Gadgets - Yanko Design https://www.yankodesign.com Modern Industrial Design News Sun, 20 Apr 2025 21:04:15 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 The Abxylute One Pro is what the Steam Deck should have been – with a $209 price tag https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/20/the-abxylute-one-pro-is-what-the-steam-deck-should-have-been-with-a-209-price-tag/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-abxylute-one-pro-is-what-the-steam-deck-should-have-been-with-a-209-price-tag Mon, 21 Apr 2025 01:45:58 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=547144

The Abxylute One Pro is what the Steam Deck should have been – with a $209 price tag

Back in the day, handheld gaming meant slipping AA batteries into a Game Boy and hoping your save file didn’t vanish with a sneeze. Fast...
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Back in the day, handheld gaming meant slipping AA batteries into a Game Boy and hoping your save file didn’t vanish with a sneeze. Fast forward past the PSP era, through the Switch’s heyday, and here we are – surrounded by sleek, cloud-connected consoles that look like they could file your taxes if you asked nicely. Into this already-packed arena walks the Abxylute One Pro, strutting like it knows something the others don’t. Spoiler: it kind of does.

The One Pro isn’t trying to outgun a Steam Deck or push frame rates like a ROG Ally. That’s not its lane. What it offers instead is something far more focused – and frankly, way more fun. This is a machine that understands handheld gaming isn’t always about performance brute force. Sometimes it’s about slipping into retro bliss, emulating PS2 titles flawlessly, and doing it all without melting your palms or draining your wallet.

Designer: abxylute

Click Here to Buy Now: $209 $249 ($40 off) Hurry! Only 10 days left

Powered by the MediaTek Genio 510, the One Pro gets a solid boost over the OG Abxylute. This chip isn’t exactly a household name, but under the hood it’s no slouch. We’re talking dual Cortex-A78 cores backed by four Cortex-A55s – enough to push 60fps on PS2 emulation, which is kind of the sweet spot for most old-school titles. Paired with 4GB of LPDDR4 RAM and 64GB of storage (expandable to 2TB), it’s well equipped for managing retro libraries, mobile games, and light Android multitasking.

And yes, it’s running Android 13, which means Google Play Store access is baked in. Emulators? Check. Remote play for Steam, PS5, and Xbox? You bet. Mobile games and streaming? Abxylutely (geddit?). But what makes the One Pro feel unusually tuned-in is how it’s tailored to the hands of gamers who actually care about control fidelity.

The joysticks are a big deal here. These aren’t the mini thumb-nubs you find on cheaper handhelds or Joy-Con imitators. They’re full-sized capacitive digital joysticks, which should mean better accuracy, less drift, and a bit of that Xbox-controller muscle memory. For something this compact, that’s a surprisingly premium touch – and one that’ll matter when you’re trying to stick a landing in Tony Hawk or line up a sniper shot in Metal Gear Solid 3.

Display-wise, you’re getting a 7-inch 1080p LTPS screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. It’s not OLED, but for the price point it’s respectable – colors are punchy, motion feels smooth, and the screen size hits that ergonomic sweet spot. The design goes semi-transparent, evoking that late ’90s aesthetic like it just walked out of a Toys“R”Us catalog – but the vibe works. It’s retro without being cosplay.

You’ll also find touchscreen mapping tools, controller customization, and even 4K video output – ideal if you’re hooking this up to a TV or some wild AR glasses setup. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 5 with MU-MIMO (so your game stream won’t choke), Bluetooth, and USB-C for charging or docking. The 5,200mAh battery promises up to 8 hours of use, which feels just right – not marathon-level, but good enough to get you through a long flight or a Sunday couch session.

Size-wise, it clocks in at 250mm x 115mm x 30mm and weighs 430 grams. That’s chunky enough to feel sturdy without veering into wrist-cramp territory. Luckily, it’s still hyper-compact, leaning into Switch Lite or Legion Go S territory, which makes it perfect for on-the-go gaming… and although the abxylute One Pro doesn’t really ship with a protective case, you can grab a nifty soft-shell carry case on abxylute’s website for pretty cheap, complete with mesh pockets for keeping things like charging cables, MicroSD cards, and whatnot.

The Kickstarter launched on March 27, with early bird pricing at $209, and the full retail price landing at $249. Shipping kicks off mid-to-late May, so it won’t be long before you get the unit in your hands – and the sooner the better, judging by the whole tariff-measuring competition the US and China are having…

Click Here to Buy Now: $209 $249 ($40 off) Hurry! Only 10 days left

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Beyond the Smartphone: Essential Gear Upgrades for Serious Content Creators https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/19/beyond-the-smartphone-essential-gear-upgrades-for-serious-content-creators/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=beyond-the-smartphone-essential-gear-upgrades-for-serious-content-creators Sat, 19 Apr 2025 15:20:45 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=547042

Beyond the Smartphone: Essential Gear Upgrades for Serious Content Creators

The creator economy is a rapidly growing global industry that is primarily driven by digital platforms that empower content creators to reach large audiences. As...
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The creator economy is a rapidly growing global industry that is primarily driven by digital platforms that empower content creators to reach large audiences. As content creators gain influence, they often begin with basic tools like smartphones and gradually upgrade their equipment as their following grows. While smartphones serve as a good starting point, many creators eventually invest in higher-end cameras and gear to achieve more professional-quality results. In a constantly evolving landscape, where consumer tastes shift frequently, vloggers, podcasters, and social media influencers must adapt to meet changing demands of large audiences and stay relevant in a competitive space.

