The tech world in the past months have all been abuzz about AI, both the good and the bad. Although the technology does have a lot of potential to improve our lives, we may have become too obsessed with it to realize that there are more opportunities for growth, especially when it comes to product design in tech. We have barely touched the tip of the iceberg of foldables, and there is still plenty of room for improvement when it comes to mobile photography.

At this year’s Mobile World Congress, we definitely saw a lot of designs and experiences enhanced by AI, but there was thankfully a lot more than that. We witnessed a blossoming of concepts and prototypes that challenged stereotypes and broke free of conventions. Whether they’re foldable phones, solar-powered laptops, or even augmented contact lenses, the floor was full of ideas that demonstrated not only the convergence of mobile technologies but also the power of innovation. Without further ado, here are our top picks for MWC 2025 that highlight the best not just in the mobile tech industry but also in product design.

Huawei Mate 70 Pro: The Ultimate Flagship Experience

The Huawei Mate 70 Pro, unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2025, pushes flagship smartphone innovation with its cutting-edge camera system, AI-enhanced performance, and rugged yet elegant design. As a premium device, it combines high-end materials with powerful hardware, making it a compelling choice for professionals and tech enthusiasts alike. Huawei’s latest advancements in display technology, computational photography, and battery efficiency ensure that the Mate 70 Pro remains a leader in the competitive smartphone market.

Featuring a 6.9-inch LTPO OLED display with 1316 x 2832 resolution, the Mate 70 Pro delivers a stunning visual experience with a 1–120Hz adaptive refresh rate and peak brightness of 2,500 nits. Huawei’s Kunlun Glass 2, reinforced with basalt fiber, provides five times the drop resistance of conventional glass, while IP68/IP69 certification ensures protection against high-pressure water jets and submersion. The device’s sleek aluminum alloy frame, available in Black, Purple, White, and Green, balances durability with an ergonomic feel.

The Ultra Chroma Camera system redefines mobile photography, headlined by a 50MP main sensor with an adjustable f/1.4–f/4.0 aperture for dynamic lighting control. A 48MP periscope telephoto lens supports 3.5x optical zoom with OIS, while a 40MP ultra-wide lens offers distortion-free landscapes. A 1.5MP multi-spectral sensor enhances color accuracy, refining details for lifelike image reproduction. AI-powered features, such as AI Movement Trajectory and AI Heroic Moment, introduce creative tools for capturing dynamic moments with precision.

Under the hood, the Kirin 9020 chipset powers the Mate 70 Pro, delivering a 40% performance boost over its predecessor. With 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and up to 1TB of UFS 4.0 storage, the device ensures seamless multitasking and fluid gaming performance. Connectivity is bolstered by Beidou satellite messaging, Wi-Fi 7, and NearLink technology, allowing users to stay connected in any scenario. The Premium Edition offers a slightly underclocked chipset at a lower price, catering to budget-conscious buyers in select regions.

The 5,500 mAh battery supports 100W wired charging, reaching 50% in just 18 minutes, 80W wireless charging, and 20W reverse wireless power sharing. HarmonyOS NEXT introduces new AI-driven features, such as real-time translation, gesture-based file sharing, and enhanced multi-device collaboration. With strong pre-order numbers and a competitive price point, the Mate 70 Pro stands as one of Huawei’s most ambitious flagships, combining top-tier performance with a refined user experience.

Lenovo ThinkBook Flip AI PC Concept: A Paradigm Shift in Mobile Computing

The Lenovo ThinkBook Flip AI PC Concept, unveiled at MWC 2025, reimagines the modern laptop with an 18.1-inch flexible OLED display that folds outward. This allows for seamless transitions between a compact 13-inch clamshell and an expansive vertical workspace. Built on the same advanced panel technology as Lenovo’s upcoming ThinkBook Gen 6, the Flip features a Z-shaped chassis that maximizes screen utility. Its 2000 x 2664 OLED display delivers vibrant colors and sharp details, enhancing both productivity and creative work. Unlike rollable designs that compromise screen space, the Flip bends behind itself, eliminating wasted surface area. This engineering approach enables new multitasking and collaboration possibilities without requiring external peripherals. By addressing the durability concerns that have historically plagued foldable devices, Lenovo positions the Flip as a serious contender in the future of mobile computing.

The ThinkBook Flip introduces five distinct operational modes, each optimized for professional and creative tasks. In its clamshell form, it functions as a traditional 13.1-inch laptop, while the vertical configuration unfolds to its full 18.1-inch display for document review, coding, or immersive research. A split-screen mode divides the display into 13.1-inch and 12.9-inch sections, making real-time collaboration seamless, ideal for client presentations or team brainstorming. For creative professionals, the device transforms into a 12.9-inch tablet, offering a responsive canvas for digital pen input, while a reading mode optimizes the display for extended research sessions. A dual-hinge system ensures screen integrity across thousands of folds, eliminating wear and tear issues that have hindered earlier foldable designs. By allowing users to share screen space without disrupting their workflow, the Flip presents a significant advantage in hybrid work environments where in-person collaboration remains essential.

Beyond its innovative display, the ThinkBook Flip integrates a Smart ForcePad, a three-layer touchpad that adapts dynamically to different tasks. This illuminated surface transitions between numeric keypads, media controls, and customizable shortcuts through pressure-sensitive layers. Engineers demonstrated its ability to switch from calculator functions to presentation tools with a single tap, reducing dependence on external peripherals. Under the hood, the Flip is powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 32GB LPDDR5X RAM, and PCIe SSD storage, delivering smooth performance for AI-enhanced workflows. Connectivity is supported by Thunderbolt 4 ports, while a built-in fingerprint reader ensures security without compromising convenience. Early prototypes exhibited minor fragility, but later iterations unveiled in Barcelona showcased improved structural rigidity while maintaining a lightweight 1.22kg design.

Lenovo’s software advancements take the Flip beyond hardware innovation. The Workspace Split Screen feature uses machine learning to arrange applications intelligently across the expanded display, adjusting window sizes based on content type. AI-powered prompts during screen sharing help prevent accidental data exposure by keeping users aware of what’s displayed externally. A fold-aware interface introduces a swipeable control bar at the display’s midpoint, ensuring smooth transitions between modes while preserving active applications. These capabilities integrate with Lenovo’s broader AI ecosystem, including Smart Connect features that facilitate cross-device file management and voice-controlled workflows. When paired with optional Magic Bay accessories like secondary displays or AI companion modules, the Flip transforms into a hub for 3D modeling and real-time data visualization.

The ThinkBook Flip’s debut at MWC 2025 marks a pivotal moment in laptop design. It expands screen real estate without requiring bulky external monitors, incorporates AI-optimized tools that improve real-world productivity, and demonstrates that foldable laptops can achieve professional-grade durability. Lenovo’s engineers have addressed the fragility concerns of flexible OLED panels through advanced hinge design and protective material layering. Unlike conceptual devices that remain theoretical, the Flip’s multiple functional models suggest that commercialization is well within reach. For professionals seeking a future-ready device that enhances both portability and workspace efficiency, the ThinkBook Flip AI PC Concept represents a bold step toward the evolution of mobile computing.

Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 (2025): A Lightweight Tablet Built for Power and Productivity

The Huawei MatePad Pro 13.2 (2025), introduced at MWC 2025, pushes the limits of tablet technology with a focus on professionals and creatives. With a 5.5mm ultra-thin profile and 580g weight, it remains one of the lightest large-screen tablets while offering IP68/IP69 dust and water resistance for durability. The 13.2-inch OLED display delivers a 2,880 x 1,920 resolution, 144Hz adaptive refresh rate, and HUAWEI PaperMatte technology, reducing glare and improving visibility. 1,000 nits peak brightness ensures clarity even in sunlight, while TÜV Rheinland-certified low blue light emission helps reduce eye strain.

Performance varies by region, with the Kirin 9000S in global models and the Kirin 9020 in China, delivering a 30% multi-threaded boost over the previous generation. Paired with 12GB LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB/1TB UFS 3.1 storage, the tablet handles demanding tasks like 4K video editing and 3D rendering with sustained performance. A 3D graphene cooling system keeps thermals in check, ensuring smooth operation under heavy workloads.

Unlike most tablets, the MatePad Pro 13.2 includes a 50MP main sensor (global) or a 13MP + 8MP ultra-wide setup (China), making it useful for scanning, document processing, and augmented reality applications. A 16MP front camera with ToF 3D sensing enhances security and facial recognition. The 10,100mAh silicon-carbon battery provides up to 18 hours of 4K playback, while 100W wired charging restores 60% in 30 minutes and 50W wireless charging supports seamless docking.

HarmonyOS 4.3 (global) and 5.0 (China) improve productivity, featuring PC-level WPS Office, Multi-Screen Collaboration 4.0, and GoPaint Pro with 120+ brush presets for designers. Some Android apps remain unoptimized for the 3:2 aspect ratio, but Huawei’s software ecosystem continues to mature. Accessories like the Smart Magnetic Keyboard and M-Pencil 3 enhance workflow, with 16K pressure sensitivity and tilt recognition for precise input.

Priced at €999 in Europe and CN¥6,199 in China, the MatePad Pro 13.2 positions itself as a laptop alternative with a 40% lower total cost of ownership than the Surface Pro 10 over three years. With 500,000 pre-orders in 72 hours, it’s clear demand remains strong despite U.S. trade restrictions. The combination of a glare-free display, professional-grade performance, and deep HarmonyOS integration makes this one of the most capable tablets available for those seeking a powerful, lightweight productivity tool.

Lenovo Yoga Solar PC Concept: Pioneering Sustainable Computing at MWC 2025

The Lenovo Yoga Solar PC Concept, unveiled at MWC 2025, redefines sustainable mobile computing by integrating photovoltaic technology directly into its chassis. This ultra-slim 14-inch laptop features an 84-cell Back Contact Cell (BCC) panel capable of converting 24% of captured light into usable energy. At just 1.22kg and 15mm thick, the device balances portability with an intelligent solar charging system that draws power from both direct sunlight and ambient indoor lighting. Lenovo’s Dynamic Solar Tracking system optimizes energy capture in real-time, with 20 minutes of sunlight generating an hour of video playback. Still in the prototype stage, the Yoga Solar PC Concept pushes renewable energy integration forward, offering a glimpse into a future where mobile computing requires minimal reliance on traditional power sources.

At the core of its design is the Back Contact Cell technology, which relocates mounting brackets and gridlines to the rear of the photovoltaic cells, increasing active light absorption by 15%. This allows Lenovo to integrate 84 solar cells into the laptop lid without compromising its sleek form. During MWC demonstrations, the panel remained functional under varying lighting conditions, from bright outdoor environments to dimly lit offices. The Solar-First Energy system prioritizes harvested power for immediate use while intelligently managing battery cycles, extending the overall lifespan of the device’s energy storage components.

Beyond hardware, Lenovo’s Dynamic Solar Tracking system refines energy efficiency through real-time photovoltaic output monitoring. By analyzing light intensity and angle, machine learning algorithms optimize power allocation, achieving 18% greater efficiency compared to static solar panels. A dedicated companion app visualizes energy intake and usage, helping users maximize solar exposure during work sessions. More importantly, the system ensures consistent performance even during sudden transitions between indoor and outdoor lighting—critical for professionals who require uninterrupted computing power throughout the day.

Despite its sustainability focus, the Yoga Solar PC Concept doesn’t compromise on performance. It runs on Intel’s Lunar Lake Core Ultra 200 platform, paired with 32GB LPDDR5X RAM and PCIe 5.0 SSD storage. The 14-inch 2.8K OLED display consumes 22% less power than previous Yoga models through adaptive refresh rate technology. Lenovo has also ensured full connectivity, including dual Thunderbolt 4 ports and Wi-Fi 7 support. The 50.2Wh battery provides up to 8 hours of standalone use, which can be indefinitely extended under optimal solar conditions. Crucially, the solar integration does not add weight, debunking the assumption that renewable technology must come at the cost of mobility.

The Yoga Solar PC Concept introduces use cases that redefine mobile computing. For field researchers, its continuous solar charging enables week-long deployments without grid access, a breakthrough for ecological studies and disaster response teams. Urban professionals benefit from passive charging during commutes, with 15 minutes of balcony sunlight offsetting a coffee shop work session. In education, the built-in energy tracking app serves as a real-time sustainability learning tool. Lenovo also envisions corporate environments utilizing solar-charging workstations, potentially reducing energy consumption on a large scale. While commercialization remains a challenge due to high manufacturing costs, Lenovo anticipates price parity with conventional laptops by 2027, signaling a realistic pathway for solar-powered computing to transition from concept to consumer reality.

Huawei Watch GT5 Pro Ceramic Edition: A Study in Material Innovation and Timeless Design

Showcased at MWC 2025, the Huawei Watch GT5 Pro Ceramic Edition elevates smartwatch craftsmanship with its 42mm nanocrystalline ceramic body, combining resilience with an unmistakably refined aesthetic. Designed for those who value both precision engineering and longevity, it resists scratches, oxidation, and UV discoloration while maintaining a polished finish. The sapphire crystal AMOLED display, reaching 1,200 nits brightness, ensures durability and clarity in any setting. At 9.6mm thick and weighing 44g, it offers a more streamlined profile than the titanium variant, making it a wearable that merges elegance with all-day comfort.

Huawei’s expertise in materials extends to durability, with IP69K/IP68 + 5ATM certification, making the watch resistant to 40-meter free diving and high-pressure water jets. The EasyFit 3.0 quick-release mechanism allows for seamless strap swaps, including a ceramic link bracelet engineered to prevent loosening over time. The octagonal bezel, framed in polished ceramic, reinforces the watch’s minimalist design while protecting the sapphire crystal display, which retains sharp visibility under direct sunlight.

More than a statement in design, the GT5 Pro delivers advanced health tracking through TruSense 5.0, offering 12-channel SpO2 monitoring, ECG arrhythmia detection, and arterial stiffness analysis. Pulse wave velocity (PWV) sensors introduce a rare capability in consumer wearables, providing real-time cardiovascular assessments. The ceramic backplate incorporates glass-darkening technology, improving sensor accuracy by 18% compared to the titanium model, enhancing the watch’s ability to function as a precise health companion.

Powered by HarmonyOS 5.0, the watch functions independently with eSIM support for calls and messaging, while AI-driven workout coaching adapts to the user’s heart rate variability. Specialized features, including Golf Mode with 40,000+ mapped courses and WPS Office Lite for document previews, further integrate the watch into Huawei’s growing ecosystem. A 440mAh battery provides up to 14 days of use, with wireless charging completing a full cycle in 90 minutes, ensuring longevity without performance trade-offs.

Priced at €449 with a ceramic strap and €379 with a fluoroelastomer band, the GT5 Pro Ceramic Edition challenges the Apple Watch Ultra 2 and Samsung Galaxy Watch 7 Classic, offering premium materials and extended battery life at a more accessible price. Pre-orders surpassed 50,000 units in 72 hours, with strong interest from female professionals. Huawei’s partnership with Tag Heuer for co-branded ceramic straps hints at ambitions beyond the smartwatch market, reinforcing the idea that fine craftsmanship and intelligent engineering belong in the same conversation.

Lenovo Magic Bay Display System: Redefining Mobile Workspace Expansion at MWC 2025

The Lenovo Magic Bay Display System, unveiled at MWC 2025, redefines laptop extensibility with its magnetic modular display concepts. At its core are two innovations: the Magic Bay Dual Display Concept, featuring dual 13.3-inch screens, and the Magic Bay 2nd Display Concept, an 8-inch vertical panel. These displays attach seamlessly to compatible ThinkBook laptops via Lenovo’s proprietary magnetic pogo-pin connector, eliminating the need for cables or external power. Unlike traditional portable monitors, they sync automatically with Windows’ multi-display support, offering near-zero latency cursor transitions and adaptive resolution scaling up to 2880×1920 at 120Hz. Lenovo’s approach streamlines multi-screen workflows, making mobile workstations more efficient and compact.

The engineering behind the Magic Bay system centers on its Zero-Compromise Attachment Mechanism. Using neodymium magnets and a 48-pin connector, displays instantly integrate with ThinkBook 16P Gen 6 laptops, drawing power and data without USB-C or HDMI cables. The Dual Display’s folding hinge design collapses into a 1.2kg bundle thinner than a standard notebook, while the 2nd Display weighs just 300g. Rigorous stress tests confirm that the magnetic attachment withstands 5kg of lateral force, ensuring stability during transport. These refinements eliminate the bulk and setup complexity typically associated with portable monitors.

Both displays push visual performance forward. The Dual Display’s twin 13.3-inch IPS panels achieve a 2880×1920 resolution with a 1500:1 contrast ratio and 120Hz refresh rate, delivering professional-grade accuracy for video editing and 3D modeling. The 2nd Display’s 9:16 aspect ratio optimizes your workspace for messaging apps, coding, and social feeds, replacing the need for portrait-oriented external monitors. Integrated ambient light sensors adjust brightness automatically across all screens, ensuring visual consistency in changing environments. These features elevate productivity without adding unnecessary complexity to the user experience.

Lenovo enhances the system further with AI-powered workflow optimizations. The 2nd Display’s Smart Taskbar anticipates frequently used applications based on time-of-day patterns, offering instant access to essential tools. The Dual Display benefits from an Eye Tracking Mode that dims unused panels, reducing power consumption by up to 37% over extended sessions. Automated window management improves efficiency, allowing users to drag files to specific screens and trigger preloaded software configurations. These AI-driven enhancements move beyond conventional multi-display setups by actively adapting to user habits.

The Magic Bay system solves key industry pain points—setup complexity, power management, and ergonomic limitations—while offering a forward-thinking approach to modular computing. Early prototypes faced battery life challenges, with both Dual Display panels running at 120Hz halving the ThinkBook’s runtime to 4.2 hours, but future PCIe 5.0 integration is expected to reduce power draw by 18%. Lenovo’s roadmap suggests a commercial release in Q4 2026, with a developer SDK launching in late 2025 to support third-party software optimization. By making multi-screen expansion a native laptop function rather than an add-on, the Magic Bay Display System represents a fundamental shift in mobile workstation design.

Xiaomi Modular Optical System Concept

Smartphone cameras may have gotten really powerful these days, but limitations of size mean that they still fall short of challenging actual cameras. This is especially true when optics or lenses are concerned, as there isn’t enough room for better but bulkier components. Lens attachments like those from Moment solve only one part of the problem, but Xiaomi’s concept is selling a whole package that is as easy as sticking a magnetic accessory to the back of the phone.

The Xiaomi Modular Optic System or MOS Concept is basically a camera lens with a built-in imaging sensor. It boasts a precision-engineered 35mm f/1.4 lens paired with a powerful 100MP Light Fusion X Type 4/3 sensor that’s almost twice the size of the largest smartphone sensor in the market today. That means better image quality overall, but the real clincher is how it magnetically attaches to the back of the phone and works in the same way as the phone’s built-in cameras. You can even use the native camera app!

This seemingly magical feat is made possible by a new Xiaomi LaserLink technology that allows ultra-fast 10Gbps wireless data transfer between the MOS and a Xiaomi phone. The module also gets its power from the phone wirelessly, making the experience effortless. Simply snap the MOS on the phone’s back and start shooting. As a bonus, it attaches to the middle of the phone’s back, making you look and feel like you’re actually using a professional digital camera, complete with a cylindrical lens.

Tecno Spark Slim Concept: Ultra-Thin Design Meets Premium

DurabilityThe Tecno Spark Slim concept takes smartphone design in a bold direction, embracing a ceramic and stainless steel unibody construction that delivers a premium feel while maintaining an ultra-thin profile. At just 5.75mm thick, it stands among the slimmest smartphone concepts, yet it houses a 5200mAh battery—an impressive feat of engineering that prioritizes both aesthetics and practicality. The use of ceramic provides a smooth, polished surface that resists scratches and fingerprints, while stainless steel reinforces the frame, ensuring durability without adding unnecessary weight. This combination strikes a balance between refinement and structural integrity, making the device feel robust despite its minimal thickness.

The design language follows a minimalist approach, with a pill-shaped horizontal camera module that deviates from most smartphones’ standard vertical or square layouts. The glossy back panel enhances its refined look, while subtle curves along the edges improve grip and comfort. This attention to symmetry and balance results in a clean, modern aesthetic that aligns with contemporary premium smartphone trends. The seamless integration of materials and the precise craftsmanship create a device that looks as sophisticated as it feels in hand.

Despite ultra-thin smartphones’ challenges in heat dissipation and battery capacity, Tecno has implemented a design that optimizes both. The ceramic back aids in thermal management, preventing excessive heat buildup during extended use, while the stainless steel frame enhances rigidity, ensuring the device does not feel fragile. The internal structure accommodates a large-capacity battery without compromising overall durability, showcasing smart engineering choices that make the Spark Slim concept practical for everyday use.

Tecno has created a concept device that redefines expectations for budget-friendly smartphones by focusing on both practicality and aesthetics. The Spark Slim’s materials and construction elevate it beyond conventional thin smartphones, offering a combination of durability, comfort, and sleek design. Unlike many devices that rely on flashy design elements to stand out, this model achieves distinction through its refined material choices and careful attention to detail.

Tecno’s approach with the Spark Slim concept demonstrates that ultra-thin smartphones don’t have to sacrifice functionality for design. By integrating premium materials with an impressively slim form factor, the brand has introduced a concept that is as stylish as it is durable. With a large battery, a thoughtfully designed frame, and a focus on ergonomics, the Spark Slim sets a new benchmark for sleek yet practical smartphone concepts in its category.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra

Smartphones these days have always made the camera a focal point, pun totally intended, but Xiaomi really took that to the next level in its most powerful flagship yet. It completely embraced the image of a smartphone camera by making the smartphone look like a camera. This can be clearly seen in the special Silver Chrome edition that mimics the appearance of a classic camera, faux leather and all.

This isn’t the first time this design has been tried (anyone remember the Samsung Galaxy Zoom?), but we’re finally at a point where you don’t need an obnoxious camera lens to get the same quality. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra’s design still works even with the other two colorways, but you might want to slap on the Photography Kit to really get that camera feel, including an ergonomic grip, a dedicated shutter button, and a battery pack that will keep you clicking and clicking.

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra isn’t just about look, though. We found it to be quite the impressive smartphone for tasks that go beyond photography. Those looking for a premium smartphone with all the bells and whistles, this should definitely be among your options. And if you do decide on it, try grabbing that Silver Chrome version to really give you that pro photographer feeling.

TECNO AI Glasses Pro: Lightweight AR Innovation with Hybrid AI and High-Resolution Optics

The TECNO AI Glasses Pro, unveiled at MWC 2025, pushes the boundaries of consumer-grade augmented reality. Weighing just 48g, these wearables integrate a 50MP imaging system with WaveGuide-enhanced MicroLED optics, delivering enterprise-grade AR functionality in a lightweight form. The device offers a 30-degree field of view and 1,500-nit brightness for seamless indoor and outdoor use, featuring real-time translation, object recognition, and AI-driven navigation through TECNO’s Ella AI assistant. The translation system operates on a hybrid AI architecture, leveraging on-device large language models (LLMs) for immediate tasks while utilizing cloud-based machine learning for complex queries, ensuring efficient and responsive performance.

The optical system is built around a 7th-generation resin WaveGuide display, co-developed with Meta-Bounds, ensuring crisp 720p visuals without obstructing environmental awareness. Unlike earlier AR wearables with floating screen effects, TECNO employs dichroic mirrors and multi-layer coatings to enhance light transmission efficiency. The result is a thinner WaveGuide stack that maintains durability using aerospace-grade aluminum alloy and graphene composites, reducing temple width to just 6.8mm. The Snapdragon AR1 Gen 2 chipset powers the device’s SLAM tracking at 60fps, delivering real-time navigation overlays with sub-2ms latency, providing an intuitive AR experience for contextual guidance.

A 50MP main camera with a custom 6P lens and OV50D sensor matches the imaging capabilities of TECNO’s CAMON 40 Premier smartphone. The SmartSnap feature automatically adjusts settings for social media-ready shots, while AI HDR dynamically optimizes video contrast. With a 12MP depth sensor, the device delivers millimeter-precise object recognition, enhancing AR overlays for industries like logistics and healthcare. These imaging advancements allow users to capture high-quality content while interacting with their surroundings in real time.

TECNO’s Ella AI assistant transforms the Glasses Pro into a proactive productivity tool. Real-time translation covers over 100 languages, while contextual navigation projects directional overlays via Snapdragon’s AR1 Gen 2 chipset. The AI Info feature streamlines notifications, condensing messages, calendar alerts, and updates into brief summaries. Combined with seamless device syncing across TECNO’s AI ecosystem, the Glasses Pro enhances collaboration and efficiency.

Designed for all-day wear, the Glasses Pro features a magnesium alloy frame and graphene-reinforced hinges, ensuring comfort and durability. A 250mAh graphene battery powers up to eight hours of AR use, with a 30-minute quick charge restoring 50% capacity. TECNO emphasizes sustainability through mercury-free displays and the use of recycled materials, though no official solar-powered accessories have been confirmed. While pricing details remain undisclosed, the AI Glasses Pro represents TECNO’s push to democratize AR by making advanced features more accessible to a wider audience.

Realme Interchangeable-Lens Concept

One of the biggest problems with smartphone photography is the fixed lens design: you can only use the kind of lens that comes with the sensor inside the phone. Accessories like Moment Lenses try to overcome that limitation but stops short of delivering the flexibility and quality that pro photographers really need. For that, you’ll need the same kind of lenses that they use, and Realme is proposing exactly that.

The Interchangeable-Lens Concept is a device that practically lets you attach DSLR lenses directly to the phone. The phone has a large proprietary lens mount system around a 1-inch customized Sony sensor, a setup that will be familiar to many DSLR owners. With the included 73mm portrait and 234mm telephoto lenses, users will be able to pull off beautiful, creamy bokehs and actual lossless 10x zooms without breaking a sweat.

The concept phone is, of course, still just that, and the company will still have to iron out a few details, like how to makes sure that the sensor doesn’t get smudged without those DSLR lenses attached. Still, Realme definitely deserves credit for thinking outside the box to solve one of the biggest puzzles in smartphone camera design.

Samsung Moohan XR Headset

Apple definitely wowed the crowd with its Vision Pro demo, but the fact is that very few people will switch allegiances just for it. Especially if they can’t even afford to experience the beauty and power of spatial computing. Thankfully, it isn’t the only game in town, and we definitely can’t wait for Samsung’s Project Moohan XR headset to leave the woodwork and finally break the tie between Apple and Meta.

What we’re seeing here at MWC 2025 is definitely getting our hopes up, showing off a sleek design that, while still undeniably a headset, doesn’t scream the geek or gamer aesthetic of the Meta Quest. Although Samsung held off the MWC crowd at arm’s length, we can already make out a few key details, such as the four cameras in the corners of the front frame. Like the Vision Pro, the design wraps around the head, and both the light seal and the back cushion seem to be covered with fabric reminiscent of Google’s Home speakers.

