There’s always a feeling of childlike curiosity watching snow fall. Whether it’s the first snow of the year or even the faux snow inside a snow globe, it’s always fascinating to watch those flakes descend from the skies in slow motion, covering everything you see in a layer of white dust. No matter how old you are, snowfall has the ability to fascinate you and a handful of designers from South Korea are banking on that reaction with their new clock. Dubbed ‘Time to Snow’, this timepiece uses snow-like grains of styrofoam to tell time. The grains are trapped within a rectangular cuboid and are agitated constantly to create a miniature blizzard inside the clock. Meanwhile, cleverly positioned components use static electricity to catch some of those styrofoam particles, allowing them literally defy gravity as they display the time of the day. The result is a clock that absolutely delights with its unique approach to timekeeping. Move over, snowglobes!

Designers: Baek Sunwoo, Kim Myeongseong, Prof. Lee Woohun

The clock is accompanied by a camera module on top that lets viewers interact with it through their presence and gestures. In the absence of any nearby individuals, the hardware generates a snowstorm to attract people from a distance. As someone approaches, the snowstorm gradually diminishes until it completely fades away. At this point, a brief yet intense blizzard is created and as the proverbial dust settles, it displays the time of the day. Viewers can then engage with the ‘snow’ particles in mid-air, using hand gestures to interact intuitively. With each interaction, the wind erases certain parts of the displayed numbers, only to reveal new numbers every minute. Once the viewers depart, the numbers melt away like snow, and the snowstorm reverts back to its original state.

The delicate polystyrene particles dance gracefully in the breeze, mirroring the mesmerizing chaos of a snowstorm. The numerical patterns formed by layering these Styrofoam grains produce a captivating three-dimensional illusion, imitating how snow accumulates on rooftops, windowsills, and other elements on an urban or suburban landscape. This enhances the immersive experience, transporting the viewer into a world of snowy wonder. The formation of the numbers by these particles quite literally defies the laws of physics, creating a sense of amazement and wonder that vastly enhances the time-telling experience. It follows the clever design practice of ‘form following emotion’, as it digs into what makes us curious as humans. The interactive element enhances the clock’s UX tenfold, allowing you to engage with the ‘snow’ while being indoors!

The Time to Snow is a Best of the Best Winner of the Red Dot Award: Design Concept for the year 2023.

The post This Interactive Snowglobe Clock Turns Time into a Snowy Spectacle for All to Admire first appeared on Yanko Design.

It’s finally October, which means we’re immersed in the barrage of next generation handheld devices from every major manufacturer. Now, it’s Google’s turn to bring out their own next-gen lineup at tomorrow’s Made by Google event at 10 AM ET – where you can watch the live keynote on YouTube in several languages, including American Sign Language, Japanese, German, and Spanish.

You don’t have to wait that long to learn all about Google’s new flagship phones and smart watches. Thanks to a recent slew of leaks from 91mobiles back in September, there’s already plenty of information floating around the net about the new designs and specs expected with the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel Watch 2, both of which are slated to officially debut at the upcoming event.

Designer: Google

The upcoming Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro designs (showcased above) appear to retain the stylish, thin and rounded form of their predecessors, but there are some recognizable key differences between the existing Pixel 7 Pro and its successor. The first detail that might jump out in the reveal trailer is the layout of the third (telephoto) lens included at the center of the new Pixel 8 Pro camera. Previously, Google separated it off to the side, but it arguably looks neater this way. We already know a few details about the new camera as well – thanks to those aforementioned leaks. For instance, it’s rumored that both the Pixel 8 and the Pixel 8 Pro are equipped with a 50MP camera, much like the Pixel 7 and Pixel 7A lineup that came before it. But both Pixel 8 devices could use the upgraded Samsung ISOCELL GN2 lens for better performance in low-light conditions. The new camera could come with an array of filters and features that leverage Google’s increasingly advanced AI technology.

The Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro are coming alongside the new Pixel Watch 2, which is also just as sleek and bubble-shaped as the original, award-winning Pixel Watch from 2022. It’s rumored that the new watch will use the same wrist straps as the original, meaning current owners won’t need to go out and re-buy all their accessories. It’s also supposed to have a new Snapdragon W5 processor and 2 GB of RAM, making it even faster and quicker than the original.

Google already had its design locked down with a really unique and rounded aesthetic and high build quality, making Pixel a competitive alternative to Apple and Samsung devices. Whether or not the new Pixel lineup is a real improvement over its predecessors, the Made by Google event is worth analyzing when it goes live tomorrow.

The post What to expect from the October 4th Made by Google event first appeared on Yanko Design.

Design awards exist to reward great ideas… not create them. A competition with a difference, the SHAPL Design Contest helps fund great ideas into great products. The process? Designers submit their concepts online and people on the internet vote for their favorite ideas. The best ones get selected to win the SHAPL Design Contest’s cash prize and are brought to life by being turned into real products that can have a real impact on users around the world.

