I, honestly love a good old outdoor adventure during the summer! Relaxing in the midst of nature, in a sweet bubble of my own, away from the hectic city life – sounds like heaven to me! Although, one thing that always worries me before any outdoor getaway is the meals! I’m a food lover through and through, and having warm and freshly prepared (and tasty) meals at all times is a must for me. A good meal isn’t always guaranteed though when you’re getting down and dirty in the outdoors, but we can always try our best! Hence, we’ve curated a collection of portable and functional kitchen appliances that will help you prepare delicious meals even when you’re surrounded by nothing but the wilderness. From a battery-operated ice-maker to an electric pizza oven for your backyard – we’ve collected a whole range of super cool and helpful outdoor cooking appliances that will deliver great food to you without fail.

1. Yuanye

The Yuanye is a portable outdoor barbecue grilling pan that you can bring to your outdoor adventures this summer. Though it looks like a portable projector, it is a super useful outdoor kitchen appliance that has been amped with a gas tank, fire source, and oil storage module.

Why is it noteworthy?

When you open it up, you’ll see two partitions where you can grill your meats on one side and your vegetable on the other. The design of this portable grill is inspired by the usual suitcases we bring when we travel, from the foldable design to the handle and all the accessories. But instead of being storage for clothes and other stuff we need, it’s actually for the food we need when going on a picnic or camping out in the middle of nature.

What we like

• You can cook steak and barbecue all kinds of meats as well as different types of vegetables with the Yuanye, allowing you to prepare a balanced and well-rounded meal
• Fashionable + good-looking appliance

What we dislike

• It’s a concept
• Looks a bit heavy to be carrying around, better suited for your backyard or close distances

2. The Calicamp Storage Drawer

The Calicamp storage drawer with outdoor kitchen fits into trunk space under the bed of the VW California and Multivan (other vehicles can be equipped on special request) and pulls outs for functionality, serving as an extremely useful and undeniable add on to your camper.

Why is it noteworthy?

The pull-out kit adds deep storage space for your gear or wings out on one side to provide a cooking platform with an installable grill, stove, and more; turning the camper van with no or small kitchen into a van with a gourmet-style fold-out kitchen.

What we like

• It comes preloaded with a charcoal grill, stove, trash bin, and cutting board to present an expandable kitchen

What we dislike

• It is designed for the VW California and Multivan. Other vehicles can be equipped on special request

3. The Viuu Bottle Opener

Bottle openers are probably the only EDCs to have undergone the least amount of innovation – a handle and a head are what you usually get. But YUUE Design Studio decided to revamp the age-old bottle opener. This one looks almost like a decorative piece, but without compromising on any of the functionality. You can now get your drinks ready in a really unique + effective manner with the Viuu Bottle Opener.

Why is it noteworthy?

The design is inspired by window grill patterns, specifically those from classic Chinese architecture. There are three shapes featured: one hexagonal, one rectangular, and one with a semi-circular design. All of them have these patterns that may remind you of windows in old houses if you live in such a place influenced by this kind of architecture.

What we like

• Inspired by classic Chinese architecture
• Gives the traditional bottle opener an interesting makeover

What we dislike

• There are no handles to grip while opening the bottle, only the grill design
• Seems more decorative than functional

4. The FLEXTAIL EVO ICER Ice Maker

The FLEXTAIL EVO ICER ice maker is the ultimate ice maker with a built-in battery, and it also happens to be the world’s first. It tackles all the issues you face with the traditional portable ice makers, such that they do exist, but are burdened with slow speeds, and power cords.

Why is it noteworthy?

Right off the bat, you can immediately see that the EVO ICER is meant to be carried anywhere. Weighing only 20.9 lbs and smaller than most portable ice coolers, the ice maker can be easily lifted and positioned where you can easily make and grab as much ice as you need.

What we like

• The 200Wh battery inside means you don’t have to worry about power sockets, and the EVO ICER can run for as long as three hours on a full charge

What we dislike

• Doesn’t have an option to chill drinks inside if needed

5.  Makit’s Portable Microwave

Makit’s portable microwave utilizes a cordless XTGT system to assist you in heating your meals and snacks when you’re on the go on your outdoor adventures. It features 40-volt rechargeable batteries, which can use up to 500 watts for eight minutes and then 350 watts after that to save energy.

Why is it noteworthy?

When the batteries are fully charged, it will be able to warm up 11 meals or 20 drinks. It also has a USB port so you can also juice up your smartphone or a gadget, but of course, you’ll probably have to choose between your meal or your device. The microwave also comes with a handle and a strap so you can carry it around with you.

What we like

• If you’re worried about safety, the design has safety measures in place for the user’s convenience
• It also deactivates when it’s tilted or when the door is opened

What we dislike

• If you’re warming up frozen meals, it might take up more energy so you’ll be able to reheat fewer meals

6. The Volt 12

The Volt 12 is a compact, kitchen-and-outdoor-friendly oven that reaches ripping temperatures of up to 850°F (450°C), allowing you to bake the perfect pizza in under 90 seconds, just like your favorite pizzeria.

Why is it noteworthy?

Unlike Ooni’s other pizza ovens, the Volt doesn’t need firewood or gas to heat up. This upgrade to electrical heating significantly reduces the pizza oven’s overall footprint, allowing it to be as compact as the Volt 12 is. About as wide and deep as your regular oven (but half as tall, given how pizzas are usually flat), the Volt 12 sits anywhere inside or outside your house.