The appeal of Project Moohan, however, goes beyond its stylish and lightweight design. Made in collaboration with both Qualcomm and Google, the device will most likely be the first to demonstrate the Android XR, a more open mixed reality platform that is the product of industry collaboration rather than a single company. It has the potential to open the floodgates of the XR market once again, and we can only cross our fingers at this design’s immediate release.

OPPO Find N5 Foldable

The idea of a foldable phone, one that can expand to double its size or fold in half, is easy enough to understand in principle. The implementation, however, is anything but. In addition to ensuring the durability of the flexible screen and the hinge, there is also one other factor that has to be considered. If the folded phone is literally the thickness of two phones stacked on top of each other, the appeal of putting such a device in your pocket instantly evaporates.

Thus there’s this obsession with bringing out the thinnest foldable smartphone in the market, mirroring a similar trend in regular smartphones a few years back. It’s bound to be a volatile segment, considering how we haven’t yet reached peak thinness, but the current crown belongs to the OPPO Find N5, at least among the book-style foldables. Only 8.93mm thin when folded, it’s not that much thicker than a normal non-foldable phone. It’s pretty light, too, at only 229g.

Best of all, it works as well as it looks, delivering topnotch performance in such a beautiful package. It truly demonstrates what this device segment is capable of, and the potential that can still be unlocked through smart design. If bulk and heft were the major reasons you held off from foldable phones, the OPPO Find N5 would make that hesitation vanish.

RedMagic 10 Pro Golden Saga

Although every high-end premium phone is technically capable of heavy mobile gaming, there is still a rather niche market that tries to really squeeze out every ounce of performance possible with over-the-top cooling, specialized performance modes, and invisible buttons. While these factors might sing to the hearts of hardcore gamers, some people shy away from these gaming smartphones for one rather simple reason: their aesthetics. Contrary to stereotypes, not all gamers subscribe to dark color schemes and neon RGB highlights that dominate the market.

The RedMagic 10 Pro Golden Saga Limited Edition tries to shatter that stereotype with a design that can be best described as posh and luxurious, words you’d definitely not associate with common gamer aesthetics. It still has a predominantly black hue but also makes generous use of silver and gold, both inside and outside. You might not believe the marketing and you might not see it for yourself, but simply knowing that there’s a gold vapor chamber inside rather than copper and that it uses a silver alloy air duct is probably enough to make you feel special.

Although only a limited few will actually enjoy that feeling, the RedMagic 10 Pro Golden Saga at least proves that gaming smartphones don’t have to look like cyberpunk props. Gamers, after all, are not a homogeneous group, and some will definitely dig the style of a phone that not only makes them stand out from their gaming peers but also allows them to blend with the high-profile crowds.

XPANCEO Smart Contact Lenses: The Future of AR and Health Tech in Your Eyes

XPANCEO’s smart contact lens prototypes, unveiled at Mobile World Congress 2025, bring the future of wearable technology closer to everyday life. These five experimental lenses go beyond vision correction, offering real-time health tracking, AR displays, and seamless digital interaction—all in a form as comfortable as regular contact lenses. From monitoring eye pressure for glaucoma detection to displaying augmented reality overlays without bulky headsets, XPANCEO is turning science fiction into reality, making smart lenses a potential game-changer for consumers.

One of the biggest innovations is the Smart Contact Lens with Wireless Powering Companion, which solves the issue of keeping electronics running in such a tiny form. Instead of using a battery, the lens wirelessly receives power from a small portable case, similar to an earbud charger. This breakthrough keeps the lens ultra-thin and breathable while providing hours of use for AR visuals or health monitoring features. It also ensures safe energy transfer, with radiation levels comparable to common wearable devices like wireless headphones.

XPANCEO’s Biosensing Smart Contact Lens acts like a personal health assistant, analyzing tear fluid to provide real-time insights into glucose levels, stress hormones, and vitamin deficiencies. This could be a game-changer for people with diabetes or those looking for a simple way to track their well-being. The Smart Contact Lens with IOP Sensor continuously measures eye pressure, helping detect early signs of glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness. The companion app even uses AI to predict risks and suggest lifestyle adjustments to improve eye health.

For those interested in AR without the bulk of glasses or headsets, the AR Vision Smart Contact Lens projects digital information directly onto the retina, creating a screen that only the wearer can see. It automatically adjusts brightness for outdoor and indoor settings and allows hands-free control through eye movements. The display delivers high-resolution visuals while drawing minimal power through wireless charging. The Smart Contact Lens for Data Reading adds connectivity features, syncing health data to cloud platforms and electronic health records for easier access and tracking.

XPANCEO’s prototypes are still in development, with medical versions expected to take longer due to regulatory approvals. Consumer AR models designed for entertainment, navigation, and fitness tracking may hit the market sooner. While challenges remain in bringing this technology to everyday users, XPANCEO’s vision is clear: smart contact lenses could soon replace screens and wearables, offering an effortless way to stay connected, healthy, and informed—all without anyone knowing you’re wearing the future.

The post Yanko Design Best of MWC 2025: Envisioning the Future of Communication and Creativity first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• Slim, sleek, and stylish design that can squeeze under low spaces


• StarSight system enables fast and accurate navigation


• Effective anti-tangling features


• Doesn't require as much manual maintenance


• Auto-detach mopping pads for vacuum-only or carpet cleaning

CONS:

• A bit pricey


• No white colorway available

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Roborock Saros 10R represents the pinnacle of what robot vacuum cleaners are currently capable of, delivering quality-of-life features in a design that won't look out of place in a luxurious interior.

Robot vacuum cleaners have definitely come a long way. From the very first flat can that bravely ventured into the treacherous terrain of your living room floor, to the sophisticated and posh self-maintaining flat cans that we have today, robot cleaners are leaving humans with fewer excuses not to keep their floors spotless. At the same time, however, we’re seeing a kind of uniformity in how these designs look, practically thick discs with a smaller disc on top.

At CES 2025 last month, Roborock boldly shattered preconceived notions of what these machines are capable of, particularly with the Saros Z70 and its robotic arm. Now it’s also challenging presumptions on what robot vacuum cleaners can look like, with what could probably be one of the thinnest designs on the market. But is the Roborock Saros 10R just a pretty face or is there true power hiding behind its slim figure? We give the robot a few spins (or rather make it take a few spins) to find out.

Designer: Roborock

Click Here to Buy Now: $1399.99 $1599.99 ($200 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Aesthetics

Robot vacuum designs are one of the biggest areas of improvement in this product category over the past few years. Gone are the bland and boring circles and boxes, replaced with forms that finally aim to blend better with our interior decor. You still have the typical utilitarian designs, of course, but the Saros 10R is fortunately not one of those.

The low 10-in-1 Multifunctional Dock 4.0 is so compact and space-efficient that you might be initially dubious of its capabilities and capacity. Make no mistake, it definitely deserves that 10-in-1 title, but it’s a testament to Roborock’s designers that it was able to cram that much in such a slim form. Even better, the box looks quite luxurious with its reflective front panels and handsome black color scheme. Unfortunately, that’s also the only color option available for this model. Those who want a white robot cleaner might be interested in its twin, the Roborock Saros 10, which launched on the same day and enjoys the same discounts.

The design upgrade doesn’t stop at the dock either. The Roborock Saros 10R immediately sets itself apart visually with the lack of a disc protruding from its top. This is thanks to the company’s fancy new StarSight Autonomous System 2.0 tech that we’ll get to later, but it’s enough to give the vac a height advantage over the competition. Standing at only 3.14 inches (7.98 cm), it can easily go under furniture with a low vertical clearance, allowing it to reach more places and improve its cleaning efficiency.

The dual-tone scheme of the dock continues to the vacuum itself, with the top sporting a glossy surface near the front and the rest getting a matte material. This section is actually a removable cover that gives you access to the dust bin inside. All in all, the Saros 10R definitely exudes a kind of luxury and elegance that’s hopefully becoming the trend in this market segment.

Ergonomics

Even the most beautiful and most powerful product would be a failure if it were difficult to use and handle. Ergonomics plays an essential part in any product design, though it ironically works in the opposite sense when it comes to robot vacuums and mops. Considering the health risks involved, the less you have to actually handle and touch the machine, the better it is, which is exactly what the Roborock Saros 10R delivers. When you do need to manually get involved, however, it’s mostly effortless.

Self-emptying dust bin functionality should be a standard in robot vacuums in this day and age, removing the need to get your hands dirty and expose yourself to harmful chemicals. Self-washing mops are still a premium feature, though, and the Saros 10R thankfully does have it, saving you from having to wash mops by hand or wastefully replace them regularly. Roborock takes this convenience one step further with an automatic detaching feature for the mopping pads, meaning they won’t have to drag the mop around if you’re just vacuuming anyway.

You will still have to take out the dirty water and refill the clean water tank yourself unless you opt for an additional accessory that also automates that, but the large bins are thankfully easy to lift out of the dock. Unfortunately, the removable dust bag is a slightly different story, because, unlike most designs, this one is installed sideways to conserve vertical space. This means there’s a potential to spill some of the contents when you’re taking it out if you’re not careful, defeating the purpose of a sanitized system.

Performance

The Roborock Saros 10R is filled to the brim with features that we don’t know where to even begin. Fortunately, the majority of these features are either configured just once and you forget about it, or you don’t even have to think about them in the first place. Even with all its power, the Saros 10R makes the process so simple that you rarely have to worry aside from the initial learning curve and a few mishaps here and there.

Right at the top of the list of highlight features is the one that makes it possible for the robot to not have a top. The StarSight Autonomous System 2.0 replaces the typical laser-based LDS navigation system most robot vacuum cleaners use, and it puts all the sensors in front (and some at the back), removing the need to have a hump on top. Without going into the technical details, it uses the same technologies that Apple’s highly accurate Face ID uses to map out your face, though the Saros 10R uses that technology to map out the world in front of it instead.

The result is an accurate and responsive robot that can navigate through most obstacles and accidents that are waiting to happen. It’s not foolproof, especially with extra small objects or very thin cables, but it can safely navigate around toys, chair legs, and other things most of the time. And because it has made the design even thinner, StarSight practically allows the Saros 10R to reach under furniture better, allowing it to clean spaces that were previously out of reach.

Another killer feature is its anti-tangling features, a true hero for households with people with long hair as well as furry family members. The innovative DuoDivide main brush uses a conical shape rather than a cylindrical brush to guide gathered hair and fur toward a specific direction, in this case, the gap between the two brushes. Because the brushes are also spinning at slightly different speeds, hairs more easily detach from the brushes and get sucked up by the vacuum. Hair today, gone later!

The side brush has also been redesigned to avoid tangles and be more efficient, even though it now only has two arms. It’s specially designed to reach further and push dust and hair toward the main brush without getting tangled up in them. Thanks to the FlexiArm Raiser feature, the side brush can automatically retract to avoid furniture collision and extend when it needs to reach out. In fact, one of the mopping pads also has this feature, ensuring that corners and edges are wiped just as well.

One of the biggest concerns about dual-duty robot cleaners like this is when wet mopping pads touch carpets, so the Saros 10R has two solutions for these. One is to leave the mops behind as mentioned earlier, but another is the new AdaptiLift feature that can raise the chassis itself by up to 10mm and the mops for a total of 22mm, avoiding even thicker carpets and rugs. Its 4x Liftable Design also makes short work of thresholds, though the robot might struggle a bit in the first runs.

It’s quite impressive how fast and well the Roborock Saros 10R learns, even going as far as automatically marking some places as no-go zones after repeated failures with obstacles. In fact, most of its operations are completely automated, including cleaning itself after washing the mop to wash away any gunk that fell off from the pads. You still have complete control, of course, thanks to an easy-to-use mobile app. Given how many features are available, you might want to give the app a good look to make sure you have all the settings properly configured.

Sustainability

We haven’t come to a point where household appliances like these will be made using sustainable materials, but there are other wins in this regard. In particular, operating more efficiently and using fewer resources can help push its carbon footprint down. For example, the Saros 10R’s SmartPlan AI can automatically determine how much water to inject into the mopping pads so that it doesn’t need to waste water. The dust bags and mops are all reusable so you don’t have to throw them away unless really necessary.

Maintaining and repairing the Saros 10R is also easy given its modular design. There’s a bottom cover on the dock, for example, that can be removed using a standard screwdriver in case there are clogs in the self-emptying line. The mop washer is also removable so you can clean it more easily without having to disassemble the whole dock. The Roborock Saros 10R doesn’t just give peace of mind when cleaning the house but also when keeping itself clean as well.

Value

There’s no going around the fact that the Roborock Saros 10R is an expensive product given its full $1,600 price tag. But to make your hearts flutter this week, Roborock is offering a $200 discount from Feb. 10 to Feb. 16. The question is whether that price tag is actually well-deserved, and the answer is a resounding yes. You are, after all, getting a ton of features to keep your house clean without much effort, and some of those features aren’t even found in competing products.

The thin body alone, thanks to StarSight technology, has a huge impact on how much more it can reach, especially under furniture. Not worrying about tangles and getting your hands dirty from untangling brushes also takes away one more reason to even touch the machine. Quickly charging in 2.5 hours, having a real-time video feed of what it sees, and a voice-controlled AI assistant that works even without an Internet connection all add up to a product designed for comfortable living.

Verdict

It’s hard to pick out a fatal flaw in the Saros 10R. Sure, its navigation isn’t perfect, but it’s definitely not worse than the most capable models in the market. The fact that it can still pull that off without a bump on its head is an even bigger testament to the nascent technology. When the only deal-breakers you can think of are the price tag and the black-only color option, then you probably get the picture of what this robot cleaner really is.

You can practically leave it unattended and expect to see a clean floor every time. Unless it snags on something, the only time it will even call your attention is when you need to clean out the water tanks and the dust bag, which shouldn’t happen too often anyway. Its clean and elegant design also makes it quite a sight, to the point that you might even want to put it on display rather than tuck it away in a corner. The Roborock Saros 10R definitely pulls out all the stops to let you stop worrying about dirt and spills and instead channel your time and energy on things that matter more.

Click Here to Buy Now: $1399.99 $1599.99 ($200 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

The post Roborock Saros 10R Robot Vacuum Review: Advanced Cleaning Features Never Looked so Beautiful first appeared on Yanko Design.

Trends come and go, but there are a few that manage to stick around a bit longer than others. Once a novelty, smartphones are now an integral part of life, while interest in mixed reality technologies wax and wane regularly. Artificial intelligence is the latest buzzword, but it has so far proven to have staying power, at least for now. It is being integrated into almost any product or process these days, sometimes in over-the-top and harmful ways.

AI once again plays a major role in CES 2025, but now a little less in your face. Whether it’s driving the development of new designs, powering smart home features, or breaking down language barriers, AI is becoming not just a tool but also an ally in empowering people to grow and reach their potential more quickly and more effortlessly. As always, Las Vegas was flooded with the latest and greatest products and designs, so we distilled these innovations down to a few that truly represented how AI and technology, when wielded properly, can be powerful weapons in living healthier, richer, and more meaningful lives.

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable Laptop

The ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable is making waves at CES 2025 as Lenovo unveils a groundbreaking laptop that merges futuristic design with practicality. This rollable display AI laptop reimagines portable computing, offering a unique blend of versatility and innovation for professionals and creatives alike. With its ability to transition seamlessly between work and play, this device is set to redefine how users interact with technology in various environments.

The laptop’s rollable display technology allows it to transform from a compact 14-inch screen to an impressive 16.7-inch vertical display with ease. This expansion provides nearly 50% more usable screen space, making it ideal for multitasking and content creation. The vibrant IPS panel, with a high refresh rate and excellent color accuracy, ensures a visually stunning experience. Its ergonomic design also promotes better posture, which is crucial during extended work sessions.

Designer: Lenovo

Equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 9 Processor and Intel Arc Xe graphics, the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 Rollable offers powerful performance and efficiency. With up to 64GB of memory and 3TB of storage, it handles demanding applications effortlessly. AI features like Lenovo AI Now and Cocreator enhance productivity by optimizing workflows and offering creative tools. These innovations make the laptop a formidable tool for both offline and cloud-based tasks.

The rollable display sets this laptop apart from other models in the ThinkBook lineup, offering unparalleled screen flexibility. While previous models focused on dual-screen and E Ink technology, the Rollable caters to users who need extensive vertical space for documents and creative projects. This distinction highlights Lenovo’s dedication to providing tailored solutions for diverse professional and creative needs, emphasizing screen versatility and productivity.

Modern connectivity features such as Thunderbolt 4 and Intel Wi-Fi 7 ensure smooth operation, crucial for data-heavy tasks and video conferencing. The inclusion of Dolby Atmos audio and an advanced RGBIR camera with gesture controls enhances user interaction. These features simplify tasks like presentations and media playback, making the laptop a powerful tool for communication and entertainment in today’s hybrid work environments.

Hisense 116″ UX TV

Get ready to be blown away by the Hisense 116″ UX RGB MiniLED TV, a true marvel in home entertainment that raises the bar for visual and audio excellence! With its groundbreaking RGB MiniLED technology, this TV dazzles by using separate red, green, and blue diodes to create colors that pop right off the screen. Imagine covering over 95% of the BT.2020 color space—this means breathtakingly vivid and lifelike images that will leave you in awe!

But wait, there’s more! The Hisense 116″ UX doesn’t just stop at stunning visuals. It cranks up the brightness to a jaw-dropping 10,000 nits, making every scene leap out with crystal-clear detail. Plus, it’s eco-friendly, cutting down on energy use and blue light emissions. And with Dolby Vision IQ and IMAX Enhanced, you’re in for a cinematic treat right in your living room—talk about a mind-blowing experience!

Prepare to be swept off your feet by the immersive audio experience, thanks to the powerful 6.2.2 surround sound system. It wraps you in rich, dynamic sound, making every moment feel like you’re right there in the action. And let’s talk about style—the ultra-slim design and low-glare panel make this TV a sleek addition to any room. With an ultra-wide viewing angle, everyone gets the best seat in the house!

Designer: Hisense

The Hisense 116″ UX TV is a technological masterpiece, standing out with its innovative RGB MiniLED tech. By creating colors with individual diodes, it achieves unmatched color precision and brightness. The Hi-View AI Engine X is like a wizard, managing a vast array of RGB lenses for perfect dimming and contrast, ensuring you get the ultimate viewing experience every time.

This TV is the epitome of cutting-edge technology and design, making it the ideal choice for those seeking the ultimate home entertainment system. Its combination of exceptional picture quality, innovative features, and sleek design makes the Hisense 116″ UX TV a standout option for anyone looking to upgrade their viewing experience. Whether you’re watching a movie or playing video games, this TV promises to deliver a captivating and immersive experience every time.

EcoFlow OASIS Smart Home Energy Management System

EcoFlow OASIS revolutionizes home energy management with its intelligent and user-friendly platform, accessible via mobile devices. This smart system streamlines the control of energy production, storage, and use, integrating seamlessly with solar setups. With real-time monitoring and AI-driven insights, OASIS enhances EcoFlow’s power solutions, offering a holistic approach to managing home energy. Its intuitive design ensures users can effortlessly navigate and optimize their energy consumption for a more sustainable lifestyle.

Supporting a wide array of EcoFlow products and compatible third-party devices, OASIS provides a comprehensive energy management experience. Through the EcoFlow app or PowerInsights Monitor, users can engage with the system using natural language queries. Predictive analytics forecast energy needs and environmental factors, offering actionable recommendations for maximizing energy efficiency and cost savings. This intelligent interaction ensures users can make informed decisions about their energy use.

Designer: EcoFlow

What sets EcoFlow OASIS apart is its ability to cater to diverse energy needs, from portable power solutions to advanced home systems. The platform’s customizable interface presents a clear picture of energy flow, enabling users to access crucial data swiftly. With AI-powered forecasting tools, it helps users anticipate electricity price trends and future energy demands, empowering them to make smart, data-driven choices. The system also offers simplified control over home energy, enhancing cost efficiency and disaster preparedness.

EcoFlow OASIS provides a comprehensive view of energy management, featuring real-time monitoring and customizable controls. Users can prioritize devices during outages and plan for long-term energy needs based on historical data. This system supports efficient energy use and sustainability by identifying trends like surplus solar production and suggesting upgrades. Its intelligent Q&A and data analysis offer insights into electricity price trends and future energy generation, preparing users for what lies ahead.

By utilizing data from its global user base, EcoFlow has enabled significant carbon reduction, with users generating over 15,000 MWh of solar power. This achievement equates to planting thousands of trees, underscoring EcoFlow’s commitment to sustainability. The platform’s seamless integration with various protocols and proactive data protection ensures a secure and efficient user experience. EcoFlow OASIS stands out as a leader in smart energy solutions, redefining how households manage their energy needs.

Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra Robot Pool Cleaner

The AquaSense 2 Ultra sets a new standard in pool maintenance with its advanced technology. Utilizing HybridSense AI Pool Mapping, it employs AI cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and infrared detection to navigate intricate pool designs efficiently. This multi-sensor approach gathers real-time data, enabling it to clean thoroughly while conserving energy. Pool owners enjoy an intelligent cleaning process that minimizes manual intervention, ensuring every corner is spotless without the need for repeated passes.

The AquaSense 2 Ultra combines form and function with its sleek design, complementing any poolscape. Its smooth, corrosion-resistant casing and strategically placed sensors avoid a cluttered look. The dual-side and roller brushes are symmetrically aligned for effective cleaning, highlighting its role as both a high-performance appliance and a stylish addition to any pool. This careful design ensures it performs demanding tasks without appearing bulky or out of place.

Designer: Beatbot

Eco-friendly practices are at the heart of the AquaSense 2 Ultra’s design. The ClearWater Clarification System uses an environmentally conscious clarifier to reduce chemical use, promoting a healthier swimming environment. Its energy-efficient HybridSense AI Pool Mapping minimizes power consumption, leading to lower bills and a reduced carbon footprint. Durable materials and regular software updates ensure longevity, emphasizing sustainability without compromising performance.

User-centric features enhance the AquaSense 2 Ultra’s appeal, offering a seamless cleaning experience. The integrated app allows for real-time navigation and scheduling, reducing physical strain and enabling precise control. SmartDrain technology eases retrieval by floating the cleaner to the pool’s edge when needed. These features, combined with the unit’s adaptability and minimal maintenance requirements, make it a practical choice for busy homeowners.

Ultimately, the AquaSense 2 Ultra redefines pool cleaning with its blend of advanced technology, convenience, and sustainability. It tackles a wide range of tasks, from skimming surfaces to scrubbing walls, all while conserving resources. The thoughtful design and robust capabilities make it an ideal investment for pool owners seeking a reliable and efficient cleaning solution, allowing them to enjoy their pool with minimal effort.

ASUS Zenbook A14

The ASUS Zenbook A14 (UX3407) is a remarkable blend of style and functionality, boasting an ultra-lightweight design at less than 1kg, thanks to its full Ceraluminum chassis. This innovative material is used extensively across the laptop, except for the screen, ensuring a sleek and durable finish. Available in Zabriskie Beige and Iceland Gray, the Zenbook A14 not only looks sophisticated but also offers exceptional resistance to scratches and shocks.

Equipped with Snapdragon® X Series Processors, the Zenbook A14 delivers impressive performance with up to 45W TDP and 45 TOPS of NPU power. The device features a dedicated Copilot key for quick access to smart features like Live Captions and Clipchamp, boosting productivity and creativity. Its extensive battery life of up to 32 hours makes it an ideal companion for those on the move, and the MyASUS Battery Care Mode allows for further customization.

Designer: ASUS

The Zenbook A14’s design focuses on reducing environmental impact by using recycled materials, including post-consumer recycled plastic and ocean-bound plastic, as well as post-industrial recycled metal. This eco-friendly approach extends to its packaging, which is 90% recyclable. The device also surpasses the ENERGY STAR® standard, highlighting its commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency.

Connectivity is seamless with the Zenbook A14, which features a comprehensive range of I/O ports. Users have access to two USB 4.0 ports, an audio jack, a type-A port, and an HDMI port, ensuring versatile connectivity options wherever they are. This makes the Zenbook A14 not only a powerhouse of performance but also a versatile tool for professionals and creatives alike.

ASUS has crafted a laptop that merges cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices, offering a device that is both powerful and environmentally conscious. The Zenbook A14 stands out not only for its technological prowess but also for its commitment to reducing carbon footprints and promoting a greener future, making it a top choice for modern users who value both innovation and responsibility.

Govee Gaming Pixel Light

Re-invigorate your everyday environment with Govee’s Gaming Pixel Light, an innovative smart lighting solution that combines vibrant displays, advanced LED technology, and versatile software functionality for a captivating pixel art experience. With seamless animations at 30fps, users can explore over 150 preset scenes, offering a wide range of dynamic displays from weather updates to NBA schedules. This innovative lighting solution does more than just enhance your visual experience but also adds a touch of fun to any space.

The industry’s first AI-powered pixel lighting effects offer an unprecedented level of creativity. Utilizing Govee’s self-trained AI model, users can generate stunning pixel art and access a vast library of materials. The AI Lighting Bot and proprietary algorithms enable text-to-light effects, while seamless syncing with other Govee devices creates an immersive AI-driven environment. This cutting-edge technology redefines what’s possible in home lighting.

Dive into extensive DIY features with the user-friendly interface of the Pixel Light. Craft unique designs using tools for GIFs, image uploads, and multi-layer animation editing. The AI Lighting Bot assists in creating partial elements, simplifying the process and enhancing the joy of personalization. This intuitive app makes it easy to bring your creative visions to life, adding a personal touch to your space.

Designer: Govee

For music lovers, the retro electronic speaker integrates pixel art with 8-bit music, delivering an engaging sensory experience. The music modes synchronize lights with musical rhythms, blending visual and auditory elements to amplify enjoyment. This feature creates a more immersive atmosphere, turning any room into a lively and interactive space that resonates with your favorite tunes.

Designed with gamers in mind, the gaming mechanical-inspired design fits perfectly in any gaming room. Whether mounted on a wall or placed on a desktop, the Pixel Light offers over 20 preset gaming animations to enhance the ambiance. By connecting the Govee HDMI 2.1 Sync Box, users can capture game visuals in real time, creating an unparalleled DreamView gaming experience that transforms gameplay into a thrilling adventure.

MOVA V50 Ultra Robotic Vacuum

MOVA’s V50 Ultra, the latest flagship model, showcases groundbreaking advancements in home cleaning technology. It boasts the FlexiRise Navigation, which allows it to effortlessly navigate tight spaces like under beds and chairs. This model also features a remarkable dual mechanical arm expansion and can cross obstacles up to 6cm high. These features ensure comprehensive cleaning coverage throughout your home, even in hard-to-reach areas.

