Sep 10

Dezeen to host five exhibitions and talks during London Design Festival

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Prof Green in cafe for Buster and Punch Dezeen talk LDF

Dezeen is co-hosting a series of events during London Design Festival this year, including talks with brands Buster + Punch, Molteni&C, Autex Acoustics and Ustwo, as well as a major exhibition with ASUS. Register here to attend!

Read on to find out more about what Dezeen is up to and register to attend. It is essential to RSVP – spaces are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Don’t forget to check out our digital guide to London Design Festival 2024 on Dezeen Events Guide for other events happening across the city.

Design You Can Feel exhibition image metallic object on plinth Dezeen LDF
Image courtesy of Dezeen and ASUS

Dezeen x ASUS Design You Can Feel exhibition 

Opening times:
Tuesday 17 September – 12:00pm to 5:00pm
Wednesday 18 September to Sunday 22 September – 10:00am to 5:00pm
Address: Protein Studios, 31 New Inn Yard, Shoreditch, London, EC2A 3EY

Dezeen has teamed up with ASUS Zenbook to curate a major exhibition during London Design Festival called Design You Can Feel, exploring materiality, craftsmanship and artificial intelligence.

The exhibition will showcase how material qualities such as form, colour and texture can be combined to create objects or moments that awaken the senses. Featured designers include Fernando Laposse, Giles Miller, Natural Material Studio, Niceworkshop and Studio Furthermore.

The exhibition is free to attend and no ticket is required.

Designing for behaviour change Dezeen x ustwo panel discussion LDF
Image courtesy of Dezeen and Ustwo

Dezeen x Ustwo breakfast and panel discussion

Date: Wednesday 18 September
Time: Doors at 9:00am, talk at 9:30am
Address: Ustwo, 154-158 Shoreditch High St, London E1 6HU

Dezeen and digital production studio Ustwo are hosting a breakfast and panel discussion in Shoreditch, exploring behavioural changes by designers and consumers.

Titled Designing for behaviour change: how to create experiences that keep users coming back, a panel will discuss the use of artificial intelligence (AI) within the design process, creating products for consumer retention and personalising experiences with technology.

Co-hosted and moderated by Dezeen co-CEO Benedict Hobson, the panel will include L’Oréal head of design Adrien Gomar, open-ended founder Suhair Khan and Ustwo head of design Greig Robinson.

Click here to register your interest to attend the free event ›

Professor Green in a cafe for Buster + Punch and Dezeen talk
Photo courtesy of Buster + Punch

Dezeen x Buster + Punch talk 

Date: Wednesday 18 September
Time: Drinks and nibbles from 4:30pm, talk at 5:00pm
Address: Shoreditch Arts Club, 6 Redchurch St, London E2 7DD

Dezeen and Buster + Punch are hosting a talk to mark the launch of new collections from the London-based homeware brand alongside French cookware masters Staub.

Dezeen’s deputy editor Cajsa Carlson will host a conversation with Buster + Punch founder Massimo Buster Minale and rapper Professor Green (pictured), exploring their cultural crossovers and how the designer and recording artist find inspiration.

Click here to register to attend the free talk ›

Molteni event LDF hands holding clapperboard
Photo courtesy of Molteni

Dezeen x Molteni&C talk and cocktail party 

Date: Thursday 19 September
Time: 5:30pm
Address: 245-249 Brompton Road, London SW3 2EP
Dress code: Silver Flash

Dezeen has teamed up with Molteni&C for a talk and cocktail party at the Italian brand’s flagship store in London. The event coincides with the launch of Molteni Mondo: An Italian Design Story, a monograph marking the brand’s 90th anniversary.

Dezeen’s editorial director Max Fraser will host the talk with Molteni Group CMO Giulia Molteni and designer Michael Anastassiades, discussing the creation process behind the book. This will be followed by cocktails and a DJ set by Mary Charteris.

This event is invitation-only.

Autex Acoustics and Dezeen talk LDF
Image courtesy of Dezeen and Autex Acoustics

Dezeen x Autex Acoustics panel discussion 

Date: Thursday 19 September
Time: Doors at 6:00pm, talk at 6:30pm
Address: 245-249 Brompton Road, London SW3 2EP

Dezeen has partnered with acoustic product specialist Autex Acoustics for a panel discussion at the One Hundred Shoreditch hotel in London.

Dezeen design and environment editor Jennifer Hahn will host the discussion and will be talking with Jan Hendzel Studio founder Jan Hendzel, Gensler design director, Megan Dobstaff and Autex Acoustics consultant Jonty Brown.

Together, they will share their insights and distinct approaches to innovative product design, offering unique perspectives on how creativity and sustainability intersect in their work.