With the increasing demand for high-quality content worldwide, one must make sure to consider several factors when selecting devices and accessories as they are crucial to producing premium-quality stills and videos that resonate with your audience.

1. Go for Compact Devices

There is a growing demand for compact devices among content creators due to their portability, practicality, and ease of use. These devices allow creators to easily capture videos and images on the go, without the burden of heavy and bulky gear. Whether in a hurry or working spontaneously, compact devices save time by eliminating lengthy camera setups that might miss capturing the moment.

Compact devices are perfect for traveling to various locations and adapting to different conditions. They should be small enough to fit in a bag or pocket to be quickly accessible. Additionally, their affordability makes them accessible to a wider audience, enabling high-quality content creation solo which reduces the need for a team thereby making the process more cost-effective.

The InstaPocket is an innovative camera designed specifically for content creators and social media enthusiasts. It combines the simplicity of digital cameras with the modern aesthetic of social media and allows users to capture high-quality photos and videos effortlessly. Its compact, pocket-sized design ensures portability, making it easy to carry for spontaneous shooting. Inspired by social media trends, the rounded square shape connects users directly with the social media experience, creating a seamless link between content creation and sharing.

The device is equipped with intuitive features like an integrated scroll wheel for precise zooming and a lens ring for easy aperture adjustments and offers enhanced control. Unlike smartphones, which can be a source of distraction, the InstaPocket is solely focused on content creation and sharing. This streamlined approach ensures that users stay in the moment, capturing and sharing content quickly without interruptions. InstaPocket is a powerful tool for effortless, high-quality content creation that is perfect for influencers, live streamers, and creators.

2. Invest in Innovative Accessories

Content creation can be time-consuming, with significant time spent on shooting and editing. Therefore, investing in accessories is essential to streamline the process and boost productivity. Some of the accessories include a tripod to ensure stability, while an external microphone enhances voice clarity. A lighting kit or ring light provides the perfect glow and improves video quality.

Portable hard drives offer additional storage, and a power bank keeps devices charged on the go. A green screen is particularly valuable as it allows creators to set a preferred backdrop, providing flexibility for different types of content in various environments. This enables creators to produce professional visuals without limitations and it enhances creativity across various projects.

Check out the MagCool OmniGrip which is a compact, all-in-one tool designed to simplify content creation. It consolidates multiple essential accessories into a single portable device, including a built-in SSD for storage, a ring light for professional lighting, an aux-in for external microphones, and a semiconductor cooling system to prevent overheating during intense 4K recording. The 6000mAh battery ensures continuous use, making it ideal for extended shooting sessions, live streaming, or vlogging without worrying about power.

With its foldable design and MagSafe compatibility, the MagCool OmniGrip offers both portability and ease of setup. It provides creators with everything they need to produce high-quality content, from better audio and lighting to efficient storage and temperature management. The device is designed to streamline workflows, reducing the need for bulky rigs and making it easy to carry all essential gear in one compact solution. This accessory is suitable for creators who want a reliable, hassle-free tool to enhance their filming experience.

3. Go for Multifunctional Devices

Multifunctional devices are best suited for content creation as they combine the capabilities of multiple tools into a single, integrated unit. With built-in HD microphones, some devices eliminate the need for external mics in most situations and Wi-Fi connectivity allows one to go for instant video uploads, enabling quick sharing to social media without the need to transfer files between devices.

Other features include instant photo editing and color correction to simplify content enhancement. Additionally, longer shutter speeds ensure smooth, shake-free video recording and high-quality still photography. This streamlines the production process and enables professional-grade content creation with fewer devices.

Industrial designer DPP Da’Peng has conceptualized an all-in-one broadcast device to simplify content creation. With the rising demand for quality production equipment among content creators, this innovative device combines multiple functions into a single unit to eliminate the clutter of using various devices. Whether for podcasts, vlogs, or influencer content, this all-in-one solution allows creators to access professional-grade tools in a single place, reducing the hassle and mess that is typically associated with multiple broadcast devices.

Da’Peng’s design addresses the challenge of heat dissipation in broadcast equipment, incorporating a compact, integrated heat sink to improve efficiency. The device is available in two iterations where one with a cubic form supported by a tripod, and the other with a more projector-like appearance. Both models feature a rotating lens for landscape and portrait modes, wireless functionality to reduce clutter, and intuitive controls. With the optional tripod, creators can also mount the device as a webcam that offers more flexibility in content creation.

4. Consider Quirky Devices

Quirky devices and accessories add immense value to content creation by fostering creativity and encouraging experimentation with new formats. When visible, devices like microphones and ear pods infuse a unique layer of personality into the content. These quirky tools help content creators distinguish themselves in a crowded digital space.

Vintage-inspired designs create a timeless aesthetic, while retro devices evoke nostalgia and enhance the overall vibe. By stepping away from traditional designs, these devices inspire creators to push boundaries, try fresh ideas, and produce standout content. Their eye-catching designs allow creators to express their individuality without sacrificing professionalism, resonating with audiences and making the content more engaging and memorable.