Designer: MOVA

Equipped with the powerful TurboForce7 motor, the V50 Ultra delivers an impressive 24,000Pa of suction power while maintaining a quiet operation. This powerful suction effectively tackles dirt and debris, ensuring a spotless living environment. The innovative TurboWave Duobrush and FlexReach systems guarantee that every corner is cleaned without tangling, making it a reliable tool for maintaining cleanliness.

The V50 Ultra’s DuoSolution System includes a dual cleaning compartment specifically designed to combat pet odors, providing a fresh and pet-friendly atmosphere. This system caters to both floors and pet-related messes, making it ideal for households with furry companions. The dual solution tank is a testament to the model’s versatility and efficiency in handling various cleaning needs.

StepMaster technology allows the V50 Ultra to clear obstacles up to 2.36 inches high, ensuring thorough cleaning coverage. This feature is particularly beneficial for homes with uneven surfaces or cluttered spaces. The upgraded washboard further simplifies maintenance, making the cleaning process hassle-free and leaving your home feeling refreshed and pristine.

The V50 Ultra represents the pinnacle of MOVA’s innovation, combining powerful suction, advanced navigation, and specialized cleaning systems to deliver unmatched performance. Its ability to handle diverse cleaning challenges with ease makes it an indispensable addition to any home, promising a cleaner, fresher living space with minimal effort.

Lenovo Legion Go S – Powered by SteamOS

Lenovo has launched a special version of its new Legion Go S handheld device that gives SteamOS a new home. This innovative gadget is designed for gamers who crave mobility without sacrificing performance. It seamlessly integrates with Steam’s Remote Play, allowing users to stream games from their PC to the handheld device, ensuring smooth transitions between desktop and portable gaming. This new offering retains the robust hardware features found in its Windows-based counterpart.

The Legion Go S provides complete access to the Steam Store, making it easy for gamers to browse, purchase, and download their favorite titles. Integrated cloud save functionality ensures that progress is synchronized across multiple devices, providing continuity for players who switch between different platforms. This feature enhances the gaming experience, especially for those who enjoy playing on the go without losing any progress.

Designer: Lenovo

This handheld powerhouse is equipped with advanced hardware, including an 8-inch WUXGA PureSight touch display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and up to a 120Hz refresh rate. It runs on either the AMD Ryzen Z2 Go or AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme processor, paired with up to 32GB of 7500MHz LPDDR5X RAM. The device also supports storage expansion via a microSD card slot, making it easy to manage extensive game libraries while maintaining high performance.

Weighing just 1.61 lbs (730g), the Legion Go S is designed for long gaming sessions without compromising durability. It features connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6e, two USB 4 ports, and a microSD card reader, offering flexibility for peripherals and external displays. This makes the Legion Go S a versatile choice for gamers who want a portable device capable of delivering a full PC gaming experience.

The Legion Go S Powered by SteamOS offers a unique solution for gamers seeking a handheld device that combines performance with portability. By leveraging the Linux-based SteamOS, Lenovo provides a device that not only supports the vast Steam ecosystem but also enhances the gaming experience through powerful hardware and flexible connectivity. This makes it an ideal choice for gaming enthusiasts who value both quality and convenience.

Linkind ET8 Matter Smart TV Backlights with HDMI 2.1 sync box

Imagine bringing cinema-level immersion to your living room. With streaming and gaming taking over the living room once again, Smart lighting technology like the Linkind ET8 Matter Smart TV Backlights can transform and enhance your home entertainment experience. The Linkind ET8 connects directly between your TV and HDMI devices, allowing for high-precision in-line image interpretation. This results in perfectly matched, deeply immersive backlighting with total color accuracy and zero latency. Unlike camera-based solutions, Linkind ET8 syncs colors instantly, unaffected by external light, delivering corner-to-corner backlighting for screens up to 90 inches.

Thanks to HDMI 2.1 support, this smart TV backlight can easily “read” 4K visuals at 120Hz and sync the backlight in real time to extend the colors beyond your TV screen, creating an immersive environment. Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) technology provides a smooth, tear-free viewing experience that avoids the jarring experience of lagging color changes. With impeccable color accuracy and zero perceived latency, the Linkind ET8 can enhance everything from movies to gaming. Designed for TVs up to 90 inches, it offers customizable lighting effects, seamlessly transforming the room’s ambiance and integrating effortlessly with other smart home devices.

Designer: AiDot

Linkind’s AI-powered LumiSync technology keeps the backlights perfectly synchronized by quickly analyzing each scene displayed on the screen. A high-performance AI chip allows the ET8 to handle even fast-paced scenes, while slower moments get smooth and subtle adjustments. Auto-Refill technology further refines the experience by detecting black bars, such as those in letterbox format, and adjusting color readings to the active display area.

The ET8 also offers a seamless whole-room lighting experience that matches on-screen visuals or music, without needing additional hubs or bridges. The AiDot app connects it with other AiDot lighting solutions, creating a synchronized and immersive ambiance throughout your living space. Matter compatibility ensures easy integration with various smart home devices, providing enhanced flexibility, reliability, and interoperability across diverse ecosystems, making your smart home even smarter and more enjoyable.

Boasting 16 million colors, 11 music-sync modes, and 64 lighting presets, the Linkind ET8 can meet every need, mood, or holiday. Its precision lighting adds a new dimension to home entertainment, making every scene come alive with vibrant hues and seamless transitions. Whether syncing with music, playing an immersive game, matching on-screen colors, or providing pre-set effects for holidays, the Linkind ET8 enhances your media experience, no matter what content you’re watching.

Hisense 136″ MicroLED TV

Hisense’s latest innovation, the 136” MicroLED TV, introduces a new era in home entertainment with its pioneering MicroLED technology. This model boasts an impressive array of over 24.88 million self-emissive LEDs, each meticulously controlled to deliver an astonishing contrast ratio. This results in strikingly deep blacks and vibrant highlights, ensuring an unparalleled viewing experience. With its advanced features, this television is set to redefine how we perceive visual clarity and color accuracy.

At the heart of this technological marvel is the Hi-View AI Engine X, which employs sophisticated AI algorithms to enhance every frame. This intelligent processing ensures that the visuals remain sharp and detailed, regardless of the content being displayed. Additionally, a special black crystal nanocoating minimizes screen reflectivity, allowing for crystal-clear images even in brightly lit rooms. This ensures that the viewing experience is consistently exceptional, regardless of environmental conditions.

The TV’s ability to reach an astounding brightness level of up to 10,000 nits and cover 90% of the BT.2020 color space highlights its capability to produce immersive visuals. This is complemented by the integration of Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual X sound systems, which provide a rich and enveloping audio experience. Together, these features create a truly cinematic experience that captivates the senses and transports viewers into the heart of the action.

Designer: Hisense

Aesthetically, the 136” MicroLED TV impresses with its ultra-slim, modular design that seamlessly integrates into any living space. It supports advanced viewing modes like Dolby Vision IQ and Filmmaker Mode, which adapt to ambient lighting and preserve the creator’s intent, respectively. These features ensure that viewers can enjoy content as it was meant to be seen, with every detail meticulously preserved and presented.

Hisense’s 136” MicroLED TV not only sets a new benchmark in display technology but also reimagines the future of home entertainment. By combining cutting-edge technology with a sleek design, it offers an experience that is both visually stunning and technologically advanced. This innovation is poised to transform the way we engage with visual media, offering a glimpse into the future of television.

ASUS ROG Strix Scar 18

Get ready to dominate the gaming arena with the ASUS ROG STRIX SCAR 18, a beast designed for ultimate victory. Armed with the Intel® Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX, this machine crushes high frame rates in both esports and AAA games. With AI acceleration for content creation, it’s not just a gaming rig. It’s your all-in-one powerhouse, ready to tackle any challenge you throw at it.

Designer: ASUS

Upgrading your gear has never been this thrilling! The 2025 ROG Strix SCAR 18 sports a tool-less design that makes accessing RAM, SSD, and fans a breeze. Thanks to the Q-latch system, swapping out components is as quick as a pit stop. Whether you’re a seasoned modder or a curious tinkerer, this laptop invites you to customize and push the limits of performance.

Stay cool under pressure with the Strix SCAR 18’s cutting-edge cooling system. Relocated exhaust vents keep your hands comfortable, while the vapor chamber and Tri-Fan Technology work together to maintain peak performance. Liquid metal on the CPU and GPU ensures things run smoothly, so you can focus on crushing your opponents without the distraction of overheating or noise.

Step into new worlds with the Strix SCAR 18’s breathtaking ROG Nebula HDR display. With Mini LED technology, over 2000 dimming zones, and a blazing 240Hz refresh rate, your games burst to life in vivid color and silky-smooth motion. Whether you’re spotting enemies or enjoying a cinematic experience, this display guarantees every moment is a visual feast.

Designed for gamers who live for speed and style, the 2025 ROG Strix SCAR 18 combines sleek aesthetics with powerful functionality. Full-surround RGB lighting and Dolby Atmos speakers create an immersive environment, while AI Noise Cancelation keeps your communications crystal clear. With easy access for upgrades, this laptop is your ticket to gaming glory.

DREO AC516S Drainage-Free Portable Air Conditioner

Experience a new level of comfort with the DREO AC516S Portable Air Conditioner, featuring a revolutionary design that requires no drainage. This smart device uses an innovative sensor to balance condensation and evaporation, offering uninterrupted cooling without the hassle of emptying a water tank. Say goodbye to maintenance interruptions and enjoy continuous, carefree operation that enhances your home environment.

Enjoy tranquility with the DREO AC516S, thanks to its cutting-edge noise isolation system. By incorporating high-density soundproofing materials and a robust compressor cylinder, this air conditioner operates at whisper-quiet levels as low as 46dB. This means you can relish a peaceful ambiance, making it perfect for bedrooms, home offices, or any space where silence is golden.

Designer: Dreo

Installation has never been easier with the DREO AC516S, designed to fit seamlessly into any window type or size. The modular panel system, complete with window extension panels and foam seals, ensures a perfect fit without the need for professional help. This user-friendly setup allows you to enjoy cool comfort in any room, hassle-free.

Take control of your climate with the DREO app, which puts the power of smart technology at your fingertips. From adjusting modes to setting schedules, you can manage your air conditioner from anywhere, ensuring your home is always at the perfect temperature. The app also provides real-time updates on temperature and operational status, keeping you informed and in control.

Transform your living space into a haven of comfort and convenience with the DREO AC516S Portable Air Conditioner. Its innovative features and smart technology make it a delightful addition to any home, offering a blend of efficiency, quiet operation, and ease of use. Enjoy a more pleasant and enjoyable environment, no matter the season.

MOVA Fresh Pro electric toothbrush

The MOVA Fresh Pro electric toothbrush revolutionizes oral care with its cutting-edge 3DClean technology. This innovation combines sonic vibrations with meticulous up-and-down and side-to-side movements, ensuring a brighter smile and healthier teeth. By incorporating dual motors, it offers a comprehensive clean in just one minute, significantly reducing the traditional brushing time. Certified by reputable bodies like TÜV SÜD, this efficient method assures users of its efficacy and reliability in maintaining optimal dental hygiene.

Designer: MOVA

Emphasizing advanced 3D multi-mode vibration technology, the MOVA Fresh Pro rechargeable toothbrush delivers a deep clean by combining sonic vibrations with precise scrubbing actions. This sophisticated system replicates the ADA-endorsed Bass Brushing Technique, effectively eliminating plaque near the gum line and in hard-to-reach areas. The toothbrush’s design allows users to experience professional-level cleaning at home, ensuring that every corner of the mouth is thoroughly attended to.

MOVA Fresh Pro’s ultimate 3-in-1 replacement brush head offers unparalleled cleaning capabilities. With elongated bristles reaching back to wisdom teeth, it efficiently cleans the gum sulcus. Its ultra-soft bristles ensure a gentle touch, diving into gaps without irritation. The diamond-shaped bristles excel at removing surface stains, and whitening rubber nodes enhance the toothbrush’s ability to polish teeth, achieving a noticeably whiter smile.

Designed with practicality in mind, the MOVA Fresh Pro toothbrush features a nano-coating for water repellency, preventing stain and mold buildup. Its seamless structure, with an integrated button, enhances the user experience by minimizing dirt accumulation. The toothbrush’s ventilation design promotes air circulation, effectively inhibiting bacterial growth, ensuring a clean and hygienic oral care tool.

A Smart Light Ring with AI pressure sensing technology enhances the MOVA Fresh Pro’s user experience. This feature adjusts pressure in real-time, warning users with a red light if excessive force is applied. It then automatically reduces vibration frequency to protect teeth and gums. Coupled with a wireless charging base, the toothbrush offers a convenient, hassle-free oral hygiene routine, making it an ideal choice for modern users.

Hisense L9Q TriChroma

The Hisense L9Q TriChroma Laser TV is here to revolutionize your movie nights! With its cutting-edge TriChroma triple laser light engine, this TV pumps out a dazzling 4,000 lumens of brightness and boasts a native contrast ratio of 3000:1. It covers an impressive 110% of the BT.2020 color space, bringing every scene to life with colors so vivid you’ll feel like you’re part of the action.

One of the standout features is its Ambient Light Rejection (ALR) screen, stretching up to a whopping 150 inches. This means you can enjoy a theater-like experience right in your living room, even with the lights on! The advanced auto screen alignment and keystone correction make setting up a breeze, while Dolby Vision and HDR10+ support deliver picture quality that’s nothing short of spectacular.

Designer: Hisense

Sound enthusiasts will be thrilled with the 6.2.2 surround sound system and Dolby Atmos. Imagine being enveloped in a soundscape that puts you smack dab in the middle of the action. Whether it’s the subtle rustle of leaves or the booming roar of an explosion, every sound detail is captured with astonishing clarity.

Navigating through content has never been easier, thanks to the Google TV platform. With thousands of apps at your disposal and built-in WiFi 6E for seamless streaming, you can binge-watch your favorite series or discover new gems without a hitch. It’s like having a world of entertainment at your fingertips!

Not only does the Hisense L9Q deliver on performance, but it also scores high on style. Featuring a sleek Black Walnut Décor Panel and Star Orbit Ambient Lighting, this TV adds a touch of elegance to any space. As the ultimate all-in-one home theater solution, it’s perfect for those who want to bring the magic of the cinema into their home with flair and functionality.

Iconic Arcade Street Fighter XXL Arcade Machine

Nothing says “retro gaming” more than an actual arcade cabinet’s imposing presence in your gaming room. Though at a 9/10 scale, Iconic Arcade’s new Street Fighter XXL machines still leave ample space for the rest of your gaming gear. Standing at about five feet seven inches and weighing around 90 pounds, these Street Fighter-themed machines let you relive the glory days of sheer button mashing fun.

Of course, the Street Fighter XXL Arcade Machine is also equipped with modern features to satisfy the tastes of discerning gamers, such as the 19-inch BOE monitor that delivers vivid colors and crisp animations. Powered by a Raspberry Pi 5 sporting a 2.4 GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A76 processor, the hulking cabinets have enough muscle to drive more than a dozen official CAPCOM titles, including Street Fighter II The World Warrior, Street Fighter II Champion Edition, Super Street Fighter II Turbo, Street Fighter II Hyper Fighting, Giga Wing 2, Final Fight, Knights of the Round, Progear Storm of Progia, and 1944 The Loop Master, just to name a few. There’s even an element of multiplayer gameplay as you compete with kindred spirits across the globe.

The Street Fighter XXL Arcade Machines come in two flavors. The Street Fighter II World Warrior edition gives off hard-hitting vibes with a gritty black-and-yellow theme and Ryu in a dynamic fighting stance emblazoned on the side panel. The Street Fighter II Alpha 2 edition, on the other hand, goes with a sleek blue backdrop that helps highlight the tension between Ryu and Akuma facing off on the side panels. Control decks with a metallic diamond plate finish and glowing faux coin doors recreate the tactile and industrial feel of old-school cabinets. Whether you’re drawn to the grit of the World Warrior edition or the polish of the Alpha 2 cabinet, each design tells its own story while staying true to the spirit of Street Fighter.

Govee Table Lamp 2 Pro x Sound by JBL

Transform your living space with the innovative Govee Table Lamp 2 Pro x Sound by JBL, a fusion of cutting-edge lighting and superior sound. This lamp pairs Govee’s advanced RGBICWW lighting with JBL’s audio prowess to create an immersive experience. The real-time synchronization of lights and music enhances any environment, offering a vibrant visual spectacle that dances to the beat of your tunes. It’s an entertainment upgrade that adds a touch of magic to daily life.

This lamp revolutionizes how you enjoy music with its seamless light and sound integration. With 16 unique music modes, it adapts to any occasion, from lively parties to peaceful relaxation. The dynamic lighting transforms your space, offering a personalized atmosphere that suits your mood. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or unwinding after a long day, this lamp provides an immersive experience that captivates and delights.

Designer: Govee

Featuring a state-of-the-art design and Govee’s cutting-edge RGBICWW technology, the lamp boasts a curved surface with 210 independently-controlled LEDs, showcasing a dazzling array of colors and customizable white light that includes warm and cool tones. It offers over 100 preset scenes and the ability to create your own, ensuring the perfect setting for every moment. With up to 600 lumens of brightness, it delivers stunning visuals that enhance any room’s ambiance.

Developed in partnership with JBL, the lamp offers exceptional sound quality through a powerful speaker system. It includes a 10W full-range 2.5-inch speaker and two passive radiators for rich, clear audio. For a more enveloping experience, pair two lamps to fill your space with multidirectional sound. It’s a portable concert that brings the joy of music and light to any corner of your home.

The lamp’s portability and smart features add convenience and versatility. Its rechargeable 5200 mAh battery lets you move the light and sound show anywhere in your home. Compatible with Matter, Google Assistant, and Alexa, it allows voice control for effortless ambiance adjustments without even having to pick up your phone. Transform your home into a lively, engaging environment that reflects your personal style and preferences.

Breggz Zohn-1 Custom-Fit In-Ear Computer

Breggz’s Zohn-1 earphones bring a unique twist to the market with their custom-fit design, merging contemporary aesthetics with cutting-edge technology. These earphones promise an exceptional auditory experience tailored to each user, setting them apart from typical audio devices. The personalized fit not only enhances comfort but also optimizes sound quality by eliminating acoustic leaks, resulting in richer bass and clearer audio. This attention to detail in design and performance positions the Zohn-1 as a standout in personal audio.

The Zohn-1 incorporates innovative ear-scanning technology to ensure a perfect fit. This technology transmits data to create 3D-printable files for custom earphone shells, enhancing both comfort and audio isolation. An integrated hearing test in the accompanying app adjusts sound settings to compensate for missing frequencies in the user’s hearing. This feature ensures a personalized listening experience, making the Zohn-1 a unique offering that caters to individual auditory profiles.

A notable feature of the Zohn-1 is its modular design, centered around the “pebble” module. This interchangeable component houses essential electronics, allowing for easy upgrades and repairs. The pebble clicks securely into custom ear shells, offering both functionality and style. With options for different materials and finishes, the pebble adds a touch of personalization, transforming the earphones into a fashionable accessory while maintaining a bespoke fit.

The Zohn-1 impresses with its robust battery life, offering eight hours of continuous use. Its stylish charging case, inspired by luxury automotive design, extends the total playtime to 40 hours. The case’s gull-wing doors combine elegance with practicality, providing up to five full recharges. A rapid charge feature allows the earphones to quickly regain power, ensuring they are ready for use with minimal downtime, making them perfect for busy lifestyles.

Sustainability is at the core of Breggz’s approach, emphasizing eco-friendly practices alongside luxury. The on-demand 3D printing of earphone shells reduces waste, while glue-free assembly facilitates recycling. The design allows for component upgrades, minimizing electronic waste. Breggz’s commitment to sustainability, combined with premium materials and compliance with safety standards, positions the Zohn-1 as a forward-thinking product that harmonizes luxury with environmental responsibility.

Yaber K300s Ultra-Short Throw Projector

Transforming the way we experience home entertainment, the Yaber K300s projector brings cinematic magic into compact spaces with its cutting-edge ultra-short throw technology. Capable of projecting a vast 100-inch image from less than 10 inches away, it’s perfect for cozy living rooms and bedrooms. At the heart of this innovation is Triple RGB Laser Technology, which delivers vivid colors and remarkable image depth. Coupled with NovaGlow technology, the visuals are not only crisp but uniformly bright, ensuring an unparalleled viewing experience.

The auditory experience matches the visual excellence, thanks to dual 15W JBL speakers with Dolby support that fill the room with rich sound. Instant autofocus and smart keystone correction make setup a breeze, while manual adjustments offer flexibility over display size. With advanced connectivity and energy efficiency surpassing traditional LED projectors, the K300s is designed for sustainable, long-lasting enjoyment. It’s a perfect blend of technology and convenience for modern homes.

Designer: Yaber

A standout in home entertainment, the Yaber K300s projector offers unmatched audiovisual brilliance. Its sleek design and ultra-short throw capabilities redefine expectations, making it a must-have for any entertainment enthusiast. With its expansive color gamut and impressive sound quality, it elevates home viewing to a new level of immersion and enjoyment, setting a new standard in the industry.

LG Indoor Garden Standing Floor Lamp

LG’s innovative indoor gardening solution reimagines home horticulture with its sleek, floor-standing lamp design that fits effortlessly into any living space. Tailored for both beginners and city dwellers who cherish a touch of greenery, this appliance simplifies the plant-growing process. Its compact yet spacious design allows for the cultivation of a diverse range of plants, including taller varieties, thanks to its height-adjustable LED lights and adaptable growing space, making plant care an enjoyable and hassle-free activity.

Designer: LG

The appliance’s dual lighting system is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, featuring adjustable downward-facing lights to promote healthy plant growth and upward-facing mood lighting for a serene evening atmosphere. This thoughtful design not only enhances the appliance’s utility but also underscores LG’s knack for creating versatile products that blend practicality with style. The device’s generous 6-liter (1.5 gallons) water tank and continuous growing cycles make it perfect for those with busy schedules, ensuring plants receive adequate hydration with minimal intervention.

Equipped with a twenty-plant capacity and an automatic water and nutrient dispensing system, LG’s gardening appliance offers consistent care, even during week-long absences. The integration with the LG ThinQ app provides users with the convenience of managing their indoor garden remotely, from adjusting lighting to monitoring growth. This advanced system guarantees a delightful gardening experience, allowing users to enjoy the rewards of home-grown produce without the usual complexities.

My Arcade Atari Gamestation Go Handheld Retro Console

With handheld gaming devices now becoming the new black, it was only a matter of time before this world and the world of retro gaming collided. There are indeed a number of portable devices trying to relive the golden days of video gaming, particularly those influenced by the Game Boy era, but Nintendo wasn’t the only game in town back then. In fact, Atari could be considered an even bigger fish in that pond, but this My Arcade Gamestation Go isn’t simply content with slapping on some retro titles. It is, in essence, trying to create a delightful fusion of past and present in a very unique way.

Designer: My Arcade

It might look like a large handheld PC at first glance, but the Atari Gamestation Go is anything but. Yes, it has a D-Pad, four face buttons, and shoulder and trigger buttons, but the similarities end there. Quite notable are the controls you won’t find on any modern gaming handheld, such as the rotary dial, a.k.a. “paddle,” a miniature version of Atari’s iconic “Trak-Ball, and, the oddest one of all, a numeric keypad. These controls make it clear that My Arcade is trying to faithfully recreate the retro Atari experience, down to how you play games like Arkanoid, Pong, or Centipede.

Of course, the Atari Gamestation Go is also full of modern conveniences, like a large 7-inch screen that’s designed to support Atari: Recharged titles. There’s an HDMI port for playing on an even bigger screen, USB-C ports to connect additional controllers, and Wi-Fi for updating the device in the future. The most interesting feature, however, is “Smart Glow” which will illuminate which controls are needed for which games. It’s a nice touch that makes playing retro titles more intuitive and helps ease younger gamers into these titles.

Swippitt Instant Power System

Swippitt revolutionizes how we power our smartphones by doubling battery life and providing a quick charge in just two seconds. It simplifies the common frustration of low battery issues with an innovative system that replaces traditional charging methods. The Swippitt Hub, a smart and efficient battery system, works seamlessly with the Swippitt Link, an ergonomic phone case, and a comprehensive app that offers insights into battery stats and family safety features.

Designer: Swippitt

The Swippitt Hub, equipped with five pre-charged batteries, automatically swaps your phone’s depleted battery with a full one in just two seconds. Simply place your phone in the Hub with the Swippitt Link attached, and its smart technology ensures you have a full day of extra battery life. This system is ideal for busy users, offering a lightweight, modern design that integrates seamlessly with your phone.

The system also includes the Swippitt App, which enhances the user experience by providing detailed insights into battery usage and management, combining simplicity with smart technology to make daily charging routines effortless and efficient. Compatibility is a key focus, with Swippitt supporting iOS, Android, and major phone models. Initially targeting iPhone models 14, 15, and 16, the brand plans to expand to Android devices by 2025. The Swippitt Hub can accommodate any phone size, and custom Swippitt Link cases will be designed to fit different models.

Beatbot Amphibious RoboTurtle and Shore Self-Docking and Charging Station Prototypes

At CES 2025, Beatbot has introduced the Amphibious RoboTurtle and the Shore Self-Docking and Charging Station, pioneering advancements that transform pool maintenance and promote sustainable robotics. These innovations seamlessly blend ecological responsibility with practical use, showcasing Beatbot’s commitment to smart, green solutions. The meticulous attention to detail in both form and function reflects their dedication to creating environmentally friendly technologies that serve practical purposes.

The RoboTurtle’s design, inspired by natural forms, combines biomimicry with advanced robotics to fit effortlessly into aquatic environments. Its turtle-like shell and bionic limbs allow it to navigate water with agility and minimal disruption. Beneath its elegant exterior lies an adaptive buoyancy system and AI-powered cameras, capturing crucial environmental data. Solar panels embedded in its shell enable sustainable operation, making it a vital tool for conservationists and researchers in remote locations.

The Shore Self-Docking and Charging Station complements the RoboTurtle with its simple yet sophisticated design. Its minimalist appearance belies its advanced functionality, allowing the robotic cleaner to dock effortlessly without human intervention. Wireless magnetic charging eliminates exposed ports, ensuring reliable performance and reducing water damage risks. This station’s energy-efficient design supports eco-friendly living by streamlining maintenance and minimizing downtime.

Designer: Beatbot

Together, these innovations represent a leap forward in smart aquatic technology. Beatbot’s holistic approach ensures that each product complements the other while addressing unique challenges. The RoboTurtle emphasizes ecological responsibility, while the Shore Station simplifies pool maintenance without compromising sustainability. These advancements illustrate how Beatbot harmonizes technology with nature to create a smarter, greener future.

