Hasta La Ideas

Over-the-ear headphones can give you sweaty and uncomfortable ears in the hot summer days, so why not have an active cooling system to keep the heat down? Even better, how about owning a pair of hybrid headphones with integrated metal earbuds?

Ones who listen to quite a chunk of music and podcasts on their headphones get good sound isolation from all the distracting noises around them. However, wearing headphones for longer durations does come with its downsides. Feeling hot in the ears and uncomfortable being one – especially in the scorching heat and humid conditions or on the flipside in extremely cold temperatures. Dealing with the heat building up while headphones in high temperatures is very uncomfortable, let alone that greasy build-up of sweat which can result in itching.

Designer: Kevin Chiam

This heat-induced discomfort while wearing over-the-ear headphones is even more concerning in the current era which is plagued by global warming and record-breaking heatwaves. Indeed, not a good scenario for audiophiles who listen to music on their sound-isolating headphones. Designer Kevin Chiam has got a niche idea to solve this problem with an inventive headphone prototype. Meet the Thermaphones – a pair of cans that alter the temperature to nullify the effect of extremely hot temperature or the chill of winter.

These headphones have a hybrid design, wherein, they have temperature-changing earbuds for unique thermal comfort. The earcups on these headphones are compact with protruding earbuds on the inside. This promises superior sound isolation honed by the vacuum seal of the earbuds and topped by the encapsulating properties of the ear cups. Temperature control is achieved via the 2 integrated Peltier chips which are capable of toggling the temperature between 25°C and 38°C.

The idea of these audio accessories in the prototype stage is very unique as they bring great comfort even in the hottest and most humid environments or freezing cold. This also eliminates any chances of vertigo induced by the extreme variation in temperature while wearing normal headies. In fact, the project is inspired by the project Saiga4 neck wearable which works on the perception of temperature for cooling you down.

The post These temperature regulating headphones have sound isolating metal earbuds on the inside first appeared on Yanko Design.

After a tiring week at work, with the weekend joyfully looming ahead of me, I often find myself fantasizing about a short sweet getaway! Just a few days away from my hectic life, and this hectic world, in a bubble of my own, where all my worries are nowhere to be seen. The pandemic may restrict my actual traveling plans, but it definitely cannot restrict my daydreams about vacations! Jetsetting on a flight may not be a practical option right now, but I do think Camping is a plausible plan. There’s nothing more comforting or exciting than lounging about in a cozy trailer while you explore the countryside. You never feel out of place, because these little trailers manage to feel like a home on wheels! Fill it up with your dear belongings, and it’s your home away from home. Not to mention the trailer designs today are super innovative and inventive! From a trailer that expands to the size of a micro-cabin to a camper trailer that expands to sleep 4 people – these resourceful trailers manage to cater to almost all of our needs, solving various problems, and turning our camping experience into a fulfilling and comfortable one.

1. NoMad

Modern lifestyle has created a new genre of digital nomads – people who love the outdoors while balancing their work/ tech life. After all, while we crave a digital detox, we can’t really completely cut off from our smartphones. How can the humble trailer designs be adapted to meet their new-age camping needs while maintaining that sacred indoor-outdoor balance? The answer to that is the “NoMad” – a light and resistant vehicle that is presented as a fusion between a traditional tent and a futuristic-looking van designed by the ABIBOO Studio.

Why is it noteworthy?

Each NoMad creates this balance by designing 3 unique compartments – a wet area that holds the kitchen and bathroom, a living room/guest room/workroom, and thirdly a master bedroom that separates from to living room to help you disconnect at the end of the day. The layout of the trailer holds the wet area at the center of the design, automatically creating a barrier/ separation between the living room and the bedroom. Given the space constraints, every bit of the vehicle design holds storage space and hidden seating space. Smart use of terraces means we can leverage the outside space once the trailer is settled in.

What we like

• Holds storage space and hidden seating space
• A minimum thickness that provides the best insulation

What we dislike

• No complaints!

2. eStream and Thor Vision Vehicle

Airstream is finally going electric with its two newly announced EV concepts namely eStream and Thor Vision Vehicle. The eStream trailer developed in close quarters with European subsidiary Erwin Hymer Group and tech company ZF, addresses the lingering issue with most campers and RVs – that being – the need for extra power which in turn limits the range of towing vehicles.

Why is it noteworthy?

Whether the eStream is hooked onto a pure electric vehicle like the Tesla Model 3 or the hybrid Ford Escape – the trailer by Thor Industries (Airstream’s parent company) is not just dead weight. This is done with the dual independent motors and the two onboard lithium-ion battery packs. The Thor’s advanced electrical architecture brings to the fore regenerative braking energy as the motors can be used to apply torque to the wheels in both directions.