For instance, Talkie is a playful desktop microphone designed by Long Beach-based industrial designer Chris Granneberg. Known for his whimsical and minimalist style, Granneberg’s designs feature primary color schemes and tactile shapes that invite interaction with the product. Created for Render Weekly’s S6:W6 prompt, Talkie combines a nostalgic silhouette with modern functionality. Its intuitive control interface and adjustable structure make it easy for users to find the ideal microphone position while maintaining a fun, vibrant aesthetic.

Designed for content creators, Talkie offers the same performance as standard microphones but stands out with its unique shape and color. The microphone is operated through a single button, while a 360-degree swivel ball joint allows for easy adjustment. With an included USB Type-C cable, Talkie connects to a desktop computer for quick setup. Granneberg’s philosophy of surrounding himself with joyful, colorful objects is reflected in this design, making Talkie both a practical and visually engaging tool for creators.

The evolution of content creation tools highlights a clear trend toward compact, versatile devices that don’t compromise on quality. As creators weigh their options, the balance between size and functionality becomes crucial to their workflow and creative potential.

Ultimately, the ideal setup combines ultra-portable primary devices with carefully selected accessories that enhance versatility. This strategic approach allows creators to remain nimble while accessing professional-grade capabilities, ensuring they can capture spontaneous moments without sacrificing the production value audiences have come to expect.

The post Beyond the Smartphone: Essential Gear Upgrades for Serious Content Creators first appeared on Yanko Design.

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5 Best Tech Gadgets Of March 2025 https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/19/5-best-tech-gadgets-of-march-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=5-best-tech-gadgets-of-march-2025 Sat, 19 Apr 2025 11:40:23 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=546864

5 Best Tech Gadgets Of March 2025

March 2025 arrived with a flourish of technological breakthroughs, but five devices rose above the rest, capturing both the imagination and practicality that define modern...
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March 2025 arrived with a flourish of technological breakthroughs, but five devices rose above the rest, capturing both the imagination and practicality that define modern innovation. Whether you’re a gadget enthusiast, a creative professional, or someone who just loves the feel of the latest tech in your hands, these products set new benchmarks for what’s possible.

March’s best gadgets are not just incremental upgrades—they are bold leaps forward, answering longstanding wishes and reimagining how we interact with technology. From Samsung’s audacious new foldable form factor to a NAS that fits in your pocket, March 2025 was a showcase of ingenuity. Dive in, and have a look at these super cool gadgets!

1. Samsung’s Quad-Fold Smartphone

Foldable smartphones have been evolving at a rapid pace, but Samsung’s latest patent pushes the boundaries of what’s technically possible—and what users can expect in a futuristic device. The company has long dominated the foldable device space, but with competitors like Huawei and TCL introducing tri-fold concepts, Samsung’s quad-fold smartphone raises the stakes dramatically.

What sets this design apart is its ambitious use of four interconnected panels joined by three hinges, allowing for a device that can transform into multiple configurations. The patent suggests a horizontally connected structure, with three hinges enabling complex folding and unfolding sequences. In contrast to some outward-folding designs, Samsung’s inward-folding approach keeps the flexible display protected when closed, potentially resolving durability concerns that have haunted previous generations.

What we like

  • The four-panel, three-hinge design enables the device to transform between smartphone, tablet, and even more unique form factors.
  • By folding inward, the display is protected when the device is closed, reducing the risk of scratches and damage.

What we dislike

  • The addition of multiple hinges and folding points increases complexity, potentially leading to new challenges.

2. Next-Gen Xbox Handheld

For years, the gaming community has clamored for a genuine handheld Xbox experience—one that blends Microsoft’s robust gaming ecosystem with the freedom of portable play. While rumors and patents have circulated, it wasn’t until a recent, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it NBC Today Show segment that the tech world caught its first real glimpse of what could be Microsoft’s answer to the Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and ROG Ally. The brief reveal in Phil Spencer’s office—a space famous for housing top-secret hardware—showed an unfamiliar handheld device bearing the Xbox logo, sparking a frenzy of speculation and excitement.

Unlike previous prototypes or third-party add-ons, this device appears to be a genuine Microsoft-developed console, with design elements that set it apart from competitors. Its button layout deviates from known standards, suggesting new control schemes or expanded functionality. The device’s form factor and rumored Windows-based platform with an Xbox-specific user interface point to seamless integration with Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming, and the broader Microsoft ecosystem.

What we like

  • Expected to feature seamless access to Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming, and cross-platform functionality, this handheld could provide a unified gaming experience on the go.
  • The unique button placement hints at new gameplay possibilities or enhanced ergonomics.

What we dislike

  • High-performance gaming on a portable device often comes at the expense of battery longevity, a critical factor for gamers on the move.

3. The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 McLaren Edition Earbuds

The Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 McLaren Edition earbuds are a remarkable fusion of advanced audio engineering and sleek, performance-driven aesthetics. Drawing inspiration from the exhilarating world of motorsport, these earbuds blend Bowers & Wilkins’ signature sound excellence with the distinctive flair of McLaren. Designed for true wireless convenience, they offer an audio experience that is both powerful and effortlessly accessible.

Perfect for discerning listeners who appreciate high-fidelity sound in a portable package, the Pi8 McLaren Edition delivers impressive clarity and depth. Whether you’re captivated by the roar of a Formula 1 race or the subtle intricacies of a jazz performance, these earbuds provide a truly immersive auditory journey.

What we like

  • Outstanding sound performance with accurate audio detail.
  • Sophisticated design influenced by McLaren, ideal for motorsport fans.