The process is simple: design your idea, upload it to SHAPL’s competition dashboard, and let it undergo evaluation by both a discerning jury and eager consumers. This dual evaluation process adds a human touch, ensuring the most market-ready, desirable products are chosen. Simultaneously, the jury assesses designs based on practicality, aesthetics, and overall appeal. Winning participants reap impressive rewards. Not only do their concepts become reality, but they also secure substantial cash prizes, with rewards totaling an impressive $13,000.

Now in its 7th edition, the SHAPL Design Contest invites all designers with free entries until October 30th, 2023. Use this month to refine your brilliant product idea, from consumer electronics to home decor, fashion to child-care products. SHAPL assists with production and material choices, fostering collaboration.

If your designs have been featured on Yanko Design, your chances in the SHAPL Design Contest are even better. And the best part? It’s free to participate! Entries are open until October 30th, 2023. Give your designs the spotlight they deserve, enhancing your portfolio’s credibility. As you contemplate this exciting journey, take a moment to explore some of the exceptional past winners below!

Click Here to Submit Your Designs Now! Last Date for Submission: October 30th, 2023.

Winners of the 6th SHAPL Design Contest

PANO Beam Projector by Hwang Byung-ki

Derived from the word Panorama, the PANO was designed as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, helping people bring the joy of cinema theaters to their homes. Drawing inspiration from the sleek silhouette of an SUV, PANO exudes a sense of style and minimalism. Its name, derived from “panorama,” subtly alludes to the emotional connection of camping in nature with cherished companions. This concept beam projector seamlessly blends a clean, box-like design with a streamlined interface, featuring only essential buttons and controls. The front showcases a lens on one side, while a fabric panel elegantly conceals the speaker.

Yuanye Outdoor Barbecue Pan by Wang Yu-Biao

While it’s a common practice to take a break from the chaos of city life and run away to mother nature for a while, some urban comforts are difficult to renounce… food for example. Yuanye is an innovative outdoor barbecue dish that combines a gas tank, roasting pan with meat and vegetable partitions, fire source, and oil storage module. Its standout feature is its exceptional folding structure, which allows for maximum portability and convenience. Taking inspiration from fashionable suitcases, Yuanye’s design not only prioritizes functionality but also showcases individuality and a beautiful aesthetic.

Wipelock by SOI

Here’s an example of an idea so clever, no wonder it gathered as many votes from the public as it did. If you’ve seen enough spy movies, you’ve seen the routine where the protagonist dusts a keypad for fingerprints to know exactly which keys to press to unlock a vault. Wipelock cleverly avoids that problem by just installing a small sponge on the handle. Once you type your password in and rotate the handle, it effectively wipes the fingerprints off the keypad, keeping it as good as new. Simple, effective, and just sheer genius!

Cassette Cooker by Mr. Treasure

Yet another example of a compact way to carry our urban luxuries to the tranquil spaces of nature, the Cassette Cooker (contrary to what its name would have you believe) is a compact, portable cooker that uses ‘gas cassettes’ that can be plugged in to give the cooker its fuel to operate. This particular design by Mr. Treasure comes with a stacked design including an elevating grill that lifts the stove off the ground so you can plug the gas cassette in. Once ready to use, the stovetop can be paired with existing vessels or even the Cassette Cooker’s own saucepan (not shown in the image above) that stacks perfectly onto the cooker’s cylindrical form factor, giving it a homogenous appearance.

Ocelli The Split Speakers by Shantanu Maheshwari

Although it may remind you of the Pill speaker by Beats by Dre, the Ocelli is, in fact, twice as better… Why, you ask? Because it gives you two speakers instead of one! Designed to separate from its central hub, the Ocelli has individual left and right speaker halves that can either be used together, or detached and placed at different parts of the house for multi-room listening or for better stereo widening. The design comes from Shantanu Maheshwari, who just wanted to create a speaker more capable of adapting to one’s needs. The central section of the Ocelli acts as a magnetic charging hub for the two speakers, and even sports a touchscreen interface for controlling playback. The individual speakers, on the other hand, are compact enough to be carried around with you anywhere… even in your backpack!

Cockcrow breakfast machine by Yifeeling

The Cockcrow Breakfast Machine reminds me of a certain Michael Scott who wanted to be woken up to the aroma of freshly cooked bacon. While Scott relied (rather foolishly) on a George Foreman Grill, the Cockcrow Breakfast Machine is more innately suited for the job. Designed to run on electricity (so there’s a lesser chance of a fire), the device sports two burners that allow students to easily whip up a breakfast of soup, sandwiches, omelets, bacon, or anything that a youngster would need to power through a long day at university.