What we like

• The trailer can be operated remotely via an app when it’s detached from the towing vehicle
• Comes with solar panels for off-grid camping on extended adventures

What we dislike

• The eStream weighs more than traditional trailers

3. The Bailey Discovery D4-2 Camper Trailer

The Bailey Discovery D4-2 Camper Trailer is one such creation, tailored for adventure enthusiasts who can’t help but satiate their wanderlust – exploring the untrodden trails. The USP of this camper trailer is its inflatable awning which creates almost double the private space you need for your escapades under the star-studded nights.

Why is it noteworthy?

On the inside, D4-2 is equipped with all the amenities and a fully furnished interior. Enough to suffice the needs of a couple on their long road trip – with the odd guest coming along the way for a couple of days. The big windows on all sides and the skylight fills the interiors with enough sunlight for a calming feel. The lounge area includes two couches and a fold-down table. In the kitchen, you’ll get an oven/grill combo appliance, a drop-down worktop extension, and a sink. On the opposite side, there is a mini-fridge with space underneath to store food and beverages. You also get the convenience of a shoes and clothes closet along with a separate area for cabinet storage. Of course, there is a good-sized bathroom too!

What we like

• Feels like a separate space
• Made from weather-resistant fabric

What we dislike

• The attached sleeping tent is optional

4. The FlexCamp off-road camper trailer

Designed for urban landscape while exploring the countryside, the FlexCamp off-road camper trailer expands vertically and to its one side to increase the inside space by almost double. It’s essentially a very basic trailer or pickup-top box that morphs into a micro-cabin for four people!

Why is it noteworthy?

Given the German company’s prowess in developing robust, all-weather campers in the past, the FlexCamp is another winning design in the making. Mind you, the boxy shape makes it perfect to mount on a pickup bed too. Once parked for camping, the 126 inches long camper trailer’s hydraulic system lifts the roof up and expands the sidewall. That turns the camper’s height from 79 inches to 120 inches, and the width from 80 inches to 131 inches.

What we like

• Expands to the size of a micro-cabin
• The drawers beneath the bed are accessible both from the outside and inside

What we dislike

• No complaints!

5. The Switchback Trailer

If you always wanted to hook a hardcore off-roading trailer to match your Jeep’s capability to conquer tough terrain, then the Switchback trailer by Off Grid Trailers is a god-sent blessing. Perfectly tailored for people who are a bit skeptical about going for an off-roading trip to the Rocky Mountains with a trailer towing at the rear, this hardcore trailer won’t let you have any semblance of even the slightest doubt. If your Jeep can conquer that stretch of a rocky patch (not meant for your average vehicle), then this trailer will have you covered.

Why is it noteworthy?

Although the trailer has a tow-friendly construction for any off-roading four-wheeler you hook onto it, the Jeep-matched wheels and the wheelbase makes it ultra-compatible with the vehicle. Switchback weighs just 1,300 lb thanks to the aluminum and steel body construction –giving it the right balance for any arduous trip. The makers have been mindful enough to offer the storage abundant trailer in two configurations – one having a rear kitchen setup (popular with most of the US Overlanding vehicles) while the other offering a side kitchen option.

What we like

• Equipped with solar charging
• The tent increases space for two people

What we dislike

• Hefty price tag

6. The GO Camper

The GO Camper is a towable, lightweight camper that can attach to vehicles of any size, even a Mini Coop.

Why is it noteworthy?

SylvanSport, a USA-based, outdoor adventure goods company, developed their GO Camper to brace all elements while also providing an accessible and versatile living space while getting off the grid for a bit. Described by National Geographic Adventure as the “Coolest. Camper. Ever,” the GO Camper is a super lightweight, towable pop-up tent camper that can accommodate up to four people.

What we like

• Can be attached to vehicles of all sizes, even the tiny Mini Cooper
• An equipment rack provides extra space to keep all the accessory equipment that will make maximize any camping trip adventure

What we dislike

• No complaints!

7. The Panorama Shelter

Teardrop trailers also edge towards that trend, but the Panorama Shelter by Kip Caravans takes things even further. The purpose-built trailer for nature-obsessed nomads has big panoramic windows on each side to bask in the grandeur of natural settings – to wherever the road takes you.

Why is it noteworthy?

The large windows of Panorama Shelter blur the divide between the cozy inside and the tranquil outside. Windows make up the chunk of the sidewalls, a skylight brings in ample sunlight during the noon, the big front door is majorly glass, and the side facing the vehicle too has a huge panoramic window. For times when you need total privacy, there are integrated blackout and roller screens. The pop-up roof can be pushed up a little to let in ambient sounds.

