more, while the integrated health tracking eliminates the need for separate fitness devices.

Most impressively, every feature enhancthe others rather than creating feature bloat. The perfect fit enables accurate heart rate sensing. The translation capability works seamlessly because of the superior microphone array. The extended battery life supports all-day hearing aid functionality.

For anyone still using previous-generation wireless earbuds, the upgrade path is clear. The combination of perfect fit, exceptional audio, hands-free translation, and precise health monitoring creates possibilities that extend far beyond traditional earbuds into genuine life enhancement territory.”

The post AirPods Pro 3 Hands-On: The Ultimate Everyday Wearable That Redefines Personal Technology first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple’s September keynote events are a familiar ritual, a carefully choreographed presentation of their latest and greatest hardware. This year, we got everything we expected: the regular iPhone 17, the powerful new iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max, details on the A19 Pro chip, and a surprise with the ridiculously slim iPhone Air. Amidst the sea of polished metal and Ceramic Shield panels, however, something unusual happened. Apple gave the spotlight to a product that wasn’t their own. For a few crucial moments, the focus shifted to a small, unassuming black box from Blackmagic Design, a company beloved by video professionals. This device, the Camera ProDock, was the only non-Apple product to get a showcase at the keynote, and its presence spoke volumes about where Apple sees the future of filmmaking heading.

The Blackmagic Camera ProDock is, at its core, the ultimate professional dongle for the iPhone 17 Pro. It’s a purpose-built hub designed to solve every major problem that has kept the iPhone from being a primary camera on a serious film set. For years, filmmakers have used iPhones for B-roll or in tight spots where a larger camera wouldn’t fit, but integrating them into a professional workflow has always been a collection of compromises and clunky workarounds. The ProDock aims to eliminate those compromises entirely by giving the iPhone the physical inputs and outputs that are standard on any high-end cinema camera. It’s a rugged, mountable accessory that provides connections for power, external microphones, headphones, on-set monitors, and solid-state drives for recording, all while fitting seamlessly into a professional camera rig.

Designer: Blackmagic

Two big features that made the cut this year on the Pro iPhones (which can be taken advantage of by the Camera ProDock) are genlock and external timecode. For anyone outside the film industry, these terms probably sound like technical jargon, but they are the bedrock of multi-camera productions. Think of genlock as the master conductor for an orchestra of cameras; it sends out a sync pulse that ensures every single camera on set captures a frame at the exact same microsecond. Timecode, then, is the sheet music, giving every one of those frames a unique, identical timestamp across all cameras and audio recorders. This synchronization is absolutely critical. It means an editor can drop footage from an iPhone 17 Pro, a high-end ARRI cinema camera, and a separate audio recorder onto a timeline, and everything will line up perfectly, down to the frame. This single feature, enabled by the ProDock’s BNC connectors, transforms the iPhone from a capable solo camera into a reliable team player in a professional ecosystem.

Beyond the crucial sync capabilities, the ProDock addresses the practical needs of a working set. Its full-size HDMI port allows for direct connection to a proper director’s monitor, so the creative team can see exactly what the camera is capturing on a large, color-accurate display. The three USB-C ports are a godsend for data management and power. A filmmaker can now record hours of footage in the highest quality ProRes RAW format directly to an external SSD, bypassing the iPhone’s internal storage limitations completely. At the same time, those ports can keep the phone and other accessories powered, ensuring a long shooting day isn’t cut short by a dead battery. The addition of professional 3.5mm jacks for both a microphone and headphones finally solves the audio problem, providing for high-quality sound capture and zero-latency monitoring, something impossible to achieve with wireless solutions.

This hardware is perfectly complemented by a robust software ecosystem. The dock works hand-in-hand with the free Blackmagic Camera app and Apple’s updated Final Cut Camera 2.0. These apps are the control center that unlock the ProDock’s full potential, allowing users to manage recordings, monitor audio levels, and take advantage of the iPhone 17 Pro’s new Apple Log 2 color profile for maximum flexibility in post-production. The combination of hardware and software creates a seamless, end-to-end workflow from capture to edit, which is precisely what professionals demand. Apple’s decision to feature the ProDock wasn’t just a friendly nod to a partner; it was a clear signal. It was an acknowledgment that while their own hardware and software are incredibly powerful, the final step into the professional world requires a bridge, a physical link to the established standards of an industry. The Blackmagic Camera ProDock is that bridge, and its quiet debut on Apple’s stage might just have been one of the most significant announcements for filmmakers this year.

The post The one ‘Non-Apple product’ that Apple announced on September 9th first appeared on Yanko Design.

Jetpacks have long been a dream for humanity, but we’re still far from seeing people regularly strapped into them, flying from home to work. However, an Israeli startup believes it’s much simpler to provide a harnessed jetpack that lets people fly underwater, rather than through the air, at speeds of up to 5.8 mph. It’s called the Shark Jet Pack and is designed to use water jets attached to the back, enabling wearers to dive deep into the sea and swim alongside sharks and other marine life.

The KikFin Shark Jetpack features two pectoral-inspired fins, which help the device mimic the movements of fast sea creatures like sharks, thus the name. Worn on the back, it gives the wearer hands-free freedom to move freely through the water as though they were part of the ocean’s natural ecosystem.

Designer: KiKFin

The KiKFin Shark is harnessed around the shoulder and meant to rest on your back like a jetpack designed for flying. It is lightweight, so you won’t feel its bulk on the shoulder and back. It tips the scale at 13 pounds (slightly over 6 kgs) with the battery onboard, and can thrust you through the water at blistering speeds that you can control from the glove in the hand.

The top speed we are talking about is 5.8 mph, which is made possible by two cylindrical thrusters on the back. Each of them contains a propeller to provide the propulsion. The cylinders are connected to the pectoral fins for stability. The jetpack can allow you to dive down to depths of 131 feet (40 m), so it’s not just for shallow swimming in any way.

The glove works as a speed controller, letting you select between three speed modes depending on what creature you are following, or what predator is chasing you. While speeds are fascinating, it’s how you maneuver the jetpack that will win you over. The wearer is required to simply tilt the head in the direction they’d like to go. The sensors on the Shark will pick that up and adjust the body position and the thrusters accordingly.

The entire rig is powered by batteries. These are embedded within the fins to remain cool during operation. Designed to last between 45 and 85 minutes, depending upon how it is being used. These are swappable, so you can instantly stack in a new one without having to leave the water. The KiKFin Shark jetpack was briefly available on the company website for pre-order at $500, we learn. Currently, the website resides behind a password wall and we cannot confirm if KiKFin is still taking preorders, what the retail price is going to be, or when we can expect to fly underwater with the Shark.