Era Planet by ShengYang

“Era-Planet” is an innovative wooden toy that combines intelligence and modularity, specifically designed for children aged 6-8 years old. By incorporating augmented reality (AR) technology, this toy aims to make learning about Earth’s development and fostering ecological awareness a fun and engaging experience for children. It also encourages imagination and creativity in young minds. With “Era-Planet,” children can explore and assemble various topographic modules representing eight different periods in Earth’s evolution. Through the use of AR, they can actively discover and learn about the unique biological features of each period.

GLORA – Urban Electric Skateboard by Wang Jia Wei

As urbanization continues to progress, the issue of the last mile in cities has become a prominent topic of discussion. The failure of bike sharing has further highlighted this problem, leading to chaos in many areas. Additionally, as the younger generation matures, skateboarding has emerged as a popular transportation solution. The GLORA is an urban electric skateboard with a design inspired by the hull of a ship. Its purpose? To transport its user “through a sea of steel and concrete” that we call the city!

“O” Smart High-Speed Hair Dryer by Li Wenkai

The “O” intelligent high-speed hair dryer is a cutting-edge hair dryer that offers high-speed drying with intelligent features. Its non-ergonomic design makes it possible to hold in any format and point anywhere for easy handling and control. With a powerful built-in motor capable of reaching 110,000 revolutions per minute, this hair dryer ensures quick and efficient drying. The cylindrical handle provides convenience and comfort during use. Equipped with two control buttons, simply press any ball key to turn the hair dryer on or off, and easily adjust the temperature and angle by sliding. The upper button allows for left and right sliding to control the rotation of the head, offering a maximum angle of 360 degrees. The lower button is dedicated to temperature control, with a maximum temperature of 100 degrees. The operation of the hair dryer is highly sensitive and smooth, with a default constant temperature of 35 degrees upon turning it on.

TONO by Wu Wenjing, Tang Hao, Zhou Chen

As pet-owners and working individuals, it can sometimes be difficult to give your pet dog the quality time it needs. Dogs go through ‘zoomies’ because of all this excess energy that they find themselves with because they aren’t stimulated through the day. Designed to help pets get their daily dose of activities, the Tono is a tennis ball launcher that your furry friend can use to keep itself engaged. The dog simply needs to drop the ball into the Tono’s upper surface and the launcher catapults it out through the front for your pet to fetch. The Tono is compact, making it perfect for all households, and even comes in the same shade of green as the tennis ball!

Submit Now

Click Here to Submit Your Designs Now! Last Date for Submission: October 30th, 2023.

The post Top 10 Design Ideas from the SHAPL Design Contest that completely transform how we live first appeared on Yanko Design.

Securing the Luminary Winner award at this year’s Red Dot Award: Design Concept in Singapore, the Lunet makes a bold promise of restoring functionality and dexterity in the hands of amputees… without breaking the bank.

Built with a low-cost design that features parametric adjustment for different hand types, and 3D printing to bring down the cost of production, Lunet looks to deliver a more accessible future that doesn’t rely on expensive medical prosthetics. Under the right conditions, Lunet can easily be manufactured even in one’s home using desktop 3D printers and can be assembled without any fasteners or extra components. In doing so, Lunet doesn’t just restore its wearer’s fingers, it restores their lives back, giving them the ability to grip and maneuver objects while also being able to point and gesture just like most people would.

Designer: David Edquilang

A 3D-printed prototype of the Lunet prosthetic

Lunet is a mechanical prosthetic that restores a degree of functionality for finger amputees by using 3D-printed appendages. The prosthetic is produced entirely through 3D printing, eliminating the need for a production line or industrial equipment. With the right 3D files, people can print, modify, and upgrade their own prosthetics for daily as well as situational use.

The prosthetic is made with a modular design and is crafted using parametric modeling, allowing for adjustments on the fly to suit a wide variety of hand types. The final model can be easily tweaked based on the ergonomics of the wearer, allowing for a custom-made solution that fits the user’s hands and needs perfectly. “Produced entirely through 3D printing, Lunet can be manufactured quickly at a low cost and personalized in CMF to the user’s stylistic preferences,” says David Edquilang, a design student at the University of Houston.

The prosthetic features mechanical linkages that can be controlled by flexing your hand. The fingers work by using a novel, robust linkage mechanism that mimics the motion and flexibility of real fingers. The entire design features components that snap together and require zero metal fasteners or fixtures. With the help of a unique mechanism, a user-friendly modular design, and the ever-expanding accessibility of desktop 3D printing, Lunet empowers individuals with finger amputations to restore the functionality of their missing fingers. Remarkably, this innovative solution costs less than 1% of the price of existing commercially sold finger prostheses.