What we dislike

  • Limited availability due to its special edition status.
  • Higher price point may be a barrier for some users.

4. Bionic Magnetic Charging Stand

The Bionic Magnetic Charging Stand transforms how you power up your AirPods Max, delivering a smooth and user-friendly charging experience. This thoughtfully engineered accessory elevates both convenience and aesthetics by offering a dedicated charging station that perfectly matches the premium look of your headphones. With robust magnets that automatically align your AirPods Max for charging, the stand removes any guesswork or hassle from the process.

Its refined design seamlessly fits into a variety of settings, from office desks to nightstands, adding a subtle touch of elegance to any space. Built with meticulous attention to detail, just like the AirPods Max themselves, this stand ensures your headphones are always charged and stylishly displayed, marrying function with sophisticated form.

What we like

  • Delivers a reliable and hassle-free charging solution for AirPods Max.
  • Modern, minimalist design that enhances the look of your audio setup.

What we dislike

  • Exclusively compatible with AirPods Max.
  • It may not be essential for users satisfied with conventional charging options.

5. The DockCase 7-in-1 Hub

The Dockcase 7-in-1 Hub reimagines what a USB-C hub can be, pushing the boundaries of versatility and design. Crafted with the demands of modern users in mind, this advanced accessory transforms a standard hub into a feature-rich powerhouse, boasting a sleek metallic chassis and an intuitive touchscreen interface. It’s tailored for those needing rapid data transfers, seamless external storage, and connecting multiple devices—all in one compact unit.

The star feature is its interactive display, which delivers real-time insights into transfer rates, power delivery, and SSD status. This function offers users a clear, mission-control-like overview of their setup, making it easy to monitor and manage connected devices with precision. Beyond its display, the hub is packed with high-performance ports, including a 10 Gbps USB-C host port, HDMI output supporting 4K at 120Hz, and dual slots for UHS-II SD and TF cards.

What we like

  • Extensive connectivity options make it perfect for multitasking and professional workflows.
  • Durable metal construction ensures it can handle the demands of frequent travel.

What we dislike

  • The wealth of features and controls may be too complex for those who prefer straightforward, plug-and-play devices.

Editor’s Choice: Side A Cassette Speaker

Not every great gadget needs to unfold like origami to win us over. The Side A Cassette Speaker brings a different kind of innovation—fusing vintage design with modern tech in a way that’s compact, charming, and surprisingly useful.

Styled like an actual mixtape, this Bluetooth 5.3 speaker doubles as a nostalgic showpiece and a serious piece of pocket tech. It supports microSD playback, delivers a warm, analog-inspired sound, and even comes with a clear plastic case that doubles as a stand. Whether you’re setting the vibe at your desk or throwing it in your bag for on-the-go listening, this is the kind of design that sparks conversation before you even hit play.

Click Here to Buy Now: $45

What we like

  • Authentic mixtape design with a transparent shell and retro labels.
  • Warm, analog-style sound in a compact build.

What we dislike

  • Playback time is 6 hours, good for casual use but not all-day sessions.

The post 5 Best Tech Gadgets Of March 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

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This reverse charging cable for AirPods Pro is useful when buds and case battery runs out https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/18/this-reverse-charging-cable-for-airpods-pro-is-useful-when-buds-and-case-battery-runs-out/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=this-reverse-charging-cable-for-airpods-pro-is-useful-when-buds-and-case-battery-runs-out Fri, 18 Apr 2025 19:15:16 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=546441

This reverse charging cable for AirPods Pro is useful when buds and case battery runs out

Wireless earphones have come a long way in terms of battery life while maintaining a compact form factor. A good pair of buds can last...
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Wireless earphones have come a long way in terms of battery life while maintaining a compact form factor. A good pair of buds can last almost six to seven hours on average with ANC on. The charging case provides another two to three charge cycles before you need to plug in your case for a refill. Under normal circumstances, that should be enough for a day or even a day and a half, if you keep the ANC and transparency mode turned off for the duration.

If you are a power user always on the go, chances are you might drain out all the battery in your charging case. The solution in that scenario is to keep a wired pair handy, or is it? This concept believes otherwise, and the idea seems novel, just like the Streamline hybrid earbuds that can be used both in wireless and wired modes. Called the reverse charging earphones, these charge your buds when the juice runs out.

Designer: Jinkyo Han

Imagined for the Apple AirPods Pro, the concept proposes a reverse charging cable that connects to the phone and then charges the buds when they are low on battery power. Since each bud carries a battery capacity of 50 mAh each, every recharge cycle will only drain 100 mAh of the phone’s battery power, which is a bargain as current generation smartphones have a battery capacity of 5,000 mAh. It’s like you have a power bank for your AirPods Pro in case you’ve exhausted both the buds and the charging case battery.

When the AirPods battery runs out, simply dock them into the charging cable slot and connect them to the phone with the USB-C cable. The buds attach securely to the cable dock without the fear of knocking them off as they dock magnetically into the deep hollow openings at the ends, Jinkyo refers to as the A terminals. If you wish to use the buds in this mode for a prolonged period, you can even skip carrying the charging case for the earbuds. The charging cable indicates the charge status with a blinking LED light on the Y-splitter section.

The idea is very practical, probably the reason we are seeing such concept design pop up. In all likelihood, Apple won’t be tempted to go for such a design evolution or design an official accessory with such functionality. Third-party manufacturers and start-ups might be tempted to turn this ideation into reality, given its utilitarian aspect.