The post Kikfin Shark Jetpack Wearable Underwater Propulsion System to Deep Dive and Swim at 6 Mph first appeared on Yanko Design.

I remember receiving single‑use Kodak cameras when I was young and the excitement of never knowing how the photo I took would turn out until it was developed. Of course, cameras now are much more advanced, with most people using their phone’s camera or other digital cameras to capture memories. Some still print those photos in a fun mix of analog and digital. Kodak is bringing a touch of nostalgia with its newest product and merging it with a current trend that several brands are following.

Charmera is a mini digital camera that resembles the Kodak Fling single‑use camera from the 80s and 90s. It’s the same size and follows a similar retro look, but instead of disposing of it after use, you can keep it and recharge it when the battery runs out. It also has a blind‑box element: you don’t know which camera design you’ll get when you buy one.

Designer: Kodak

This camera is small enough that you can use it as a charm on your bag thanks to its keychain loop. It measures about 2.2 inches and weighs just 30 grams. You can easily pull it out when you want to take a photo—or even a video. But don’t expect the polished look you get from most cameras, as it only has a 1.6‑megapixel CMOS sensor that produces photos at 1440 × 1080 resolution and videos at 30 fps. Think of it as taking grainy, noisy photos and videos, similar to what you could achieve with disposable cameras.

On its own, the Charmera can store only two photos, but you can attach a microSD card to take many more. It charges via a USB cable. The camera also includes a few filters, themed frames, and a date stamp to give it a retro feel. As for the blind‑box aspect, you don’t know which of the seven vintage designs you’ll receive. There’s even a “secret edition”, a camera with a transparent shell, that is the rarest of them all. If you want to collect all six other designs, you can purchase a complete set that contains every style without repetition.

So, whether you’re a longtime Kodak fan who still keeps those faded prints in a shoebox, a millennial who loves the tactile joy of a “surprise” unboxing, or a collector hunting for that perfect retro‑meets‑digital treasure, the Charmera camera lands right in the sweet spot. It invites you to pause the endless scroll of perfect‑pixel feeds and instead savor a little imperfection: a grainy snap, a quirky filter, and a date‑stamp that feels like a tiny time capsule.

The post Kodak Charmera is a tiny, retro digital camera that you can hang on your bag first appeared on Yanko Design.

Every September, Apple shows the world what’s possible when design meets engineering. This year’s “Awe Dropping” event delivered innovations that solve problems you didn’t know existed. Your iPhone, watch, and headphones are about to feel ancient.

These changes affect daily life in ways that become obvious once you experience them. Apple redesigned fundamental aspects of how we interact with technology. Here are the ten biggest design insights from Apple’s latest event.

iPhone Air proves ultra-thin phones can be incredibly strong

Apple debuted the all-new iPhone Air, the thinnest iPhone ever made, with pro performance. iPhone Air features a breakthrough titanium design that is elegant and light yet strong. The company solved the biggest challenge in thin phone design.

The back of iPhone Air is now protected with Ceramic Shield, and the front cover uses Ceramic Shield 2, delivering 3x better scratch resistance. This makes iPhone Air more durable than any previous iPhone. Strength and thinness no longer require compromise. Apple reversed years of increasing thickness through engineering breakthroughs.

This creates new possibilities for how phones feel in pockets and hands. The titanium frame provides structural integrity without adding bulk.

Center Stage camera creates perfect selfies automatically

Apple announced iPhone 17, featuring the new Center Stage front camera that takes selfies to the next level. The technology automatically frames selfies and video calls without manual adjustment. Bad selfie angles become impossible with this intelligent system.

The camera tracks faces and adjusts composition in real time. Video calls look professional without any effort from users. Group selfies include everyone perfectly without awkward repositioning.

Machine learning understands photography rules better than most people. The system creates flattering angles and proper framing consistently across all lighting conditions.

Aluminum unibody design revolutionizes Pro model construction

Apple built the iPhone 17 Pro with an Apple-designed vapor chamber that is laser-welded into a strong, light, and thermally conductive aluminum unibody. This delivers Apple’s best-ever performance and an enormous leap in battery life. The design represents a major departure from previous titanium construction.

The vapor chamber enables superior heat management during intensive tasks. Aluminum provides structural strength while remaining lightweight. The unibody construction eliminates weak points found in multi-piece designs.

This design choice prioritizes thermal performance over premium materials. The engineering breakthrough enables sustained high performance without overheating.

ProMotion displays become standard across all iPhone models

The 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion is bigger and brighter, enabling supersmooth scrolling, immersive gaming, and improved efficiency on the base iPhone 17. Apple removed artificial barriers between product tiers. Smooth scrolling becomes available to everyone who buys an iPhone.

Gaming performance improves dramatically across all price points. The technology that made Pro models special now defines the entire lineup. This democratization of premium features shows Apple’s confidence in its technology leadership.

Users no longer need to choose between affordability and display quality.

Ceramic Shield 2 advances smartphone durability science

The new Ceramic Shield 2 front cover is tougher than any smartphone glass or glass-ceramic, with 3x better scratch resistance than the previous generation and reduced glare. For the first time, Ceramic Shield protects the back of Pro devices, delivering 4x better resistance to cracks than previous back glass.

This creates complete protection against drops and scratches. Users can feel confident using phones without bulky cases. Repair costs decrease significantly over the device lifetime.

Apple pushed material science boundaries to achieve these improvements. The technology makes phones more reliable and longer-lasting for everyday use.

Apple Watch gains hypertension monitoring capabilities

Apple introduced Apple Watch Series 11, offering the most comprehensive set of health features yet, longer battery life, an even more durable cover glass, and 5G cellular capabilities. Apple Watch Series 11 empowers users with notifications for signs of chronic high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.

Healthcare becomes proactive rather than reactive with this technology. Users receive early warnings about potential heart problems. Apple Watch positions itself as essential medical equipment.

FDA clearance for hypertension notifications is expected soon, and the feature will be available in more than 150 countries and regions this month. The feature could prevent heart attacks and strokes through early detection.

Sleep Score feature transforms rest quality understanding

With watchOS 26, Apple Watch can help users understand the quality of their sleep and how to make it more restorative with a new sleep score feature. Sleep is fundamental to a person’s health and critical to daily restoration.