What we like

• The Volt 12 comes with an incredibly sleek powder-coated outer surface and a triple-paned borosilicate glass door that retains heat within the oven
• Clean-energy pizza oven

What we dislike

• Only for cooking pizza – does not support cooking other food

7. The Lava Box

The Lava Box is a concept for a portable stove that looks minimalist, classy, and not at all like the usual that you see being carried around in campsites and beaches. In fact, you might think it’s a vinyl player or a projector, or a luxury box. They’re actually some of the design inspirations for this stove or rather the mood board used in coming up with the final look. What you get is a box with a cover and when you open it, that’s where the stove shows itself.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s a single burner with a refillable butane gas container fitting right under it. There’s a wooden know on the right that lets you adjust the flame level for things like when you’re heating water, frying something, or grilling pieces of meat. There are also wooden handles on the side for when you need to move the stove when it’s in use or has recently been used and you don’t want to burn your fingers.

What we like

• Small enough to carry with you on your outdoor trip
• Inspired by a vinyl player

What we dislike

• It’s still a concept!

8. Choi’s Portable Electric Pot

Designed by Yunsoon Choi, this portable electric pot is conceptualized for cooking soups and stews while camping. It would make a great add on to your camping gear this summer!

Why is it noteworthy?

When cooking soup, campers can use the appliance’s main basin to combine all of their ingredients. Just around the basin’s front panel, a timer and temperature control interface allows users to adjust the cooking conditions of each stew and soup according to its recipe. An additional light attachment is also integrated into the build of Choi’s electric pot, allowing for late-night cooking to soothe those munchies.

What we like

• Through a telescopic layering system, the different modules of Choi’s electric pot can fit into one another and be carried by a raised, removable handlebar

What we dislike

• It’s a concept!

9. The +Base Modular Griller

The +Base modular griller, supports almost any kind of cooking you’d want, from frying (teppanyaki), smoking, stewing, grilling, or even keeping wine warm in the form of a unique and innovative griller!

Why is it noteworthy?

Made by a small family-owned Japanese factory that specializes in sheet metal fabrication, the All-in-One Grill is carefully designed to maximize the limited amount of space available, like small grooves on the grill’s frame that keep the skewers in place. The wooden base that protects tables from the grill’s hot bottom also acts as a lid when the griller has to be stowed away.

What we like

• Let’s you cook in seven different ways
• Simplifies outdoor cooking

What we dislike

• Hardcore grillers may not prefer this design

10. Roll

Roll is an attempt to preserve not only the flavors of food but also their presentation. It eschews the traditional square or rectangular shape of food containers in favor of something round. It’s a unique bowl food container that would be perfect for your picnics this summer!

Why is it noteworthy?

What makes Roll different from bowl food containers (which do exist, of course) is that it wholeheartedly embraces the culture of using the lid or dish cap as a plate. That’s why the cap itself was made to look presentable, using soft and clean tones like ivory, sky blue, and terracotta. The idea is that you set the freshly cooked food on the lid itself and then later just cover it with the glass bowl when it’s time to put it away.

What we like

• The next time you want to eat the food, you don’t have to rearrange the food again to make it presentable
• Roll takes the food container concept upside-down, literally, by making it usable, whether as a bowl with a round lid or a plate with a bowl cover
• Perfect for outdoor summer picnics

What we dislike

• Not the most shape-efficient design/shape

The post Top 10 kitchen appliances for your yard + outdoor picnics this summer first appeared on Yanko Design.

With each new iPhone rendition comes a slew of iPhone cases – some from new companies and many from industry-leading names, and makes it tough and stressful for us to choose an option. With countless competitors vying for attention, it’s challenging also for the accessory creators to stand out from the crowd. Amidst the sea of mundane offerings, one concept from Running Guy Studio Design Studio in London, UK shines with its unique style.

The Running Guy, an experimental design and fashion studio, brought a breath of fresh air to the iPhone case market first with the Air Case. It was an innovative case that deviated from traditional materials like leather, plastic, fabric, or rubber, to provide a refreshing alternative that caught curious eyes.

Designer: The Running Guy

After the Air Case made ripples among designers and fans, the studio is back with the next iteration: Air Case 2. What sets the Air Case 2 apart is its bloated textured pattern, which will beautifully complement Apple’s upcoming iPhone 15. This case is not only a fashion statement but will provide all-around protection for your valuable device.

Conceptualized by the talented product designer Philipp Pisarevskiy, the Air Case 2 is designed to absorb impact from any side. Its bloated cushions act as a shield, preventing the energy of a fall impact from reaching your smartphone. Also, the case adheres firmly to your iPhone, with its protruding contours ensuring a secure grip.

But that’s not what the Air Case 2 is all about. An interesting eye-grabber here is the plethora of color options it is revealed in. By incorporating this ingenious design and color options, the Air Case 2 significantly reduces the chances of your phone accidentally slipping out and your phone looking differently attractive.

Air Case 2 excels in style and protection but it does come with a limitation. Due to its peculiar design, it is not compatible with MagSafe accessories. This might be a drawback for users who rely on the convenience and functionality offered by MagSafe technology. However, for those who prioritize superior protection and a distinctive aesthetic, the Air Case 2 presents an enticing option.

The post Air Case 2 is an inflated blend of style and security for your beloved iPhone first appeared on Yanko Design.

We’ve spoken at length on this website about how the Design Intelligence Award is shaping the future of the creative industry through its novel format. Established in 2015 by the China Academy of Art, the Design Intelligence Award (or DIA for short) is more than just an award that recognizes good design. It’s an ecosystem for cultivating innovation and entrepreneurial spirit. For almost a decade, this free-to-enter program has celebrated creativity and ingenuity, with a three-stage judging and evaluation process aimed at developing products that uniquely benefit humanity. The DIA Award also seeks to create a platform for accelerating international trade, increasing connectivity, and opening up commercial opportunities that help propel the Global East in the West-heavy Design Industry. Effective design is only truly impactful when it reaches and benefits a wider audience. With this in mind, the awards program has created a prize fund of ¥5 million RMB, equivalent to $728,000 USD, to support the development of exceptional ideas into exceptional designs. This initiative aims to incubate and nurture innovative concepts that have the potential to make a significant difference in the world of design.