“Lunet is not just a sci-fi looking concept, it’s real and it works; and will be released online to everyone completely for free as an open-source design. This way, Lunet can do the most good, helping as many people as possible,” David told Yanko Design, moments after being awarded the Luminary Winner of this year’s Red Dot Award. “I believe that good design should not be exclusive only to those that have enough money to afford it. Design is about solving problems, helping the fellow human.”

Click here to view the Best Of Best Winners from this year’s Red Dot Award: Design Concept.

The post Affordable 3D-printed Bionic Prosthetic declared Luminary Winner at the 2023 Red Dot Award: Design Concept first appeared on Yanko Design.

The foundation of innovation lies in how we conceptualize the future… and our capacity to enhance and develop these concepts is crucial for this future. This is why concepts have always fascinated us at Yanko Design. They are the foundation of our work, providing a glimpse into the future of products, technologies, and experiences. It’s also one fundamental thing we have in common with the Red Dot Award: Design Concept, as they celebrate the power of conceptualization.

The Best of Best category of this year’s Red Dot Award: Design Concept showcases some truly exciting concepts. From cutting-edge technology in consumer electronics to innovative designs in the health sector, these concepts demonstrate inventiveness and creativity that deserve recognition. We are particularly drawn to designs that enhance user experiences and environments, as they exemplify the intersection of art and functionality.

The Red Dot Award: Design Concept “Best of Best” is our annual source of inspiration, showcasing designs that embody creativity, collaboration, and impeccable execution. We are thrilled to share a few of our favorites from this year’s selection. And don’t forget to scroll down to discover the winner of the prestigious Luminary Award. You saw it here first!

Click here to view more Award-winning designs from the Red Dot Award: Design Concept

Time to Snow by Baek Sunwoo, Kim Myeongseong & Prof. Lee Woohun

Time to Snow is an interactive installation that displays the time using Styrofoam grains resembling snow. The clock defies the laws of physics with how it causes the particles to form numbers within the clock’s face, while also simulating the effect of snowfall and snow blowing through the breeze. The result isn’t just form and function, it’s emotion too, in the form of awe and curiosity as viewers are captivated by the effects of this faux snow and its ability to tell time. A camera on top also allows people to interact with the snow through gestures, creating an experience so fun you’ll never want to look at another boring clock again!

UFO Intelligent Rotary Stove by Liang Wengan, Li Zhaoping, Wu Qiting, Wu Shengjia & Zhou Jinhui

Who among us hasn’t dreaded cleaning up a stovetop after the pasta water or a saucepan of milk boiled over while cooking?! The UFO Intelligent Rotary Stove features an elevated, rotatable burner that offers an easy stovetop cleaning solution and extra countertop space when not in use. Gas stoves, while essential for cooking, can be tricky to clean given their shape (and sometimes how hot they are after usage). The UFO Intelligent Rotary Stove simplifies cleaning by putting the burners on a rotating arm so they can be moved away whenever needed, making cooking more enjoyable and maximizing kitchen space. The stove also offers precise fire intensity adjustment with an 8-level touch control for better cooking results.

Kid’s Service Design Toolkit For Saving The Earth by Choi Seolyung, Hyun Eunryung, Mun Juyeong

The Kid’s Service Design Toolkit for Saving the Earth helps children understand carbon emissions and develop their solutions using the Double Diamond process. It fosters environmental awareness and encourages creative thinking. The toolkit guides kids through learning phases, including the Carbon Footprint Game, customer journey maps, and idea generation. It promotes cooperation, communication, and concrete action plans to address real-world environmental issues, contributing to climate action for sustainable living.

Tetrix Roof Tiles From Recycled Composite by Adam Friedrich & Kajetan Topolewski

Crafted from recycled plastic composite, the Tetrix Roof Tiles, offer sustainable, lightweight, and durable roofing. They’re frost-proof, waterproof, UV-resistant, and ideal for photovoltaic systems aka solar panels. The tiles come in a series of modular units and are available across a variety of design styles, allowing you to customize your roof design. They’re made to replace hazardous asbestos roofs, and are an absolute breeze to install thanks to their modular design that lets you simply plug tiles together. Produced with recycled plastic and quartz sand, the tiles are eco-friendly and are virtually unbreakable too.

O-Vision Noice Cancellation Sleep Mask by Chen Shaolong, Chen Fengming, Chen Weihao, Luo Qimei, Yang Junlong & Zheng Xiangjing

The O-Vision Noise Cancellation Sleep Mask offers 3D noise reduction and total light blockage for peaceful, high-quality sleep. Its innovative design combines 3D noise cancellation technology with a pressure-free, light-blocking eye mask. Breathable materials ensure comfort, while advanced noise-isolation earplugs create a quiet sleep environment. The earplugs are easily replaceable and come in a convenient silicone package, making this a portable and comprehensive sleep solution.