The system analyzes multiple factors including heart rate and temperature. Users get actionable insights for improving sleep quality. The scoring system makes complex sleep data understandable for everyone.

This transforms how people think about rest and recovery. Sleep becomes measurable and improvable rather than mysterious.

AirPods Pro 3 delivers world-class noise cancellation

AirPods Pro 3 deliver unbelievable sound quality and the world’s best in-ear Active Noise Cancellation. They remove up to 2x more noise than the previous-generation AirPods Pro, and 4x more than the original AirPods Pro. This advancement eliminates more environmental distractions than ever before.

The updated design helps AirPods Pro 3 fit even better and provides greater in-ear stability during activities like running, HIIT, yoga, and more. Comfort improves alongside acoustic performance. Active users can trust the earbuds to stay secure during intense movement.

The engineering breakthrough makes quiet spaces possible anywhere. Concentration and focus become achievable in noisy environments.

Live Translation eliminates language barriers instantly

Live Translation comes to AirPods, making face-to-face conversations easier by helping users connect even if they don’t speak the same language. The earbuds become universal communication tools for any situation. Language barriers disappear during face-to-face interactions.

Business meetings across cultures become seamless experiences. Travel to foreign countries feels less intimidating. The technology bridges communication gaps through elegant design innovation.

This transforms how people interact across different languages and cultures. Real-time translation makes global communication effortless.

Crossbody Straps acknowledge changing phone usage patterns

The Crossbody Strap is compatible with iPhone 17 Silicone Case with MagSafe, iPhone 17 Pro cases, iPhone 17 Pro Max cases, iPhone Air Case with MagSafe, and iPhone Air Bumper. Apple officially acknowledges that phones function as primary creative tools.

Photography becomes more stable with hands-free operation. Content creators get professional camera stability from their phones. The design makes phones feel more like professional camera equipment than communication devices.

This accessory represents a fundamental shift in how Apple views phone usage. Mobile photography becomes a serious creative medium worthy of professional accessories.

Apple’s September 2025 event shows how thoughtful design solves real problems people face daily. These innovations prove that premium technology can become accessible while pushing entirely new boundaries. The changes affect how we work, communicate, and create content in meaningful ways that will reshape daily interactions with technology.

The post Apple’s September Event Reveals 10 Design Breakthroughs That Change Everything first appeared on Yanko Design.

VLND has introduced a sleek appliance that combines two kitchen staples into one compact unit: a water purifier and an ice maker. Designed for modern homes where countertop space is at a premium, the device delivers hot, cold, and filtered water along with clear, clean ice with just a single press of a button. Its streamlined appearance and intuitive controls make it a practical addition for anyone who wants reliable hydration and ice without cluttering the kitchen.

The first thing that catches the eye is the minimalist front panel. A square box rests on a smooth surface, echoing the image of an ice cube floating on gently rippled water. This visual cue is more than decorative; it reinforces the product’s core promise of pure water and pristine ice. The divided face of the unit creates an optical illusion that the machine is smaller than it actually is, helping it blend seamlessly into tight spaces such as narrow countertops, pantry shelves, or even office break rooms.

Designer: VLND Studio

Inside the compact shell lies a sophisticated filtration and ice‑making system. Despite the advanced technology, VLND has stripped away any unnecessary components, resulting in a clean layout with only a few essential buttons. Each button is distinctly labeled and produces a unique audible click when pressed, allowing users to confirm their selection without looking. This sound‑based feedback is especially useful in busy environments where a quick glance at the panel might be inconvenient.

Operation is straightforward. A single touch dispenses hot water for tea or coffee, cold water for instant drinks, and filtered water for cooking or drinking straight from the tap. For ice, the same touch releases a batch of crystal‑clear cubes that have been formed using purified water, ensuring that the ice is free from off‑flavors or impurities. The system’s temperature controls are calibrated to work efficiently year‑round, providing hot water in winter and refreshing cold water or ice during the summer months.

Maintenance has also been simplified. The removable water tank and ice storage compartment can be taken out for cleaning without the need for specialized tools. The filter replacement indicator alerts users when it’s time to change the cartridge, preventing a drop in water quality and extending the life of the appliance. Because the unit is designed to minimize moving parts, it operates quietly, making it suitable for open‑plan living spaces or office environments where noise can be a distraction.

From a design perspective, VLND’s approach aligns with current trends that favor clean lines, multifunctionality, and sustainability. By merging two essential kitchen appliances, the company reduces the need for separate devices, cutting down on both electricity consumption and countertop clutter. The single‑touch interface encourages users to stay hydrated and enjoy ice without the hassle of juggling multiple machines.

The post Water purifier and ice maker in one is space-saving and single-touch convenient first appeared on Yanko Design.

Candlelight has this timeless way of making any space feel warmer and more intimate, but finding the perfect candlestick that works for different moods and candle types can be surprisingly tricky. Ross Sorokovyi’s QUB candlestick concept tackles this challenge with refreshingly simple geometry.

The QUB is basically a perfect 60mm stone cube, but here’s where it gets clever. Each cube has two different-sized holes on different faces, so you can hold either a standard taper candle or a tealight depending on which way you orient it. Need dramatic height for dinner? Pop in a taper candle. Want something cozy for reading? Flip it over and drop in a tealight.

Designer: Ross Sorokovyi (Mudu Studio)

What makes this design genuinely smart is how it strips away everything unnecessary while actually adding functionality. Most candlesticks lock you into one candle type forever, but QUB adapts to whatever vibe you’re going for. The cube form feels both ancient and contemporary, like something that could have existed centuries ago but still looks perfectly at home on a modern table.

These are carved from natural stone, and each piece shows off the material’s unique character. The images reveal gorgeous variations in marble and granite, from deep green with dramatic veining to soft gray with subtle patterns. The surface treatment mixes smooth polished areas with ribbed, chiseled sections that add visual texture and give your hands something interesting to feel.

The ribbed quarter-cylinder cut into each cube’s base does double duty, too. It lightens the visual weight so these don’t look like boring blocks, and it creates this modular quality where multiple QUBs can nest together or stack in interesting patterns. You can arrange them in grids, align the ribbed sections for rhythm, or mix different stone colors for contrast.

This modularity turns individual candle holders into something more sculptural and architectural. Instead of just lighting one candle, you’re creating these little landscapes of light and shadow. The weight of the stone keeps everything stable, while the compact size means you can easily rearrange them as your space or mood changes.