Click Here to Enter Now: Registration Closes on 30th June, 2023 (24:00, UTC+8).

The Design Intelligence Award undergoes a rigorous judging process, comprising three stages. A group of 550 design experts assesses entries based on three key criteria. The first layer focuses on the essential “Principles of Design,” which includes factors such as functionality, aesthetics, technicality, user experience, and sustainability. The second layer considers the “Direction of Design,” taking into account how the design contributes to humanity, industry, and the future. The third and final layer emphasizes the “Impact of Design” on social influence and industrial development. The judging process concludes with a hands-on final round, ensuring that only the most exceptional designs are recognized.

The DIA Jury Panel is made up of 550 experts and judges from 37 countries and regions around the world. They carefully select 30 outstanding projects that showcase innovation and positive impact. These lucky winners receive a share of the DIA’s prize fund of ¥5 million RMB ($728,000 USD), with the top project receiving ¥1 million RMB. The winners are also invited to the prestigious DIA Award Ceremony, where they can connect with global representatives from various sectors such as design, academia, and media. They also have the opportunity to attend the D-WILL expert lectures, sponsored by the Zhejiang Modern Intelligent Manufacturing Promotion Center and Design Innovation Center of China Academy of Art. These lectures aim to inspire innovation and collaboration by featuring education experts, industry leaders, and pioneers who share their knowledge and achievements with the next generation. Finally, the winners benefit from media exposure through a coordinated PR campaign, which helps to promote their work to a wider audience. If you’re curious, scroll below to check out some of last year’s Design Intelligence Awards winners and honorable mentions!

This year’s Design Intelligence Award is open for entries. Submit your innovative idea for a chance to win up to ¥1 million RMB ($147,000 USD) and bring your life-changing design to reality! Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a difference. Click here to enroll for the 2023 Design Intelligence Awards FOR FREE!

2022 Design Intelligence Awards winners and Honorable Mentions

Shuttle Footwear by SCRY

The birth of SCRY Shuttle marks a new era in the footwear industry, where digitalization is revolutionizing the way shoes are made. Unlike traditional shoes, SCRY Shuttle is manufactured using an integrated 3D printing process that eliminates the need for assembly, reduces material waste, and eliminates lengthy assembly lines… and that unique approach reflects in the shoe’s drop-dead gorgeous design too! The shoe is made from a single material that is engineered to achieve the required performance of different parts, making it easy to recycle. The midsole of the shoe is filled with an innovative lattice structure that provides a soft and comfortable foot experience. The Shuttle isn’t designed for retail, however, SCRY does sell some stunning accent footwear on their website.

HiPhi Z by Human Horizons

With two electric motors mounted on the rear wheels, the HiPhi Z can generate over 600 horsepower and 605 pound-feet of torque, making the EV China’s answer to Tesla. It’s quick too, with a 0-62 mph time of just 3.8 seconds, comparable to the Model 3. And if you’re worried about range anxiety, don’t be – the Z can travel up to 438 miles on a single charge. What really sets the Z apart, however, is its unique LED matrix under each headlight and taillight. Not only does it look cool, but it can also display text, emojis, and other fun things. So not only will you enjoy driving the Z, but you’ll also turn heads and make people smile as you pass by.

Square Off Swap by Infivention Technologies

Following the launch of Square Off, an AI-automated chess board that you could play against, the Square Off Swap extends the same technology, but now with the ability to play multiple games on the same board. Offering users the ability to now play games like Chess, Checkers, Halma, and Connect 4 on a single surface, the Square Off Swap features better internals that are much more responsive, offering faster and more reactive gameplay and interactive embedded lights that just do wonders to uplift the gaming experience, while keeping everything extremely real!

U-Lab 001 Guitar by Unknown Galaxy Technology (Shenzhen) Ltd. & inDare Design Strategy Ltd.

The U-Lab 001 may look like a typical guitar, but it’s anything but ordinary. With a hollow cutout, no strings, and the ability to fold in half for easy travel, this guitar is perfect for beginners with little to no formal training. The right-hand rocker switches simulate strumming, while the touch-sensitive light-up fretboard under the left hand teaches notes, chords, and music theory. A companion smartphone app enhances the learning experience. The ULab 001 also boasts a built-in speaker, volume control, a knob to change the guitar’s scale, and a headphone jack for silent practice.

Little Patience Meditation Seat by Shine Meditation Health Technology

The Little Patience Meditation Seat is designed to guide users into sitting cross-legged, promoting an upright back and inwardly folded legs. This posture has been used for thousands of years in Oriental and Indian cultures for meditation and eating, as it increases blood circulation, joint flexibility, and strengthens bones while aiding digestion. The seat’s unique design resembles a saddle with a concave middle, requiring some guidance for first-time users. However, it encourages a healthy sitting practice that benefits both physical and mental well-being, making it an unusual but worthwhile addition to any space!

VT-30 by EHang

The VT-30 is an eVTOL aircraft created by leading Chinese manufacturer EHang for inter-city travel. It follows a “lift and cruise” model and is fully autonomous, with a capacity of two passengers. The aircraft can travel up to 300 km on a single battery charge, with flight times of up to 100 minutes. It can take off and land on both runways and helipads, given its vertical and take-off capabilities. Unlike other air taxi developers, EHang’s design is compact and sleek, with a smaller cockpit contributing to its impressive range.

FlipPack by Guangzhou Korin Technology

Korin Design’s engineers have developed a cutting-edge backpack that boasts magnetic side pockets for swift access and a sleek, waterproof exterior. Dubbed the FlipPack, for its flip-out magnetic side pockets, the backpack also offers exceptional security with RFID blocking, a concealed magnetic back pocket, air cell straps for added comfort, and a collapsible structure for effortless storage.