Beatbot’s innovations set a new standard for aquatic robotics by focusing on design, functionality, and environmental impact. The RoboTurtle and Shore Station exemplify how technology can be harnessed to achieve a balance between practical application and ecological responsibility. These technological marvels position Beatbot as a leader in creating solutions that meet modern sustainability goals.

Haply MinVerse Touch-enabled 3D Mouse

The MinVerse is a groundbreaking input device that redefines interaction in both 3D and 2D applications. It offers intuitive control and unparalleled precision, making it ideal for designers, artists, and gamers to explore digital worlds with ease. With customizable handle attachments like a 2D mouse, VR controller, stylus, and more, users can effortlessly switch between different modes, enhancing their creative and gaming experiences.

Designer: Haply

Designed with a compact form factor, the MinVerse is both ergonomic and portable, ensuring comfort for extended use and convenience for creators on the go. Its realistic haptic feedback allows users to feel textures, resistances, weights, and forces, making virtual interactions incredibly lifelike. Whether assembling mechanical parts or navigating virtual terrains, the MinVerse enriches digital experiences by bringing them to life.

The device’s innovative VerseGrip feature enables quick accessory swaps, tailoring the MinVerse for specific tasks and enhancing its versatility. Its ability to deliver precise 3D touch and tactile feedback ensures accurate interaction with virtual environments. Perfect for immersive experiences anywhere, the MinVerse stands out as a compact yet powerful tool for those seeking enhanced control and interaction in the metaverse.

Vasco Translator Q1

Get ready to meet the Vasco Translator Q1, a groundbreaking device that redefines how we communicate across languages. This innovative tool uses cutting-edge AI to deliver real-time translations that sound like you, thanks to its unique voice personalization and gender selection features. With support for 72 languages, it’s the first of its kind to offer such a personalized experience, making conversations feel more natural and engaging.

The Q1 stands out with its ability to synthesize your voice for translations, making it a game-changer for global interactions. It includes features like touchless mode and phone call translation, ensuring seamless communication whether you’re making international calls or speaking face-to-face. This device is the only one on the market with such advanced capabilities, offering an unparalleled way to bridge language gaps effortlessly.

Designer: Vasco

Beyond its voice personalization, the Vasco Translator Q1 is equipped with versatile tools like photo translation and text-to-speech, powered by 11 translation engines. Its built-in SIM card offers connectivity in over 200 countries, delivering translations in less than a second under optimal conditions. Set to launch this spring with a price tag of around $500, it’s an exciting prospect for frequent travelers and global business professionals seeking efficient communication solutions.

Natura Umana HumandPods and AI Personas

Natura Umana offers an innovative blend of AI hardware and software, featuring HumanPods and NatureOS, to simplify daily tasks. HumanPods are advanced AI earbuds designed for voice control, allowing users to stay connected to their environment while managing tasks or enjoying entertainment with minimal screen time. These non-isolating earbuds are equipped with a patented gravity hook for comfort, enabling extended use without discomfort, and feature cutting-edge specifications such as enhanced audio quality and battery life.

NatureOS is a platform that connects users with AI People, which are large language model-based agents crafted to mimic human conversation and behavior. These AI personas possess distinct personalities, voices, and expertise, and can handle various tasks to reduce screen dependency. As users interact with AI People, they develop memories and beliefs, enhancing their unique personalities and offering personalized assistance tailored to individual needs.

Designer: Rolling Square

Through NatureOS, users gain access to a primary AI companion, “Nature,” and specialized AI People like therapists or fitness coaches. When Nature encounters a topic beyond its expertise, it seamlessly connects users to a more suitable AI Person. This system ensures that knowledge and memories remain with the AI Person they were shared with, fostering a personalized and dynamic interaction experience from the first conversation.

AI Mopill (Motion Pillow) and Fit Butler ai

The AI Motion Pillow, known as “AI Mopill,” addresses snoring issues by gently repositioning the user’s head to clear airways. Utilizing advanced AI software, it uniquely identifies the user’s snoring pattern and responds by inflating an airbag beneath the head, subtly turning it to the side. This movement helps open the airway, reducing snoring and promoting better sleep. The system integrates with smart rings to gather oxygen saturation data, enhancing the overall sleep health analysis.

Fit Butler ai, an innovative extension of the AI Mopill, offers comprehensive health management by continuously monitoring users’ health data. It surpasses the previous 8-hour sleep monitoring capability, providing 24/7 health assessments based on collected sleep and health information. Designed as a butler system, it uses a Wi-Fi module to connect with various devices, creating a smart home and health ecosystem tailored to individual needs.

Designer: 10minds

This intelligent platform connects with devices like smart rings, BMI monitors, and environmental controls such as heating, cooling, and lighting systems. By doing so, it not only enhances sleep care but also manages overall health diagnostics. The goal is to create a highly personalized environment, addressing a range of health concerns beyond sleep disorders, and delivering a holistic approach to well-being.

Bio Leg Robotic Prosthetic Knee

The Bio Leg powered microprocessor knee represents a remarkable advancement in mobility technology, offering a dynamic solution for above-knee amputees. By incorporating an electrical motor and multiple sensors, it provides powered assistance that minimizes physical strain and enhances the fluidity of movement. The design not only prioritizes functionality but also emphasizes aesthetics, with features like a calf muscle bulge and sleek black carbon material, transforming the prosthetic into a statement of confidence and individuality.

Designer: BionicM

Focusing on balance and symmetry, the Bio Leg aims to restore the natural equilibrium essential for overall well-being. It reduces the risk of pain and discomfort by minimizing compensatory movements, which often lead to strain on the sound side and lower back. This commitment to recreating natural harmony ensures a more comfortable and seamless journey toward optimal mobility, allowing users to enjoy an active lifestyle without compromising their physical health.

With its intuitive and natural movement capabilities, the Bio Leg significantly boosts users’ confidence and quality of life. Its bionic muscle technology enables smooth transitions in various activities, from sitting to standing and navigating stairs, adapting seamlessly to different terrains and speeds. This sophisticated technology understands the user’s intentions, ensuring that movements are natural and precise, ultimately providing a secure and empowering experience for those who rely on it.

The post Yanko Design Best of CES 2025: Empowering People to Live Better Lives with AI first appeared on Yanko Design.

Every year, we witness a wave of innovative products that shape how we interact with technology, improve our daily lives, and redefine design standards. In 2024, that evolution is front and center, driven by a collection of groundbreaking creations that blend aesthetics with purpose. From foldable smartphones that push the limits of usability to meticulously crafted furniture that transforms living spaces, and design elements for the wall that redefine interior aesthetics, each product focuses on enhancing form and function. This year’s journey showcases products that make daily routines more seamless, enriching, and innovative.

The “Yanko Design Best of 2024” recognizes innovations crafted with intention and vision, each offering enhanced functionality. These honorees invite us to reimagine how products integrate into our lives, setting new standards for intelligence and user experience. From Apple’s advancements in AI to the broader application of smart features across various technologies, these innovations make our interactions more intuitive, responsive, and human-centered, sparking a deeper conversation about the future of design and technology.

Apple: Touching Every Aspect of Our Lives

Apple has grown into more than a tech company—it’s a lifestyle brand woven into every aspect of daily life, enhancing how we live, work, and play. It starts with how Apple integrates into my own routine—whether I’m writing in my office, on the go, on airplanes, in airports, or even at my daughter’s tennis matches, Apple is there. But this experience isn’t unique to me; it’s the reality for millions of people worldwide. At any given moment, people often use one or more Apple products to keep everything running smoothly. This relentless focus on detail means they can now focus on aspects that truly enrich our lives, going beyond just functionality to create meaningful, human-centered experiences.

Designer: Apple

The iPhone and iOS are at the center of everything, providing a constant connection for everything from productivity and secure communications to entertainment for users everywhere. AirPods Pro 2 makes all the difference on a noisy flight or a crowded airport, with ANC and gesture controls that are intuitive and practical. Many people rely on AirPods 4 with ANC for the open ear feature, which makes it easy to stay aware of their surroundings while focusing on work. The over-the-counter hearing aid capabilities also help users stay connected to important moments, even in a noisy environment, like a family event or public space.

watchOS Training Load

Apple Watch Ultra 2 vs. Apple Watch Series 10 (Titanium) vs. Apple Watch Series 10 (Aluminum)

The Apple Watch is another essential—its new, slimmer design fits comfortably, while the health features help users monitor their well-being without all the hassle. It goes beyond basic fitness tracking, offering deeper insights into overall health, like monitoring sleep apnea and checking in on vital signs. This level of understanding helps people make more informed decisions about their daily routines and long-term well-being.

The MacBook Pro and iPad Pro with the M4 chipset are the go-to work tools for many. Whether it’s writing, editing, processing images or videos, or managing multiple tasks, these devices outperform much of what’s available, including many high-end PCs. Their power makes creativity, productivity, and everything in between seamless and fast. Together, they provide a versatile creative setup, seamlessly adapting to any task—enhancing productivity by splitting workloads or creating a multi-screen experience for better focus and efficiency.

The best part is how everything connects. Apple intelligence acts as a powerful tool for editing, productivity, and more. iOS, macOS, watchOS, and iPadOS, enhanced by Apple Intelligence, make using these devices together seamless, whether it’s working on intricate video projects or simply moving files between devices. Apple Intelligence is the new beating heart for all these operating systems, aiming to make every interaction across the ecosystem feel more natural and responsive. This interconnectedness is a key reason why Apple’s ecosystem resonates so well with people, making tasks easier and workflows more efficient. I can mirror my iPhone or extend my workspace to my iPad via AirPlay, using it as a second display whenever I need more screen real estate. It’s these little conveniences that make a huge difference.

When racing through an airport terminal, working on a flight, relaxing with music from the HomePod, or sketching out ideas on an iPad, Apple’s products have been with me for the past 20 years. Over those two decades, I’ve experienced firsthand how Apple has consistently evolved, refining its designs and capabilities to fit effortlessly into my life. Apple focuses on building an experience where technology becomes a natural part of daily life, integrating seamlessly and enhancing the moments that matter most. The thoughtful design means moving from work to play is natural and intuitive, and it’s something that I’ve come to deeply appreciate in my own journey with Apple.

Surfacing Solution Best of 2024: Redefining Aesthetics and Functionality in Interior Design

Virgin Hotel NYC Lounge

For over 37 years, Surfacing Solution has been at the forefront of innovative interior design solutions, earning the company Yanko Design’s Best of 2024 award. Their dedication to quality, versatility, and customer satisfaction has made them industry leaders in flexible wood paneling and acoustical products. Surfacing Solution’s flagship product, the tambour panel, merges aesthetics with functionality, giving designers and architects a versatile tool to transform any space.

Designer: Surfacing Solution

Surfacing Solution’s influence is evident in landmark projects across industries, particularly in hospitality. Notable collaborations include The Dalmar Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, FL, and The Standard Highline Hotel in New York City. These projects showcase the company’s ability to adapt its products to diverse design visions while maintaining exceptional quality.

Advance Thresher/Emerson-Newton Building: Historic Elegance with Modern Comfort

The historic Advance Thresher/Emerson-Newton building, now the Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District, blends heritage with modern comfort. Built-in 1900 and 1904, this National Historic Register site was reimagined by DLR Group, who drew inspiration from Scandinavian craftsmanship. Abstractions of quilting and weaving are present throughout the interiors, which feature Surfacing Solution’s tambour panels that enhance a handcrafted aesthetic. The project includes 183 guest rooms, flexible meeting spaces, and preserved wood ceilings, balancing historic character with contemporary design elements.

Canopy By Hilton Fire Place

The project includes 183 guest rooms, flexible meeting spaces, and preserved wood ceilings, integrating custom tambour panels and Scandinavian-inspired quilting and weaving abstractions for a handcrafted aesthetic.

The Dalmar Hotel: Urban Sophistication Meets Relaxed Elegance

The Dalmar Lobby Reception

The Dalmar Hotel, part of Marriott’s Tribute Portfolio, provides an alternative to Fort Lauderdale’s beachside resorts. Designed by DesignAgency, the hotel features Surfacing Solution’s Solid Wood Tambour panels, which create a welcoming and refined ambiance throughout the lobby and communal spaces. Key highlights include:

• Lobby Design: Solid Wood Tambour panels establish a warm, sophisticated entryway.
• Cafe Accents: Decorative wood walls bring texture and charm to the café.
• Lounge Columns: Tambour panels are creatively applied to columns, enhancing the lounge’s modern aesthetic.
• Artistic Backdrops: Paneling serves as a stylish backdrop for large-scale wall art.
• Gallery Wall: In the café and bar, wood paneling adds depth and elegance to art displays.

The Dalmar’s design ethos complements the evolving Flagler Village neighborhood, blending contemporary luxury with relaxed, open-air vibes. By integrating tambour panels in multiple applications, Surfacing Solution illustrates its products’ adaptability and visual impact.

The Standard Highline: Balancing Texture and Transparency

Standard Hotel Window View

In the heart of New York’s Meatpacking District, The Standard Highline reflects urban sophistication with Roman and Williams’s striking architecture and design. Surfacing Solution’s tambour panels were integral to the project, enhancing guest rooms with warm, textured wood elements. Specific contributions include:

• Ceilings and Headboards: Tambour panels add warmth and texture, softening the industrial feel of the concrete structure.
• Material Palette: The combination of tambour wood, handmade tiles, and expansive floor-to-ceiling windows creates a balance of comfort and modernity.

The tambour panels complement The Standard’s bold design choices, contrasting tactile quality with its raw architectural elements. The result is a cohesive, inviting space that resonates with local and global audiences.

The Tambour Panel: A Versatile Design Solution

Photo: Eric Laignel
Honeywell HQ Charlotte NC Surfacing Solution

Tambour panels are Surfacing Solution’s flagship offering, celebrated for their flexibility and aesthetic potential. These panels effortlessly wrap around flat surfaces, rounded edges, and architectural curves, enabling seamless integration into any design. Available in solid wood and veneer options, the panels cater to various budgets and stylistic preferences. Popular wood species include red oak, white oak, and more exotic choices like purple heart, ensuring a tailored solution for every project.

Beyond tambour panels, Surfacing Solution’s portfolio includes decorative ceiling tiles, acoustic solutions, and the newly launched Wide Plank Wood Wall and Ceiling Panels. This broad range allows designers to create cohesive interiors that marry style with functionality.

Commitment to Craftsmanship and Sustainability

Surfacing Solution’s success lies in its meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to sustainability. Each tambour panel slat is hand-selected from premium North American hardwoods, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal. Their product lines, including the Wide Plank collection and tambour panels, use environmentally conscious materials that align with modern design trends, blending elegance with reduced ecological impact.

Surfacing Solution received Yanko Design’s Best of 2024 award for its dedication to quality, innovative design solutions, and commitment to sustainability. Its innovative blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern solutions positions it as a leader in redefining interior design possibilities. As the demand for sustainable, aesthetic interiors grows, Surfacing Solution remains at the forefront, transforming spaces with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Hisense’s 2024 Home Entertainment Revolution: PX3-Pro, 110UX, and CanvasTV Redefine the Viewing Experience

Hisense set a new standard for home entertainment with the launch of three groundbreaking products: the PX3-Pro TriChroma Laser Projector, the 110UX Mini-LED TV, and the CanvasTV QLED 2024. These new releases highlight Hisense’s commitment to merging advanced technology with ease of use, enhancing the overall experience for home entertainment lovers.

Designer: Hisense

Hisense has prioritized research and development to boost product quality, concentrating on exceptional picture quality, user convenience, and immersive features. This focus has made Hisense a key player in the home entertainment sector, earning recognition for leading innovation in 2024.

Hisense PX3-Pro TriChroma Laser Projector: Bringing the Theater Home

The PX3-Pro TriChroma Laser Projector is crafted to bring an exceptional movie-like experience to your living room. Using TriChroma triple-laser technology, this ultra-short throw projector provides sharp 4K UHD visuals with 3,000 ANSI lumens of brightness. The technology covers 110% of the BT.2020 color gamut, delivering vibrant, true-to-life colors and depth. The projector also supports multiple HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG, providing enhanced contrast and finer details in any scene.

The PX3-Pro’s projection size range is 80 to 150 inches, making it versatile enough to fit different room configurations. Additionally, it comes with Google TV for seamless streaming capabilities and is certified as “Designed for Xbox,” showcasing its suitability for premium gaming experiences.

What Sets the PX3-Pro TriChroma Laser Projector Apart

• TriChroma Laser Technology: Delivers a wide color range and vibrant images with precise color accuracy.
• Ultra-Short Throw Projection: This can project a large image from just inches away, which is ideal for home environments.
• 4K UHD Resolution with Dolby Vision: Ensures breathtaking visual quality and enhanced HDR content.
• Versatile Entertainment: Integrated with Google TV and designed for gaming, making it a multifunctional entertainment centerpiece.

Hisense 110UX Mini-LED TV: Immersive and Expansive Viewing

The 110UX Mini-LED TV features a massive 110-inch screen with Mini-LED backlighting paired with Quantum Dot technology to provide outstanding brightness and vivid color reproduction. Named Yanko Design Best of CES 2024, this TV offers 4K resolution and supports HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, ensuring dynamic, lifelike visuals that turn any space into an engaging entertainment environment.

Advanced local dimming zones in the 110UX provide deep blacks and high contrast, producing impressive image quality with sharp details, even in darker scenes. Its sleek, modern design and expansive screen make it a statement piece for any home theater.

What Sets the 110UX Mini-LED TV Apart

• Mini-LED and Quantum Dot Technology: Provides superior brightness, color accuracy, and contrast.
• Massive 110-inch Display: This creates an immersive experience that feels larger than life.
• Advanced Local Dimming Zones: Offers deep blacks and impressive contrast for more vivid visuals.
• Sleek Design: A modern aesthetic that becomes the centerpiece of any entertainment room.

Hisense CanvasTV QLED 2024: Blending Entertainment with Aesthetic Appeal

The CanvasTV QLED 2024 is designed to be more than a typical TV—it’s also an artistic statement. This flatscreen TV, inspired by artistic elements, includes a wood-like frame and customizable display modes, transforming it into a decorative piece when not in use. Available in both 55 and 65-inch models, Yanko Design awarded the CanvasTV Editors’ Choice for its blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. The CanvasTV supports HDMI Forum VRR, FreeSync Premium Pro, and Dolby Vision gaming, catering to gamers who value high-performance visuals and responsive gameplay.

With QLED technology, the CanvasTV delivers bright colors and crisp details, while its ability to fit seamlessly into home interiors adds versatility. Powered by Google TV OS for convenience, it also allows access to DISH Network, among other streaming services such as Apple TV, without the hassle of hooking up cables to a box. It’s a perfect combination of performance and design, providing great entertainment while elevating the ambiance of your living area.

What Sets the CanvasTV QLED 2024 Apart

• QLED Technology: Ensures vibrant colors and sharp, detailed imagery for a superior viewing experience.
• Art Mode with Wood-Like Frame: This mode allows the TV to serve as a decorative element, enhancing the aesthetics of any room.
• Gaming-Ready Features: Supports HDMI Forum VRR and FreeSync Premium Pro for smooth and responsive gaming.
• Aesthetic Integration: Designed to complement home decor while offering excellent picture quality.

Hisense’s Entertainment Innovations: Enhance Your Viewing Experience

Hisense’s PX3-Pro, 110UX, and CanvasTV demonstrate the brand’s commitment to creating advanced home entertainment solutions that blend sophisticated technology with intuitive, user-focused design. We love the PX3-Pro for delivering theater-level visuals right into your home, while the 110UX sets a new standard for immersive viewing with its massive screen. The CanvasTV, meanwhile, combines top-tier entertainment quality with an artistic design that enhances any room. These products have been named Yanko Design Editors’ Choice for 2024, recognizing their exceptional design and innovation in home entertainment.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro: High-End Features Meet Comfort and Adaptability for Everyone

The Sihoo Doro C300 Pro is designed for anyone needing ergonomic comfort without compromising style. It offers excellent value for its price. This chair impressed us so much that we’re awarding it Yanko Design’s Best Budget-Friendly Ergonomic Chair of 2024. It merges adaptability, sleek design, and user-focused features to create an essential tool for long work hours in the office or extended gaming sessions at home.

Designer: Sihoo

Crafted with breathable mesh, the Doro C300 Pro keeps you cool while conforming to your body for consistent support. The adaptive lumbar support tracks your movements, providing consistent lower back relief throughout the day. The flexible headrest, combined with the high-end 6D adjustable armrests, delivers personalized support, ensuring every posture is comfortably accommodated. In the case of the C300 Pro, the 6D armrests provide exceptional versatility, offering a premium feature at a budget-friendly price.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

Durability is key with the Doro C300 Pro, featuring a sturdy frame of high-quality metals and synthetics. The five-star base guarantees stability, and the premium mesh construction maintains its shape while allowing airflow, minimizing pressure points, and managing moisture buildup for lasting comfort.

With intuitive customization options, the chair’s single control handle makes adjustments easy. At the same time, features like the reclining mechanism with angles of 105°, 120°, and 135° offer personalized comfort whether focusing, relaxing, or taking a break.

The minimalist design, available in black or white, complements any workspace. It merges clean lines with functional ergonomics, making it an ideal choice for the modern professional seeking both style and practicality.

SIHOO Doro C300 Pro

What Sets the Sihoo Doro C300 Pro Apart

• Breathable Mesh Backrest: Keeps you cool during long work sessions with excellent air circulation and support.
• Adaptive Lumbar Support: Adjusts to your body movements, reducing strain and promoting better posture.
• 6D Adjustable Armrests: Amazingly customizable to fit different work styles, allowing precise adjustments for height, width, depth, and rotation to support various activities.
• Intuitive Recline and Adjustability: A single control handle for easy position customization and reclining options to suit your needs.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro: A Must-Have for Ergonomic Excellence

The Sihoo Doro C300 Pro is a thoughtfully designed ergonomic chair that delivers quality and comfort. Its adaptive features, sustainable materials, and sleek design make it an excellent choice for professionals who spend long hours at their desks. Whether for focused work or relaxed reclining, the Doro C300 Pro offers a sophisticated solution to support your daily needs.

Sihoo Doro C300 Pro

Experience a new level of comfort and support with the Sihoo Doro C300 Pro—the ultimate ergonomic choice for anyone seeking ergonomic comfort. Check out Yanko Design’s full review to learn why this chair is an exceptional choice.

TerraMow S Series: The Future of Lawn Care with Smart AI Vision Technology

The TerraMow S Series is engineered for homeowners looking to simplify their lawn maintenance with state-of-the-art automation and precision. This robot lawn mower impressed us so much that it’s being awarded Yanko Design’s Best Robotic Mower of 2024. Featuring advanced AI vision (TerraVision), TerraMow takes all the hassle out of lawn care—transforming weekends once filled with yard work into opportunities for relaxation. It masters complex gardens, easily handles narrow spaces, and delivers consistently clean cuts.

Designer: TerraMow

TerraMow S Series boasts a simple, quick setup that anyone can handle—drop it on its base, and it’s ready to mow in five minutes. The mower uses advanced AI vision to recognize obstacles, edges, and other elements of your lawn, ensuring a precise, custom cut every time. Designed with intuitive operation in mind, it requires no perimeter wires or complex RTK station installations, eliminating the traditional headaches associated with robotic lawnmowers.

Built to be versatile, the TerraMow S Series navigates your lawn like a pro, whether you have a complex garden filled with trees, flower beds, and slopes or a simple rectangular patch. Its Precise Obstacle Avoidance system, powered by a trio of high-performance cameras, ensures it steers clear of any obstacles. In addition, the Ride-On Edge Mowing feature lets TerraMow cut right up to the edge, minimizing manual trimming and ensuring a perfectly finished look.

One of TerraMow’s most appealing aspects is its ability to quickly adapt to different lawn conditions. Whether dealing with uneven terrain or unexpected obstacles, its sensors and AI-driven control systems maintain effective, efficient mowing. TerraMow is built to make your lawn care experience as hands-off as possible, allowing you more time to enjoy your outdoor space.

What Sets the TerraMow S Series Apart

• Quick Setup: Simple five-minute configuration with no need for perimeter wires.
• Autonomous Mapping: AI-driven vision technology allows it to map and manage your lawn without manual guidance.
• Complex Garden Mastery: Adapts to different terrains and easily handles intricate gardens.
• Ride-On Edge Mowing: Achieves zero-distance cutting along lawn boundaries for a polished finish.

TerraMow S Series: Your Partner for Stress-Free Lawn Maintenance

The TerraMow S Series is a thoughtfully crafted robotic mower that delivers convenience, precision, and a touch of luxury to your lawn care routine. Its advanced AI vision, ease of use, and reliable design make it an excellent choice for anyone who wants a consistently well-maintained lawn without effort. It doesn’t matter if your yard is sprawling or compact; TerraMow transforms lawn care from a chore into an effortless experience.

Discover how TerraMow can redefine your lawn care routine—check out TerraMow’s homepage for more details and why the TerraMow S800/S1200 is an award-winning choice for homeowners everywhere.

The Modern Man’s Ultimate Companion: Charcoal’s Case Delivers Innovation and Sophistication

When practicality and elegance converge, the result is Charcoal’s Case—a remarkable accessory designed for professionals who prioritize sustainability, style, and performance. Far from an ordinary bag, this precision-engineered creation combines cutting-edge innovation with refined aesthetics to embody quiet luxury.

Designer: Charcoal

Crafted from cruelty-free vegan materials, Charcoal’s Case demonstrates that sustainability doesn’t require sacrificing style. Its advanced technology includes retractable straps that operate with the precision of a high-tech seatbelt—offering a tangle-free, seamless experience at the push of a button. Enhancing its futuristic appeal, an aircraft-grade aluminum Dial replaces traditional zippers, providing smooth, one-handed access with a satin matte finish that’s as satisfying to use as it is sleek.

Durability defines this accessory, with Kevlar-inspired construction ensuring suitcase-level protection without the added weight. An internal frame and algorithmically designed shell prevent sagging while providing the flexibility needed for everyday use. Inside, the Case’s adaptive smart pocket system adjusts to your belongings, making organization effortless and eliminating the hassle of searching for small items like cables or keys.

With an 11.2L capacity and a lightweight 5-lb build, the Case easily accommodates essentials such as a 16-inch MacBook, iPad, and accessories. This perfect balance of functionality and portability makes it ideal for navigating boardrooms, airports, or bustling city streets.

The minimalist design effortlessly transitions between professional and casual settings. Clean lines and timeless aesthetics offer sophistication without being overstated. For today’s professionals, Charcoal’s Case is a practical tool that keeps you organized and aligns with sustainable values.

What Sets Charcoal’s Case Apart

• Sustainable Luxury: Crafted with premium vegan materials, it blends ethical design with a refined, modern finish.
• Durable and Lightweight: Kevlar-level strength and a thoughtfully designed internal frame protect your essentials while keeping the Case lightweight.
• Intuitive Access: Retractable straps and a zipper-free aluminum Dial streamline usability, delivering elegance and convenience in every interaction.
• Smart Storage Solutions: Adaptive pockets eliminate clutter and make organization effortless, reducing stress during busy days or travel.