Ingo – Reusable CGM & Insulin Pump by Chris Kilbane & Maxwell Stevens

Ingo is an innovative, sustainable CGM and insulin pump that combines both functions in a compact design, eliminating the need for separate devices and tubing. It offers wireless charging and on-body insulin pump refilling for user convenience. Ingo features recyclable sensor patches, promoting cost savings and sustainability. The companion app provides real-time feedback, battery monitoring, and customization options for a personal touch.

Geneverse SolarGenerator S1 by Bai Wei, He Jiajin & Yin Xiaowei

The Geneverse SolarGenerator S1 is a customizable modular photovoltaic sunshade with 200w double-sided solar modules. It cools spaces, generates electricity, and stores it in your home energy system. These modules continuously convert clean energy, reducing household expenses. It features a self-circulating lighting system and a sturdy, foldable design for easy transportation and installation.

INO200 Intraoral Scanner User System by Zhao Yachong, Song Weiwei, Su Zhendong, Sun Jia, Wang Gege & Zhao Yachong

The INO200 Intraoral Scanner User System streamlines dental digitization for dentists and patients. Using advanced 3D technology and multifunctional software, it delivers real-time, cost-effective, and accurate impressions. Designed for ease of use, it accommodates different patients, sterilizes easily, and offers intuitive controls. The tiny handheld scanner packs AI technology and cloud integration, helping improve accuracy/efficiency, and enabling real-time tracking and convenience for both doctors as well as patients.

Grass by Lin Chih-Hong Chan Chi-Yin, Huang Yu-Ming, Jian Ling-Chien & Luo Jia-Wei

Dubbed ‘Grass’, this awe-striking light installation uses real-time traffic data to capture the city’s vitality, reflecting the dynamic interaction between cities and people. It offers a unique perspective on urban expansion, breaking away from traditional light and shadow art. Each individual cell varies in size, undulation, and pattern, and depicts major traffic routes in the same way that buildings and roads do in cities. The cells glow bright or dim depending on the activity/area they represent, creating a unique expression of a city that looks at urban planning and life through the eyes of artists.

Lunet by David Edquilang (Luminary Winner)

A winner of this year’s Luminary Award, Lunet is an affordable, 3D-printed mechanical finger prosthesis designed to restore finger functionality for amputees worldwide. Produced through 3D printing, it’s customizable in style (CMF) and anatomical fit, thanks to parametric modeling and a modular design that allows for micro-adjustments based on ergonomics. Lunet’s snap-together, metal-free assembly features a robust linkage mechanism mimicking real finger motion. With 3D printing’s accessibility, Lunet offers a cost-effective solution, priced at less than 1% of commercial alternatives.

Click here to view more Award-winning designs from the Red Dot Award: Design Concept

The post Futuristic Excellence: Red Dot Awards ‘Best of Best’ to Design Concepts that Transform Humanity first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple is known for its iconic design and technology. The iPhone 15 and 15 Plus represent a positive step forward. In the past, owning a non-Pro iPhone may have felt like settling for less. However, these new devices’ impressive array of features is truly awe-inspiring. The iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus have sleek designs and advanced technology that may attract current Android users. I was thoroughly impressed as someone who had the opportunity to explore both devices.

The Design Language

The latest iPhone series now features a matte back design, a departure from its previous models. Its curved edges provide a comfortable grip, with contoured edges that offer a secure hold without being too sharp. Additionally, this year’s color palette includes pastel shades, perfect for those who prefer a subtle and sophisticated look, and a classic black variant for those who prefer a more traditional style.

But, colors aside, the new textured matte finish truly enamors. In its exceptional way of explaining processes, Apple mentions the finish being “optimized by a custom dual ion-exchange process” and “polished with nano-crystalline particles.” Sounds fancy. In more tangible terms, it’s a surface that fearlessly resists the smudges and fingerprints of eager journalists, letting the device shine in its pristine state.

iOS 17 & Dynamic Island

When the iPhone 15 is turned on, iOS 17 and Dynamic Island are activated, seamlessly blending beauty and function. Dynamic Island was introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro, and it’s remarkable that it’s now a standard feature on the iPhone 15. This feature turns the familiar notch into a multitasking hub, allowing users to easily interact with their most frequently used apps in an innovative way. For the average user moving to the iPhone 15, this feature may seem enchanting, even though existing iPhone Pro owners may not find it to be a major addition.

iOS 17 comes equipped with Contact Posters, Name Drop and Live Stickers

The iPhone comes with Crash Detection, a vital feature that helps save lives

Final Thoughts

I have to admit, I was impressed by the unveiling of the new iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus. What stood out the most was how the standard iPhone model has finally become its own and no longer takes a backseat to its Pro counterparts. The long list of features from the standard model has significantly improved, and it’s evident that choosing it won’t mean sacrificing quality.