Sustainable Shopping Bag by Lim Sungmook

Crafted rather wonderfully from a single sheet of durable and waterproof Tyvek material, the Sustainable Shopping Bag is a smart alternative to single-use plastic bags that end up in landfills. Its net-based design is not only strong but also requires less material, making it an eco-friendly choice. The bag’s clever cuts allow it to expand and accommodate a range of items, from groceries to clothes and even a wine bottle. Available in various sizes, colors, and patterns, the bag’s patented design is both practical and stylish.

YA CONG Handle Pot by Hangzhou Great Wisdom Creative Design

Challenging the common silhouette of the teapot, the YA CONG features a unique squarish design that strays away from tradition, and also exhibits a new style of pottery that can’t be crafted on a rotary potter’s wheel. The unique shape is systematically designed with the characteristics of “square outside and round inside”, emphasizing both rigidity and softness. In straying away from the traditional shape of teapots, the YA CONG creates its own style and tradition with high artistic value and practical function.

Helloface Transparent Respirator Mask by oneoverthree for Handan Hengyong

While it’s safe to say that the pandemic is behind us, it’s also worth remembering that we still need masks, not for protection from pathogens, but rather from terrible air quality. A majority of the third world lives with incredibly polluted air (urban cities in first-world countries aren’t any better), and the Helloface Transparent Respirator Mask hopes to usher in a future where people can wear masks without obstructing their facial expressions. The mask features a cartridge on the front as well as inlets and outlets on the side that allow air to flow in and out comfortably without fogging up the inside. The rest of the mask itself is made from transparent plastic, allowing the wearer to still visually express themselves and interact with others without any barriers.

Click Here to Enroll for the 2023 Design Intelligence Awards FOR FREE! Registration Closes on 30th June, 2023 (24:00, UTC+8).

The post The 2023 Design Intelligence Award: Enter for Free and Win Global Recognition + $723,000 Prize Fund first appeared on Yanko Design.

Robot vacuum cleaners have come a long way since the very first Roombas rolled on the floors of a few lucky homeowners. Although their basic round designs haven’t changed much, their capabilities have grown significantly in recent years. It’s almost rare for decent robot vacuum cleaners or RVCs not to have some self-emptying function these days, and some even advertise mopping capabilities. But while these RVCs claim to be able to both suck up and mop away dirt, most are just good at one or the other. There’s a lot left to be desired when it comes to mopping efficiency, and that’s where ECOVACS’ new DEEBOT T20 OMNI comes in, raising the bar for mopping performance while making sure that your precious carpets remain safe and dry all the time.

Designer: ECOVACS Design

Click Here to Reserve Now! The first 500 customers get a $50 Accessories package upon purchase on June 13.

Robot vacuums that can also mop are pretty convenient because you don’t have to buy two separate devices to keep your floors clean. That said, a lot of floors aren’t just made of hard surfaces like tiles, wood, or vinyl, and some homes use carpets in a few areas, and it would be disastrous for these robots to roll over those with wet mops. Most vacuum cleaners simply avoid these areas if you have the mopping function turned on, requiring you to do double the work by going over carpeted areas without mop heads attached.

The ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 OMNI’s solution is smarter and more efficient. It simply lifts the mop plates as high as 9mm when transitioning from hard floor to soft carpeting, a height that no other robot vacuum has so far reached, while simultaneously increasing the suction power to make sure it gets all the dirt buried deep in the fuzzy material. This LiftUp OZMO Turbo 2.0 Rotating Mopping System ensures that your carpet is safe and dry while giving it a thorough cleaning.

The DEEBOT T20 OMNI’s mopping upgrades don’t stop there. Its self-washing function cleans those rotating mop heads with hot water set to 131°F in order to more effectively remove not only dirt but also stubborn oil and grease. It then uses hot air to dry the mop, eliminating bacteria and odors and making sure that it’s ready for the next round of cleaning.

In addition to smart and powerful vacuuming and mopping, ECOVACS also put the smartest brains and eyes inside the DEEBOT T20 OMNI. TrueMapping 2.0 uses the same LIDAR technology seen in self-driving cars to create a more accurate map of your floor, while TrueDetect 3D 2.0 avoids objects and obstacles like toys, keys, wires, and, of course, kids and pets. You can easily control the robot vacuum with your voice, thanks to ECOVACS’ YIKO AI, and you can even integrate it with the rest of your smart home using Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri Shortcuts. With its superior suction power, upgraded mopping functions, and intelligent navigation, the ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 OMNI promises a cleaner house, peace of mind, and more time to spend on the more important things in life.

Click Here to Reserve Now! The first 500 customers get a $50 Accessories package upon purchase on June 13.

The post ECOVACS DEEBOT T20 OMNI robot vacuum’s advanced mopping tech cleans floors, protects carpets first appeared on Yanko Design.

I love coffee, I need it to start my day, or else I simply refuse to start my day! It’s the boost of energy, dose of motivation, and rush of serotonin that I need every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know is the result of your own hard work, something precariously prepared with your own personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive coffee machine is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and actually operating the machine)! From a warm and gentle capsule coffee machine to a speaker-like portable coffee machine for coffee on the go – this collection of super cool and easy-to-use coffee machines will start you off on your coffee brewing journey. Cheers!

1. The Woolly Capsule Coffee Machine

The Woolly capsule coffee machine concept radiates a sense of softness and approachability and has a rather adorable appeal to it. It consists of very few straight lines and a muted color palette that heavily avoids black and reds.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coffee machine consists of wooden panels and metallic accents that contrast interestingly against the textured plastic surface of the body, creating a unique composition that is appealing to the eyes.