The post This reverse charging cable for AirPods Pro is useful when buds and case battery runs out first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Pay With Your Palm – AliPay Debuts Palm-Recognition Tech That Makes Secure Contactless Payments https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/16/pay-with-your-palm-alipay-debuts-palm-recognition-tech-that-makes-secure-contactless-payments/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=pay-with-your-palm-alipay-debuts-palm-recognition-tech-that-makes-secure-contactless-payments Thu, 17 Apr 2025 00:30:36 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=546471

Pay With Your Palm – AliPay Debuts Palm-Recognition Tech That Makes Secure Contactless Payments

You remember those old-time spy movies where someone fairly important would walk to a retina scanner and hunch over, while light would shine into their...
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You remember those old-time spy movies where someone fairly important would walk to a retina scanner and hunch over, while light would shine into their eye, identifying them. I always found that technology fascinating, but impractical. Not only was it an incentive to have people rip your eyeballs out, the procedure seemed just a little too complicated. Turns out, AliPay (a subsidiary of Chinese giant Alibaba) has a solution – and it just involves scanning your palm.

Palm recognition has been around for a decent amount of time (we actually wrote about a smart door lock that uses the tech too), but AliPay’s PL1 gives it mass adoption. Designed to facilitate payments, the PL1 lets you hold your palm up against a sensor to approve transactions, letting you make payments without making contact with POS terminals and their potentially germ-ridden keypads.

Designer: Alipay (Hangzhou) Information Technology Co., Ltd

The way it works is simple, the PL1 recognizes palm prints as well as palm vein biometrics or the shape of the network of veins underneath your skin (which are absolutely impossible to fake). The technology is implemented in a POS terminal that authenticates your approval with a palm scan rather than a fingerprint, a PIN code, or an OTP. Just hold your palm over the sensor (some may call it a ‘Roman salute’), and the sensor does the rest in seconds.

The technology holds promise for multiple reasons. Apart from being absolutely infallible and impossible to trick (you can’t counterfeit a palm with vein structures, can you?) it’s also fast, and contact-free, making it perfect for most societies, except for probably places where you’re wearing gloves, whether because of the cold or because of safety.

The PL1’s application isn’t limited to payments either, AliPay says it can be used for authentication, access, and even be deployed in large numbers at terminals in public transport like subways or buses, enabling contact-free and secure modes of access and payment in a society largely relying on fingerprints that are easy to fake, and facial recognition that has a pretty large error rate.

The post Pay With Your Palm – AliPay Debuts Palm-Recognition Tech That Makes Secure Contactless Payments first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Floppy disk nostalgia piece is a powerbank to juice up your devices https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/16/floppy-disk-nostalgia-piece-is-a-powerbank-to-juice-up-your-devices/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=floppy-disk-nostalgia-piece-is-a-powerbank-to-juice-up-your-devices Wed, 16 Apr 2025 14:20:28 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=546309

Floppy disk nostalgia piece is a powerbank to juice up your devices

We see a lot of videos on Tiktok and Reels about showing kids “relics” from our past and asking them to guess what it was....
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We see a lot of videos on Tiktok and Reels about showing kids “relics” from our past and asking them to guess what it was. They often get stumped when shown a floppy disk because this was of course way beyond their time. But for us who lived through the age of trying to fit in our files on those portable storage devices, they bring a sense of nostalgia and how fun (or not fun) it was to carefully carry those things around and hope that our 1.44MB files were not corrupted. It was essential back then so it’s interesting to see it repurposed for what’s essential now to this generation.

Designer: PTPC

Trozk Floppy Power Bank is a conceptual piece takes the iconic floppy disk and reimagines it as a modern-day essential: a power bank. The floppy disk may be a relic of the past, but its impact on data storage history is undeniable. This concept taps into that legacy, using the visual identity of the floppy disk as a symbol of memory, backup, and tech evolution. While the device doesn’t serve as actual data storage, it metaphorically connects the dots between past and present—between saving files and saving battery life. At its core, this is a power bank, designed to offer charging on the go. But it’s more than that. It’s a statement piece, reminding us of the roots of digital innovation. By bringing an old-school design into modern relevance, the Trozk team poses a creative question: what if memory wasn’t just about data, but about the emotional connection we have to tech?

The power bank retains the visual elements of a traditional floppy—square form factor, label area, and even the metallic shutter detail. But with USB ports tucked in cleverly and the internals optimized for performance, it’s all about delivering power with personality. So think of it as if you’re carrying a relic around but it still is functioning but in a different capacity. It also has Smart Temperature Control System 3.0 so it won’t overheat or damage the device even if you do rapid charging. It will definitely be a conversation piece among people who’ve lived through the floppy disk years and an object of interest for the younger ones who don’t know what that is.

The Trozk Floppy Power Bank is more than a tech accessory—it’s a nostalgic conversation starter. For anyone who remembers the click of a floppy disk sliding into a drive, this power bank is a sweet homage. And for those who’ve never used one? It’s a glimpse into a time when 1.44 MB felt like a lot. This clever power bank serves as a tangible link to our technological past, reminding us that while storage methods evolve, the need to keep our essential devices powered up remains a constant.

The post Floppy disk nostalgia piece is a powerbank to juice up your devices first appeared on Yanko Design.