The concept celebrates that honest, tactile quality of natural stone where no two pieces look exactly alike. Those natural imperfections and variations become features rather than flaws, giving each QUB its own personality. The substantial weight makes them feel permanent and valuable rather than disposable.

Of course, this remains a concept design, so questions about heat resistance, cleaning, and real-world durability haven’t been tested yet. The sharp edges might also be less forgiving than traditional, rounded candlesticks if you accidentally bump into them in dim light.

But as a design statement, QUB succeeds brilliantly at reimagining something as basic as a candle holder. It proves that even the simplest objects can benefit from thoughtful reconsideration. For anyone who appreciates when form and function work together seamlessly, QUB offers a compelling vision of what everyday objects could become with just a little more creative thinking.

The post QUB Candlestick Concept Holds Two Candle Types in Minimalist Stone first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Sofia mobility device by Alberto Essesi is setting a new standard for what personal mobility can feel and look like. Designed to address both the physical and emotional needs of users, Sofia brings together elegance, safety, and smart engineering for a truly empowering experience.

What sets Sofia apart is its organic, flowing form that naturally conforms to the human body. This design focus ensures not only comfort but also creates a sense of harmony and ease in every movement. Whether you are at home or navigating the city, Sofia’s sleek silhouette and gentle curves make it feel more like a part of you than just another piece of equipment.

Designer: Alberto Essesi

One of the most innovative features of Sofia is its fully enclosed sitting area. Unlike traditional mobility devices where clothing can get caught in the wheels, Sofia’s enclosed design eliminates this risk entirely, providing peace of mind and making daily use much simpler. Every detail, from the seat’s gentle embrace to the smooth edges, is crafted with the user’s safety and dignity in mind.

Sofia is built from a combination of carbon fiber, plastic, aluminum, high-density foam, and rubber. This blend of materials results in a device that is lightweight yet incredibly durable. As a result, Sofia is easy for a single person to maneuver and can be conveniently stored in a car or tight space. The thoughtful construction means less physical strain and more freedom to go where you want, when you want.

Versatility is another hallmark of the Sofia design. The mobility device features removable, power-assisted wheels that can be attached or detached depending on the user’s needs and the terrain. Whether you’re rolling over smooth indoor flooring or facing a bumpy outdoor path, Sofia adapts seamlessly to your lifestyle. This flexibility helps support independence and choice, letting users tailor their experience to their preferences.

Aesthetics and functionality are perfectly balanced in Sofia. The minimalist design radiates simplicity and sophistication, making it a device users can feel proud of. Every element, from the frame to the wheels, is designed for visual harmony and practicality, encouraging confidence and promoting a sense of independence. For anyone seeking a mobility device that truly understands user needs, Sofia by Alberto Essesi offers a refreshing alternative. It proves that mobility aids can be beautiful, intuitive, and life-enhancing all at once. By thoughtfully addressing comfort, safety, and self-expression, Sofia helps users embrace each day with renewed confidence.

The post Sofia mobility device reinvents comfort and confidence first appeared on Yanko Design.

Physical media is having a moment in 2025, and it’s not just vinyl records getting all the attention. CDs are selling $541 million worth of units, up 1% from 2023, proving there’s still plenty of love for the humble compact disc. While vinyl grabs headlines with its 18th consecutive year of growth, CDs are quietly finding their way back into music lovers’ hearts and homes.

The CD players hitting the market now aren’t the chunky, plastic boxes your parents had in the ’90s. These five designs show how far we’ve come, merging sleek looks with smart features that make sense for how we live and listen to music today. The CD comeback isn’t about looking backward. It’s about finding a middle ground between the instant gratification of streaming and the full commitment of vinyl. Sometimes you want to hold your music, read the liner notes, and experience an album the way it was meant to be heard, and these players make that feel fresh again.

1. ClearFrame CD Player

Now here is something you don’t see every day: a CD player that’s completely see-through. The ClearFrame takes transparency literally, housing everything in crystal-clear plastic so you can watch the magic happen. That black circuit board isn’t hidden away; it’s part of the show, turning your tech into something worth staring at.

It treats your album covers like mini art exhibitions. Slip in your favorite disc, slide the cover into the frame, and suddenly you’ve got a piece that works on your shelf, desk, or even hanging on the wall. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to really focus on an album, not just have music playing in the background. The whole ritual of choosing a CD and watching it spin becomes part of the experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199.00

What we like

• The transparent design turns every play session into a visual experience.
• You can mount it on the wall like an actual artwork.

What we dislike

• All that clear plastic is going to show every fingerprint and dust speck.
• The exposed electronics might need regular cleaning to keep looking sharp.

2. Portable CD Cover Player

This little player gets something that streaming services still struggle with: album artwork matters. The built-in pocket for your CD’s cover art means you’re not just hearing the music, you’re seeing it too. It’s a simple idea that makes a huge difference when you’re trying to connect with an album the way the artist intended.

The portable design with its own speaker means you can take your music anywhere without dragging along extra equipment. Kitchen counter while cooking? Perfect. Bedroom nightstand? Works great. Want to hang it up somewhere? Go for it. This player understands that sometimes you want your music to be the main event, not just background noise.

Click Here to Buy Now: $199.00

What we like

• The album art display brings back the full music experience.
• Built-in speaker means no fussing with separate audio gear.

What we dislike

• A single speaker can’t deliver true stereo sound.
• The compact size might mean compromising on audio quality.

3. Orion

The Orion takes minimalism to its logical conclusion: a flat metal box that does one thing exceptionally well. That powder-coated finish gives it an industrial vibe that’s both tough and elegant. The front-loading slot eliminates the flip-top mechanism, creating cleaner lines and fewer things that can break.

This is for people who want their music equipment to disappear into the background. Just a large eject button and an IR sensor interrupt the otherwise perfect surface. There’s something almost meditative about using gear this simple; it forces you to focus on the music instead of fiddling with settings.

What we like

• The industrial design is both beautiful and built to last.
• Front-loading slot means fewer moving parts to worry about.

What we dislike

• Minimal controls might leave you guessing about basic functions.
• Still in concept phase, so you can’t buy one yet.

4. SYITREN R300

The R300 doesn’t try to hide what it is; it’s a CD player that’s proud of its heritage while embracing modern tech. Those finish options (wood, white, and that fascinating fruit green) show that audio gear doesn’t have to be boring black boxes. The MUSE Design Gold Award isn’t just marketing fluff; this product really does nail the balance between looks and performance.