What we like

• Soft and friendly aesthetic, unlike the typical daunting coffee machines we come across
• Features embedded touch-sensitive buttons on the panel that take interaction to the next level

What we dislike

• A wooden body and coffee-stained fingers may disrupt the aesthetics of the machine

2. The Breeze Coffee Machine

Designed for the South Korean coffee brand Dongsuh, the Breeze coffee machine is a capsule coffee machine with a twist. It has a refreshing soft color palette with white, charcoal, and pink variants to represent a gentler personality.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coffee machine features a ridged surface wrapped around the base, which contrasts with the smoother texture of the head. The tall water tank at the back complements the subdued hues of the machine, sending across a message of calm.

What we like

• The design includes a more tactile interface to operate the machine, using clearly marked LED-backlit buttons at the top of the head

What we dislike

• It’s a capsule-based coffee machine but there is no knowledge shared on how to make the process reduce wastage or make it more sustainable

3. POCO

POCO: Portable capsule coffee machine is a compact and lightweight device that you can slide with ease into your back or backpack along with the required coffee pods. It’s the perfect coffee maker on the go for coffee lovers!

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s rechargeable using a USB-C: You can charge it on the go using your laptop or a portable charger. This makes it an ideal device for people who are always on the move.

What we like

• Features a built-in thermal insulation function
• Allows you to enjoy coffee anytime and anywhere

What we dislike

• Since it’s a concept we don’t know how functional and credible it will be as an actual product

4. The CJ

Espresso machine manufacturer Moak commissioned the Italian industrial designer Odo Fioravanti to design an eye-catching machine that is minimal, modernist, and brutalist

Why is it noteworthy?

Called the CJ (Coffee Jockey), the coffee machine includes various geometric shapes that have been bundled up together to create a design that is simple and beautiful. It has a soft pastel color which imparts the espresso machine with a classy and refined look.

What we like

• You can actually put two coffee cups in front and get two sizable espresso shots out of one process

What we dislike

• The design is for Moak and promises a new coffee blend and capsule system that is not shown yet, so we cannot speak on its functionality

5. Muuto

Designed by PDF Haus, Muuto is a minimalist matte coffee maker built from ceramic steel, that can be operated and used with the click of a single button.

Why is it noteworthy?

This minimalist coffee maker has a simple, no-frills design. It is intuitive by design and features a single button to kickstart the entire operation. The button is an easy-click power key placed on Muuto’s main rounded chamber. A tiny LED light can be found just above the main power switch and indicates three different signals to users: on, off, and fill.

What we like

• A no-frills coffee machine that is perfect for modern kitchens
• Intuitive and easy-to-use

What we dislike

• Overall a bulky piece that needs a sizeable real estate on your kitchen coutertop

The post Top 5 sleek coffee machines for diehard coffee lovers first appeared on Yanko Design.

While vinyl records have seen a resurgence in recent years, CDs appear to have largely fallen by the wayside. The advent of streaming services and digital music collections, marked by convenience and virtually limitless capacity, has made CDs seem outdated. Despite this, there remains a niche market of music aficionados who cherish their CD collections. Catering to this demographic, a new minimalist CD player has emerged that combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, offering users the freedom to enjoy their CDs anywhere.

Click Here to Buy Now: $139 $159 ($20 off at checkout). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours.

Digital music introduced the concept of album art as a digital iteration of the traditional CD jacket. This visual accompaniment to music has largely been lost in the CD format unless the listener keeps the CD cover handy. The ability to display album art on the playback device is almost non-existent, especially in the case of portable CD players that prioritize compactness.

The CD Jacket Player disrupts this trend, presenting itself as a minimalist piece of art. Its boxy shape, akin to a picture frame or an oversized Polaroid photo, features a transparent middle section. This design element reveals the CD’s spinning bed, which is also the ideal spot to insert the CD’s cover jacket. In essence, the device brings back the physical experience of album art.

Beyond its primary function as a CD player, the device also serves as a decorative piece, especially when you hang it on walls. Its built-in rechargeable battery negates the need for unsightly wires, except during charging periods. This feature also allows for portability, providing listeners the freedom to enjoy their favorite CDs at their convenience. For audio output, the device offers a 3.5mm jack for wired headphones or speakers, along with built-in Bluetooth support for wireless devices.

While this CD player may not introduce any groundbreaking features for CD playback, it does take a unique approach by encouraging users to manually insert cover jackets to mimic the digital album art experience. This design highlights how music appreciation can be a multisensory experience, elegantly placing the visual artistry of CDs on display.

Click Here to Buy Now: $139 $159 ($20 off at checkout). Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours.

The post Sleek CD Player Enables Display of Cover Art like a Picture Frame first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple hasn’t launched a single new product category since they unveiled the AirPods back in 2016. Sure, the AirPods Max debuted in 2020, but it wasn’t a bold leap as much as natural progression. The point I’m really trying to make here is that it’s been a while since the company was ‘recklessly innovative’, and it seems like we might just get a taste of that three days from now at WWDC.

Augmented Reality has always been Tim Cook’s favorite buzzword, and he’s consistently pushed for Apple to have a presence in this space. It’s expected that all this will culminate in what analysts and leakers call “Reality”, Apple’s first XR headset. This cutting-edge device, expected to be unveiled at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference, aims to pioneer the relatively uncharted realm of mixed-reality technology. With a price tag of approximately $3,000, the ‘Reality’ headset has been seven years in the making, and has been apparently filled with controversy too, with a large chunk of Apple’s own employees expressing doubt and disdain. However, here’s everything we know about the Reality headset (or could it be a pair of glasses?) that’s set to launch this Monday.