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JMGO’s New Budget-Friendly Projectors Give You A Portable Cinema That Can Run On A Power Bank https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/15/jmgos-new-budget-friendly-projectors-give-you-a-portable-cinema-that-can-run-on-a-power-bank/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=jmgos-new-budget-friendly-projectors-give-you-a-portable-cinema-that-can-run-on-a-power-bank Wed, 16 Apr 2025 01:45:34 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=545441

JMGO’s New Budget-Friendly Projectors Give You A Portable Cinema That Can Run On A Power Bank

The pandemic ended years ago. You don’t need to sit at home anymore. You can hang out at a friend’s place, on a terrace, in...
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The pandemic ended years ago. You don’t need to sit at home anymore. You can hang out at a friend’s place, on a terrace, in a backyard, anywhere. And sure, you could sit and stare at your phone while you share TikToks with everyone around you – but projectors are now affordable enough that you can buy one and turn any place into an impromptu movie theater. Watch the latest episodes of White Lotus, binge a movie series (I recently began rewatching X-Men), or just indulge in some brain-rot movies online – projectors are perfect for gatherings. They’re portable, affordable, they create a massive screen nearly 100 inches diagonally, and here’s the best part – you can now power them with a simple power bank.

That’s the feature that JMGO wants to highlight with its latest projectors in the N1S series. The newly debuted N1S SE and N1S Nano form a part of their wildly popular N1S series, but unlike some of their higher-end projectors, these ones are designed to be affordable, adaptable, and power-efficient. The projectors were teased at CES this year, but JMGO’s now lifted the veil on them, with a very affordable sub-$999 price tag… and the ability to run the projector on the same power bank you use to charge your phone.

Designer: JMGO

JMGO N1S SE

A projector this compact has no right to feel this premium. The JMGO N1S SE is sculpted like a desktop monolith but behaves more like a precision instrument. At just 3.9lb, it fits anywhere, but the real party-trick is its motorized gimbal base, which rotates 360° and tilts without fuss—no stack of books or janky tripod required. Inside, JMGO’s upgraded MALC 2.0 triple laser system pushes out 800 ISO lumens at 1080p, with shockingly crisp clarity and rich color accuracy thanks to its full BT.2020 coverage and HDR10+ support. Autofocus and keystone correction are automatic, image sizes go up to a whopping 200 inches, and 65W Type-C charging means you can plug it into any mid or hi-end power bank to run your portable cinema.

The N1S SE folds in Google TV for instant access to Netflix, YouTube, and everything else you binge in denial. Two built-in 5W speakers with Dolby Atmos support mean you can skip the soundbar in a pinch, and with Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, HDMI, and USB ports, it plays nice with your whole setup. JMGO nailed the physical proportions too—this thing has presence without bulk, and that matte black body makes it feel more like design gear than a disposable gadget. No garish branding, no over-the-top frills—just a clean, focused machine that belongs in your space.

Why We Recommend It

So why do I recommend it? Because the N1S SE does something rare—it respects your living space. It’s a projector you don’t have to hide or babysit. The image looks consistently excellent without constant tweaking, and the design is quietly assertive without screaming for attention. For people who care about color accuracy, placement flexibility, and owning tech that doesn’t feel disposable, this hits the sweet spot. I’ve seen pricier models do less with more, and cheaper ones fail on fundamentals. This one delivers where it counts, starts at an impressively budget-friendly €799 ($906 USD) price tag—and looks damn good doing it.

Click Here to Buy Now.

JMGO N1S Nano

Weighing in at 3.9 lbs and measuring approximately 7.4 x 6.5 x 7.5 inches, the N1S Nano is the tiniest in its series. It’s designed for easy transport, fitting snugly into your backpack for those outdoor cinema experiences I mentioned earlier. The inner LED light source delivers up to 460 ISO lumens brightness, projecting crisp 1080p images up to 80 inches wide – that’s the equivalent of four 40-inch televisions arranged in a 2×2 format. While the N1S SE boasts a more advanced triple laser system, the Nano’s LED setup provides a respectable viewing experience for its class. The integrated stand allows for flexible positioning, and with automatic focus and keystone correction, setting up becomes a hassle-free endeavor.

Running on Android with the Google TV interface, the N1S Nano offers seamless access to streaming platforms like YouTube and Apple TV. Its two built-in 5W speakers, compatible with Dolby Atmos, ensure immersive audio without the need for external devices. Connectivity is well-addressed with HDMI 2.1 (ARC) and USB-A ports. Unlike the N1S SE, which requires a constant power source, the Nano can be powered via a 65W USB-C input, making it adaptable for on-the-go scenarios when paired with a compatible power bank. This flexibility, combined with its more affordable price point, positions the N1S Nano for anyone looking to dip their toes into the projector world.

Why We Recommend It

The JMGO N1S Nano strikes a commendable balance between portability, performance, and price. While it may not match the N1S SE’s advanced features, it offers a solid viewing experience in a compact form factor, and a fairly lower entrance-friendly €599 ($679 USD) price tag. Its user-friendly setup, versatile connectivity, and the ability to power it via USB-C make it a practical choice for casual movie nights, presentations, or impromptu viewing sessions. A perfect pick for people who love dabbling in movie nights, projecting YouTube videos on the ceiling while they lie in bed, or just want a large-screen experience without committing to a television.

Click Here to Buy Now.