It handles different types of music amazingly. CDs, burned discs, MP3s, WAV files – it plays them all without breaking a sweat. The Bluetooth 5.3 is cutting-edge wireless tech, while the headphone jack and optical output keep traditional connections happy. That 2000mAh battery gives you over six hours means you’re not constantly hunting for outlets.

What we like

• Multiple color options let you match your style.
• Handles practically any audio format you can throw at it.

What we dislike

• The retro styling might feel too nostalgic for some tastes.
• All those features could make simple tasks more complicated than they need to be.

5. Frame CD Player

The best designs usually know when to quit, and the Frame CD Player nails this philosophy. Clean lines, minimal fuss, and just enough features to do the job right. It’s a clever design that fits into modern spaces without screaming for attention, which is exactly what you want from good design.

The Bluetooth 5.0 connection is where old meets new in the best way. You get the ritual and sound quality of CDs with the freedom to use your favorite wireless headphones or speakers. The rechargeable battery keeps things portable without turning the whole thing into a compromise.

Click Here to Buy Now: $169.00

What we like

• The clean design works in any room without looking out of place.
• Bluetooth lets you go wireless while keeping the CD experience.

What we dislike

• The minimal controls might mean reaching for your phone more than you’d like.
• The simple design could mean missing out on advanced playback features.

CDs Are Having Their Moment Again

Something interesting is happening with how people consume music. After years of endless streaming playlists, there’s a growing appetite for the complete album experience. These CD players tap into that desire for intentional listening. When you put on a disc, you’re committing to the artist’s full vision, not just hunting for the next dopamine hit. CD sales climbed by just under 6.5% at independent record stores, which tells you this isn’t just a fad.

People are actively choosing physical media again. The broader picture shows physical purchases comprised 11% of the $17.7 billion in music revenue recorded in 2024, up 5% from 2023, proving there’s real money behind this trend. These five players solve the biggest problems CDs always had: ugly design and limited functionality. They keep what made CDs great, excellent sound quality, durability, and the satisfaction of actually owning your music, while adding the connectivity and style that make sense for how we live now.

The post Top 5 Modern CD Players That Prove CDs Are Making A Comeback In 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Finding furniture that actually keeps up with your changing life feels impossible these days. You move apartments, your needs shift, or you just want to rearrange things, and suddenly that expensive bookshelf becomes dead weight.

Elements Studio looked at this problem and created something genuinely clever with their Arca modular system. Each piece is made from premium Baltic birch, which brings that beautiful fine grain and rock-solid stability you can actually feel when you touch it.

Designer: Ishac Bertran and Jon Wohl (Elements Studio)

The natural knots and imperfections aren’t hidden away either; they’re celebrated as proof this stuff came from actual trees. Elements Studio crafts these pieces in small batches with regional artisans, which means every unit gets proper attention instead of rolling off some anonymous assembly line.

The real genius lies in how ridiculously versatile each unit becomes. One piece works as a nightstand, bench, bookshelf, or storage depending on what you need that day. Stack them vertically for a tower of shelves or line them up horizontally for a media console.

Those included stacking pins keep everything secure when you build upward, so you’re not worried about your tower toppling over. The whole system ships flat and assembles without any tools, which means no hunting for screwdrivers or deciphering confusing diagrams.

This approach makes so much sense for how people actually live now. Your studio apartment setup becomes completely different when you move into a house. That bench by your entryway transforms into bedroom storage when life changes.

Instead of buying new furniture every time, you just reconfigure what you already own. The flat-pack shipping keeps costs reasonable and reduces environmental impact compared to shipping fully assembled pieces. Assembly takes minutes rather than hours.

What makes Arca genuinely exciting is how it invites you to participate in designing your own space. Most furniture forces you to work around its limitations, but Arca adapts to whatever weird corner or awkward wall you’re dealing with.

Start with one unit and expand as your collection or space grows. The sustainability angle feels authentic rather than forced. By designing pieces that evolve with users instead of becoming obsolete, Elements Studio tackles the throwaway furniture problem from a practical angle.

Local production supports regional economies while reducing shipping emissions, too. Arca represents a smarter approach to furnishing modern homes. Instead of buying static pieces that might work for your current situation, you invest in a system that grows alongside your life.

For anyone tired of furniture that holds them hostage to one configuration, Arca offers genuine freedom to experiment and evolve. It’s modular furniture done right, without the compromises or cheap materials that usually come with the territory.

The post Arca Modular Furniture System Adapts Effortlessly to Any Space first appeared on Yanko Design.

If you love beautiful hair but dread the countertop clutter from too many styling tools, the new FlexFusion by LAYER and Shark Beauty could be the answer you’ve been waiting for. This device brings together five essential hair styling tools into one streamlined, elegant system that’s designed to fit every beauty routine and lifestyle.

FlexFusion was created by experience design agency LAYER, led by founder Benjamin Hubert, in close partnership with Shark Beauty. The result is a modular 5-in-1 hair styling tool that merges a ceramic straightener, hot brush, auto-wrap curlers, concentrator, and diffuser. Whether you’re looking to smooth, straighten, curl, or define your hair’s natural texture, FlexFusion makes it simple to achieve your favorite looks without juggling multiple devices. Each attachment connects easily using a plug-and-play system, so you can switch between styling options in just seconds.

Designer: LAYER and Shark Beauty

This innovation isn’t just about convenience. FlexFusion was carefully engineered to suit all hair types and styling preferences, reducing the need for multiple devices and making it easier to keep your space tidy. The device features a digital interface with precise temperature and airflow controls, including a special “Scalp Shield” mode that helps protect delicate new hair growth from excessive heat. The controls are designed around an intuitive “island” system that makes it easy to find and adjust the settings you need, even if you’re new to advanced styling tools.

Design isn’t an afterthought here. FlexFusion’s sculptural, ergonomic shape is inspired by the natural curves of your hand and scalp, providing a secure grip and comfortable experience every time you style. Subtle design cues like creased transitions and chamfered edges guide your hands and highlight key performance areas, while a satin metallic finish adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to your vanity. Air inlets and outlets are positioned for efficiency and precision, blending seamlessly into the tool’s sleek silhouette.