Charcoal’s Case: A Must-Have for Modern Professionals

Charcoal’s Case is a thoughtfully designed tool that embodies quality and practicality. By merging innovation, sustainable materials, and functional design, it transforms the way professionals approach their daily carry. Whether tackling a demanding workday or jetting off for a weekend escape, this case is the perfect solution for a sophisticated, stress-free lifestyle.

Arkfeld Ultra 3-in-1 EDC Flashlight: Innovation Meets Everyday Versatility

The Arkfeld Ultra is a flashlight built to exceed expectations—the go-to tool for anyone needing something rugged, versatile, and ready for anything. Its unique blend of bright white light, green laser, and UV light makes it an essential gadget for a wide range of activities, from everyday tasks to specialized needs. Crafted from O-aluminum, a proprietary material from Olight, the Arkfeld Ultra offers superior durability—1.77 times stronger than the standard 6061 aluminum alloy—ensuring it stays functional and fresh, even with daily use.

Designer: Olight

Olight has engineered the Arkfeld Ultra to redefine what a flashlight can be. The sleek, flat design fits comfortably in your pocket, making it the ideal companion for work and play. Its high-transparency glass lens and striking angular lines add a futuristic touch to a highly practical tool, while the dual-direction pocket clip enhances its portability. Use it for general illumination, presentations, or specialized tasks like UV inspection; the Arkfeld Ultra delivers an unmatched level of versatility.

The Arkfeld Ultra is equipped with an advanced selector switch, allowing effortless transitions between its three modes—white light, green laser, and UV light. The 1,400-lumen white light provides impressive brightness for general use, while the green laser is perfect for presentations or simply playing with your pets. The UV light proves invaluable for tasks like identifying minerals or checking for counterfeit currency.

We’re awarding the Arkfeld Ultra the Yanko Design Best of 2024 accolade for its exceptional combination of innovative materials, multi-functionality, and futuristic design. It represents the ultimate in everyday carry, providing seamless usability with a touch of high-tech sophistication.

What Sets the Arkfeld Ultra Apart

• O-Aluminum Construction: Proprietary O-aluminum offers exceptional hardness and wear resistance, ensuring the flashlight maintains its look and functionality over time.
• Triple Light Modes: This mode features bright white light, a versatile green laser, and a powerful UV light for specialized tasks, delivering unmatched versatility.
• Advanced Selector Switch: Makes mode transitions seamless, allowing for easy switching between light types with minimal effort.
• Sleek and Durable Design: Slim, flat form factor with a futuristic aesthetic, complemented by a dual-direction pocket clip, making it ideal for everyday portability.

Arkfeld Ultra: A Must-Have EDC Companion

The Arkfeld Ultra sets a new standard for EDC flashlights, blending advanced technology, rugged materials, and sleek design. It’s a tool that adapts to your needs, offering the perfect combination of functionality and style. Wherever you are—whether at work, on an adventure, or using it for specialized tasks—the Arkfeld Ultra is designed to impress.

Discover the versatility of the Arkfeld Ultra—a cutting-edge EDC flashlight that delivers exceptional performance and style for all your daily adventures. Visit the brand’s website for detailed information and see why it’s an exceptional choice for 2024.

TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G: Where Precision Meets Innovation in Foldable Design

The TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G impressed us with its seamless blend of style, functionality, and innovation, earning it Yanko Design’s recognition as one of the Best Value-Friendly Foldable Smartphones of 2024. Its thoughtful design balances everyday convenience with cutting-edge technology, making it a remarkable contender among flagship foldables. The device combines portability with next-level technology, featuring a spacious foldable display, precision-engineered hinge, advanced AI integration, and long-lasting battery life. It caters to users who demand equal luxury, productivity, and creativity.

Designer: Tecno

The collaboration between TECNO and “LOEWE.” brings a sophisticated design aesthetic to the Phantom V Fold2 5G, enhancing its visual appeal and everyday usability. The long-lasting battery ensures you can make the most of these features without frequent charging interruptions. With an emphasis on intuitive design, users can expect smooth operation through every interaction. The dual-screen setup includes a 6.42-inch outer display for quick tasks and an expansive 7.85-inch foldable screen for immersive, tablet-like experiences. Whether for work, entertainment, or multitasking, the Phantom V Fold2 adapts seamlessly to fit any scenario.

The aerospace-grade hinge makes unfolding the device smooth and intuitive, offering a refined mechanical operation that holds up under everyday use. The IP54 rating ensures an added layer of durability, making it suitable for varied environments without compromise. The robust hinge mechanism, paired with advanced engineering, means users get a consistent, premium experience, whether casually scrolling or transforming the device for a broader view.

Equipped with the Phantom V Pen, the device becomes a versatile tool for note-taking, creative sketches, and presentations. The stylus offers precision that feels natural, enhancing productivity for both work-related and creative pursuits. Dual speakers also enhance the multimedia experience, delivering rich audio that complements the immersive visuals, making it a notable competitor in the foldable segment.

A thoughtful blend of cutting-edge technology and user-focused features makes the Phantom V Fold2 5G an exceptional foldable device. It’s designed for business professionals, content creators, and anyone who values versatility and performance in their tech. The combination of a lightweight yet robust body, versatile camera, seamless multitasking features, and impressive battery life makes the Phantom V Fold2 5G an excellent companion for capturing life’s moments or powering through the workday.

What Sets the TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G Apart

• Premium Foldable Design: The “LOEWE.” Edition, with eco-friendly leather and marble-patterned fiberglass, creates a unique blend of luxury and durability.
• Versatile Productivity: The Phantom V Pen adds powerful note-taking and remote-control functionality, enhancing creativity and productivity.
• Durable, User-Friendly Hinge: The aerospace-grade hinge supports 400,000 folds, delivering smooth operation and long-lasting reliability.
• High-End Camera System: Triple 50MP rear cameras and dual 32MP front cameras offer professional-grade photo and video capabilities.

TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G: A New Standard for Foldable Phones

The TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G is a meticulously crafted foldable that combines form, function, and durability. The luxurious design by TECNO and “LOEWE.” brings an elegance that is both visually appealing and practical. Its robust hinge, versatile pen integration, powerful camera, and immersive audio make it the ideal choice for anyone seeking innovation in a foldable smartphone. From multitasking across apps to creating content or making calls, the Phantom V Fold2 5G adapts seamlessly to your needs.

Experience the future of foldable smartphones with the TECNO Phantom V Fold2 5G—check out Yanko Design’s full review for more details and see why this device sets a new benchmark in innovation and style.

OBSBOT: Yanko Design Best of 2024

Step into the future of webcam technology with OBSBOT. Since its founding in 2016, this Shenzhen-based tech company has reshaped video capture, delivering a diverse lineup of AI-driven cameras paving the way forward. With over 100 patents and award-winning models like the Tiny 2 and Tail Air, OBSBOT is at the forefront of next-generation camera technology. OBSBOT’s entire collection—including Tail Air, Tiny 2 Lite, Meet 2, Tiny 2, and OBSBOT Talent—is available now, making it the perfect opportunity to elevate your video setup.

Designer: OBSBOT

OBSBOT’s relentless pursuit of innovation has earned them Yanko Design’s Best of 2024 award. This recognition highlights their consistent push to bring the latest AI technology to consumer video, setting the bar for quality and creativity. OBSBOT’s influence in the video technology market stems from its ongoing commitment to integrating intuitive AI features that adapt to diverse user needs. Their cameras have been praised for their ability to transform any setting into a professional video studio, allowing users to focus on content. At the same time, the tech takes care of the rest. This is precisely why OBSBOT stands out in an increasingly crowded market.

OBSBOT cameras are powered by an advanced Deep Neural Learning Network algorithm, allowing them to precisely track subjects and adjust exposure, focus, and framing in real-time. Whether you’re a content creator, educator, or business professional, OBSBOT ensures that every video looks professionally shot, making them intelligent visual companions. From dynamic gesture controls to voice-activated functionality, these cameras redefine visual storytelling for today’s diverse users, with innovations that earned them Yanko Design’s Editors Choice award.

OBSBOT Cameras: A Comprehensive Lineup for Every User

OBSBOT Tail Air

The OBSBOT Tail Air is crafted for users who need professional-grade streaming, perfect for concerts, sporting events, or live productions. With its advanced 1/1.8-inch CMOS sensor, f/1.8 aperture, and AI Auto Tracking, the Tail Air delivers stunning 4K video at 30fps in any lighting condition. Its NDI support and AI Director Grids make it ideal for multi-camera setups, offering seamless integration and dynamic shot control for high-quality event coverage.

OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite

For those seeking an affordable solution, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 Lite is an easy-to-use webcam designed for home offices or casual streaming. It features a large 1/2-inch CMOS sensor for 4K UHD clarity, a 2-axis gimbal for smooth tracking, and customizable Preset Modes for productivity. Its budget-friendly price point makes advanced webcam technology accessible without sacrificing quality.

OBSBOT Meet 2

The OBSBOT Meet 2 is designed for users who prioritize privacy and portability. Available in three stylish colors, it offers AI Auto Framing, Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF), and a Magnetic Privacy Cover. Its compact design and privacy features make it a top choice for on-the-go professionals and privacy-conscious individuals.

OBSBOT Tiny 2

For a premium AI-powered webcam, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 emerges as the ultimate choice. It boasts a 1/1.5-inch CMOS sensor, dual native ISO capabilities, Gesture Control 2.0, and voice-activated commands for effortless usability. Privacy Protection 2.0 adds another layer of control, making it perfect for those who need a top-tier, user-friendly webcam solution.

OBSBOT Talent

The OBSBOT Talent redefines live streaming and video production, tying together all OBSBOT products in one versatile device. Acting as an encoder, switcher, recorder, monitor, and controller, Talent allows users to manage multiple cameras and stream to up to six platforms simultaneously. With features like Picture-in-Picture, chroma key, and advanced overlays, the Talent delivers a professional-grade, all-in-one solution ideal for complex, multi-camera setups.

What Sets OBSBOT Apart

• AI Tracking & Gesture Control: Intelligent tracking and dynamic gesture controls make it easy to maintain the perfect frame, allowing hands-free operation for users of all levels.
• 4K Ultra HD Resolution: Equipped with advanced sensors, OBSBOT cameras deliver stunning 4K UHD video, ensuring every stream or video call is crystal clear.
• Versatile Range: With models like the Tiny 2 Lite for casual streaming and the high-end Tail Air for professional multi-camera setups, there’s an OBSBOT for every need.
• Privacy Features: Unique tools like privacy covers and sleep modes are built into models like the Meet 2, providing added peace of mind when the camera isn’t in use.

OBSBOT: Revolutionizing Video Production

OBSBOT is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in video production. It doesn’t matter if you’re a streaming professionally, teaching, gamer, or aiming to elevate your video call quality, OBSBOT’s AI-powered cameras provide an unmatched combination of ease, innovation, and performance. With cutting-edge technology and intelligent design, these webcams are not just capturing moments—they’re transforming the way we connect and communicate.

Explore OBSBOT’s homepage for more details on these award-winning products and discover the perfect camera for your needs.

Sonos Arc Ultra: High-End Features Meet Expansive Cinematic Sound for Everyone

The Sonos Arc Ultra is designed for anyone who wants to experience rich and dynamic sounds dancing through the air and into their ears, enhancing their home entertainment with theater-quality audio and sleek design. Offering high-end features at a competitive price, it combines powerful performance, immersive Dolby Atmos audio, and refined aesthetics in a single soundbar. At $999, the Arc Ultra is Sonos’ most refined and powerful soundbar yet, delivering features that are accessible for home audio enthusiasts and cinephiles alike.

Designer: Sonos

The Arc Ultra’s newly designed architecture, featuring 14 Sonos-engineered drivers, delivers a stunning 9.1.4 spatial audio experience that fills every corner of your space. Built with Sound Motion woofers and advanced tweeters, the Arc Ultra crafts an expansive sound stage that puts you right at the heart of the action. With Trueplay tuning, available for iOS and Android, you can easily adjust the sound to fit your specific environment, transforming any room into a personalized movie theater.

Sound Motion technology is key to the Arc Ultra’s impressive performance, bringing greater clarity and depth and double the bass output compared to its predecessor. The new center channel architecture ensures dialogue clarity, so every word and vocal cue comes through clearly without strain. Designed with a distinctive curved shape, low-profile design, and matte finish, the Arc Ultra is as visually appealing as it is functionally impressive.

The Sonos Arc Ultra impressed us so much that we’re awarding it Yanko Design’s Best of 2024 for its combination of high-quality sound, advanced technology, and user-friendly design. It brings a sophisticated audio experience to your home without compromising aesthetics or sustainability.

What Sets the Sonos Arc Ultra Apart

• Sound Motion Technology: Delivers greater clarity, depth, and double the bass output compared to the previous Arc model, providing an enhanced audio experience.
• 9.1.4 Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos: The 14 Sonos-engineered drivers deliver a fully immersive experience, enveloping you in rich, cinema-like sound.
• Advanced Speech Enhancement: Ensures dialogue is always clear and easy to follow, fine-tuned by industry experts for a studio-quality experience.
• Thoughtful Design and Sustainability: Distinctive curved shape, low-profile design, and sustainable materials combine to make Arc Ultra an attractive and environmentally conscious addition to any space.

Sonos Arc Ultra: A Must-Have for Cinematic Audio Excellence

Thoughtfully designed, this soundbar delivers premium quality and comfort for home entertainment enthusiasts. Its adaptive features, sustainable materials, and sleek design make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to bring a cinematic audio experience into their living room. Whether you’re enjoying your favorite movies or creating an immersive music setup, the Arc Ultra offers a sophisticated solution to elevate your home audio.

Experience a new level of immersive sound with the Sonos Arc Ultra—bringing the power of cinematic audio directly into your home. Check out Yanko Design’s full review to learn more and see why this soundbar is an exceptional choice.

Saramonic Ultra Wireless Mic: Yanko Design Best of 2024

Saramonic has been reshaping professional audio gear for over a decade, culminating in the release of their latest offering: the Saramonic Ultra Wireless Mic. This cutting-edge mic is specifically designed for filmmakers, content creators, and anyone needing high-quality audio on the go. The combination of Saramonic’s innovative technology and a practical design approach is why the Ultra Wireless Mic earned Yanko Design’s Best of 2024 award. With features like Timecode synchronization, 32-bit float recording, and an IPX5 waterproof rating, the Ultra sets a new benchmark for professional audio tools.

Designer: Saramonic

Saramonic’s focus on audio excellence is evident throughout the Ultra Wireless Mic’s design. Since 2012, they have pushed the boundaries of audio innovation, accumulating over 400 patents. The Ultra Wireless Mic demonstrates Saramonic’s drive to deliver a seamless, high-quality audio experience that meets professional demands while remaining accessible to independent creators. It’s a tool that transforms the challenges of on-location sound recording into an effortless part of the creative process.

Precision is at the core of the Ultra Wireless Mic, with every feature built to capture flawless audio. The Timecode synchronization feature ensures frame-perfect alignment, making it an essential asset for filmmakers dealing with multi-camera shoots. Meanwhile, the 32-bit float recording retains an impressive dynamic range, allowing users to capture everything from subtle whispers to loud cheers without distortion. This makes the Ultra ideal for dynamic environments like film sets, live events, or outdoor shoots.

Designed for versatility, the Saramonic Ultra Wireless Mic easily handles demanding recording conditions. Its IPX5 waterproof rating means it can withstand rain and humidity, making it an ideal choice for unpredictable outdoor environments. Be it documenting nature, capturing live events, or filming in tough conditions, the Ultra is built to keep up. Including an external antenna ensures a reliable wireless transmission range of up to 300 meters, while interchangeable Lightning and USB-C connectors guarantee compatibility across devices, from cameras to smartphones.

The user-friendly design is another highlight of the Saramonic Ultra. The 1.1-inch AMOLED touchscreen provides real-time information on battery life, audio levels, and signal strength, allowing creators to adjust settings quickly, even in challenging lighting conditions. Paired with a tactile physical knob, the Ultra offers both digital and physical control, ensuring seamless operation during fast-paced shoots.

What Sets the Saramonic Ultra Apart

• Timecode Synchronization: Ensures frame-perfect alignment of audio and video, saving time during post-production and eliminating sync errors.
• 32-bit Float Recording: Captures a wide dynamic range without distortion, making it perfect for unpredictable audio environments.
• IPX5 Waterproof Rating: Designed to handle outdoor and challenging weather conditions, ensuring reliability during shoots.
• User-Friendly Controls: Features a 1.1-inch AMOLED touchscreen and a physical control knob for easy, real-time adjustments.

Saramonic Ultra Wireless Mic: A Must-Have for Creators

The Saramonic Ultra Wireless Mic is essential for creators looking to enhance their audio production quality. Its advanced features, from Timecode synchronization to waterproofing, make it suitable for various applications—whether on a bustling film set, at a live concert, or during an outdoor adventure. The thoughtful design, which includes both intuitive touchscreen controls and physical knobs, ensures that users can focus on their creative vision without getting bogged down by technical limitations.

Saramonic has once again demonstrated its expertise in professional audio gear, and the Ultra Wireless Mic is a testament to its commitment to innovation and quality. Check Saramonic’s homepage for more details and discover how this mic can transform your audio recording experience.

Beatbot’s Pool Cleaning Innovations

In 2024, Beatbot secured its position as a leader in robotic pool cleaning technology by launching two groundbreaking products: the AquaSense Pro and the iSkim Ultra. These innovations highlight Beatbot’s focus on integrating advanced technology with user-centric design, setting new standards in pool maintenance.

Designer: Beatbot

Beatbot’s success stems from its focus on research and development, resulting in proprietary technologies that enhance cleaning efficiency and user experience. The company’s focus on artificial intelligence and sensor integration has led to products that perform exceptionally and adapt intelligently to different pool environments. This focus on innovation has earned Beatbot recognition in the Yanko Design Best of 2024 as the top robotic pool cleaner company.

Beatbot AquaSense Pro: Intelligent and Comprehensive Pool Cleaning

The AquaSense Pro redefines pool maintenance with its all-in-one design, which is capable of cleaning the pool floor, walls, and waterline. Equipped with 20 onboard sensors and nine powerful motors, it utilizes AI algorithms powered by Beatbot OS to navigate and clean efficiently. The device’s simulated flight propulsion design allows it to float to the surface, effectively removing debris from all areas of the pool. Yanko Design AquaSense Pro Review

One key feature is its Smart MemoryPark, which ensures effortless retrieval from the surface, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The second must-have feature is the surface cleaning capability, which efficiently removes debris from all areas of the pool. The third is the Automatic Clarifier Dispenser feature, which enhances pool clarity and provides a pristine swimming environment. With a continuous runtime of up to 9.5 hours, the AquaSense Pro offers extended cleaning sessions, making it ideal for larger pools.

What Sets the AquaSense Pro Apart

• Comprehensive Cleaning Coverage: Capable of cleaning the pool floor, walls, surface, and waterline, ensuring thorough maintenance.
• AI-Powered Navigation: Utilizes advanced algorithms for efficient and intelligent cleaning patterns.
• Extended Battery Life: Offers up to 9.5 hours of continuous operation, suitable for extensive cleaning tasks.
• Smart Retrieval System: Features Smart MemoryPark for easy retrieval from the pool surface.

Beatbot iSkim Ultra: Advanced Solar-Powered Surface Skimming

Using its solar-powered operation, the iSkim Ultra is designed to handle surface debris, including large leaves and fine particles invisible to the eye, eliminating the need for constant charging. Additionally, it features an Automatic Clarifier Dispenser that further enhances pool clarity, providing a crystal-clear swimming environment. Its sleek and modern design, recognized with the ‘Gold Winner’ award at the Muse Awards 2024, complements any pool setting. Yanko Design iSkim Ultra Review

Weighing just 16.98 lbs and measuring 21.1 x 20.1 x 8.9 inches, the iSkim Ultra is compact and lightweight, allowing it to navigate tight spaces and corners effortlessly. Its advanced seven-motor system, featuring dual-side brushes and a large front roller brush, delivers precise skimming performance. Equipped with Beatbot’s AI-driven path optimization and 20 integrated sensors, including tri-ultrasonic technology, it efficiently handles surface debris, providing a thorough cleaning experience with minimal oversight.

What Sets the iSkim Ultra Apart

• Solar-Powered Operation: Ensures continuous, eco-friendly cleaning without constant charging.
• Compact and Lightweight Design: Facilitates easy handling and maneuverability in various pool shapes and sizes.
• Advanced Skimming Technology: Features a seven-motor system with dual-side brushes and a front roller brush for effective debris removal.
• AI-Driven Navigation: Utilizes AI algorithms and multiple sensors for efficient and intelligent cleaning patterns.

Beatbot’s Innovations: A Must-Have for Pool Owners

Beatbot’s AquaSense Pro and iSkim Ultra show the company’s drive to advance pool cleaning technology. These products offer unparalleled convenience and efficiency by integrating AI-driven navigation, comprehensive cleaning capabilities, and user-friendly designs. We especially love the AquaSense Pro for its all-in-one cleaning design that easily tackles floors, walls, and waterlines. At the same time, the iSkim Ultra’s solar-powered skimming makes it an eco-friendly, hassle-free solution. Both products have been named Yanko Design Editors’ Choice for 2024, highlighting their exceptional performance and innovative features.

For pool owners seeking reliable and intelligent maintenance solutions, Beatbot’s offerings are essential tools to maintain a pristine swimming environment.

Samsung Galaxy Ring: A New Era in Health Monitoring

Samsung has entered the wearable technology market with its latest product, the Galaxy Ring. Designed for health-conscious individuals seeking a sleek and subtle device to monitor their wellness, the Galaxy Ring represents the next generation of Samsung’s wearable health technology. These new features show Samsung’s focus on combining stylish design with advanced health tracking to improve the user’s experience.

Designer: Samsung

Samsung has invested heavily in research to create an understated yet powerful health tracker that fits seamlessly into everyday life. Focusing on precise health metrics, user comfort, and innovative materials, the Galaxy Ring is Samsung’s answer to those seeking a refined approach to wellness technology.

Samsung Galaxy Ring: A Stylish Health Accessory

The Galaxy Ring is crafted to deliver comprehensive health insights while maintaining an elegant and discreet design. Equipped with advanced biometric sensors, it tracks metrics like heart rate, sleep patterns, and blood oxygen levels with high accuracy. The slim design, crafted from durable titanium, is lightweight yet robust, allowing it to withstand the daily wear and tear of an active lifestyle.

The ring is powered by Samsung’s HealthOS, providing seamless synchronization with the Galaxy Health app. Users can receive insights and personalized recommendations directly on their smartphones. The Galaxy Ring boasts an impressive battery life of up to 72 hours on a single charge, ensuring uninterrupted continuous health tracking.

What Sets the Galaxy Ring Apart

• Comprehensive Health Tracking: This app tracks heart rate, sleep stages, blood oxygen levels, and stress metrics, giving a full picture of your wellness.
• Titanium Construction: Lightweight, durable material ensures comfort without compromising style.
• Seamless Connectivity with Samsung Health: Integrates smoothly with the Galaxy Health app for real-time insights and personalized recommendations.
• Extended Battery Life: Offers up to 72 hours of battery life, allowing continuous tracking without frequent charging.

Samsung Galaxy Ring: Why It Matters for Your Wellness

The Galaxy Ring combines advanced biometrics, comfort, and seamless connectivity for a stylish health tracker. Its discreet design allows effortless monitoring without drawing attention, making it ideal for subtle elegance.

Advanced body temperature monitoring and stress analysis provide in-depth health insights. Its sleek design fits comfortably in casual and professional settings, seamlessly integrating with Samsung’s ecosystem.

Samsung’s focus on wearable health technology blends practicality and elegance, offering essential health metrics without the bulk of a smartwatch, perfect for those prioritizing functionality and fashion.

ASUS Zenbook S 14 with Ceraluminum: Transforming Laptops into Design Objects

Laptops are no longer the bulky and hefty plastic boxes of yesteryears. While improving in power and performance, they have also become more design-focused, exuding beauty and elegance whenever possible. A good number of these fresh new laptops, however, still use the typical combination of plastic and metal, as if these were the extent of what’s possible in this kind of product.

Designer: ASUS

ASUS dared to step into new territory by developing a meta-material that combines familiar experiences and turns them into something new and wonderful. Ceraluminum is the name of the fruit of its labors, a portmanteau of ceramic and aluminum. It employs a new and unique micro-arc oxidation process that creates a ceramic oxide layer over an aluminum sheet, combining the metal’s strength and lightness with the ceramic’s hardness and scratch resistance.

Applied to the ASUS Zenbook S 14, this novel material creates a new visual and tactile experience like never before. The paper-like texture brings joy to the fingers, while the laptop’s thin profile and light frame make it a pleasure to bring anywhere. It truly gives the laptop a luxurious character, whether you look at it or touch it.

Of course, it isn’t just all looks, either. Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V paired with Intel Arc Xe graphics, the Zenbook S 14 is more than capable of handling any task you throw at it, whether it’s editing documents or taking breaks with games. Its 72Wh battery allows you to experience that power a lot longer without having to rush for a power socket, ensuring an enjoyable mobile experience.

What Sets the ASUS Zenbook S 14 with Ceraluminum Apart

• Revolutionary new Ceraluminum meta-material combines the lightness of aluminum and the hardness of ceramic.
• Ceraluminum adds a satisfying paper-like matte texture finish to the lid.
• Light, portable, and comfortable to use
• Best-of-class specs for all computing needs, including light gaming.

ASUS Zenbook S 14 with Ceraluminum: Elegance and Power You Can Feel

There is only so much we can cram inside laptops before we hit the limits of physics, but there’s also still plenty we can do within those limitations. Creating experiences that go beyond just performance can result in higher customer satisfaction, but it takes a bit of courage to take the risks and run with it. Fortunately, being bold is something that ASUS has made into its motto.

The ASUS Zenbook S 14 with Ceraluminum represents this zealous push “in search of incredible.” On its own, it is already a competitive laptop with its high-end specs, but it becomes even more memorable because of its stylish design. While not many people might remember the name “Ceraluminum,” there will be plenty who will remember the luxurious look and feel they won’t find in other laptops this year.

Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC Proof of Concept: Beyond Chatbots and Images

AI is a hot topic in the tech industry, and almost everyone advertises one AI-powered feature or another as a unique selling point. Computers, however, mostly come in the form of chatbots, where you can ask about the weather or generate text and images based on prompts. Of course, there are more ways to utilize this AI special sauce, like optimizing performance, but Lenovo demonstrated a rather interesting application last September at IFA 2024.