What we like

• It has a dual-bench front dinette that doubles as a bed
• The teardrop camper makes good use of available space in the form of little storage compartments

What we dislike

• No complaints!

8. Romotow

Camping and caravanning have always been about getting down to the bare necessities of life, living life on the road and at the mercy of the elements. However, New Zealand-based design and architecture firm W2, has decided to help amp up the experience! Their revolutionary trailer design, ‘Romotow’, the name an amalgamation of ‘room to move’ contains all the usual RV features but with an innovative 90-degree twist.

Why is it noteworthy?

With the press of a simple electric button, it swivels open, rotating at 90 degrees, to reveal an open synthetic teak deck. With this, it increases the living space by 70 percent, and the area can also be used as a party deck! Measuring 30 feet by 8.5 feet and offering 290 square feet of living space (the same as a lot of tiny apartments these days), the caravan comes along with a living area, bedroom, kitchenette, and bathroom, all with stylish fixtures and spacious interiors.

What we like

•  Designed with lightweight materials and supported by calculated aerodynamics
• Equipped with solar panels

What we dislike

• No complaints!

9. The Campervan Raptor XC

This ingenious expandable camper comes with a slide-out expansion option right above where the lift-up tailgate galley would be. This turns the compact teardrop into a full-sized caravan to accommodate a family of four. When completely expanded the camper makes enough room for a master bedroom, indoor kitchen, wet bathroom and a sizeable dining area. So, we are talking of the best of both worlds – the compact footprint of a teardrop trailer and the airy layout of a large caravan!

Why is it noteworthy?

Demand for camper trailers is skyrocketing lately, as more and more people are fancying adventurous life on the road for a fortnight or even for life. This has had a surge in the number of camper trailers in production as makers try to fulfill the unique set of demands of customers who won’t settle for anything ordinary. The Campervan Raptor XC teardrop camper by Hunter Nature is another prime example of a rugged camper that has plenty of room thanks to its ingenious design.

What we like

• Loaded with BFGoodrich all-terrain tires in alloy wheels, and an independent suspension system to ensure a smooth ride.
• 160-W solar panels on top

What we dislike

• Made to be towed with a Land Rover Defender or Toyota Land Cruiser – which can be limiting

10. Mystic

Mystic has outfitted this camper for off-road rides in a delightfully compact form factor that should not leave you wanting even if you have to extend the road trip for some reason. Despite sharing traits, the Mini Pop Bee Active Gear has a more integrated design than other similar truck campers on the market; it offers access from the rear door, and is aptly sized to accommodate up to four people. This is done comfortably by converting the small cabin into a bedroom and pop-up roof providing more space to sleep additional travelers in the flip-up bed.

Why is it noteworthy?

Camping in the wild is an experience none of us adventurers can resist. Therefore, the vehicle for our adventures should have the competence to negotiate rough terrains and present a glamping- esque experience. The Mini Pop Bee Active Gear based on the truck variant of the Daihatsu Hijet ticks all the boxes. Available in a 4-wheel drive model, the truck camper is fitted with rough terrain tires and suspension to bear the brunt.

What we like

• Affordably priced
• Option between 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive models

What we dislike

• Old fashioned aesthetics
• No integrated stove in the kitchenette. You need to carry your own portable stove.

The post Top 10 trailers designed to provide you with the ultimate glamping experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

The company behind some of the most high-quality universal camera lenses for smartphones has now revealed the ‘Leather Collection for Apple’.

Designed in California, SANDMARC’s Leather Collection spans every portable Apple gadget you could possibly think of, from the MacBook down to the diminutive yet impressive AirTag. The range spans everything from folios/carrying cases, sleeves, protective covers, and even watch bands.

Designer: SANDMARC Product Team

Click Here to Buy Now: $29.99 onwards. Hurry, for a limited time only.

All of SANDMARC’s leather accessories are made from premium full-grain leather and are available in brown or black colors. The cases and sleeves come with a microfiber-lined inner, protecting your device from scratches. Naturally, the leather patinas over time, giving your device a uniquely personal aesthetic that only gets better and better with time!

MacBook Carrying Case. Features a hidden zipped compartment at the front of the bag to store a MacBook charger, mouse, accessories and more.

MacBook Sleeve. Designed from the finest qualities of full-grain leather offering durability and a rich patina that develops with age.

Apple Watch Band. A minimal adapter (connector) that integrates seamlessly with the Apple Watch.

AirTag Key Chain. Give your AirTag a layer of protection that conceals them with a tight fit.

AirPods Case. Crafted from full-grain Leather, an included wrist-strap, a charging indicator and compatible with their AirTag Leather keychain.