Concept Images by Kylin Wu
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The headset’s design journey has oscillated between being thick and obtrusive, like your average VR headset, to being as slim as a pair of spectacles, or realistically, a pair of chunky ski goggles. At its heart, however, lies the innovative xrOS, designed to provide an interface that echoes the familiar iOS experience. The new operating system (which is pretty much confirmed thanks to a trademark filed by Apple in New Zealand) is set to revolutionize how users interact with their devices, presenting a traditional Home Screen in an entirely new dimension filled with apps and customizable widgets.

One of the most exciting features of ‘Reality’ is its ability to merge digital elements with the real world. The xrOS software could potentially project AR app interface elements onto actual objects, creating a seamless mixed-reality overlay effect. This represents a significant leap forward in AR technology, blurring the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds. According to MacRumors, the ‘Reality’ device will achieve this using “dual high-resolution 4K micro OLED displays with up to 3,000 pixels per inch for a rich, realistic, and immersive viewing experience.” To operate the device, the user’s hands and eyes will be monitored by over a dozen optical cameras. The user can select an on-screen item by simply looking at it and activate it by making a hand gesture, such as a pinch.

The core of xrOS will feature re-imagined versions of Apple’s staple apps. From Safari to Messages, Apple TV+ to Apple Music, users will have the flexibility to work with multiple apps simultaneously, ensuring a dynamic and engaging user experience. Apple is also set to transform existing services into immersive viewing experiences. Imagine watching videos in virtual reality as if on a giant screen, or engaging in guided meditations enhanced by immersive visuals, audio, and voiceovers. Services like Apple Fitness+, Apple TV+, and a 3D version of Apple’s collaborative Freeform tool are set to offer these radical experiences in xrOS. In addition to the reimagined versions of existing apps, Apple is likely to introduce new offerings tailored to the unique capabilities of the ‘Reality’ headset. These would include a Books app for immersive reading, a Health app focusing on psychological wellness, and a Camera app that can capture images from the headset’s cameras, promising a whole new level of interaction and engagement.

Apple is reportedly also working with a select number of game developers to help them update their existing content for mixed reality. Furthermore, Apple reportedly has a robust set of tools that will allow non-developers to create their own AR/VR experiences, even without coding skills. These user-created AR apps could be distributed on the App Store alongside developer-created apps​​.

The Reality headset doesn’t come without its fair share of controversy. It remains one of the most divisive products even within Apple’s own company, with multiple people leaving the project to move to other divisions within Apple, or leaving the company entirely. Multiple engineers have expressed their opinion that Tim Cook should wait before the product is “good enough” for consumers… a feeling that people on Apple’s board have expressed too. Cook gave multiple key executives and personnel a preview of the Reality headset a little over a month ago, one of them being credible Apple reporter Mark Gurman of Bloomberg. However, it seems like Cook’s been adamant about releasing the headset as soon as possible, although as a developer product rather than a consumer-ready gadget. This will probably help set the groundwork needed to make a much more consumer-friendly Reality headset somewhere down the line. Until then, we have our fingers crossed and our calendars set for June 5th, 10 am PST!

The post Apple to Announce Their First Ever Augmented Reality Glasses in 3 days… Here’s What to Expect first appeared on Yanko Design.

In the midst of anticipation for Apple’s long-rumored mixed reality headset, Meta has made a splash by unveiling – through Mark Zuckerberg’s official Instagram handle – the upcoming Meta Quest 3. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Quest 2, the Quest 3 boasts a sleeker and more comfortable design, featuring a 40 percent slimmer design and a more powerful device.

Meta Quest 3 would stand apart with its rumored high-resolution mixed reality output and promise of an unparalleled visual experience. With its thinner profile and enhanced comfort, the Quest 3 will combine Meta’s highest resolution display and pancake optics, ensuring the delivered content looks better than ever before.

Designer: Meta

Under the hood, the Quest 3 is to be powered by a new Qualcomm Snapdragon chip that will likely deliver twice the graphics performance compared to its predecessor. This next-generation chipset will make sure the Quest 3 offers smooth and stunning visuals, pushing the boundaries of mixed and virtual reality to an unexplored high.

One of the most enticing aspects of the Meta Quest 3 still is its compatibility with the entire Quest 2 library. It, however, will be accompanied by an array of new titles as well. Scheduled for release this fall, the Meta Quest 3 will be available in a 128GB version priced at $499.99. An additional storage option will also be launched, but the price for it is not disclosed yet.

In addition to this exciting announcement, Meta has also made significant price adjustments for the Quest 2. Starting June 4th, the 128GB version of the Quest 2 will be priced at $299.99. Similarly, the 256GB version will see a price drop to $349.99, providing enthusiasts with the most powerful headset presently at an affordable cost.

Prepared to be astounded by jaw-dropping virtual reality experiences of Quest 3 still? You can sign up here for more information about the state-of-the-art headset or wait until Meta annual Connect event on September 27.

The post Meta Quest 3 unveiled ahead of Apple’s anticipated MR headset announcement with promising claims first appeared on Yanko Design.

As foldable phones start to become a little bit more common, it will also become harder for brands to stand out from the growing crowd. There’s definitely still a lot of room for improvement, of course, but many of the features have started to become more standard these days, especially those surrounding the all-important foldable screen. The challenge is even higher when trying to put out a successor to a successful first attempt, with the stakes now higher and the competition even tighter. That’s the difficult task that Vivo had to face in coming up with a successor to its notable first foldable phone, and so we take the Vivo X Fold 2 for a good run to see if it manages to overcome the odds or if it is a victim of the brand’s own success.

Designer: Vivo

Aesthetics

At first glance, the Vivo X Fold 2 immediately sets itself apart with its distinctive and elegant looks. Circular camera bumps seem to be the new trend, but not all styles are as pleasant to look at. Normally, one that isn’t centered would look a bit awkward and unbalanced, but Vivo manages to pull this one off thanks to a neat visual trick.