Designer: Lenovo

If AI can learn from your behavior and adjust the computer’s settings based on that, can it also change its behavior and operations? That’s the question behind the Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC, a proof-of-concept laptop that transforms into different forms and modes depending on what you’re doing, at least based on your past patterns.

Imagine a laptop that opens and closes its lid, not just dim the screen, whenever you approach or leave. Or one that transforms into a tablet when you want to draw or a display when you need to show a presentation to a customer. Or a laptop whose screen twists and follows you around to ensure you’re always in the frame during a business call.

These are just some possibilities the Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC concept can pull off with the right amount of refinement and improvement. Of course, you can do all of these manually (except for the auto-framing part), but why waste time and effort when you can have it do things automatically for you? Although it’s still a proof of concept, it successfully proved that there is much more room for growth in utilizing AI to make our lives easier and less monotonous.

What Sets the Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC Apart

• Offers a novel experience that automatically adapts to users’ needs and commands.
• Keeps track of user movements and position to make sure they’re always in frame during video calls.
• Can help promote ergonomics and reduce strain by automatically adjusting the screen angle.
• Doesn’t require massive internal changes except for the motorized hinge.

Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC Proof of Concept: Your Personal Laptop Butler

There’s no denying that AI will become an indispensable part of our lives sooner or later, but it will need to find acceptance beyond prompts, image generation, and chatbots. It must offer more visible and approachable value that adds meaning to people’s lives.

The Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC PoC is a rather unusual and quirky example, one that tries to automate even the mundane, physical aspects of using a laptop, like opening the lid or turning the screen. It’s like having a personal assistant who’s always at your side, ready to turn and transform your work computer without having to ask what you need each and every time.

OPPO Find X8 Pro: Smartphone Cameras on a Healthy Diet

Smartphone cameras are getting more powerful every year, but their sizes are also getting a bit more ridiculous as well. The challenge now is to find a design that will mask these large sensors without making the entire phone look bulky. Or better yet, keep the cameras as small as possible so they don’t add too much thickness overall.

Designer: OPPO

The OPPO Find X8 Pro proves that it can be done, boasting a camera bump that’s 40% thinner than its predecessor. At only 8.34mm thick, the slim profile and flat edges give it an elegant and stylish appearance. Although that camera island is still a gigantic circle, its balanced design solves the annoying wobble problem many smartphones today exhibit.

OPPO aimed for beauty through minimalism and symmetry, creating a design pleasing to the eyes from all angles. The cameras are now equally distributed and identical-looking, adding to that sense of visual balance. Its appearance is simple yet has quite an impact, highlighting only the important parts like the screen and the cameras and leaving out the rest.

Of course, the OPPO Find X8 Pro is also worthy of its “pro” moniker, bearing the latest and greatest smartphone hardware available this time of year. It is even one of the first few to boast IP69 protection against splashes of hot water, making it a reliable companion for all of life’s adventures.

What Sets the OPPO Find X8 Pro Apart

• Elegant and modern aesthetic with a symmetrical design.
• Cosmos Ring camera design is 40% thinner, creating a very slim profile.
• Impressive Quad 50MP camera system.
• Competitive performance and battery life.

OPPO Find X8 Pro: Power Without Compromise

The OPPO Find X8 Pro stands out in the flagship smartphone market, offering a blend of cutting-edge technology and elegant design. Its camera system, developed in collaboration with Hasselblad, provides exceptional versatility and quality, making it a top choice for photography enthusiasts. The device’s performance and ergonomics are equally impressive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable user experience.

Best of all, it ups the ante on the design, ensuring that the cameras provide power and aesthetic value without compromising one or the other. It’s not an easy feat, especially within the limits of current technology, but it has a massive positive impact when done properly, as seen here.

DJI Neo Ultra-Compact FPV Drone: Big Features in Small Packages

Drones are no longer an alien concept today, nor are they mistaken for UFOs anymore, but the form that most people are familiar with is the big professional machines used for cinematography, surveillance, or even deliveries. There are definitely smaller drones, but these are so small that they’re nothing more than cute toys that you’ll get bored with after a few minutes.

Designer: DJI

DJI, a brand whose name has become synonymous with drones, is taking the middle ground with a rather adorable small drone that still packs quite a punch in terms of features. Weighing just under 5 oz (135g), the DJI Neo is the company’s lightest and most compact flying robot. It’s easy to carry around, easy to launch, and easy to use, endearing itself to more casual users.

Despite its small size, the DJI Neo is equipped with an impressive 12MP camera that’s capable of shooting stabilized 4K video. It also has some AI chops, like automatic tracking that will ensure that the subject is always framed perfectly. Pre-programmed flight paths and camera angles make it quick and effortless to shoot scenes so that you can focus on capturing the fleeting action, not on fiddling with settings.

This combination of solid FPV camera capabilities and a compact design makes the DJI Neo inherently fun to use. It removes the emotional and mental barriers to using a camera drone, making it feel almost like a toy, but one that has some practical use. It empowers anyone, from creators to adventurers, to capture moments from a different angle, making them not only more memorable but also more enjoyable.

What Sets the DJI Neo Apart

• Lightweight and compact size makes it easier to bring the drone anywhere.
• Easy to use and fun; just launch from the palm of your hand.
• Capable 12MP camera with stabilized 4K video recording and 18-minute flight time.
• Easy operation with pre-programmed flight modes and AI tracking.

DJI Neo Ultra-Compact FPV Drone: Capture the Moment from a Different Angle

Just as 3D printers made producing designs more accessible to the masses, drones enabled cinematic photos and videos to come from hobbyists and casual creators as well. Flying a drone might seem like a complicated task that requires some degree in flying or robotics, but it doesn’t have to be, especially with today’s technologies.

With its lightweight and compact form, easy controls, and smart functions, the DJI Neo makes aerial content creation accessible to everyone. It also makes flying a drone more enjoyable, removing barriers to entry. Whether you’re documenting family outings or outdoor adventures or simply looking to add a cinematic touch to your daily experiences, the Neo provides the perfect balance of portability, performance, and ease of use.

Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Tri-Fold Smartphone: Innovation Without Limits

There’s really no stopping the march of foldable phones, slow as it may seem, so the real question is whether this is the limit of what can be accomplished. Most of the foldable phones in the market today have congregated around the “innie” design championed by Samsung from day one, but it’s hardly the only possibility nor is it even the ideal design. After all, using a squarish screen looks and feels odd, especially considering most content we view is either wide or tall.

Designer: Huawei

Huawei is the other pioneer in this niche market, and it is blazing the trail yet again with the Mate XT Ultimate, the world’s first commercially double-folding or tri-fold smartphone. It has a design that addresses almost all the shortcomings of the “innie” and “outie” designs of the first generation of foldables, finally offering something for everyone.

When fully folded, the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate looks like a 6.4-inch phone that’s only 12.8mm thick, which isn’t that much considering you practically have three display panels stacked together. Unfolded, it becomes a 10.2-inch tablet with an extra-slim 3.6mm profile. There’s even a “mid-stage,” a 7.9-inch dual-pane tablet that’s more familiar to foldable phone users today.

This versatility gives users the freedom to use the device on their own terms, with the familiar ergonomics and behaviors they’ve been using for years. Whether you need an extra-wide screen for watching videos, a discreet tall screen for reading content, or a regular phone for typing out messages quickly, the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate delivers what users need at that moment.

What Sets the Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Apart

• World’s first tri-fold smartphone that combines two predominant foldable designs.
• Transforms from 6.4-inch phone to 10.2-inch wide tablet, with a middle 7.9-inch mode.
• Packed with high-end hardware and a large battery despite the thin profile.
• Enables different uses and experiences using the same mobile device.

Huawei Mate XT Ultimate Tri-Fold Smartphone: The Future of Smartphones Today

The dream of a phone that transforms into a large tablet and back again hasn’t really died. The need for a single device that can be used for different purposes still rings true even years after the first foldable phone launched in the market. These devices are becoming more normal, but that hardly means we’ve reached the pinnacle of their design.

The Huawei Mate XT Ultimate continues to push the envelope, delivering that long-awaited tri-fold smartphone design. Whether you need a handy phone or a big tablet, it delivers the functionality in the same device. It will eventually catch on, with other brands hot on their heels, but Huawei definitely has the bragging rights of being the first.

Proclaim Custom-Jet Oral Health System: Healthy Living Made Easy

We all know that we need to keep our teeth clean and healthy, but the practice of brushing regularly feels too much of a burdensome chore. Not only do you need to spend a lot of time, you also need to exert a lot of effort, especially when it comes to flossing each and every tooth. With advancements in science and technology, that shouldn’t be the case anymore, and Proclaim is here to prove that.

Designer: Proclaim

This innovative oral health system removes the two biggest obstacles to forming a healthy dental care habit: time and effort. It only takes 7 seconds a day to give your mouth a thorough 360-degree cleaning, and all you really have to do is put on the custom mouthpiece and press a button. It doesn’t get simpler than that, which means you’re more likely to do it regularly.

The secret to this unbelievable feat is Proclaim’s patented system, which uses 60 precisely placed water jets to clean between the teeth and below the gum line in seconds. It’s more effective than even single-jet water flossing, let alone those icky string flosses. It also significantly reduces the required effort, making it easier and even more enjoyable.

Proclaim also uses advanced digital scanning to create a 3D-printed mouthpiece specifically designed for you, increasing the precision of the water jets and your comfort. You can also swap out mouthpieces easily so that everyone in the family can enjoy the benefits of healthy oral hygiene that’s easy and fun. With the Proclaim Custom-Jet Oral Health System, brushing and flossing will no longer feel like a chore!

What Sets the Proclaim Oral Health System Apart

• Cleans teeth and gums in a habit-forming time of 7 seconds.
• 60 precisely placed, patented water jets effectively clean areas brushing and flossing struggle to reach.
• 3D-printed mouthpieces are customized to the unique shape of your teeth for a comfortable fit.
• More effective in removing plaque and reducing gum inflammation than brushing and flossing alone.

Proclaim Custom-Jet Oral Health System: Big Smiles All The Time

Our mouths play a critical role in keeping our bodies healthy, so it’s only fitting that we give them the proper attention and care they deserve. Unfortunately, traditional brushing and flossing have proven not only ineffective but also burdensome, discouraging people from forming a healthy oral hygiene habit. The Proclaim Custom-Jet Oral Health System is trying to revolutionize this market with a design so easy to use that you have no reason not to do it.

For just 7 seconds a day and with the push of a button, the 60 water jets give your teeth and gums 360-degree cleaning, reaching areas that brushing and flossing struggle with. With an experience that’s simple and fun, Proclaim is delivering not just innovation but improved health and bigger smiles for you and your loved ones.

The post Yanko Design Best of 2024: Design Beyond Boundaries first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• More elegant, minimalist, and mature design


• AniMe Vision display and AniMe Play features add a unique charm


• Unbeatable performance and cooling system


• Decent cameras for a gaming-centric smartphone

CONS:

• Incremental upgrades only over the previous generation


• 13MP ultra-wide camera feels a bit dated

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EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro offers great value, balancing advanced gaming features with an elegant and mature design.

Mobile gaming remains a lucrative industry, with millions of gamers worldwide seeking the best devices to enhance their gaming experience. However, as mainstream smartphones improve their performance, the allure of dedicated gaming phones has diminished. Yet, a niche market persists for devices specifically designed for gaming enthusiasts. The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro emerges as a contender in this space, promising speed and flair. But does it meet the expectations of pro gamers?

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro launches at a rather critical time for gaming smartphones and it seeks to carve out its niche by offering features tailored to gaming. Packed with high-performance specs and unique design elements, it targets those who demand more from their mobile devices. This review delves into whether the ROG Phone 9 Pro truly delivers on its promises and whether you should upgrade from the brand’s previous model if you already have it in your hands.

Designer: ASUS Republic of Gamers

Aesthetics

Just like its predecessor, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro’s design marks steps away from the overtly flashy aesthetics typical of gaming phones. It adopts a minimalist approach that exudes maturity, appealing to both gamers and non-gamers. The geometric camera bump and off-center design elements subtly nod to its gaming roots, maintaining a distinct identity.

The back cover, crafted from a single piece of glass, showcases precision etching for added texture. This design choice not only enhances the phone’s visual appeal but also provides a tactile experience. The matte finish employs a crystalized nano-texture, ensuring a silky touch while resisting fingerprints, keeping the device pristine.

A standout feature for gamers is the AniMe Vision display that gives the smartphone a unique flair. The ROG Phone 9 Pro model utilizes 648 mini-LEDs to display icons, text, and even GIF animations, adding a dynamic element to the phone. Hidden animations can be unlocked when two ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro devices are near, using NFC technology, offering a novel interactive experience that creates a community of ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro owners.

Exclusive to the Pro model as well, the AniMe Play feature brings retro mini-games to the AniMe Vision display, further emphasizing the phone’s gaming focus. This playful addition caters to gamers seeking entertainment beyond traditional mobile games, enhancing the device’s appeal. Overall, the design balances sophistication with gaming-centric elements.

Ergonomics

Despite its large 6.78-inch display, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is designed for comfort. The textured finish provides a secure grip, making it easier to hold during long gaming sessions. This ergonomic consideration is crucial for gamers who prioritize comfort and usability.

However, the phone’s thickness, primarily due to its substantial battery, might be a drawback for some users. While it ensures extended gaming sessions, it adds bulk to the device. Balancing battery life with portability remains a challenge in gaming phone design.

The dual USB-C ports are a thoughtful addition, allowing users to charge the device without interrupting gameplay. This feature is particularly beneficial for gamers who engage in prolonged sessions, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply. Such practical design choices demonstrate ASUS’s commitment to enhancing the gaming experience.

Performance

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is a powerhouse, boasting the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Coupled with 24GB of RAM and 1TB of storage in the Pro Edition, it ensures high-performance gaming and multitasking capabilities. This setup positions it not only as a formidable contender in the gaming phone market but also as a reliable everyday mobile device.

The GameCool thermal management system effectively dissipates heat, preventing build-up and ensuring sustained performance. This feature is crucial for maintaining optimal performance during intense gaming sessions, where overheating can be a concern. If you need even more cooling, the Pro Edition ships with the AeroActive Cooler X Pro which enhances cooling with a Pelter chip for passive cooling and larger fans for active cooling. It also includes physical left and right buttons, providing additional functionality similar to popular game controllers.

The 2400×1080 6.78-inch AMOLED display offers vibrant colors and exceptional brightness. It also comes with a 2400×1080 resolution and a 185Hz refresh rate that’s boasted to be the highest on a phone. This display quality elevates the gaming experience, providing immersive visuals. The phone’s performance is further enhanced by AI features, including automatic item pickup and moment recording. That said, these AI features are limited to a few titles like Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail, and Mobile Legends Bang Bang so they might not be generally useful.

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro is equipped with a robust 5,800 mAh battery, ensuring extended gaming sessions without frequent recharges. It supports fast 65W charging and can go from zero to full in less than 50 minutes, a boon for gamers on the go. Additionally, the phone offers 15W wireless charging, providing convenient and flexible power options to suit various user needs.

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro surprises with its competent camera system, featuring a 50MP Sony Lytia 700 sensor at the helm. This primary camera delivers detailed images, a pleasant surprise for a device primarily focused on gaming. It challenges the notion that gaming phones must compromise on camera quality.

The 32MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom and 13MP ultra-wide-angle lens provide versatility in photography. While not extraordinary, they offer decent performance for everyday use. This well-rounded camera setup adds value to the phone, catering to users who appreciate photography.

Features like Photo Vibe enhance the photography experience, offering color and temperature presets. AI Object Sense provides auto-correction, optimizing photos based on scene elements. The AirTrigger Capture function utilizes the same capacitive side buttons used for gaming as a dedicated shutter button, adding a unique touch to mobile photography. The ROG Phone 9 Pro is not a pro camera phone by a long shot, but this powerful camera system at least adds to its versatility and usefulness outside of games.

Sustainability

In terms of sustainability, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro follows the conventional smartphone formula, utilizing plastic, metal, and glass. Unfortunately, it does not incorporate recycled materials, a growing trend in the industry. However, it boasts an IP68 dust and water resistance rating, enhancing its durability and longevity.

While sustainability may not be its strongest suit, the phone’s robust build quality ensures it can withstand everyday challenges. This aspect is crucial for gamers who demand reliability and resilience from their devices, particularly during intense gaming sessions.

Value

The ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro offers impressive performance and a suite of features tailored for professional mobile gaming. Its beautiful screen and additional side charging port are standout features. These elements cater to gamers seeking a device that prioritizes performance and practicality.

However, for existing ROG Phone 8 Pro users, the upgrades may seem incremental, providing little incentive to switch. This aspect may affect its appeal to loyal ASUS customers seeking significant improvements. Nonetheless, the ROG Phone 9 Pro remains a compelling choice for new buyers.

Despite the incremental upgrades, the ROG Phone 9 Pro represents good value for those seeking a dedicated gaming phone. It combines high-end specifications with thoughtful design elements, appealing to gamers who value not only performance but also aesthetics. The phone’s value proposition lies in its specialized features, from ROG’s famous Armory Crate to the phone’s invisible AirTrigger buttons. Even the animated AniMe Vision display is a treat for mobile gamers who want to brag about their gear.

Verdict

Gaming smartphones are evolving, adopting more refined designs while maintaining their core gaming features. However, with regular flagship phones matching their performance, the reasons to invest in a dedicated gaming device are dwindling. Nevertheless, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro continues to offer great value, balancing advanced features with a mature design.

For gamers who demand the best, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro stands out as a worthy contender. It combines speed, style, and substance, making it a compelling choice for those who want a device tailored to their gaming needs. Despite the shrinking market for gaming phones, ASUS’s offering remains a testament to innovation in the mobile gaming arena.

The post ASUS ROG Phone 9 Pro Review: The Ultimate Gaming Smartphone Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• Gorgeous Ceraluminum design with a unique tactile experience


• Ultra-thin and lightweight chassis for effortless portability


• Lush and vibrant 14-inch 3K 120Hz OLED display


• Impressive performance, including light gaming

CONS:

• Port selection is a bit constrained


• RAM is integrated into System-on-Chip

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EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Packing incredible performance in a compact and beautiful design, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 redefines what ultraportable laptops are capable of and demonstrates how to deliver a design that you can feel.

For the longest time, Apple MacBooks have set themselves apart from the rest of the laptop crowd with their stylish designs, while laptop manufacturers preferred to focus on the performance and technical aspects of their products. Consumer tastes have shifted, however, and brands have started their search for thinner and lighter designs, though they always get stumped by the laws of physics and the limits of technologies and materials. Always in Search of Incredible, ASUS decided to look to other places for inspiration, both from other industries and Mother Nature herself. The result is a new “meta-material” Ceraluminum, which debuted on the ASUS Zenbook S 14, a rather striking laptop that promises the best of all worlds. Naturally, we couldn’t resist getting our hands on it and taking it for a test run to see whether its beauty runs deep.

Designer: ASUS

Aesthetics

Laptop lids are often made from metal like aluminum or plastic, both of which offer different strengths but also weaknesses. Lately, titanium has become the hot new material for electronics because of its durable and lightweight properties, but it is far from the end-all and be-all of metallic products. Taking a page from the aerospace and luxury watch industries, ASUS developed a new oxidation or “ceramization” to produce a sort of hybrid or meta-material, if you would, that combines not only the lightness of aluminum and the hardness of ceramic but also creates a new visual and tactile experience never before seen on a laptop.

“Ceraluminum” is the marketing term for what ASUS previously called Plasma Ceramic Aluminum, and our very own Vincent Nguyen describes the material in better detail. The end result is a laptop cover that looks nothing less than a piece of art, especially with the lines that cross its surface to create geometric patterns. Not only is the laptop great to look at, but it also feels great to touch. There’s a certain degree of roughness to its surface, almost like paper. Considering its paper-light weight and thinness, it almost feels like you’re simply carrying a stack of white or gray paper.

And yes, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 is unbelievably thin and lightweight, only 1.1cm (0.47 inches) thin and 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs) light. It gives the laptop a rather striking profile that grabs attention from any angle. And with its tactile design and lightweight body, you might find yourself wanting to carry the laptop in your arms often, truly a design that you can feel.

Fortunately, the laptop’s beauty doesn’t disappear when you lift up the lid. The very thin bezels almost disappear completely, giving way to the bright and colorful ASUS Lumina OLED display. The clean and modest design of the keyboard and the touchpad pad perfectly complement the minimalism of the laptop’s lids. Even the rather unique ventilation grid lying between the keyboard and the display hinge brings functional aesthetics into the picture. No matter which way you look at and hold the Zenbook S 14, you are greeted by a strikingly elegant display that you touch with your eyes as well as with your fingers.

Ergonomics

With such a thin and light design, there is really no argument about the portability of this laptop. You can easily carry it anywhere by hand or slip it inside a bag, and use it anywhere as well, including on your laptop. This makes the Zenbook S 14 ideal for people who find themselves always on the move, sometimes even at a moment’s notice. Best of all, they aren’t losing out on power and performance, as we’ll see later, so there are almost no downsides to its design.

That said, if you’re a bit picky about your typing experience, you might have some issues with the ASUS Zenbook S 14’s keyboard. With a profile as thin as this, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the keyboard actually has a bit of a shallow travel distance, just around 1.1mm. Mind you, that’s not exactly a deal breaker and we found it to still be quite comfortable and enjoyable to type on. In fact, considering that same thin profile, it’s a miracle that this keyboard could actually feel this good. Again, your mileage might vary, but keyboard connoisseurs might want to take note of this detail.

Another minor matter that may or may not ruin your experience is the very bright keyboard backlight. Although adjustable, even its dimmest setting might feel a little blinding to more sensitive eyes, especially in a dark room. On the bright side (no pun intended), the light and the keys are also very visible even in bright surroundings. Again, not a huge flaw but something you’ll want to consider based on your personal preferences.

Performance

You might be wondering what the catch is since thin laptops have traditionally been underpowered to the point of being unusable for anything but the most basic computing tasks. There are a small number of gotchas, indeed, but not in the ways you might expect and definitely not damning enough to ruin mar the Zenbook S 14’s prestige. In fact, it’s pretty mind-blowing that this ultra-thin laptop is able to perform this well, offering a no-compromise mobile computing experience.

Part of that is thanks to the new Intel Lunar Lake processor, specifically the Core Ultra 7 258V. It uses a system-on-chip design that integrates a CPU, a dedicated NPU (Neural Processing Unit), an Intel Arc Xe GPU, and 32GB of RAM. Yes, that memory is built into the processor, which does have an important implication we’ll get to later. Regardless, this compact silicon design is what allowed Intel and ASUS to maximize internal space, allowing them to cram more or bigger components, like a 72Wh battery.

The Zenbook S 14’s raw benchmark performance is nothing short of impressive, easily matching other 28W laptops. Considering ultra-thin 14-inch laptops often operate at a much lower 15W TDP to avoid overheating, this is quite a remarkable feat. Perhaps the most telling achievement is how this slim laptop can deftly handle gaming loads with medium graphics settings instead of the typical low settings. Although it’s not marketed as a content creation or gaming laptop, it can definitely fit the bill with some performance tweaking and adjustments.

What’s a bit more interesting, however, is how the laptop’s performance seems to lean more towards unplugged use. Of course, this is perhaps one of the most important considerations for a laptop, since wouldn’t want to have it always plugged in, defeating the purpose of its portability. Long story short, the Zenbook S 14 seems to perform best when on battery, providing a good balance of power and efficiency to meet any computing need anywhere, anytime. And with mixed use, you can get a little under 20 hours of battery life on a single charge. That’s well under ASUS’s advertised 27 hours of non-stop video playback, but the realistic numbers are still quite good.

This makes the ASUS Zenbook S 14 a great all-around laptop, and that includes multimedia and, as mentioned, even games. The 14-inch 3K OLED screen is just breathtaking with its brightness and colors, and being part of the ASUS Lumina line, it is also PANTONE-validated, making it an excellent tool for creators, and the monitor’s 120Hz is actually a must-have for gamers. Four high-quality speakers give a punchy treatment to videos and music, making this laptop a multimedia powerhouse despite its modest and business-minded looks.

One area where the Zenbook S 14 might come up short for some people is the number of ports available. Remember that time when Apple got chided for replacing all the ports on MacBook Pros with just four C-Type Thunderbolt 4 ports? It’s not as bad here, but there will definitely be some who will find the selection far too modest. There are only two of those USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, both of which can be used for charging, data, and video out. There’s also one full-sized USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, one HDMI 2.1 port, and a headphone/mic combo jack. That’s pretty much it. There isn’t even an SD card reader, which will probably disappoint photographers. Both USB-C ports are located on the same side, which forces you to have the charger and dongles competing for space. The lack of other ports might not be that big of a problem when you dock the laptop at home or in the office, but if your office tends to change locations, you’ll have to bring a hub with you as well.

Sustainability

ASUS has been working hard to step up to the challenge of making the world a greener place for future generations, and its most ambitious attempt yet can be seen in its most ambitious material design as well. Ceraluminum isn’t just a fancy new material with a beautiful aesthetic and satisfying texture; it is also a more sustainable alternative to the usual metal anodizing techniques used by manufacturers. Instead of corrosive acids that release harmful toxins into the air, ASUS’ ceramization process uses water and super-high voltage electricity to produce an even better oxide layer, creating this blend of lightweight durability your fingers will love.

The ASUS Zenbook S 14 is also made to last, thanks to that Ceraluminum material that’s not only scratch-resistant but also smudge-resistant. And despite its luxurious aesthetic, this laptop actually boasts military-grade MIL-STD-810H compliance, ensuring that it can survive accidental bumps, high-frequency vibrations, and extreme temperatures. One aspect that takes a point from its longevity is the fact that you can only upgrade the M.2 NVMe SSD, and only up to 1TB capacity. The 32GB of RAM is, as mentioned, fixed and soldered. Yes, that might be enough for most use cases, but only today. Who knows how demanding apps and services will be just a few years from now.

Value

Most people marvel at ultra-thin laptops but pass them over because those slim profiles barely have enough power to meet their needs. Finding the right balance between portability, power, and price is like a hunting game, but you don’t need to go any further than what ASUS is now offering on the table. With a beautiful 14-inch screen, only 1.1cm thick, and weighing only 2.65 lbs, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 delivers a versatile machine that doesn’t compromise on performance, at least not in significant ways.

Best of all, it’s an absolute beauty to behold and to hold! Ceraluminum might sound like a buzzword, but its aesthetic value and tactile experience are the real deal. The $1,499.99 price tag for the 32GB RAM model is indeed nothing to scoff at either, but when you realize all the value that you’re getting, it’s almost a steal.