The post JMGO’s New Budget-Friendly Projectors Give You A Portable Cinema That Can Run On A Power Bank first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Limited Edition Crayon-themed Apple Pencil Pro is a Must-Have For Creatives https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/15/limited-edition-crayon-themed-apple-pencil-pro-is-a-must-have-for-creatives/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=limited-edition-crayon-themed-apple-pencil-pro-is-a-must-have-for-creatives Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:20:18 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=546087

Limited Edition Crayon-themed Apple Pencil Pro is a Must-Have For Creatives

Why blend into the masses with your boring white Apple Pencil when you could opt for something vastly cooler? Meet the Apple Crayon Pro, a...
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Why blend into the masses with your boring white Apple Pencil when you could opt for something vastly cooler? Meet the Apple Crayon Pro, a custom version of the Pencil Pro built by the folks at ColorWare. Designed to look exactly like a Crayola crayon (while functioning seamlessly as Apple’s cutting-edge iPad Pro stylus), the Crayon Pro comes in 7 color options, and looks perfectly gorgeous when docked to the side of your iPad.

ColorWare’s built its reputation on building unique colored alternatives to regular tech products, from colorful mice to earbuds to even speakers – although the Apple Crayon Pro might just be their cutest little invention yet, paying tribute to the first ever creative tool most of us grew up using.

Designer: ColorWare

As its name suggests, the Crayon Pro is a customized version of the Pencil Pro, which debuted in 2024 along with the latest iPad Pro model running the M4 chip. On the inside, it’s every bit the Apple peripheral, but it gets a customized exterior, available in as many as 7 different colors – ranging from white and black, to more eye-catching options like mint green, red, and my favorite yellow. No, Space Grey and Rose Gold aren’t available yet!

The Crayon Pro is undoubtedly creative, but the price of this creativity is a whopping $215, or $86 more than the original $129 Pencil Pro. For that surcharge, you do get a unique stylus like no other, and the bragging rights of being a true creative. Just don’t accidentally give your Crayon Pro to your toddler, lest they brake it while scribbling on paper, or worse, try to sharpen it!

The Crayon Pro ships 2 weeks from now (so sometime in May 2025), and is compatible with the M4 iPad Pro models, the M2/M3 iPad Air models, as well as the A17 Pro iPad Mini.

The post Limited Edition Crayon-themed Apple Pencil Pro is a Must-Have For Creatives first appeared on Yanko Design.

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RIP HDMI Cables – This 6-in-1 Wireless HDMI Transmitter Hub Lets You Stream Video Wirelessly https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/14/rip-hdmi-cables-this-6-in-1-wireless-hdmi-transmitter-hub-lets-you-stream-video-wirelessly/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rip-hdmi-cables-this-6-in-1-wireless-hdmi-transmitter-hub-lets-you-stream-video-wirelessly Tue, 15 Apr 2025 01:45:53 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=544856

RIP HDMI Cables – This 6-in-1 Wireless HDMI Transmitter Hub Lets You Stream Video Wirelessly

It’s 2025 and most of the tech around us is truly wireless. We can share audio wireless, we transmit internet wirelessly, we even charge wirelessly....
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It’s 2025 and most of the tech around us is truly wireless. We can share audio wireless, we transmit internet wirelessly, we even charge wirelessly. But we’re still slaves to the HDMI cable – sure, there’s really no problem streaming video wirelessly, but casting is fundamentally broken. As someone who used Chromecast for the longest time, it was frustratingly slow with input/output lag that I could literally measure myself. That was years ago and casting today still remains fairly clunky – although the folks at TobenONE could be sitting on something fairly revolutionary – lag-free wireless HDMI transmission.

Imagine this – you plug a transmitter into your iPad, a receiver into a monitor, and boom, you’ve got a secondary display that works as buttery smooth as if it were connected by an invisible HDMI cable. The TobenONE T1 connects to input devices via USB-C, so it works with your laptop, tablet, phone, even your handheld gaming console, giving you an instant connection to a nearby external display. However, it doesn’t limit itself to just being an HDMI transmitter – the TobenONE T1 works as a 6-in-1 multiport hub too, letting you charge devices, transfer data, and stream wirelessly, whether it’s a presentation at work, or just wanting to beam TikTok from your phone onto your TV.

Designer: TobenONE

Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $179 (44% off) Hurry! Only 16 Days Left

The TobenONE T1 is about ruthless efficiency. Need to throw your laptop screen onto a projector across the room without crawling under a table with an HDMI cable in your mouth? Done. Thanks to built-in 5G Wi-Fi, the T1 transmits video and audio wirelessly up to 30 meters away, delivering a 1080p 60Hz signal with surprising stability. And for when you crave pixel perfection, the receiver actually works as an HDMI cable too, allowing you to simply connect it to the transmitter for native 4K at 60Hz through a wired connection. This thing handles both modes on command with a one-click switch that actually works as promised—white LED for wireless, green for wired. Simple, decisive, and more responsive than most coworkers in a Zoom meeting.

What TobenONE has pulled off here is a kind of hybrid we rarely see in the accessories world—a dual-mode tool that doesn’t feel like it was compromised by the ambition of trying to be both. Wireless projection is buttery smooth, and the HDMI output through hub mode looks as sharp as you’d expect from a 4K 60Hz signal. You could run a Netflix binge, share a Figma prototype, or throw up a real-time DaVinci Resolve preview—all without stutters or sync issues. It even shrugs off minor latency concerns that plague similar wireless solutions, thanks to a hardware-level SoC video processor optimized for the job.