Image showcasing iPhone 15’s 48MP camera

Image showcasing iPhone 15’s 48MP camera

Image showcasing iPhone 15’s Ultra Wide Photography

Image showcasing iPhone 15’s Portrait Photography

Image showcasing iPhone 15’s Portrait Photography

Image showcasing iPhone 15’s Portrait Photography

Image showcasing iPhone 15’s Night Mode Photography

Finewoven Accessories for the iPhone 15

The post iPhone 15 & iPhone 15 Plus Hands-On: Redefining the Standard first appeared on Yanko Design.

The highly anticipated Apple Watch Series 9 has been released alongside the new Apple Watch Ultra 2. Both watches offer similar features in terms of hardware and software. However, the question on everyone’s mind is whether the Series 9 justifies an upgrade.

Under the Hood: Performance & Display

The Series 9 boasts impressive hardware upgrades that set it apart from its predecessors. The most notable of these upgrades is the new Apple Silicon S9 chipset, which boasts a staggering 5.6 billion transistors – a 60% increase from the previous Series 8 model. This translates into a significant boost in performance, with the upgraded GPU providing a 30% speed increase that results in faster rendering and smoother graphics. Moreover, the 4-core neural engine has doubled the speed for those interested in machine learning, making it a compelling option for those who require powerful computational capabilities.

Another standout feature of the Series 9 is its brighter 2,000-nit display, which represents a significant improvement over the Series 8’s maximum brightness of 1,000 nits. This increase in brightness is a welcome development, resulting in a more vivid and lifelike viewing experience, particularly in outdoor settings where glare and sunlight can be issues. Additionally, the Series 9 has a low brightness level of just one nit, which helps optimize battery consumption, especially when using the always-on display feature. This feature is especially useful for those who rely on their devices heavily throughout the day, as it allows them to conserve battery life without sacrificing performance or functionality. Overall, the Series 9 represents a significant leap forward in terms of hardware and features, making it an excellent choice for those needing a high-performance device that can handle a wide range of tasks.

Connectivity & Design Updates

Including the UWB 2 (Ultrawideband) chip is a significant step up. It promises better accuracy when locating devices, like your misplaced iPhone, giving exact distance and direction. Moreover, there’s a deeper integration with Apple’s Homepod.

Apple has introduced an array of new watch bands, all with a significant emphasis on sustainability. The Series 9’s case is fashioned from 95% recycled aluminum. But what truly stands out is Apple’s shift away from leather straps in favor of eco-friendly alternatives.

A Game-Changer: The Double Tap

Apple Watch has always pushed the boundaries of intuitive interactions, and the Series 9 is no exception. The double tap gesture catches everyone’s attention among the array of new features. Here’s my deep dive into this new addition:

The Intuitive Touch of Double Tap

The Apple Watch has always been a leader in wearable technology, thanks to its innovative features like the Digital Crown and Taptic Engine. The new double tap gesture takes ease of use to the next level. Users can now control their watch without even touching the screen – just tap your index finger and thumb together twice to unlock a variety of actions and features. This latest addition promises to deliver a seamless and intuitive user experience, making the Apple Watch Series 9 an even more impressive device.

Effortless Control in a Snap

The beauty of the double tap lies in its simplicity and versatility. Need to pause your workout playlist or play the next track? Double tap. Want to halt that ongoing timer or snooze the morning alarm? Again, just double-tap. The gesture even extends to phone functions, allowing users to answer or end calls seamlessly. And for those picture-perfect moments, the Camera Remote on the Apple Watch can be activated with this gesture, ensuring users never miss capturing a memory.

On the watch face, a double tap swiftly opens the Smart Stack of widgets. Do you wish to sift through these widgets? Another round of double-tapping lets you browse through them with ease.

The Science Behind the Gesture

I’m extremely impressed with the innovative feature that Apple has introduced in their latest Apple Watch Series 9. The watch boasts a Neural Engine that powers this remarkable creation. It gathers data from the accelerometer, gyroscope, and optical heart sensor, and uses a unique machine-learning algorithm to interpret the data.

What makes this feature truly remarkable is its detailed detection process. The algorithm is designed to identify the wrist’s specific micro-movements and the subtle changes in blood flow that occur when a user taps their index and thumb together. This level of precision is critical to ensure that the gesture is recognized accurately and quickly, resulting in a natural and seamless interaction experience.

Coming Soon to Wrists Everywhere

There’s a wait for those eager to test out the double tap gesture. Apple plans to roll out this feature in an upcoming software update next month. Given the potential of this gesture, it’s set to redefine how we interact with our smartwatches.

The Apple Watch Series 9 continues Apple’s legacy of innovation. Its latest addition, the double tap gesture, demonstrates the company’s dedication to creating smooth, intuitive, and futuristic user experiences. Having personally tried out this feature, I can confirm its ability to revolutionize how we interact with our smart wearables. Stay tuned for future reviews where I’ll delve deeper into other Apple Watch Series 9 features.