The launch of FlexFusion is part of an ongoing creative partnership between LAYER and Shark Beauty, aimed at redefining the aesthetics and usability of everyday beauty tools. Their shared goal is to create a unified design language for the brand’s portfolio, making beauty routines more enjoyable and accessible for everyone. Benjamin Hubert, the founder of LAYER, describes FlexFusion as a product that “simplifies the beauty process without compromising on performance.” It’s a vision that feels right on target for today’s busy women, collectors, and anyone who wants their self-care routine to feel as beautiful and thoughtful as the results.

With its blend of cutting-edge function and elegant design, FlexFusion is poised to become an essential for those who want to streamline their styling routine while elevating the everyday ritual of self-care. If you’re looking to replace your crowded drawer of hair tools with a single stylish solution, FlexFusion could be your next beauty must-have.

The post FlexFusion brings 5 hair styling tools in one device first appeared on Yanko Design.

Most 3D printers force you to choose between speed, color, quality, or price. You can have fast prints, but only in one color. Multi-color prints take forever and waste enormous amounts of filament. Professional results require expensive machines that most makers can’t justify.

The Snapmaker U1 Color 3D Printer refuses to accept these compromises. This isn’t just another incremental improvement but a fundamental rethinking of how desktop 3D printing should work. It’s designed for makers who want everything: speed, color, precision, and sustainability.

Designer: You Li

Click Here to Buy Now: $749 $999 ($250 off). Hurry, only 411/3500 left! Raised over $6.2 million.

A New Approach to Multi-Material Printing

Traditional consumer 3D printers rely on single-nozzle systems that require time-consuming filament swaps and produce mountains of waste. Every color change means flushing perfectly good material, creating wasteful piles of purge that often use more filament than the actual print.

The Snapmaker U1 introduces a four-head tool-changing system that allows multi-color and multi-material prints in a single job. Each toolhead is physically separate, eliminating cross-contamination and enabling seamless transitions between colors and materials. This approach mirrors professional industrial printers but brings the technology to desktop users.

Design Philosophy and Brand Confidence

Snapmaker has built a reputation for reliable, innovative desktop fabrication tools that actually deliver on their promises. The U1 continues this tradition with a modular CoreXY design that looks as advanced as it performs. With an aesthetic plastic shell and careful attention to engineering, this creation tool is designed from the get-go to be accessible, both in terms of cost as well as functionality.

The machine’s visual design reflects its technical sophistication. The Snapmaker U1 has a transparent back panel that complements its open front, allowing it to visually flow more naturally into your workspace. Clean lines, thoughtful component placement, and a transparent approach to showing its capabilities create a printer that’s as much a statement piece as a production tool.

SnapSwap: Fast, Waste-Free Tool-changing

The SnapSwap system enables physical toolhead swaps in just five seconds, transforming how multi-material printing works. This avoids the little balls of perfectly good filament, wasted by typical AMS style machines, and reduces filament waste by up to 80% compared to traditional systems. The precision is remarkable: automatic toolhead alignment stays within 0.04mm for sharp, clean prints.

Consider a four-color dragon figure that takes five hours on the U1 versus thirty hours on conventional printers. The U1 uses just 96 grams of filament, while others waste 483 grams on the same model. It even boasts up to 80% electricity savings! That’s not just efficiency but a fundamental shift toward sustainable making.

Speed, Precision, and Print Quality

The CoreXY motion system delivers print speeds up to 300mm/s with travel speeds reaching 500mm/s and acceleration hitting 20,000mm/s². These aren’t just impressive numbers but translate into real-world time savings without sacrificing quality. Smart calibration features include mesh bed leveling and active vibration control.

The large 270 x 270 x 270mm build volume accommodates both ambitious single prints and efficient batch production. Pressure advance compensates for flow delays, ensuring accurate prints with crisp details even at high speeds. Stainless steel nozzles support a wide range of filaments, with hardened steel nozzles and even new nozzle sizes on the way.

Eco-Friendly Innovation

The SnapSwap system’s waste reduction goes beyond cost savings to address environmental concerns. Using large amounts of filament typically wasted during color changes aligns with growing demands for sustainable maker tools. This isn’t greenwashing but genuine material efficiency.

The environmental impact extends beyond individual projects. When scaled across thousands of users, the waste reduction becomes significant. It’s the kind of innovation that makes 3D printing more responsible without sacrificing capability.

Smart Automation for Effortless Printing

The automatic filament system holds four spools with RFID recognition, auto-loading, and backup mode functionality. This eliminates manual intervention during long prints and ensures consistent material flow. The built-in AI camera captures time-lapses while monitoring for anomalies and print failures.

Snapmaker Orca Slicer provides engineer-tested profiles optimized for the U1’s capabilities. The companion app enables remote print management, real-time monitoring, and instant alerts when issues arise. Failure detection covers air printing, filament run-out, and power loss recovery.

The Snapmaker U1 represents a leap forward in accessible, high-performance 3D printing. It empowers makers to create more while wasting less, exploring new creative possibilities in a machine that’s as visually impressive as it is technically advanced. Sometimes the best innovations come from refusing to accept the limitations everyone else considers inevitable.

Click Here to Buy Now: $749 $999 ($250 off). Hurry, only 411/3500 left! Raised over $6.2 million.

The post Snapmaker U1 Color 3D Printer Blends Blazing Speed With Less Waste first appeared on Yanko Design.

Working on the go always feels like a compromise. You’re stuck with tiny laptop keyboards that cramp your hands, or you’re juggling a separate keyboard, mouse, and maybe a portable monitor that never quite fits together properly. The whole setup becomes this awkward dance of cables and stands.

The KeyGo Ultra-Slim Folding Keyboard throws out that rulebook entirely. This isn’t just another portable keyboard with a gimmicky feature tacked on but a genuine rethinking of what mobile productivity can look like when you stop accepting limitations as inevitable.

Designer: KeyGo

Click Here to Buy Now: $269 $538 (50% off). Hurry, less than 72 hours left! Raised over $152,000.

Premium Build That Actually Feels Premium

The first thing you notice about KeyGo is how substantial it feels. The CNC-anodized aluminum construction gives it that MacBook-level heft and finish that makes most plastic peripherals feel cheap by comparison. This isn’t trying to be the lightest option but the most satisfying one to use.

The 180-degree foldable design is where the engineering really shows. The hinge mechanism transitions smoothly from closed to fully open without any wobble or flex. At 800 grams and folding down to just 324mm wide, it slips into most laptop bags without dominating your carry weight.