Verdict

We have finally reached a point where laptops no longer need to be hulking blocks of metal just to catch up with their desktop counterparts. While they still lose out on raw performance and customization, today’s laptops can be slimmer than ever and, more importantly, offer a design experience that desktop towers can only dream of. Of course, it takes no small amount of creative thinking, bold decision-making, and the courage to go beyond the boundaries of convention to create an amazing experience that will satiate consumer’s thirst for better-designed products. ASUS has definitely proven that it isn’t averse to taking that big leap, and the Zenbook S 14 is a shining testament to that daring spirit to create designs that you can see and feel.

The post ASUS Zenbook S 14 Ceraluminum Laptop Review: Elegance You Can Feel, Power You Can Touch first appeared on Yanko Design.

Every year, we behold innovative designs and technologies blow our minds. But once the novelty and awe have worn off, we’re left asking whether these made any meaningful impact in human lives. For 100 years now, the annual IFA show has been putting such products and inventions that promise groundbreaking improvements to the way we cook, the way we clean, the way we have fun, and the way we live. This year, the organization isn’t just reframing its brand but also putting a spotlight on the role these designs play in upgrading everyone’s lives. Among these, there are definitely a notable few that stand above the rest in how they make innovation available for all. Without further ado, here are Yanko Design’s top picks for IFA 2024.

Narwal Freo Z Ultra Robot Cleaner

So many products these days boast about their AI capabilities, but few actually answer the most important question: what can it do to improve people’s quality of life? The Narwal Freo Z Ultra gives a clear answer and delivers it in a design that seamlessly blends into your home instead of standing out like a sore thumb. It respects your space, adding aesthetic value you might not have come to expect from such an advanced showcase of AI technology.

Designer: Narwal

This sleek robot cleaner doesn’t just navigate your home, it also understands it. It can identify the kind of dirt it faces and apply the necessary cleaning strategy to get the job done. It sees your sleeping pet and respects its space, coming back later to check if it has moved away before starting to clean its area. And it does all these without you having to lift a finger. At the same time, you still have total control, from the privacy of your data to the automation made possible with its integration with smart home platforms and smart assistants.

It’s also smart about keeping you safe when it does come time for you to manually interact with it. It sanitizes not just the mop and water but also the dust bin, ensuring a hygienic environment at every turn. More than just the convenience of having clean floors all the time, the Narwal Freo Z Ultra offers homeowners stress-free living and more time to spend on the more important things in life.

Hisense CanvasTV

The Hisense CanvasTV 4K QLED brings art and entertainment together, transforming your living space into a captivating gallery. Its sleek, minimalist design, paired with the UltraSlim Wall Mount, allows it to hang flush against the wall, seamlessly blending with your decor. When not in use as a TV, it becomes a stunning display for artwork or personal photos through Art Mode, with a low-reflection Hi-Matte Display that ensures your visuals remain crisp and glare-free, regardless of lighting conditions.

Designer: Hisense

The vibrant 4K QLED display sets a new standard for visual quality, offering an expansive color range through Quantum Dot technology that produces over a billion shades. Every image, from digital art to your favorite shows, bursts with vivid detail and realism. The built-in RGB light sensor adapts the screen’s brightness and color temperature in real time, ensuring a seamless and natural viewing experience that adjusts to your environment, whether day or night.

For those seeking more than a TV, the CanvasTV enriches your experience with multi-channel surround sound, enveloping you in movies, music, or games. Gamers will appreciate the 144Hz Game Mode PRO, which delivers smooth, lag-free performance through features like AMD FreeSync Premium and Auto Low Latency Mode, ensuring responsive and immersive gameplay.

To add an extra layer of interaction, Hisense’s Motion Detector powers the screen only when you’re nearby, bringing art to life while conserving energy. This thoughtful design makes the CanvasTV not only a centerpiece for your home but also an eco-friendly, functional solution that enhances any living space.

ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger with Qi2 and CryoBoost

With batteries remaining the bottleneck in smartphone innovation, it’s up to manufacturers of charging accessories to push the envelope and deliver a better user experience. Wireless charging technologies like Apple MagSafe and the new Qi2 offer freedom from tangling cables, but they also bring their own set of problems, particularly when it comes to heat. The hotter the charger and the phone get, the slower and longer the charging takes.

Designer: ESR

ESR fixes that problem with its CryoBoost technology, using a patented duct design and a specialized fan to keep the back of your phone cool and keep the charging speed stable and fast. Unlike other wireless chargers with fans that simply lower the charger’s temperature and rely on natural heat dissipation to keep the phone cool, the ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger with Qi2 and CryBoost directs airflow directly to the back of the phone, preventing condensation that could damage the phone in the process.

The result isn’t just a literally cool charger and phone but a faster wireless charging experience as well. An iPhone 15 Pro Max can charge to full in just 2 hours, 30 minutes faster than other Qi2 chargers. Even the Apple-certified 5W fast-charging for the Apple Watch charger juices up an Apple Watch Ultra four times faster than typical 2.5W chargers, getting it to 100% in just 1 hour and 40 minutes. With the ESR 3-in-1 MagSafe Charger with Qi2 and CryoBoost, you can enjoy the flexibility of wireless charging at full speed, without having to worry about the safety and health of your phone.

Govee Star Light Projector Aurora

Smart lighting doesn’t always have to be flashy, blinding, or fast. Sometimes, you just want to have a more calming atmosphere in your home, and what better inspiration can there be than the enchanting Aurora that flows across night skies? Capturing this magical imagery, Govee utilized its LED expertise to create the Star Light Projector (Aurora) and bring the magic of the night sky to your room.

Designer: Govee

A unique dual lamp bead technology allows the projector to display a stunning and expansive 650-square-foot projection with a wide variety of colors and intricate patterns. These patterns include calming waves mimicking the play of light reflected off an ocean surface, twinkling lights that inspire awe, and even vibrant squiggly strips of color to kick off a party. With 16 million colors and over 50 preset scenes, as well as a built-in speaker with 16 preset white noises, this discreet projector can cover a wide range of occasions and moods, from relaxing night lights for dreamy slumber to dazzling kaleidoscopic displays for a jovial get-together.

Despite its more focused function, the Govee Star Light Projector (Aurora) has all the smarts that other Govee products offer, including Matter smart home compatibility and voice control through Google Home and Amazon Alexa. It also has a Smart Sleep Mode so that it will gradually dim its lights and play soothing sounds to lull you to sleep. It’s a great smart lighting companion, whether you’re aiming to paint the night sky in your kid’s room or create a different mesmerizing light show on your wall each night.

Beatbot iSkim Ultra Robot Pool Cleaner

The Beatbot iSkim Ultra has been named by Yanko Design as the best robotic pool skimmer at IFA 2024, praised for its forward-thinking approach to pool maintenance. Its solar-powered design combines sleek aesthetics with practical, energy-efficient operation. Weighing just 16.98 lbs, it adapts to a variety of pool shapes and sizes, offering a hassle-free solution for pool owners who want to keep their water surface clear without the constant need for charging or manual effort.

Designer: Beatbot

The iSkim Ultra’s advanced seven-motor system, featuring dual-side brushes, a large front roller brush, and a peristaltic pump motor, delivers precise skimming performance. Equipped with Beatbot’s AI-driven path optimization and 20 integrated sensors, including tri-ultrasonic technology, it efficiently handles surface debris, providing a thorough cleaning experience with minimal oversight.

With its ClearWater Clarification System, the iSkim Ultra reduces the need for chemical treatments. Using natural clarifiers made from recycled materials, it helps maintain crystal-clear water while promoting a healthier swimming environment. This design offers pool owners a more eco-friendly approach to pool care, requiring less time and fewer chemicals to manage.

In addition, features like the one-touch debris release and the 9L filter basket make maintenance easy. Built with durable, waterproof materials, the iSkim Ultra is designed for long-term reliability, making it a smart choice for pool owners seeking a sustainable, user-friendly solution for pool skimming.

EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 Solar Home Battery System

As AI becomes a bigger part of everyday life, so do our use and reliance on electronic devices and appliances at home. In addition to power consumption and the costs that come with it, this also means we become more beholden to sources of electricity, like power grids that are groaning under the weight of heavier consumption every year. Fortunately, there are also technologies that try to keep us from becoming paralyzed when the power goes out or when there isn’t one available in the first place, like the new EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 system that promises stable and green power you can rely on anytime, anywhere.

Designer: EcoFlow

Rather than limiting itself for the sake of being small and portable, the Delta Pro 3 embraces flexibility and power to deliver the power you need in the manner that best suits your situation. You can hook it up to solar panels to have 24/7 green energy enough to meet the needs of modern households. You can use it on its own in your outdoor adventures, powering your RV for a comfy outdoor life. And if you’re still living on the grid, it offers emergency backup power that kicks in just after 10ms. It’s an all-around power source that you can expand, whether you need 4kW, 8kW, or a whopping 12kW when used with other units.

Even with all that power, EcoFlow hasn’t forgotten the human factor in its design. Taking inspiration from high-performance sports cars, the Delta Pro 3 adopts a sleek and streamlined style with a Galactic Silver motif that adds visual sophistication to the power station. The EcoFlow Delta Pro 3 also puts safety and comfort in mind, with industry-leading battery management, advanced safety systems, and a quiet operation of less than 30dB that won’t keep you up at night.

Laifen Wave Titanium Toothbrush

The Laifen Wave Electric Toothbrush is designed for users who demand precision and performance in their oral care with up to 66,000 sonic vibrations per minute and a 60-degree oscillation range, adhering to the dentist-recommended Modified Bass brushing technique. Central to its effectiveness is the Proprietary Servo System, a feature that sets it apart from typical electric toothbrushes. This advanced system continuously monitors brushing resistance and adjusts motor performance in real-time, ensuring consistent cleaning power regardless of pressure.

Designer: Laifen

The toothbrush is available in four premium materials — Stainless Steel, Aluminum Alloy, ABS, and Titanium, making it the world’s first titanium electric toothbrush. Known for its strength and corrosion resistance, titanium ensures that the toothbrush is durable and long-lasting, making it a premium option for users looking for a product that will stand the test of time. The Stainless Steel and Aluminum Alloy options provide sleek, modern designs that balance weight and durability, while the ABS option offers a more lightweight alternative without sacrificing performance.

The Laifen Wave has three brush heads: Gum Care, Super-Clean, and Ultra-Whitening. Each head is specifically designed for different cleaning needs. Gum Care is gentler and designed to protect sensitive gums, while Super-Clean delivers intense cleaning for everyday plaque removal. The Ultra-Whitening head is designed for those looking to maintain a brighter smile. When paired with the Laifen Wave’s high-frequency vibrations and wide oscillation range, these brush heads deliver superior results tailored to individual needs.

Customization is another key feature of the Laifen Wave. The toothbrush comes with three preset brushing modes—gentle, regular, and intense—allowing users to adjust the brushing experience to their preferences. For even greater control, the Laifen app offers ten adjustable intensity levels, enabling users to fine-tune the vibration strength and oscillation range to suit their unique brushing style. Whether someone needs a gentler clean or prefers a more vigorous brushing experience, the app allows easy adjustments.

Eureka E20 Plus Robot Vacuum

There’s no shortage of robot vacuum cleaners boasting powerful suction capabilities, but that also means they’ll suck up anything and everything in their path, including things that can damage the robot as well. The Eureka E20 Plus makes short work of animal fur and human hair that can tangle and clog up vacuum brushes with its Newly Designed Anti Hair-Tangling Roller Design, achieving an anti-wrap effectiveness of 94%! Paired with its super-strong 8000 Pa suction, no dirt or hair is safe from this rolling machine.

Designer: Eureka

And it looks great to boot, offering burden-free operation that can save you up to $70 a year (estimated based on changing a $6 robot vacuum dust bag once per month). The transparent bag-free base station lets you see exactly what’s going on inside and offers stress-free emptying of that dust tank. Simply dump the contents directly into the garbage bin without having to worry about bursting or overflowing bags or having to replace those bags regularly. The clear view of the base station’s internals also gives it a sophisticated and futuristic look that perfectly fits the homes of tomorrow.

The Eureka E20 Plus Robot Vacuum is the perfect solution for pet owners as well as households where hair often ends up on the floor. Of course, it can also do what other flagship robot vacs can, including automatic Multi-Cyclonic Dust Collection, 10mm Mop Lifting, and DuoDetect AI 3D Obstacle Avoidance. With strong suction power, anti-tangling capabilities, a bag-free base station, and a stylish transparent design, the Eureka E20 Plus offers a stress-free and burden-free cleaning experience for all.

Govee COB Strip Light Pro

Smart lighting is one of the easiest ways to get started in upgrading your living space, and there is a wide variety of designs that go beyond a simple bulb. Govee, an industry leader in both indoor and outdoor smart lighting, offers plenty of interesting and useful options to not only brighten up your space but also create the mood that you want. One of its newest designs is also its first, a COB strip light that provides both illumination and ambiance with the ease of use and customizability that the brand is known for.

Designer: Govee

Utilizing “chip-on-board” or COB technology, the new Govee COB Strip Light Pro packs no less than 1,260 LED beads per meter, creating a continuous line of light without any visible gaps. It’s a beautiful display that can be used to light up a room as a secondary light source with pure white, as well as get a party going with dynamically changing hues. And thanks to its silicone sleeve, you don’t have to worry about installing it out in the open since it will look discreet and blend with the rest of its surroundings.

In addition to the bright and colorful illumination provided by Govee’s RGBIC+W technology, you have a handful of options available to control the dance of these LEDs, whether manually or through automation through smart assistants. Every meter has 12 segments you can customize, and every 8cm of the strip has a clearly labeled segment you can cut, allowing the user to truly create the lighting environment they want rather than bending over backward to conform to the limitations of the light strip. With the Govee COB Strip Light Pro, any kitchen island, furniture, or space becomes an opportunity to enhance the living experience.

DJI Neo FPV Drone

Weighing just under 5 ounces, the DJI Neo sets a new standard for everyday content creation with its ultra-compact, pocket-friendly design. As DJI’s lightest and most portable drone yet, it eliminates the need for a traditional remote control, offering one-button takeoff, landing, and shooting. It can still pair with traditional RC controllers, DJI Goggles, or the Fly app for more advanced control, offering flexibility to suit different user preferences, while voice commands enhance its ease of use, allowing for a hands-free experience.

Designer: DJI

With an 18-minute flight time and the ability to capture 12MP photos and 4K stabilized video, Neo brings professional-grade filming to anyone’s fingertips. Neo can record up to 40 minutes of 4K video or 55 minutes at 1080p/60fps that it then stores on its 22GB internal storage. The DJI Neo’s AI-powered subject tracking ensures users stay perfectly framed during cycling, hiking, or skateboarding activities. Its six QuickShots modes—such as “Dronie” and “Boomerang”—enable dynamic, cinematic angles with minimal effort.

Safety is paramount with Neo’s fully wrapped propellers, which protect the drone and its users. Neo’s single-axis mechanical gimbal and DJI’s RockSteady and HorizonBalancing stabilization technology ensure smooth, shake-free footage even in windy conditions. The drone’s infrared and monocular vision positioning systems maintain steady hovering, while the automatic Return to Home (RTH) feature adds peace of mind.

CANVAS HiFi TV Sound System

There is a lot of attention being given to the image quality produced by TVs, but what we see, while important, isn’t all that makes up a cinematic home theater experience. That said, the majority of home HiFi sound systems and even sound bars focus too much on technical qualities, forgetting the part that these audio systems have to sit inside the home. The result is a juxtaposition of a beautiful and stylish screen standing beside functional speakers that clash with the rest of your living space. Wouldn’t it be great if you could have a beautiful HiFi sound system that perfectly matches your beautiful TV? Fortunately, CANVAS agrees.

Designer: CANVAS HiFi

Going against the flow of typical speaker designs, the CANVAS HiFi TV Sound System embraces design as an important and co-equal priority to a quality home product. It integrates with your TV mechanically and visually, making the two seem like a whole rather than two separate parts. With premium materials like Milled-Ochre textile from Kvadrat or Mahogany from Danish designer Susanne Helberg, CANVAS creates an almost literal art canvas that adds beauty to any space it’s in.

Of course, it doesn’t hold back on delivering high-quality audio as well, introducing technologies that solve the biggest problems of wall-mounted speakers. Room correction turns bass gains into a big advantage even when placed so close to a wall, while BACCH 3D removes the need to place left and right speakers so far apart by preventing cross-talk and delivering real stereo imaging. The result is a stunning HiFi sound system that puts audio in its proper place, standing proudly with your equally striking TV.

TECNO MEGA MINI Gaming G1 Water-Cooled Mini PC

Even with handheld gaming PCs becoming trendy and gaming laptops becoming slimmer and sleeker, nothing still beats a desktop computer when it comes to sheer performance, configurability, and cooling. Nothing beats them in eating up desk or floor space either, which is why some gamers are willing to compromise power for the sake of size. TECNO, however, says it doesn’t have to be an either-or situation, and its mind-blowing MEGA MINI G1 mini PC proves you can have the best of both worlds.

Designer: TECNO

Significantly smaller than a standard desktop tower, this mini PC still packs quite a punch, including an Intel Core i9-13900H and, more importantly, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060. Gamers will be instantly familiar with such specs on a gaming-worthy computer, now crammed in a compact and cute box with transparent front and side panels. There’s plenty of RGB lighting that gamers crave, as well as a small built-in display at the top for CPU and GPU metrics at a glance without having to open up any app or overlay.

What really sets this mini PC apart, however, is its water-cooling system that you’d only see on larger desktops. A whisper-quiet pump moves the coolant through glowing tubes, offering the distraction-free performance that gives gamers the edge they need for an epic win. Whether it’s exploring the latest AAA title or even rendering graphics, the TECNO MEGA MINI Gaming G1 mini PC has plenty of muscle to show for such a small package.

DJI Avinox E-Bike Drive System

The DJI Avinox Drive System is designed to bring high performance and advanced technology to electric mountain bikes (eMTBs). Weighing only 2.52 kg, the drive system is compact but powerful, delivering an impressive 105 N·m of torque. This level of power allows riders to conquer steep climbs and navigate challenging terrain with ease, all while keeping the bike’s overall weight low.

At the core of the Avinox system is DJI’s Smart-Assist Algorithm, which automatically adjusts power output based on real-time riding conditions, adjusting assistance to match the rider’s needs without requiring constant manual input, whether the rider is tackling flat trails, climbing steep hills, or navigating rough terrain, the drive system . In addition to the automatic mode, riders can choose from three other assist modes—Eco, Trail, and Turbo—tailored to different riding scenarios. For particularly challenging climbs or rough sections, Boost mode delivers short bursts of extra torque, up to 120 N·m, giving riders the power to handle steep inclines or rugged terrain with ease.

Designer: DJI

Connectivity and control are central to the Avinox Drive System, which includes a 2-inch OLED touchscreen display integrated directly into the bike’s frame. This full-color display provides real-time information such as speed, range, and power output, allowing riders to monitor their performance at a glance. Additionally, the Avinox app offers advanced features like ride data tracking, anti-theft mode with password protection, the ability to customize riding parameters, and even remote bike location tracking, adding a layer of security for riders.

The first bike to integrate the Avinox Drive System is the Amflow PL, an electric mountain bike designed to fully take advantage of DJI’s advanced e-bike technology. Weighing only 19.2 kg, the Amflow PL packs serious power into a lightweight, ultra-responsive frame. The bike’s carbon fiber frame weighs just 2.27 kg, keeping the total weight low while offering strength and durability. The bike’s design incorporates cutting-edge geometry, giving it a balanced performance that handles rugged, technical trails with agility and stability. At the same time, it delivers 850W of peak power with the Avinox system, far surpassing the typical output of full-power eMTBs while maintaining the sleek, lightweight build of more traditional bikes.

The combination of DJI’s Avinox Drive System and the Amflow PL bike offers a remarkable blend of lightweight design, high power output, intelligent technology, and robust performance, making it an ideal choice for serious eMTB riders looking for a bike that handles the toughest trails with ease.

XGIMI Elfin Flip Portable Projector

Who says portable entertainment devices like speakers and projectors have to come in cylindrical shapes? They’re definitely handy and compact, but not always the most visually pleasing, especially when it comes time to use them at home. Embracing both home use and portability, the XGIMI Elfin Flip comes in a form that almost makes it look like a designer object, functioning as a decorative piece when it’s not in use.

Designer: XGIMI

The projector’s triangular form is already eye-catching, but the fact that you can swivel the main section down to reveal the projector will probably amaze your friends and family. Its flat, compact design also makes it easy to put inside a bag, ready to travel with you and set up an entertainment hub or meeting space anywhere.

And it’s not all just good looks either, with 400 ISO lumens brightness and two 3W speakers for a complete audio-visual treat. It also has a bundle of XGIMI’s intelligent features, from automatic keystone correction to screen alignment. Powered by WebOS, you have access to Netflix and a variety of apps, ensuring you have no shortage of sources to keep you and your friends entertained.

Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC Proof of Concept

AI is promised to deliver customized and personalized experiences, but that has mostly been true only for software and services so far. Hardware, particularly computer hardware, is still a matter of manual operations and control, but Lenovo envisions a future when that will no longer be the case. Its latest concept design leverages AI to change the laptop’s mode of operation, particularly its configuration and position, so that it can switch between laptop, tablet, or tent modes depending on what you’re doing. It can even close the lid when you leave the laptop unattended after a period of time.

Designer: Lenovo

Convertible laptops like the Lenovo Yoga offer flexibility in their different modes, but you have to manually fold or turn the screen to actually take advantage of those modes. That presents an opportunity to make computers more efficient mostly by automatically changing their form without having to touch the laptop itself. The Lenovo Auto Twist AI PC Proof of Concept can do exactly that thanks to a motorized hinge and, of course, some AI. The screen, for example, can turn on its own to make sure you’re always at the center, or you can give it explicit commands to flip the screen around and transform itself into a tablet. It’s a simple change but one that could offer significant quality-of-life improvements if it ever becomes a stable and staple part of future Lenovo laptops.

SHARGE Forged Carbon Fiber Power Banks

Power banks are a fact of modern mobile life, and while they come in all shapes, sizes, and designs, they follow a common rule: the larger the capacity, the larger and heavier the power bank is. You can’t escape the laws of physics, but you can use materials that can be thin and light while still remaining durable. That miracle material is forged carbon fiber, and it is at the heart of SHARGE’s new handsome power banks.

Designer: SHARGE

The SHARGE Forged Carbon Fiber Power Bank series offers high-capacity portable batteries that weigh less than their regular counterparts while actually delivering better ruggedness and survivability. Plus they look quite eye-catching with their camo-like designs, thanks to the natural aesthetic produced by using carbon fiber chips. Available in a regular 10,000mAh CarbonBlade design and two Qi2 and MagSafe-compatible packs, SHARGE’s Forged Carbon Fiber power banks push the envelope of how these portable batteries should be designed.

ASUS ZenBook S 14 Laptop with Ceraluminum Cover

Laptops have long outgrown their image of simply being machines that you carry around to get work done. They have now become more suave and stylish, with some even becoming lifestyle choices. Despite all that, much of the materials used for these sleek machines gravitate toward metal or plastic, either for their durability or their cost-effectiveness. With its Zenbooks S 14 and the new Ceraluminum material, ASUS is pushing the envelope of laptop design to offer an elegant and luxurious aesthetic without compromise.

Designer: ASUS

Combining the best of ceramic and aluminum without their restrictions, Ceraluminum offers durable protection that looks and feels premium. Add this to the Zenbook S 14’s slim profile and lightweight body and you have a formula for a portable computer that you’ll want to show off at every opportunity. It doesn’t skimp on the all-important specs either, combining Intel’s latest AI-powered silicon with top-of-the-line hardware to deliver power and pizzazz in a single stylish package.

Morphy Richards Ductless Portable Air Conditioner

Like it or not, our planet is getting hotter, and conventional cooling solutions can no longer keep up with this worsening situation and our changing lifestyles. Not everyone can afford to install a traditional air conditioning unit at home, and A/C’s that advertise mobility have long large hoses snaking from their bodies. Morphy Richards is presenting a revolutionary product that truly makes air conditioning mobile, introducing the industry’s first ductless portable aircon for homes, offices, and other small spaces.

Designer: Morphy Richards

This seemingly magical feat is made possible with water-cooling technology that keeps the emitted hot air actually closer to room temperature, so you don’t need to direct it away using a cumbersome hose. With a 50-degree angle going in each direction, this ductless portable air conditioner can actually cover a wider range than what its small body would suggest. Plus, it actually looks quite appealing, almost like a futuristic robot with its sleek, shiny silver finish and black coating. Delivering cooling, dehumidifying, and fanning functions, this Morphy Richards Ductless Portable Air Conditioner promises comfort, convenience, and even cost savings for the modern household.

Acer Project DualPlay Gaming Laptop Concept

With PC gaming experiencing a sort of renaissance, it’s not surprising to see new designs rising to meet the changing needs and tastes of gamers. From slimmer laptops to handheld PCs, gaming has taken on new trends and behaviors that require PCs to change with them. Acer is taking up the challenge with a new concept gaming laptop that manages to honor tradition and explore new horizons at the same time, thanks to some innovative designs.

Designer: Acer

The laptop’s extra-large touchpad pops out and becomes a wireless controller, allowing gamers to quickly switch between keyboard and controller without missing a beat and without having to worry about forgetting to bring the controller or having no space for it in the bag. That detachable controller can actually be separated into two joysticks, not unlike the concept of the Nintendo Switch Joy-con, allowing two people to compete or cooperate in the same game without having to fight over the controls. Plus, two high-fidelity 5W speakers slide out from the side, delivering not only unhindered sound but a futuristic and hi-tech vibe as well.

Satechi Vegan-Leather Passport Cover with Find My

For all the hi-tech gadgets we have at our disposal, we humans still lose important things quite often, from bags to keys to critical documents. That experience can be especially terrifying when it involves misplacing your passport in a foreign country. Fortunately, we do now have technology that will help us locate lost items, like Satechi’s elegant passport cover which integrates with Apple’s worldwide Find My network. You can ping the passport and get an audible response if it’s nearby, or even get an immediate warning if you’ve accidentally left it behind. With a five-month battery life, you rarely need to charge it, and when you do, you can simply put it down on any wireless charger.

Designer: Satechi

Best of all, the passport cover is made from premium materials that don’t make it look like you’re carrying a piece of tech. Using scratch-resistant vegan leather, the Satechi Vegan Leather Passport Cover with Find My offers not only a stylish and aesthetic design but also a more sustainable material that will last a very long time. Most importantly, it offers peace of mind that your passport and important cards are always with you or are at least easy to locate if you do lose them.

The post Best of IFA 2024: Designs that Deliver Innovation For All first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• Handsome, minimalist, and lightweight design


• Impressive performance packed in a compact size


• Gorgeous 3K OLED screen for both viewing and color-accurate work


• Incredible value for creative professionals on the go

CONS:

• No full-sized SD card reader, only one USB-A port


• Display refresh rate is only up to 60Hz

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The ASUS ProArt PX13 makes the impossible possible, delivering unbeatable performance and uncompromising mobility in an elegant and accessible package.