Apple’s FineWoven Straps: Where Luxury Meets Sustainability

It is worth noting the remarkable commitment Apple has made to sustainability with the Series 9. The brand has taken significant steps towards eco-friendliness by using recycled materials for the watch’s straps and striving for carbon neutrality. This aligns with other brands’ similar initiatives. However, Apple has not disclosed the expected lifespan of the Series 9 watch.

Moreover, not only is Apple advancing technology, but they are also pioneering sustainability with their latest creation, the “FineWoven” straps. The recent unveiling at the Wonderlust event was a pleasant surprise that exhibited not only the capabilities of the Apple Watch Series 9 and Apple Watch Ultra 2 but also the future of eco-friendly fashion in technology.

The FineWoven straps resemble suede but are made from tightly woven fibers instead

Goodbye Leather, Hello FineWoven

During the recent event, Lisa Jackson, who is Apple’s Vice President of Environment, Policy, and Social Initiatives, made a bold announcement regarding the company’s environmental stance. Apple is bidding farewell to the use of leather and is committed to reducing its carbon footprint.

The replacement for leather is a material called FineWoven, which exudes an understated yet elegant satin finish. The aesthetic appeal is only one aspect of FineWoven; it is also composed of over 60% recycled material. This fabric speaks volumes about Apple’s dedication to not just design but also to purpose. The use of FineWoven is a significant step towards achieving Apple’s environmental goals.

Hues and Tints: A Palette for Every Mood

Apple has introduced modern buckle and magnetic loop bands as the latest addition to their collection of bands for the Apple Watch. These bands come in a variety of stunning colors that are sure to appeal to anyone’s taste, allowing for a personalized and expressive fashion statement. Each hue has its own unique story to tell, offering a shade for every mood and occasion. The FineWoven straps offer a choice between serene midnight blue and bold sunburst orange, among other colors. These bands not only provide functionality but also style, allowing you to accessorize your Apple Watch.

Hermes: A Fashionable Partnership Renewed

Apple has made the decision to discontinue using leather in its product offerings. However, this change does not mean the end of their partnership with fashion giant Hermes. Instead, the two companies have joined forces to redefine their collaboration. Hermes has introduced a range of three new woven bands and a rugged silicone variant, designed to provide both durability and style. These new products cater to the ever-changing demands of today’s consumers.

The Hermes collection features new FineWoven straps and a redesigned watch face

Software Enhancements

Besides new hardware, WatchOS 10 offers various software features such as topographic maps, support for cycling power meters, and a redesigned user interface. These features were previewed at WWDC, Apple’s developer conference.

Final Thoughts

The Apple Watch Series 9 has undergone significant updates, particularly with the doubled display brightness, setting it apart from the Ultra 2. While some of these upgrades may appear subtle, the watch’s focus on sustainability is commendable. The new hardware and software features are noteworthy, but the ultimate test of success will be its performance in daily use. Stay tuned for our in-depth review of the Apple Watch Series 9 in the coming weeks.

The post Apple Watch Series 9 Hands-On: A Leap Forward or a Subtle Refresh? first appeared on Yanko Design.

In today’s digital age, fostering a love for reading and encouraging a child’s imagination can be challenging. However, a groundbreaking product has emerged that not only solves the issue of storage but also transforms children’s rooms into a realm of creativity and exploration. The rotating picture book rack for 1200 books, is a unique and versatile piece of furniture that is more than just a bookshelf—it’s a big toy in the house.

Designer: Waiting Woood (China)

The cool part about this innovative bookshelf is its modular design, carefully crafted to adapt to a child’s growing needs. With adjustable height options, it ensures that children of various ages can easily access their favorite books without the risk of climbing and falling. This not only ensures their safety but also reduces the need for frequent furniture replacements as they grow.

The magic of this bookshelf lies in its ability to transform into various imaginative structures using architectural vocabulary. Children can turn it into a “skyscraper,” a “doll castle,” or even a “drifting car.” This feature encourages kids to actively participate in the construction process, igniting their spirit of exploration and nurturing their creativity.

The rotating picture book rack offers four different shape designs, serving as a powerful tool for enhancing shape cognition. Providing various compartments for book storage, promotes children’s classification and storage habits from a young age. Organizing books becomes an enjoyable and educational task, teaching children valuable skills.

Not only is this bookshelf innovative in design, but it also prioritizes environmental responsibility. The main structure is constructed using FSC-certified beech wood, emphasizing sustainability in its production. The use of semi-transparent color acrylic panels reduces the overall consumption of natural wood while adding a touch of vibrancy to the design.