Register to attend the free event ›

London Design Festival 2024 

London Design Festival takes place from 14 to 22 September 2024. See our London Design Festival 2024 guide on Dezeen Events Guide for information about the many other exhibitions, installations and talks taking place throughout the week.

The post Dezeen to host five exhibitions and talks during London Design Festival appeared first on Dezeen.

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Sep 10

Cologne Soul Weekender – Northern Soul Festival 2025

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A Celebration of Northern Soul

This event celebrates not only the music but the passion and subculture that have kept Northern Soul alive for over four decades.

From March 28th to 30th, 2025, Cologne will once again become the center of the Northern Soul universe as the Cologne Soul Weekender returns. Bringing together 18 international DJs from Sweden, the Czech Republic, England, and Germany, this festival promises an unforgettable weekend of rare soul music, dancing, and connection. Northern Soul fans from across Europe will converge in three iconic locations: Die Wohngemeinschaft, Gloria Theater, and Stadtgarten, for a three-day journey through the timeless sounds of rare and danceable soul music.

Three Days, Three Locations, Endless Soul

Experience the raw energy and passion of Northern Soul, a British subculture that has captivated soul lovers for over 40 years. The movement, which began in the late 1960s, is defined by the rediscovery and collecting of rare American soul records, with DJs showcasing tracks that are often hard to find and impossible not to dance to. The Cologne Soul Weekender 2025 perfectly embodies this spirit, with a lineup of top-tier DJs who will bring their most prized vinyl records to Cologne’s dance floors. Whether you’re a seasoned soul enthusiast or new to the scene, this is a weekend not to be missed.

Get Your Tickets Now – Join the Weekender!

The Northern Soul scene is all about community and shared passion, and the Cologne Soul Weekender 2025 is the perfect place to experience this firsthand. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect with like-minded music lovers, enjoy world-class DJ sets, and dance the night away to some of the rarest soul tracks ever recorded. Tickets are selling fast, so be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates and secure your spot at this year’s event.

Mark your calendar for March 28th-30th, 2025, and prepare to immerse yourself in the unforgettable world of Northern Soul in the heart of Cologne!

Der Beitrag Cologne Soul Weekender – Northern Soul Festival 2025 erschien zuerst auf Designspotter Creative Media.

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Sep 10

Gold-leaf wall divides renovated Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects

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Interior of Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects

Architect Raúl Sánchez has renovated a flat in a typical Barcelona apartment building, adding built-in cabinetry and furnishings in hues that echo the original mosaic flooring.

The 85-square-metre flat was created following the subdivision of a larger apartment with aspects towards the Carrer d’Enric Granados on one side and a large internal courtyard on the other.

Kitchen and Living area of Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects
Raúl Sánchez Architects has renovated a Barcelona apartment

Sánchez’s studio was tasked with making the most of the available space, which is just six metres wide and needed to incorporate two bedrooms and two bathrooms along with a generous living area.

Following the partitioning of the original apartment, this smaller flat was left with an entrance set within the building’s interior at one end and a gallery-like room overlooking the courtyard at the other.

Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects
A wall covered in gold leaf separates the living area from the gallery

Sánchez chose to leave the main living area and gallery open to enhance the sense of space and connection with the view.

The rest of the interior comprises private functions that are arranged along a hallway leading from the entrance to the living space.

Interior of Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects
The gallery houses the dining room and overlooks the courtyard

“I wanted to maximise the light throughout the apartment and make something special of the corridor that was necessary given the situation of entering at one end,” the architect told Dezeen.

“Even though the apartment is small, there are different space situations like differences in height, materials, dimension or colour, which create a very rich experience inside the flat.”

Kitchen backsplash of Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects
The kitchen features a pink marble splashback

The hallway is lined with full-height cabinetry, incorporating doors that lead to the bedrooms on either side. Each bedroom receives natural light and ventilation from a window that opens onto an internal courtyard.

Small annexes that serve as dressing rooms connect the bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, one of which is also accessible from the hallway. These spaces feature cabinets, shelves and handles made from water-resistant varnished MDF.

Living area of Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects
The flat is styled with modern design pieces including a sofa from Kragelund

The walls lining the hall feature a rose-gold finish, only interrupted by a pair of dark blue lacquered bookshelves roughly halfway along.

Sánchez explained that the colour choices derive directly from the intricate mosaic floors, which were preserved and treated to restore them to their original condition.

Rooms where the mosaic had previously been removed now feature off-white micro cement floors.

“Everything inside the apartment has a bit of that brownish-reddish-beige hue of the tiles,” he pointed out. “Even the blue of the shelves, which may seem a big contrast, can also be found in the tiles.”

Cabinets of Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects
Full-height cabinetry lines the hallway of the flat

The hallway’s walls form a datum that extends through into the living space, where the original exposed ceiling beams create a differentiation in height that is emphasised by a subtle change in colour.