Of course, “hub” means you’re getting more than just display mirroring. The T1 packs two USB-C ports, a USB-A 3.0 port (because some of us still use flash drives), a 100W PD 3.0 charging port, and the aforementioned HDMI. The USB ports push data at up to 5Gbps, which is fast enough to dump your entire photo library into an SSD before your coffee gets cold. The power delivery deserves its own ovation—100 watts of juice through the USB-C port is no joke. It’ll charge your MacBook Pro while simultaneously running external displays and transferring files, without blinking.

The design itself is slick, intuitive, and massively reduces both visual and hardware clutter. The entire thing is a single black box with a one-button interface, making using it foolproof. A polymer shell with a tactile matte-gloss combo finish that resists fingerprints better than some phones. Smartly placed ventilation holes boost heat dissipation by 50%, making this one of the rare performance-forward hubs that doesn’t overheat halfway through a project deadline.

But where T1 really earns its stripes is how seamless it feels. The pairing between the transmitter and receiver is pre-configured at the factory. No apps. No QR code dance. No desperate forum dives at 11 p.m. Just plug, press, and go. Even the initial sync, which takes a modest 5–10 seconds, gets cut down to near-instant speeds with each subsequent use.

It’s clearly built for people who move fast—designers shifting between workstations, marketers pitching from laptops, educators sharing content on classroom screens. And despite its portability, it doesn’t cut corners on performance. That blend of mobility and muscle is rare, especially in a segment littered with undercooked gimmicks pretending to be productivity tools.

The T1 hub starts at $99, an impressive 50% off from its original $179 price tag. It includes the transmitter itself, which serves as the 6-in-1 hub and a receiver for plugging into your HDMI-enabled external device. The receiver works as an HDMI cable too in a pinch, which means you don’t really need any extra cables, dongles, peripherals cluttering your desk or your life.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99 $179 (44% off) Hurry! Only 16 Days Left

The post RIP HDMI Cables – This 6-in-1 Wireless HDMI Transmitter Hub Lets You Stream Video Wirelessly first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Mindful Smartphone Detox Device Encourages Healthier Habits and a Balanced Digital Life https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/04/13/mindful-smartphone-detox-device-encourages-healthier-habits-and-a-balanced-digital-life/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=mindful-smartphone-detox-device-encourages-healthier-habits-and-a-balanced-digital-life Sun, 13 Apr 2025 22:30:44 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=545629

Mindful Smartphone Detox Device Encourages Healthier Habits and a Balanced Digital Life

In an age where our thumbs scroll an average of 13.3 meters per day and our minds are bombarded with algorithm-driven content, digital fatigue is...
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In an age where our thumbs scroll an average of 13.3 meters per day and our minds are bombarded with algorithm-driven content, digital fatigue is no longer a fringe concern, it’s a mainstream struggle. For one in five Koreans, smartphones are not just useful tools, but addictive ones. While smartphones offer countless conveniences, they also overwhelm us with stimuli, impairing self-regulation and contributing to broader social and cultural issues. That’s where MUTO steps in, offering a new kind of balance.

MUTO is a little more nuanced than just being a “lockbox” for your phone, it’s a thoughtfully designed interactive device that enables users to maintain essential smartphone functions, like emergency calls and white noise playback while encouraging mindful disconnection. By combining intelligent design, customizable app integration, and tactile interaction, MUTO offers a more intuitive and accessible solution for smartphone detoxing.

Designer: Seojin Lee

Unlike existing detox devices that rely on harsh lockout methods or clunky, transparent aesthetics that reduce commitment, MUTO uses selective engagement. Through its companion app, users can define detox parameters such as duration, environment (work, sleep, relaxation), and whether to include a visual progress gauge. Once settings are saved, the phone is placed inside the device, and a transparent ring displays the detox progress, a calming visual cue that time is being spent purposefully.

Detox doesn’t mean disconnection from everything. MUTO includes a tactile interaction pad and a smooth, rubber-ringed control interface that rests comfortably in the hand, like a minimalist mouse. This module sits above the speaker pad, letting users subtly interact with necessary functions:

  1. ASMR/White Noise Control: Create a peaceful atmosphere while you work or wind down.
  2. Detox Time Adjustment: Extend your detox without unlocking the phone, keeping you in the zone.
  3. Interaction Lock Feature: Engage in soothing tactile feedback – like rolling, tapping, or gripping, to reduce anxiety and maintain focus.

MUTO acknowledges the critical role smartphones play in emergency contact. That’s why the system allows pre-set emergency thresholds. If the phone receives a certain number of urgent calls or messages, configured by the user, the detox mode temporarily lifts, the gauge turns red, and the phone gently rises from the device, signaling its availability.

It’s important to see this not as a punishment tool, but rather, a guide toward healthier habits. By preserving core smartphone utilities and blending them with mindful, minimal interaction, MUTO promotes a more natural reduction in screen time without creating additional stress or friction. It’s as much about restoring control as it is about disconnecting.

When detox time ends, your smartphone returns, fully charged through MUTO’s integrated wireless charging function. No cords, no clutter, no lost time. Whether you were sleeping, studying, or simply taking a break, MUTO held your place, letting you return to your digital life refreshed and focused.

The post Mindful Smartphone Detox Device Encourages Healthier Habits and a Balanced Digital Life first appeared on Yanko Design.

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