Sandmarc’s collection followed 9 full months of research, obsessing over different materials and iterations. Their new collection now takes Apple’s own leather accessory range, expanding it further to also include a sleeve for both the 14 and 16-inch MacBook as well as a folio bag to carry your belongings in. Moreover, SANDMARC’s own iPhone case also comes with a MagSafe-compatible design, premium metal power and volume buttons, and also features a gorgeous internally-threaded aluminum camera rig that allows you to mount any of SANDMARC’s camera lenses.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29.99 onwards. Hurry, for a limited time only.

The post SANDMARC unveils a series of stunning leather cases + accessories for all your Apple devices first appeared on Yanko Design.

Laptops have become the go-to computing solutions of people, be it for personal use or for work. They have reached a point where they can match desktop computers in all but the most specialized cases, though the ability to expand their power through things like external graphics docks evens out the score as well. Laptop design, in general, has remained the same in the past few decades, at least as far as the placement of components goes. Some have, of course, become thinner and lighter have almost all but banished bezels, but the placement of screens, keys, and trackpads are more or less standard by now (even if keyboard layouts aren’t). Dell, however, is trying to mix things up a bit to make the laptop look more futuristic and less busy, but it raises some important questions about the usability and ergonomics of such a new design.

Designer: Dell

Laptop Ergonomics

One can argue that laptops have never been the most ergonomic computing devices in the first place. Their overall design was meant to make a computer more portable, going as far as being able to use it on your lap. The strain it puts on your legs and neck, and the angle of your arms and wrist have made laptops have made the earliest laptops the anti-thesis of ergonomics.

Things have improved over the decades, but more thanks to accessories and peripherals rather than the actual design of laptops themselves. The position and angle of the screen, keys, and touchpad still don’t lend themselves well to good posture, and manufacturers haven’t exactly been too keen on changing a working formula. Instead, the likes of Dell, ASUS, and Lenovo have tried to reinvent the laptop with features that drastically change how you use it.

ASUS, for example, has been putting a second screen right above the keyboard, which ends up pushing the keyboard further down. This means that the traditional trackpad is given the boot, though technically, it has been relocated to the right side as a configurable second screen. Lenovo takes that to the extreme by actually putting a tablet-sized display to the right of the keyboard, though the trackpad is still there, now off to the left instead of dead center.

Dell XPS 13 Plus

Compared to those two, Dell’s big changes to the laptop design almost look modest, though they carry their own head-scratching moments. In a nutshell, the new Dell XPS 13 Plus embraces minimalism to its fullest, giving the area opposite the display a completely flat look. That means no bumps and almost no gaps save for what’s necessary for the keycaps. Even then, the gaps are minimal, thanks to what Dell calls a “zero-lattice” keyboard.

There’s also a touch-sensitive area above the keyboard that serves as the function keys. We’ve seen a similar technology with the MacBook Pro’s Touch Bar, which was equally controversial. The difference is that Dell’s version is clearly minimalist and blends cleanly into the background, without any visual separation between that area and the rest of the laptop.

The biggest change, however, is the invisible trackpad. It’s still there and occupies the same area as a regular trackpad, perhaps even bigger, but there’s no clear way for you to actually see where it is. You’re given haptic feedback, so you’re not completely clueless, but it remains to be seen (or felt) how effective that will be in practice.

Eye Candy, Touch-Deprived

Dell definitely accomplished what it set out to do with the Dell XPS 13 Plus. The laptop is truly beautiful and clean; a minimalist dream’s come true. As an added bonus, the PC maker took steps to reduce the carbon footprint of the laptop, both during its production as well as its packaging. It definitely checks most of the boxes of product design and sustainability. It does, however, leave some questions hanging when it comes to other aspects that would affect how people use the product.

The MacBook Pro Touch Bar wasn’t exactly that popular, and the XPS 13 Plus’ version actually misses out on some of the flexibility and benefits of a screen-based solution in favor of a minimalist design. The lack of physical keys could make it harder to hit them by muscle memory, so you’ll always end up looking down. The same could almost be said of the zero-lattice keys, whose larger sizes could be negated by the very same thing that makes them special. Our fingers almost instinctively know the keys to hit, partly because of how they feel with those bumps and gaps in between keys.

The biggest question mark, however, is the invisible trackpad. It might take a lot of trial and error for people to get used to where the active area is or how far it extends. There is no argument that it definitely looks elegant in its cleanliness, and we give Dell the benefit of the doubt that it did due diligence in R&D, but we’ll have to wait and see for real-world feedback on whether this beautiful but unusual $1,299 laptop is worth those changes.

The post Dell XPS 13 Plus tries to evolve the laptop with questionable features first appeared on Yanko Design.