The rose-gold hue used for the cabinets is echoed by a pink Portuguese marble splashback in the kitchen that was assembled from unmatched salvaged slabs.

Bedroom of Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects
Small annexes connect the bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms from the hallway

An existing structural wall separating the living area from the gallery space was covered with gold leaf in order to lighten its appearance and conceal its load-bearing purpose.

“This imparts a more symbolic and abstract presence, serving as a connection element with the exterior, reflecting the light that falls upon it from the backyard,” said Sánchez.

Interior of Barcelona apartment
The flat’s furnishings echo the mosaic flooring of the original apartment design

The property is owned by a client based in Dubai, who will use it as a pied-a-terre as well as renting it out some of the time.

It was styled with modern design pieces including a sofa from Kragelund, a chaise longue by Sancal and a cork stool from Vitra.

Hallway of Barcelona apartment
Dark-blue lacquered bookshelves coexist side-by-side with the rose-gold cabinetry

Local gallery Víctor Lope Arte Contemporáneo provided the various artworks.

Raúl Sánchez has lived and worked in Barcelona since 2005, where his studio takes on global projects across architecture, interiors, urbanism and design.

The office was named emerging interior design studio of the year at Dezeen Awards 2022 and has previously completed projects including a townhouse with a four-storey spiral staircase and an apartment featuring a shiny brass wardrobe.

The post Gold-leaf wall divides renovated Barcelona apartment by Raúl Sánchez Architects appeared first on Dezeen.

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Sep 10

Apple’s New ‘Visual Intelligence’ feature on the iPhone 16 basically makes Google Lens obsolete

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Apple has a reputation for taking established ideas and refining them into seamless, intuitive features, and it looks like they’ve done it again with their new Visual Intelligence technology in the iPhone 16. In contrast to Google Lens, which primarily scans objects or texts in photos and returns basic web-based results, Apple’s Visual Intelligence integrates advanced generative models and contextual awareness, creating a more profound, interactive experience. This blend of on-device intelligence and private cloud computing not only delivers more relevant information but does so in a way that feels personal and purposeful.

Let’s dive into why Apple’s Visual Intelligence may have just overshadowed Google Lens, and how it’s bringing more powerful insights to users right through the iPhone 16’s camera. Before we do, it’s important to note that Google HAS, in fact, demonstrated Gemini’s ability to ‘see’ the world around you and provide context-based insights… however, it seems like a lot of those features are limited to just Pixel phones because of their AI-capable Tensor chips. While Google Lens (an older product) is available across the board to both iOS and Android devices, Apple’s Visual Intelligence feature gives iPhones a highly powerful multimodal AI feature that would otherwise require existing Apple users to switch over to the Google Pixel.

Going Beyond Surface-Level Search

Google Lens has been a reliable tool for identifying objects, landmarks, animals, and text. It essentially acts as a visual search engine, allowing users to point their camera at something and receive search results based on Google’s vast index of web pages. While this is undoubtedly useful, it stops at merely recognizing objects or extracting text to launch a related Google search.

Apple’s Visual Intelligence, on the other hand, merges object recognition with contextual data retrieval. This means it can offer richer, more integrated information. During the Apple keynote, Craig Federighi demonstrated how users could point their iPhone at a restaurant and instantly retrieve operating hours, reviews, and options to make reservations—all without needing to open Safari or another app​. Similarly, pointing the camera at a movie poster will not just yield a name or showtimes, but deeper context such as ratings, actor bios, and related media, providing a much more immersive and helpful experience.

The Power of Integration: Visual Intelligence and Third-Party Tools

One of the standout features of Apple’s Visual Intelligence is its seamless integration with third-party tools, offering expanded functionality. For instance, if you spot a bike you’re interested in, Visual Intelligence doesn’t just identify the brand and model; it can quickly connect you to third-party retailers via Google Search to check availability and pricing. This interplay between native intelligence and external databases exemplifies Apple’s mastery of pulling together useful, real-time data without breaking the user’s workflow.

But it doesn’t stop there. Apple has built-in support for querying complex topics with tools like ChatGPT. Imagine you’re reviewing lecture notes and stumble across a difficult concept. Simply hold your iPhone over the text and ask ChatGPT to explain it right on the spot. This deep contextual awareness and ability to provide real-time insights based on multiple external sources is something Google Lens simply cannot do at the same level.

Privacy at the Core

Another area where Apple shines is in its privacy-first approach to AI. All interactions through Visual Intelligence, such as identifying objects or pulling up information, are processed on-device or via Apple’s Private Cloud Compute, ensuring that no personal data is stored or shared unnecessarily. This is a stark contrast to Google’s cloud-based model, which has often raised concerns about the volume of user data being processed on external servers. By keeping the majority of computation on the device, Apple delivers peace of mind for privacy-conscious users—an area that Google has historically struggled with.