The nature and execution of work have changed significantly in the past years, especially for those who use computers all the time. Mobility and flexibility have become an important part of the business, sometimes requiring people to be able to take their work anywhere life leads them. At the same time, it also allows people to do their work in the best possible location for them, which isn’t always the office. To support these new work arrangements, computer vendors have been trying to shove more power into laptops without turning them into gargantuan machines that would force people to leave them in the office anyway. It’s a delicate balancing act, one that very few brands have successfully pulled off, but the ASUS ProArt PX13 makes that very promise to one of the more discerning and particular markets. Is the ProArt PX13 able to deliver that promise of unbounded creativity anywhere or does it make too many compromises along the way? We give it a flip and a spin to bring you that answer.

Designer: ASUS

Aesthetics

The first impression you’ll have when seeing the ASUS ProArt PX13 is how compact and thin it is, at least for a supposedly powerful laptop aimed at creative professionals. Your second impression will be how sleek and elegant it looks with its deep, all-black design. It’s an aesthetic that doesn’t scream at you but instead talks mellowly, fitting a professional product. There are barely any markings on the laptop’s cover; no fancy RGB lighting at its sides, protruding edges, or sharp angles. Just one truly black slab.

Unlike other laptops that advertise a black colorway, the ASUS ProArt PX13 really walks the walk thanks to the company’s Nano Black coating that almost poetically matches the deep blacks of the OLED screen on the opposite side. It’s admittedly a matter of taste, as some will prefer the luster of silver metal like those on MacBooks or Dell, but its more subdued aesthetic makes it less distracting as well. Thankfully, that same Nano Coating also prevents fingerprint smudges so there’s very little that will stain that darkness.

Minimalist doesn’t mean plain, however, and there are a few accents that bring out the ProArt PX13’s designer-centric character. The ProArt branding, for example, is smooth and a little bit reflective, tastefully set against the blackness of the cover. The vertical stripes on the hinge are supposed to be a nod to pro camera designs, but even if you don’t make that connection, they’re still an interesting touch. All in all, the ASUS ProArt PX13’s minimalism puts the focus not on the laptop but on the creator and the content, while also providing a dark, blank canvas for owners to use to let their own creativity shine through if needed.

Ergonomics

The ProArt PX13 is hardly the thinnest laptop, whether traditional or convertible, but it’s not terrible either for a 13-inch. When you consider that it packs enough hardware to cater to creative professionals and even some gamers, you’ll even be amazed at how ASUS managed to keep the numbers down to an accessible level. At 17.78mm (0.7 inches) thick and 1.38kg (3.04 lbs) heavy, this is something you can easily stow in your bag and be on the move in a flash.

This is very important when you consider that ProArt PX13 is more than just a laptop. It can also be a tablet you can draw on, whether on your table or on your lap, as well as a “tent mode” presentation and entertainment display. Changing forms is as easy as folding the screen back and forth, and the sturdy 360-degree hinge makes sure that it stays open at whatever angle you leave it. At the same time, however, the laptop’s weight is distributed properly so that you can open it up with just a single finger, lifting the lid while the body anchors it down.

The typing experience is pretty good as well, with well-spaced keys and a good 1.7mm travel. The cursor keys are squashed, of course, but that’s nothing new nor is it extremely uncomfortable. The touchpad is a decent size, but its mechanical design might disappoint fans of more haptic touchpads.

Performance

Right off the bat, the ASUS ProArt PX13 has some of the best hardware you’ll find in a 13-inch laptop. It’s one of the first to utilize AMD’s new AI-powered Ryzen AI 9 HX 370, giving it a wide lead in AI operations. This is paired with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050, like in our review unit, or an RTX 4060. Either way, you’re getting a powerful graphics processor that, to no one’s surprise, handles AI skillfully as well. Benchmark numbers don’t always tell the whole story, but they’re impressive nonetheless. Whether the laptop is plugged in or running on battery, it will meet almost anything you can throw at it, whether it’s Photoshop, Da Vinci Resolve, or Blender.

Gaming is a bit of a different issue, though the ProArt PX13 is definitely capable. You will definitely feel the heat when pushing the system to its limits, but the cooling system does a stellar job of regulating its impact. The fans are definitely audible under heavy loads, but they quiet down just as quickly when no longer needed. And they’re barely noticeable at all if you’re just doing basic computing tasks like browsing the Web or typing up documents. The biggest setback when using this machine for gaming is actually one of its biggest strengths as well: its screen.

The 13.3-inch OLED touch screen is simply stunning, with rich colors, deep blacks, and a sufficient amount of brightness so that you can even work outdoors under overcast skies. The display is Pantone-validated and supports a wide gamut of colors, an important detail for graphics artists and content creators who need color accuracy more than anything else. The screen has a 3K resolution of 2880×1800 in a familiar 16:10 aspect ratio and a refresh rate of 60Hz. The latter is what makes the ProArt PX13 less suitable for gaming, at least for those who live and breathe 120Hz or higher. It’s not totally unusable for fast-paced games, and it completely marks the laptop as a machine primarily for work, with just a bit of gaming on the side.

Battery life for the ASUS ProArt PX13 is so-so. Given its size, the 75WHr battery it packs is actually generous, but it’s offset by the more powerful hardware. On Eco/Power Saving mode and average computing tasks, it can last an average of 8 hours, definitely shorter once you push the hardware to the limit. It ships with a 200W power brick that’s large but not gigantic. It can charge over USB-C using a 100W charger, but you’ll probably bring the official charger with you anyway unless you’re traveling extra light.

Port selection is on the light side as well. It has most of the important basics but is also oddly missing a few ones. There are two USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C ports and a single USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, one HDMI port, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and the proprietary DC-in charging port. There’s a microSD card reader but not a full-sized one, which is strange considering how digital cameras still mostly use SD cards, not their tiny cousins. We could always do with an extra USB-A port, especially if the only available one is already in use with an Ethernet adapter because the laptop doesn’t have its own RJ45 port.

The ASUS ProArt PX13 is overflowing with features designed for creative professionals, from hardware to software. There’s the somewhat odd DialPad in the order of the touchpad, giving quick access to actions like changing brush sizes in Photoshop, scrubbing through timelines in Premiere, and more. Not everyone will love this convenience, and it is fortunately easy to disable it completely. From the ProArt Creator Hub which has all the settings you can tweak for performance or monitor calibration, to the AI-powered software that takes advantage of the combined strength of AMD processors and NVIDIA graphics, the ProArt PX13 offers a multitude of tools to assist content creators in whatever kind of work or problem they’re facing.

Sustainability

ASUS has been making big waves when it comes to its commitment to helping protect the future of the planet, from the use of recycled materials in its products to the decrease of plastic in its packaging. It might not be visible or advertised for the ProArt PX13, but we’re banking on the company giving it the same treatment even in small amounts.

In terms of prolonging the life of the laptop, ASUS definitely took steps to make it a bit easier. The bottom plate can be removed easily using a screwdriver, except for the middle screw that’s also covered by a sticky rubber material. The NVMe SSD storage, battery, and Wi-Fi 7 module are easily replaceable, which are some of the most common components that need to be repaired or upgraded. Sadly, the LPDDR5X RAM is soldered to the motherboard, but having 32GB of memory isn’t that bad anyway.

Value

The ASUS ProArt PX13 is available in two configurations, with the RTX 4050 and 4060 being the only real difference between the two, as well as the Windows 11 Home and Pro licenses. Given the performance difference between these two very capable NVIDIA graphics processors, you couldn’t go wrong if you picked the base configuration that goes for only $1,699.99. At that price point, it already surpasses larger laptops and can hold its own against a MacBook that’s nearly double its price.

It’s pretty mind-blowing how much ASUS was able to cram inside the compact 13.3-inch body of the ProArt PX13 without hitting any significant compromises. It’s hardly the best gaming laptop or the most powerful movie maker, but what it offers is the flexibility to take your work or game anywhere without missing a bit. In that regard, it is pretty unrivaled, making it a truly tempting device for creative professionals, even those who mostly stay at their desks.

Verdict

The way we make content these days has changed greatly over the past years. Videos and graphic designs no longer have to be made on hulking towers tethered to desktops. Sometimes, the ability to quickly churn out content at a moment’s notice has become more important than production-level quality that will take hours on a regular laptop. Then again, why do you have to choose when the ASUS ProArt PX13 can give you the best of both worlds? Powerful, portable, and flexible, this convertible laptop delivers the tools that creative professionals need to bring their work to the next level, whenever inspiration strikes, wherever they are.

The post ASUS ProArt PX13 Laptop Review: An Agile Content Creator’s Best Friend first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• Gorgeous 3.8K screen with very thin bezels


• Stylish, lightweight, and flexible workstation on-the-go


• Competitive performance even for light gaming


• Creative speaker soundbar hinge design

CONS:

• Included pen feels cramped


• No HDMI port or SD card slot

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With a more portable design and solid performance, the Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 makes for a competitive all-rounder that can cover almost every need and use case.

There has been a sudden flood of new laptops in the past months, most of them trying to ride the AI wave. With so many designs and so many configurations available, it can be a bit daunting to pick one for your next major computer purchase. There’s no shortage of models catering to gamers and content creators, as well as pro models aimed at high-performance workers. On the opposite side lies the “economy” choices meant for students and some employees, carrying barely enough power for the most basic tasks. When it comes to those who need a general-purpose computer that can keep up with their changing needs and situations, the choices can be a bit more difficult because they’re all over the place. A solid option with well-balanced features and an accessible price tag is always in demand, and that’s what the 2024 Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 (14IMH9) 2-in-1 convertible laptop is promising, so we take put it to the test to see if it does keep its word.

Designer: Lenovo

Aesthetics

The Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 has a presence that grabs your attention without being loud or distracting. The simple yet sleek shape of the lid combined with the soft curves of the base creates an interesting silhouette whether the laptop is closed or open. And the dark Cosmic Blue hue, still a rarity in this product line, makes it stand out in an aesthetically pleasing way. When the lid is open and the screen powered on, the extra slim bezels around the display further emphasize the laptop’s modern appearance.

Even at first glance, it’s immediately evident how slim and small the 2-in-1 laptop is, at least for a 14-inch device. Compared to its Gen 8 predecessor, this year’s Lenovo Yoga 9i is significantly smaller and lighter, which greatly improves its portability. This attribute is even critical for this kind of laptop since it can be used as a tablet that you’ll sometimes have to hold up for long periods of time, though it does have some drawbacks compared to typical tablets, which we’ll get to later.

One design detail that might prove divisive is how the lid and the base practically have two different designs. The lid is thin and has flat edges with a matte surface, while the base sports curved edges with a shiny finish. The difference between the two is even more stark when you realize that the base is actually wider at its edges than the lid so that these two parts don’t sit flush with each other when closed. It’s an asymmetrical design quirk that might not sit well with some, while others might grow accustomed to it over time, enough to take it for granted.

Ergonomics

At only 2.98 lbs (1.35kg), the Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 is relatively lighter than its predecessor as well as the nearest competition. This gives it an advantage when it comes to portability, especially when you consider how it doesn’t skimp on the specs in return. You still won’t want to hold it up unsupported for long periods of time, but it’s less straining than most. That said, you won’t be able to hold it as comfortably as a regular tablet like an iPad or a Surface because the keys fold to the back of the lid. They’re disabled, of course, but you will still undoubtedly press on them, making for a rather awkward experience.

But while using the laptop is comfortable and even enjoyable, the Lenovo Slim Pen that ships with the Yoga 9i Gen 9 is a different story. We don’t have any complaints when it comes to the performance of the stylus, since it does a great job at it, but holding the short and nearly flat stick can strain your hand if you use it for too long. There’s also no secure place to put the stylus on when not in use, because the magnet on the back and top of the lid is not exactly that strong. It almost feels as if designing the pen was an afterthought, especially since previous Yoga 9i models had a silo for its home.

Performance

In addition to its facelift, the 2024 14-inch Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 gets a major upgrade in hardware. That’s the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, the chip maker’s latest entry into the AI arena. This is matched with high-speed LPDDR5x RAM, 32GB for our review unit, and 1TB PCIe SSD Gen 4 M.2 of storage. In addition to the integrated Intel AI Boost NPU (Neural Processing Unit), a key feature of this configuration is the integrated Intel Arc graphics. It’s still a far cry from dedicated GPUs from the likes of NVIDIA and AMD, but it’s still a major leap forward in terms of performance. And it doesn’t disappoint, at least within the right context and expectations. It’s no gaming laptop, but light gaming with medium settings is no problem, as are content creation apps, especially those that utilize AI features.

The real star of the show here is the 14-inch OLED display, with a 3.8K WQUXGA (3840 x 2400) resolution in our review unit (there’s also a 2.8K 2880×1800 option). Both are touch-capable, as you would expect from a 2-in-1 laptop, and the image quality is just astounding in both brightness and color vibrancy. It’s by no means perfect, especially compared to more “pro” laptops, but on a consumer product, this is simply gorgeous. It doesn’t fall short when it comes to audio either, and its unique design solves one of the biggest problems laptops have: speaker placement. In the Yoga 9i Gen 9’s case, the wide hinge also acts as a soundbar that’s always firing in your direction, and the audio that it puts out is full and broad, and it doesn’t sound distorted or tinny at maximum volume.

As a 2-in-1 laptop, the Yoga 9i Gen 9 has to carefully balance the needs of both laptop users as well as tablet users, and nowhere is that more evident than in the choice of I/O ports. There are three USB-C ports, two of which support Thunderbolt 4, one full-sized USB-A port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. That’s pretty much it. The lack of an HDMI port means you’ll need to use a dongle if your external monitor doesn’t support USB-C video, and digital photographers might be unimpressed with the lack of a card reader. The I/O leans more on the side of portability and mobility, making some practical sacrifices along the way.

The typing experience is quite decent, and the keys have sufficient spacing and travel to keep most users happy. It’s also backlit, so typing in the dark is no problem at all. The touchpad is large, smooth, and responsive, leaving very little reason to complain. One design detail that some might take issue with is the column of special keys on the right edge, providing quick access to a few features, including a fingerprint scanner. Unfortunately, its placement makes it too easy to hit these keys accidentally, especially since they’re so close to important keys like Enter, Backspace, and the Left cursor key. It also means that the entire keyboard is practically shifted to the left, and so will your hands.

Battery life is decent, though not exactly remarkable. The 75Wh battery will last you an average of 5-7 hours on average use, shorter if you crank up the video or game settings. The good news is that it charges over USB-C and any of the three USB-C ports can be used for that purpose. That means you can opt for a faster and smaller GaN charger than the plain 65W brick that comes with the Lenovo Yoga 9i, not that it’s that big a charger in the first place.

Sustainability

The Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9’s all-aluminum build means there’s less plastic in each laptop. Even better, it uses plenty of recycled materials as well, like 50% recycled aluminum for the base bottom, 50% post-consumer recycled plastic for the keyboard, and, of course, 100% plastic-free packaging. That’s definitely more than what you might find in other consumer laptops, so Lenovo deserves a pat on the back there.

Unfortunately, the longevity of the 2-in-1 laptop might be a bit of an issue, especially if you consider doing repairs or upgrades yourself. Although held down by four TORX screws, the base bottom panel also has some pretty strong adhesive that gets in the way of easily accessing replaceable parts. Also quite puzzling, this Gen 9 model has apparently dropped support for the longer 80mm NVMe SSD drives, limiting you to the 42mm variety only.

Value

The laptop market is a very competitive space, especially when brands put out new models almost at the same time and with the same core specs. That makes telling each apart a bit more difficult, let alone figuring out the actual value that a product has. With a price tag ranging from $1,300 to $1,500, the Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 (14″, 2024) already stands out as being more affordable, but we definitely can’t judge it by that figure alone, nor can we ignore the competition.

The Yoga 9i Gen 9 definitely offers a well-rounded set of features, wrapped in a design that is elegant and distinctive, even if a bit odd at the edges. The 14-inch display really makes videos and images pop, up and the sound quality is impressive for a laptop. That said, it’s a very close call with its biggest rival, the newly refreshed HP Spectre x360 14, also a 2-in-1 convertible laptop. It might even boil down to which product and software ecosystem you prefer, but you can’t go wrong with a solid performer like the new 2024 14-inch Yoga 9i.

Verdict

Finding a good balance between power, portability, and price isn’t that easy. Some designs don’t even try and instead focus on a specific aspect and refine that to perfection. The Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 almost comes close, bringing the AI-empowered performance of the new Intel Core Ultra line to a sleek and elegant device that you can proudly show off, whether as a laptop or as a tablet. With a large and beautiful screen that barely has any bezels, it not only lets you focus on your work but also enjoy viewing content on it. Best of all, its sustainability and accessibility give it an edge over similarly priced options, making the Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 2-in-1 laptop truly enticing for creators and workers always on the go.

The post Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 9 2-in-1 (14″, 2024) Review: Graceful Balancing Act first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• Sleek, compact, and minimalist design


• Impressive imaging performance


• Fast, responsive, and useful AI-powered features


• Hands-free gesture and voice control offer unbeatable convenience

CONS:

• Struggles a bit in low light


• Voice control might be a concern for some users


• A bit pricey (without Amazon Prime Day deal)

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

With a sleek, modern design, excellent performance, and helpful AI features, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 4K camera is one of the best webcams money can buy, especially if you get it at a bargain like on Prime Day.

With streaming steadily becoming a popular and even lucrative career, the webcams built into laptops and monitors are not enough to give you an edge over the competition. Sure, they might be serviceable or even decent for meetings, but holding a captive audience requires more than just showing your static, pixelated face all the time. Whether you’re streaming a game, making presentations, selling products, or creating content in general, you will want a webcam that can keep up with you, figuratively and literally. That is exactly what the OBSBOT Tiny 2 AI-powered webcam promises, so we take it out of its premium carrying case, mount it on our monitor, and take it for a spin to see if there’s more to it than an impressive list of smart features.

Designer: OBSBOT

Click Here to Buy Now: $269 $329 (18% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Aesthetics

Most webcams, at least those not embedded in monitors, usually come in boxy shapes that try to blend with the edge of the monitor or circles and spheres that look like a creepy eye staring back at you. Very few of their kind pay attention to the subconscious effect their designs have on the people who will be looking at the camera for long periods of time. That makes the OBSBOT Tiny 2 immediately different from its peers the moment you take it out of its carrying case because it immediately cuts a striking figure that makes its presence known without being distracting all the time.

The OBSBOT Tiny 2 comes with a rounded rectangle camera connected to a 2-axis gimbal that’s mounted on a smooth, squarish base. It has a sleek and modern aesthetic that embraces minimalism to its core. There are very few deviations from its predominantly black body, like the red accent around the camera lens and the LED light strip that indicates the camera’s modes. There are no buttons anywhere, and the only break on its surface is the USB-C port. It’s a breath of fresh air from webcams that try to look either too pretentious or too uninspiring.

The camera’s build quality is also commendable, utilizing a metal alloy rather than the common plastic. Its compact size and simple operations make it quite handy as a portable webcam, and the OBSBOT Tiny 2 comes with a solid carrying case that has room for everything you need to use it on the go, namely, its USB-C cable and included mount. Suffice it to say, the webcam’s simple yet stylish design won’t distract you from creating your finest content but will still please your eyes and your subconscious mind every time you do look at it.

Ergonomics

Unlike an action camera, whether in your hand or a gimbal, a webcam is mostly meant to sit on top of your screen or somewhere stationary. And with its minimalist design, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 is definitely not something you’ll be touching a lot to use and control. That’s definitely a good thing since you don’t want to always reach out in front of you to even just adjust the camera’s direction. What you want is to be able to record yourself or take pictures without breaking your flow, and the Tiny 2 handles that quite gracefully.

What all this means is that you’ll be controlling the camera directly, either with gestures, voice, or the optional remote control. Yes, you’ll also use the OBSBOT Center software (formerly known as the OBSBOT WebCam), which has all the sliders and buttons you’ll need to fine-tune the camera’s performance. It can admittedly be overwhelming, but it’s something that professionals will want to have access to. And if you really need to control the camera without being near the computer, the $49 OBSBOT Tiny Smart Remote 2 has a few shortcuts handy. Plus it also functions as a presenter for those meetings that will impress your boss and even your colleagues.

Various Placement Methods

As for placing the webcam itself on a monitor, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 comes with a foldable magnetic clamp made with the same premium metal as the camera. The mount uses physics and gravity to stay on top of the monitor, while a strong magnet keeps the OBSBOT Tiny 2 attached to it, even when you tilt the mount down. Given the foldable design of the clamp, it might have some problems with very thin laptop lids or very thick monitors. Fortunately, you can also screw the Tiny 2 on almost any mount, which opens up more possibilities on where you can use the webcam. The only requirement is that you can still connect it to a computer or even a smartphone with a lengthy USB-C cable.

Performance

4K Video Quality

Before the pandemic, webcams that can go beyond 1080p resolution sounded excessive, but that’s now the bare minimum for these accessories. 4K is becoming more common, and the OBSBOT Tiny 2 is right up there with a 1/1.5-inch CMOS sensor that has an effective 50MP resolution. It’s capable of recording 4K video at 30fps or 1080p at 60fps and lower frame rates. Unfortunately, there is no “in-between” resolution like 2K of 1440p, which is also a common video quality in streaming these days.

In Dim Lighting Conditions

Whichever resolution you go with, the Tiny 2 performs admirably in capturing both still and moving content with plenty of detail and wide dynamic range. It boasts a Dual ISO system that can automatically switch or combine the two depending on the lighting condition. Unfortunately, it does struggle a bit in poorly lit environments, though not terribly. If you’ll be streaming in the dark, like what many gamers do, you might still want a bit of lighting to ensure a balanced image. The camera features two built-in omnidirectional mics with noise reduction, and while it does produce decent audio, it’s not exactly something to write home about. It can also sound a little tinny, so you might want to augment your setup with a dedicated microphone if you can afford it.

Auto Tracking with Auto Zoom

Magical Gesture Control 2.0

4x Zoom In/Out

Select/Cancel Target

While the OBSBOT Tiny 2 already delivers commendable imaging performance, it really goes to town with its long list of features to make creators’ lives easier and even more fun. And, unsurprisingly, many of these harness the power of AI with very impressive results. Tracking the subject is at the very top of the list, and it is fast and smooth, thanks both to the algorithms as well as the 2-axis gimbal. Depending on your settings, the camera can even automatically zoom in and out to make sure your head or upper body is always visible, no matter how far you are from the camera. And if more people join in on the shot, it will automatically adjust the field of view to frame everyone properly.

Present Properly with Desk Mode

The Tiny 2 also has a unit Desk Mode that makes the camera perfect for meetings and video instructions. In this mode, you tilt the mount forward and the camera will then adjust its angle so that it’s directly pointing down on the desk. It will then flip the video stream so that viewers can see what you’re writing or doing with your hands in the correct direction. And for those streams that require you to act like a teacher, whiteboard mode will focus, zoom in, and straighten the whiteboard for more effective delivery.

All-Pixel Auto Focus

The list of convenient and impressive features goes on and on. Now four times faster than its predecessor, the OBSBOT Tiny 2’s autofocus is fast and impressive, making sure that the product you’re showing off in front of you is clearly seen before it switches back to showing your face. For brief and quick camera changes, you can use hand gestures to zoom in and out, but the real headlining feature for this new model is voice control. From waking up the camera to having it follow you around, you can just ask “Tiny” rather than reach out for your mouse or keyboard. Some people might feel a bit uneasy with having a camera that’s listening and waiting for your commands, but you can always turn the camera down to turn it off and protect your privacy or disable the feature entirely.

Beauty Mode – Smooth your skin and brighten your eyes in just one second.

Sustainability

With webcams a dime a dozen in the market these days, it shouldn’t be a surprise that the vast majority of them use plastic shells to cover their bodies. What’s more surprising are the outliers like the OBSBOT Tiny 2 which opt for more premium and more sustainable materials like metal. It not only adds character to the design, it also makes it look more forgiving and gentler on the planet. You will want to take better care of the camera when using it outdoors, of course, protecting it from scuffs and dents. Thankfully, that hard shell case is there for that very purpose.

It’s not a complete win, of course, as there are still plenty of plastics in the product as well as the packaging. The camera’s seamless design also makes self-repair nearly impossible, not that you’ll want to do it yourself anyway. OBSBOT does have a strong warranty and repair policy, so you’re better off letting the experts do the hard and precise work.

Value

User Scenarios

If it wasn’t clear yet, the OBSBOT Tiny 2 is chock-full of features, all of which are designed to make a content creator’s life easier and less stressful. It leverages AI so that they don’t have to make minute-by-minute decisions and adjustments to the camera, freeing them to focus on the most important part of the process: actually creating the content and engaging with a captive audience. It’s like having a small cameraman on your desk, following your body’s or hands’ cues to create those smooth transitions and to focus on important parts, whether it’s a product or your face.

That said, the OBSBOT Tiny 2’s SRP of $329 can still be a bit difficult to swallow. Make no mistake, you’re really getting your money’s worth, but not everyone will have that much in reserve for a new tool. Fortunately, Amazon’s Prime Day is just around the corner, and you can get this AI-powered camera at a steep 18% discount that brings the price down to a juicy $269. With that price cut, there’s very little to keep you from upgrading your toolset to become the content creator you’ve always aspired to be. Prime Day also opens the door to other sweet deals, like the Remote Combo with the Tiny Remote 2 getting a 16% discount, or the PowerUp Combo with a remote, a tripod, and an HQ mic going for 15% less. Streaming veterans might want to grab the Streaming Combo (remote, tripod, UVC to HDMI adapter) or the MultiCam Combo (three OBSBOT Tiny 2 Cameras, remote, 3-in-1 USB Hub) with 15% and 14% savings, respectively.

Verdict

We’re way past the time when streamers and video content creators could simply sit in front of their cameras and expect the likes (and money) to start piling in. Viewers have become more discerning, perhaps even more demanding, and streamers now need to take their content to the next level. Of course, the actual content is king, but the presentation can make or break your career as well. More than just a good camera, you need a camera that understands where you’re going and can follow your cues without you even saying a word.

The OBSBOT Tiny 2 4K PTZ Webcam delivers on both fronts, providing excellent video quality with the brains to know how you want a shot to be taken or what to focus on. And it looks great to boot, putting other webcams to shame for their lack of elegance despite all the opportunities and materials available to them. Admittedly, it’s not an inexpensive product, but with a juicy Prime Day deal, there’s no better time to upgrade your streaming equipment and upgrade your channel than with this AI-powered 4K webcam.

Click Here to Buy Now: $269 $329 (18% off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

The post OBSBOT Tiny 2 4K PTZ Webcam Review: Elevate Your Streaming Quality with AI this Prime Day first appeared on Yanko Design.