The non-screen backside of the phone is made from two materials. There’s a vertical strip on the side of the hinge that’s made of glossy glass, serving as an accent to the rest of the surface, which uses that oh-so-familiar faux leather material. Beyond giving the phone a unique visual, it also gives the illusion that the camera enclosure is sitting in the middle rather than off-center. That said, that camera design is a bit of a mixed bag. Its stepped design and textured ring make it stand out a bit less despite its height, but that small LED flash ring sticks out like a sore thumb and breaks the visual flow of the design, not to mention the necessary ZEISS branding that sits like a blue wart below the camera.

The Vivo X Fold 2 is definitely quite a looker, especially in the eye-catching red unit we were given for this review. Compared to its predecessor, it’s supposed to be thinner and lighter, though you won’t be able to easily tell even if you have both devices at hand. It’s definitely on the thin and light side compared to other foldables, but it’s certainly not the top of the pack in that aspect. What it is, however, is large, and it is possibly one of the largest in the foldable market, especially when it comes to screen size.

Like many other foldable phones outside of Samsung, Vivo uses a well-known water drop hinge to help make the crease less visible while also allowing the phone to fold shut completely. In both cases, the Vivo X Fold 2 doesn’t disappoint, but it’s not exactly a groundbreaking feat either. It would be more shocking if it actually did worse since it’s a more or less established technology at this point. Fortunately, you really don’t notice the crease that much unless you intentionally look for it, and the bright and large 8.03-inch inner display will be enough to distract you with the way it shows your content in vibrant and crisp colors, even outdoors under the sun.

Ergonomics

Now that the once ridiculed “phablet” has become the standard smartphone size, even for Apple, it is nearly impossible to use smartphones these days with a single hand. That is especially true for foldable phones, which transform into small tablets that you really need two hands for. When folded closed, however, the phone’s doubled thickness makes it even less comfortable to use with a single hand, no matter how large your hands might be.

This is probably truer for the Vivo X Fold 2 simply because it is larger than any other foldable phone. When folded, the 6.53-inch external display makes the surface area even less unwieldy. Fortunately, the phone’s textured back gives it a better grip than others of its kind. If you’re the type to still worry, though, Vivo includes a protective back case in the same color and, amusingly, the same vegan leather material as the phone itself.

The one thing that’s a bit easy to do with one hand is to unlock the phone. Thanks to housing an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor in the middle of the screen, you don’t have to fiddle with power buttons located on just one side of the phone. This is already a rare sight on foldable phones, but even more impressive is the fact that the Vivo X Fold 2 also has a similar in-display sensor on the inner display.

Performance

The Vivo X Fold 2 is equipped with top-of-the-line hardware you’d expect from a premium flagship this time of the year. That means a beefy Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB or 512GB of storage. What all these figures mean in practice is that it won’t be lacking in power, handling anything you throw at it with aplomb. There is, however, one caveat where the phone gets quite warm when playing graphics-intensive titles. It’s not hot enough to burn your skin, but it might make you want to pause the game a bit, especially since it would eventually affect frame rates.

The phone is equipped with a dual battery that totals 4,800mAh, quite a generous capacity as far as foldables go. Given the power and the two displays, however, you are going to see a shorter uptime compared to normal slabs with the same battery size. Vivo makes up for it with a 120W ultra-fast charging capability that’s one of the fastest in the industry, foldable or otherwise. Unfortunately, that may have come at the price of Vivo downgrading the USB-C port from version 3.2 of its predecessor to an older 2.0 technology. Not only does this mean it has a slower data transfer rate, it also loses the ability to output video through that part. The latter is probably less important to most people compared to faster charging times, but it’s still an unfortunate downgrade nonetheless.

The crowning glory of the Vivo X Fold 2 is, of course, its foldable screen, which is currently the biggest in its category. It has quite an impressive performance, especially when it comes to brightness, but its size does come with a price. It has an overall lower pixel density, and while you won’t be able to make out individual pixels, more discerning eyes might notice the step down in quality compared to other foldables. Fortunately, that doesn’t take away from the enjoyable viewing experience, whether you’re watching videos or reading documents.

Foldable phones haven’t exactly been at the height of mobile photography, mostly because of the sacrifices that have to be made in terms of design and price. Vivo, however, is quite known for its smartphone cameras, especially with its flagship X family, so you’d expect that the X Fold 2 would rise above the rest in this regard as well. Just like the rest of the phone so far, however, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. It definitely takes impressive photos and videos, but they won’t sweep you off your feet, especially when it comes to close-up shots.

The main 50MP camera might not sound like the greatest, but it gets the job done without breaking a sweat. Images have plenty of details, and colors are bright, perhaps even too vibrant for some tastes. Vivo has again partnered with ZEISS for the optics as well as some special camera modes, and those turn out to be more color accurate. The main camera delivers plenty of detail, even in low light, to the point that the dedicated Night Mode might look redundant as long as there is enough illumination from the surroundings.

Left: Regular Shot; Right: ZEISS

Regular (1x)

Night Mode

ZEISS

Unfortunately, the other cameras are less impressive. The 12MP ultra-wide is so-so, and it’s no better nor worse compared to other 12MP ultra-wide cameras you’d find on most smartphones these days. Things take a rather sad turn with the telephoto camera, though. Where there were once two, there is now only one, and Vivo removed the one that was actually more interesting. There is no longer a periscope telephoto camera, leaving only a 12MP shooter in its stead that is capable of doing a measly 2x optical zoom. Many “main” cameras are capable of that much, which makes this camera feel redundant. As for output, it’s decent enough to be usable, but it’s a few steps short of what fans have come to expect from Vivo.