Lighting That Actually Matters

Those RGB backlighting modes aren’t just for show (though they do look fantastic). The three lighting options serve real purposes: breathing mode for low-light work, solid color for distraction-free typing, and rainbow wave for when you want your workspace to feel more alive. The FN + Q/W/E shortcuts make switching between them effortless.

The lighting system goes beyond basic functionality to create an emotional connection with your workspace. There’s something satisfying about watching the rainbow wave ripple across the keys as you type, or having the breathing effect gently pulse during those late-night work sessions. It’s the kind of detail that transforms a tool into something you genuinely enjoy using.

Two Input Methods, Infinite Possibilities

Here’s where KeyGo gets interesting. That 12.8-inch touchscreen sitting above the keyboard isn’t just a novelty but a genuine second display with 1920×720 resolution and full ten-finger touch support. The fully laminated glass eliminates that annoying air gap you get with cheaper displays.

The screen works as a traditional second monitor for multitasking, but the touch capability transforms how you interact with your devices. Swipe between apps, drag files directly with your fingers, or use it as a massive touchpad when you need precision. The 72% NTSC color gamut makes it suitable for creative work too.

Universal Compatibility Done Right

KeyGo works with everything: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and even iOS devices. The dual USB-C ports (one for power only, the other for full functionality) plus a USB-A port mean you’re never hunting for the right adapter. Turn your tablet into a productivity powerhouse or add touch input to that old desktop that’s never had it.

The scissor-switch keys are quiet enough for coffee shop work but responsive enough for serious typing sessions. Whether you’re coding, writing, or managing spreadsheets, the keyboard feels like a natural extension of your workflow rather than a compromise you have to work around.

Scenarios That Actually Make Sense

Picture this: you’re working remotely and need to reference documents while writing. Instead of constantly alt-tabbing, your references live on the KeyGo screen while you type on the main display. Or you’re editing video and want timeline controls at your fingertips without cluttering your main workspace.

The modular design adapts to different environments, too. Desktop setup when you’re at home, mobile workstation when you’re traveling, or even mounted in a car for those times when your vehicle becomes your office. The easy-to-clean surface makes it practical for medical or shared environments.

The Future of Portable Productivity

KeyGo represents something bigger than just another keyboard upgrade. It’s proof that portable productivity doesn’t have to mean settling for less. By combining tactile typing with versatile touch input, it creates new possibilities for how we work, create, and interact with our devices.

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When time travel costs less than your phone bill, something interesting happens to our perception of value and design. The Q Timex 1972 Time Machine Reissue carries the DNA of design born from chaos, back when the watchmaking industry faced what historians call the Quartz Crisis , a technological upheaval that threatened to destroy centuries of Swiss mechanical tradition. While European manufacturers scrambled to preserve their heritage, American brand Timex saw opportunity where others saw disaster.

Designer: Timex

This new reissue, priced at $249 for the silver variant and $279 for the gold , represents more than nostalgic throwback marketing. The watch embodies a moment when crisis forced innovation, when accessibility became a design philosophy rather than a compromise. In a world where good design often carries prohibitive price tags, the Time Machine Reissue stands as proof that democratic design principles still matter.

Design Democracy in a 39mm Package

The original 1972 Q Timex emerged during American watchmaking’s most defining period. Swiss manufacturers, comfortable with their mechanical supremacy, initially dismissed quartz technology as a passing fad . Timex took the opposite approach, embracing the precision of quartz while wrapping it in bold, unapologetically American aesthetics. The hexagonal link bracelet wasn’t trying to mimic Swiss elegance. The tonneau case didn’t apologize for its unconventional proportions.

These design choices reflected a different philosophy entirely. Where Swiss watches emphasized exclusivity and tradition, the Q Timex prioritized accessibility and forward-thinking design. The floating hour markers, achieved through applied indices that cast subtle shadows around the dial , created visual depth without requiring expensive manufacturing techniques. Each element served both functional and aesthetic purposes.

The wood-grain dial pattern, available in deep red on the gold-toned case, represented pure design confidence. This wasn’t subtle or understated. The Time Machine demanded attention, celebrating its quartz precision rather than hiding it. For a brand targeting everyday Americans, this boldness made perfect sense.

The coin-operated battery hatch on the caseback tells its own story about user-centered design. In 1972, when the original cost $125 (equivalent to roughly $800 today) , Timex understood that luxury shouldn’t require specialized service. Users could replace their own batteries using a simple coin, eliminating the need for expensive watchmaker visits.

Disruption as Creative Catalyst

Understanding the Quartz Crisis context makes the Time Machine’s design choices even more meaningful. Between 1970 and 1985, Swiss watch industry employment plummeted from 89,450 to just 32,000 workers . Traditional watchmaking faced an existential threat as Japanese companies like Seiko introduced accurate, affordable quartz movements that outperformed mechanical alternatives.

Timex, already positioned as an accessible American brand, adapted faster than established players. The company recognized that quartz technology offered more than just accuracy. It enabled new design possibilities, freed from the size constraints of mechanical movements. The Time Machine’s distinctive case shape, measuring 39mm wide and 43mm long , maximized visual impact while maintaining comfortable wearability.

The acrylic crystal choice reflected both practical and aesthetic considerations. While mineral or sapphire crystals offered superior scratch resistance, acrylic provided the domed profile that defined 1970s watch design . This wasn’t cost-cutting but conscious design decision, preserving the authentic visual character that made the original distinctive.

Modern production techniques allow the reissue to improve on certain aspects while maintaining historical accuracy. The applied hour markers now sit higher above the dial surface, creating more dramatic shadows and enhanced legibility . The quartz movement delivers accuracy within milliseconds per day , far exceeding the precision possible with 1970s technology.

Each design element reflects the original’s democratic philosophy. The 20mm lug width accepts standard straps, ensuring easy customization. Water resistance to 50 meters provides practical everyday protection without unnecessary complexity. The stainless steel construction, now made from recycled materials , demonstrates how responsible manufacturing can coexist with accessible pricing.

The tonneau case shape deserves particular attention for its ergonomic intelligence. Unlike round cases that can feel disconnected from the wrist’s natural curves, the Time Machine’s elongated profile follows the arm’s contours. This creates a more integrated wearing experience, especially important for a watch designed for daily use rather than occasional display.

Sustainability Meets Storytelling

The recycled stainless steel used in both case and bracelet represents thoughtful evolution rather than marketing gimmick . Timex didn’t simply recreate the 1972 original but adapted its principles for contemporary concerns. The steel maintains identical durability and finish quality while reducing environmental impact, proving that sustainable practices can enhance rather than compromise design integrity.