The plug-in type installation of the acrylic panels is not only simple and fast but also serves to cultivate children’s color perception and light perception as they interact with the varying hues and levels of transparency. This dual function makes it an ideal choice for eco-conscious parents who want to introduce their children to eco-friendly practices and aesthetics.

The bookshelf bayonet design is compatible with expansion accessories, allowing for customization and personalization. By adding different “hats” to the bookshelf, children can transform it into various styles to keep things fresh and exciting. This feature also enables children to create their DIY knowledge base, promoting a sense of ownership and pride in their space.

In conclusion, the rotating picture book rack for 1200 books is a remarkable piece of furniture that transcends its primary function as a bookshelf. It combines safety, creativity, cognitive development, eco-friendliness, and personalization into one cohesive design. This innovative product not only promotes a love for reading but also inspires young minds to explore, imagine, and create in a world of endless possibilities. It’s more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a gateway to a world of learning and adventure.

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A workspace companion should be a transformative product that enhances your productivity, comfort, and overall workspace aesthetics. Crafted with adaptability in mind and driven by the vision of Vestel, here’s a dynamic 32-inch touchscreen display designed with the only vision: personalized workspace experience!

Adaptability and comfort are paramount today, especially when a large section of the global workforce is working from home. To that accord, ‘Take a Rest’ – designed for Vestel – emerges as the ultimate addition to your home workspace. This innovative screen, attached to a support rising from the floor, effortlessly blends with your existing setup, catering to a wide range of desk styles and preferences.

Designer: İbrahim Can Erdinçmer and Vestel

Crafted with ingenuity in mind, Take a Rest is made to snugly fit beside any existing work desk or function as a standalone display. Its ergonomic architecture, foot bar on the stand, and height-adjustable screen offer flexibility to users of varying heights, and together ensure optimal working comfort, so you stay productive for longer hours without discomfort.

That’s not all, the most exciting aspect about ‘Take a Rest’ hides within it, literally. The screen incorporates a sliding magnetic board that can securely hold your iPhone or documents, sliding conveniently behind the screen when not in use. This not only helps you stay organized but also keeps your workspace clutter-free.

The brainchild of designer İbrahim Can Erdinçmer, Take a Rest includes a camera and front speaker bar on the top, which make video calls a breeze with colleagues, friends, or family. The talented designer, working as part of the Vestel Electronics ID Team, developed the innovative concept for Vestel’s exhibition at IFA in Berlin.

What sets Take a Rest apart from conventional workspace accessories, and probably earns it the name, is its integration of interior design elements. The product incorporates a tranquil fabric shade to cover the display when not in use. This adds a touch of serenity and blends with your living environment, while elevating your workspace to be more inviting, comfortable, and customizable.

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In a world where smartwatches continue to push boundaries, the ScanWatch 2 emerges as a beacon of innovation at IFA 2023. Boasting continuous body temperature variation tracking with an extraordinary 30-day battery life, this smartwatch has your health and well-being covered around the clock.

The smartwatch not only tracks your workouts and sleep, it also keeps a vigilant eye on your body temperature throughout the day and night. The ScanWatch 2 serves as an early warning system, flagging unusual temperature fluctuations that may indicate the onset of an illness or a health condition. It’s like having a personal health detective on your wrist.

Designer: Withings

One of the most impressive aspects of the classy hybrid smartwatch, the ScanWatch 2, is its exceptional battery life. With a long-lasting rechargeable battery that can keep up with you for 30 days, you can confidently track your health without the constant worry of recharging.

For fitness enthusiasts, the ScanWatch 2 offers a unique advantage. In addition to monitoring and providing baseline temperatures, that could be indicative of an illness onset, the watch can manage performance and recovery through temperature variation zones during exercise. It therefore provides a complete health view, and helps the wearer avoid potential issues like heat exhaustion.

Equipped with advanced sensors and regulatory-compliant health metrics, the ScanWatch 2 also boasts a sleek design. Appearing in a choice of either a 38mm or 42mm case size, the watch is water-resistant up to 5ATM and runs HealthSense OS 3. The dial is topped with a grayscale OLED screen and durable sapphire glass, to ensure it can handle the rigors of daily life.

At the core of the ScanWatch 2’s capabilities is its heat-flux sensor, working in tandem with a temperature sensor, heart rate monitor, and accelerometer input calibration. Along with the array of such extensive health-tracking features, there are options for basic activities like sleep tracking, ECG, SpO2, and menstrual cycle tracking.

At a price tag of $349.95, the ScanWatch 2 delivers exceptional value for those seeking a cutting-edge hybrid smartwatch that goes beyond the ordinary.  Withings has also developed a low-key model of the ScanWatch dubbed the ScanWatch Light, which shaves off some features like the temperature-tracking, ECG, and SpO2 from the ScanWatch 2, to trim the pricing down by 100 bucks.

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