Ultra-Wide

1x

2x (Telephoto)

As for software, the Vivo X Fold 2 comes with Origin OS based on Android 13, which is the China-exclusive flavor that Vivo ships on its phones. This means that there is no Google Play Store pre-installed, though you can definitely install it through other means and get access to your favorite apps. Alas, Origin OS is also filled to the brim with other pre-installed apps, but that, too, is the norm for phones coming from that market. The even bigger concern, however, is how the custom Android experience feels a little rough around the edges as far as support for foldable features is concerned. Given it’s just the company’s second stab at the form factor, it’s a bit understandable, and it will hopefully push out improvements quickly while the phone is still actively supported.

Sustainability

While the Vivo X Fold 2 is able to set itself apart from the others in terms of design, it isn’t that different when it comes to its effects on the environment. The choice of vegan or eco-leather is definitely a good one, but its positive effects are quite minimal compared to the other materials that make up the phone and its packaging. Vivo’s super-fast charging requires a proprietary charger, so it’s unavoidable to ship one in the box.

Sustainability wouldn’t be so bad if the product is made to last, but even then, this foldable might raise some concerns. There is no formal IP dust and water resistance rating, not even a formal assurance of its durability under the most common accidents. Granted, there are few foldable phones aside from Samsung and Huawei that can make such promises, but it is also an opportunity for brands like Vivo to step up their game and prove that they’re no small fry when it comes to providing their customers with peace of mind.

Value

The Vivo X Fold 2 is a bit of a mixed bag. It has a striking design that makes it memorable and attractive, and it also has the power to support all your mobile needs, from browsing to photography to gaming. The larger screens leave plenty of room for your content, or even two of them for the inner foldable screen. There are special features you won’t find in other foldable phones, like an in-display ultrasonic fingerprint scanner and a physical switch to silence notifications, ala the iPhone. We have a few complaints, of course, but nothing so glaring as to make the phone something to avoid.

That said, the biggest deal breaker for this stylish foldable is the fact that only a select number of people will be able to buy one in the first place. Never mind the roughly $1,300 price tag, the Vivo X Fold 2 isn’t even available in markets outside of China. Whether that situation will change, Vivo isn’t saying, but it will definitely need a more polished Funtouch OS experience to improve its reception in international markets.

Verdict

At this point, almost all the major smartphone players except Apple have entered the foldable smartphone market. The competition will soon be just as fierce as it is in the “normal” smartphone arena. With many of them having nearly the same hinges and almost crease-free displays, manufacturers will have to find ways to differentiate their products in other ways that create better value for their customers. That doesn’t always have to be new hardware or gimmicky features. Sometimes, just having a powerful and beautiful device is enough to get people to buy. Just ask Apple!

The Vivo X Fold 2 clearly tries to reach those goalposts. Its elegant design actually makes the off-center circular camera bump work in a simple yet memorable way. In addition to its powerful hardware, the foldable phone offers unique features as well, like larger screens and in-display fingerprint sensors that even industry leaders failed to offer. Unfortunately, Vivo seems to also have cut a few corners in the process, and while they’re not deal-breakers on their own, they make the experience less than ideal altogether. As a successor, the Vivo X Fold 2 definitely rises to the challenge, but Vivo will need to step up its game to really leave a lasting mark in this growing market.

Aki Ukita and JC Torres contributed to this review.

The post Vivo X Fold 2 Foldable Phone Review: Beautiful, Big, and Bewildering first appeared on Yanko Design.

Foldable phones have been in the market for four years now, and despite Samsung’s aggressive marketing, it is still considered a niche and a very expensive one at that. The “regular” book-style foldables like the Galaxy Z Fold, the OPPO Find N2, and the upcoming Google Pixel Fold definitely spark the imagination and open up new use cases, but they also lack the mass appeal necessary to make the product line a success. In a nutshell, they have a hard time explaining why people would want to cough up a large amount of cash for what seems to be an experimental and unproven device. The new Motorola Razr+, also known as the Motorola Razr 40 Ultra elsewhere, is seemingly saying that you really don’t have to, and its latest design might finally succeed by targeting the market demographic that made the RAZR V3 an icon.

Designer: Motorola

Back when clamshells or flip phones were en vogue, the Motorola RAZR V3 turned heads because of its thin profile and chic design that turned what was normally seen as a business phone into a lifestyle choice. Motorola tried to recreate not only that phone’s magic but also its commercial success, redesigning the now ancient clamshell into a modern foldable phone. After a few tries, Motorola might have finally gotten the formula right, not only with the phone’s design but also with its product positioning.

Right from the start, the new Motorola Razr sported one of the largest external or cover displays for clamshell foldables, but the Motorola Razr+ pushes that envelope even further by having that screen take up almost all of the available space on that half of the phone. It makes it possible to use almost any app in that space, presuming you can stomach the still-small 3.6-inch screen. More than just using it as a camera viewfinder for better selfies, you can also use it to watch Videos, check Instagram, or even type with a full QWERTY keyboard if absolutely necessary. It’s not going to be fun, but the idea is that you won’t have to flip the phone open just to use it like a normal phone, especially when circumstances prevent you from doing that in the first place.

The large screen also opens up more opportunities for styling beyond simple stickers and widgets. Along with the stylish color options that include 2023’s “Viva Magenta,” there is plenty for fun-loving and suave people to like in the Motorola Razr+. In fact, most of the brand’s marketing revolves around a generation who loves to take photos, flaunt their style, and see their smartphones as more than just tools. In other words, the very kind of people that gravitated toward the original RAZR V3.

It also doesn’t hurt that the Motorola Razr+ is expected to cost a lot less than the competition, or at least that’s the expectation when it fully launches in the US. Even if it does cost $1,200, which is pretty much the same price as today’s high-end smartphones, the Motorola Razr+’s stylish design and more flexible functions make the idea of a foldable phone a little bit more normal and definitely more desirable.

The post How the Motorola Razr+ will finally make you want foldable phones first appeared on Yanko Design.