This approach reflects broader shifts in how we understand luxury and value. The original Time Machine succeeded because it delivered premium design elements at accessible prices. The reissue maintains this philosophy while addressing modern sustainability expectations. The result feels both historically authentic and contemporarily relevant.

The gold-tone option, available for $279, demonstrates how surface treatments can dramatically alter a watch’s character without changing fundamental proportions. Against the wood-grain red dial, the warm metal creates a distinctly 1970s aesthetic that feels both retro and timeless. The silver version offers more versatility for contemporary styling while maintaining the same design DNA.

When History Becomes Tomorrow

The Time Machine’s revival coincides with broader renewed interest in 1970s design across multiple industries. Architecture, furniture, and automotive design all show influence from this period’s bold geometric forms and expressive color palettes. The watch industry’s embrace of vintage-inspired designs reflects this cultural shift, but few brands execute it with the Time Machine’s historical authenticity.

Perfect timing meets perfect proportions. The 39mm case size, considered large for 1972, now aligns perfectly with contemporary preferences . This sizing sweet spot works across different wrist sizes, offering substantial presence without overwhelming smaller arms. The proportional relationship between case, dial, and bracelet creates visual harmony that transcends temporal fashion trends. Unlike many modern watches that chase ever-larger dimensions, the Time Machine found its ideal size decades ago.

Modern watch enthusiasts appreciate the Time Machine’s honesty about its quartz movement. Electronic precision takes center stage rather than hiding behind mechanical mimicry. The clean dial layout, punctuated by the date window at 3 o’clock, prioritizes legibility over ornamentation. This functional approach feels refreshingly direct in an era of increasingly complex watch designs. No complications clutter the face, no subdials demand attention.

Those hexagonal bracelet links deserve recognition for their ergonomic sophistication. Each link articulates smoothly around the wrist’s curves while maintaining structural integrity. The polished surfaces catch and reflect light dynamically, creating visual interest without relying on precious metals or gem settings. Thoughtful engineering creates luxury-level aesthetics at accessible price points. The bracelet flows like liquid metal, conforming to your wrist’s natural movement patterns. Even after extended wear, comfort never becomes an issue.

Success comes from understanding that good design should be democratic rather than exclusive. The Q Timex 1972 Time Machine Reissue delivers hand-finished details, quality materials, and distinctive aesthetics typically reserved for watches costing significantly more. At $249, it challenges industry assumptions about pricing and quality relationships. Contemporary design culture increasingly values authenticity over artificial scarcity. The Time Machine demonstrates market appetite for products that prioritize genuine design merit over manufactured exclusivity.

Timex preserved the original’s essential character while adapting it for modern manufacturing and usage patterns. Superficial vintage styling gets replaced by respectful historical translation. The Q Timex 1972 Time Machine Reissue proves that crisis-born design can transcend its origins to become genuinely timeless. Democracy wins over exclusivity. Innovation trumps tradition. For $249, you get wearable proof that good design belongs to everyone.

The post When Crisis Becomes Canvas: The Q Timex 1972 Time Machine Reissue Proves Accessible Design Never Goes Out of Style first appeared on Yanko Design.

Overlooking the lovely coastline of Vagator, Goa, sits something India has never seen before. Architecture Discipline’s Timber Residence breaks new ground as the country’s first mass timber home, proving that environmental responsibility and stunning design can work hand in hand. Architect Akshat Bhatt wanted to create more than just another luxury residence. The 8,650 square foot structure challenges everything we think we know about Indian construction.

The secret lies in eleven glulam portal frames, each one carefully crafted in New Delhi before making the journey to Goa. These aren’t your typical building materials. Glued laminated timber represents a completely different construction approach, where pieces get stronger when combined rather than weakened. The entire house operates like sophisticated building blocks that can actually be taken apart and moved elsewhere decades from now.

Designer: Architecture Discipline

From the outside, charred-wood cladding gives the home its stunning weathered appearance while protecting it from monsoon rains and coastal salt air. The linear design captures sweeping views of both the Arabian Sea and Chapora River, turning the house into a front-row seat for nature’s daily show. Inside, exposed timber beams steal the spotlight, their raw authenticity warming rooms finished with black granite floors and deliberately bare white walls.

The lower level houses something special: a glass-enclosed wood workshop bathed in natural light from clerestory windows above. This creative space opens onto a timber deck that feels more like an outdoor room than a traditional balcony. Instead of walls or railings, planters define the deck’s edges, keeping the connection to the surrounding landscape completely uninterrupted. The workshop becomes a bridge between indoor creativity and outdoor inspiration.

Building on a cliff in Goa means preparing for nature’s worst moods. Bhatt worked with engineers to ensure the structure could handle fifty years of typhoons and torrential rains without flinching. The glulam construction method does something remarkable: it removes carbon from the atmosphere during production. While concrete construction takes from the environment, this timber approach gives back, making each beam part of the solution rather than the problem.

International architecture publications have taken notice, recognizing this project as a catalyst for change across India’s building industry. The residence is proof that sustainable construction doesn’t mean compromising on quality or beauty. With India’s population demanding smarter housing solutions, this Goa home shows a path forward where environmental consciousness and architectural excellence aren’t just compatible but essential partners in creating the future of responsible design.

FAQs

1. What makes the Timber Residence unique in India?

This home is a real first for India, it’s the country’s debut mass timber house, built using glulam frames instead of the usual concrete or steel. What sets it apart is how it was designed: almost like a giant set of building blocks that can be taken apart and moved if needed. The focus on sustainability, adaptability, and a much lighter environmental footprint makes it a standout in Indian residential architecture.

2. Why use glulam (glued laminated timber) instead of concrete or steel?

Glulam is a bit of a game-changer. It’s incredibly strong, but much lighter than concrete or steel, and it can be prefabricated, which means less mess and faster building on site. The real bonus is that timber stores carbon, so using glulam helps the environment rather than hurting it. You get all the strength you need for a modern home, but with a much smaller carbon footprint.

3. How does the Timber Residence handle Goa’s harsh coastal weather?

Goa’s weather can be tough, think heavy rains, salty air, and the occasional typhoon. The Timber Residence was built with all that in mind. Its charred-wood exterior helps protect it from moisture and decay, and the engineered timber frames are made to last. Every detail, from the materials to the structure itself, was chosen to make sure the house stays comfortable and resilient, no matter what the weather throws at it.

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