A Broader Reach: Enabling Personal Context

One of the most significant advantages of Apple’s approach is its deep integration into your phone’s personal data. Visual Intelligence doesn’t just analyze what’s in front of the camera; it connects the dots with your past interactions. For example, Siri, now supercharged with Visual Intelligence, can identify the contents of your messages or your calendar appointments and offer contextual suggestions based on what you’re viewing​. If you’re looking at a flyer for an event, Visual Intelligence will not only retrieve details about the event but also cross-reference it with your schedule to automatically add it to your calendar—again, without having to lift a finger.

Google Lens, by comparison, lacks this deep personal integration. It’s effective as a standalone visual search tool but hasn’t yet reached the level of intuitive, user-centered design that Apple has mastered.

A New Era for Intelligent Photography

Apple’s innovation also extends into how we interact with our cameras. The new camera control on the iPhone 16 doubles as a gateway to Visual Intelligence. This means users can quickly snap a photo and receive actionable insights immediately. With a simple press of the camera control, users can tap into features like instant translations, object recognition, or even educational tools like ChatGPT.

Google Lens, while impressive in its object recognition, doesn’t offer this seamless experience. It requires users to jump between apps or tabs to get additional information, while Apple’s integration means the iPhone is one fluid tool—camera, intelligence, and action all in one place.

Apple Executes Where Google Initiated

Google Lens may have launched first, but Apple has undeniably refined and expanded the concept. It’s a tendency that we’ve come to learn and love about Apple – they usually don’t believe in being first to the market, but rather believe in executing features so well, people tend to ignore the competition – they did so with the Vision Pro AND with Apple Intelligence. Visual Intelligence is a bold step forward, leveraging on-device power and privacy to deliver more meaningful, contextual insights. Where Google Lens excels at basic object recognition, Apple’s approach feels more like a true assistant, offering deeper information, smarter integrations, and a more secure experience.

The post Apple’s New ‘Visual Intelligence’ feature on the iPhone 16 basically makes Google Lens obsolete first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 10

AEG’s Smart Kitchen Challenge at IFA 2024: CEO + Chef in a High-Tech Cook-off

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With its kitchen-line products on display at IFA, AEG is putting its money where its mouth is – by having a CEO produce a top-tier dish with help from a chef while using the company’s induction hob, oven, and overhead chimney. The cook-off, hosted by Radhika Seth of Yanko Design, attempts to drive home a simple point – with the right tools, anyone can be a chef. To prove this, we got Anna Ohlsson-Leijon (CEO Business Area Europe APMEA & Group Executive Vice President, Electrolux Group) to collaborate with professional chef Paola Martinenghi. Martinenghi, a designer-turned-chef with a history of working for Michelin star restaurants is a designpreneur in her own right, with her own women-led lighting-design firm. With a passion for cooking, Martinenghi believes in preserving old-school recipes, even if it means updating them so that people can use cutting-edge kitchen appliances to make age-old traditional dishes.

Both CEO and Chef will be attempting a deceptively simple dish that’s known for requiring perfect technique – Risotto Tricolore with pomodoro, pesto, and burrata – a summer spin on the Risotto Milanese. Risotto is considered an incredibly technical dish given the precise control required over temperature, cook-time, and the gradual addition of broth to rice while you constantly stir the dish. Mess any step up and your risotto is less-than-ideal resulting in a dish that would make an Italian nonna fume. It’s a good thing, however, that AEG’s state-of-the-art kitchen collection makes certain steps foolproof, allowing you to easily attempt even the most technical recipes.

The process gets made simple by AEG’s CookSmart Touch Display, which guides you through step by step. The Sense Fry sensor on the hob helps you maintain a consistent temperature during your cook (sort of like cruise control for chefs) – for the risotto, it’s a steady 120°C. Meanwhile, AEG’s Xtractor Hob, which features an integrated extractor fan, kept the cooking area free of smoke and odors, making the experience even more pleasant. A clean, smoke-free kitchen means less hassle, and less cleanup—a win for anyone who’s familiar with the chaos of post-cooking messes.

Throughout the cook-off, the focus shifted frequently to AEG’s smart features, particularly how the appliances use AI to adapt and enhance cooking. The AI TasteAssist feature automatically adjusts cooking settings based on the dish being prepared. Anna explained that by simply inputting a recipe, the oven analyzes the details and determines the optimal temperature and time, which could revolutionize how people cook at home. The Assisted Dishes function also impressed Paola, as it provides guidance across a wide range of meals, making even the most complex dishes accessible to home cooks.

Energy efficiency was another cornerstone of the new AEG range. Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s built into the design. The appliances can reduce energy consumption by up to 30%, with features like PreHeat and Residual Heat, which cleverly utilize retained heat to finish cooking. The SenseBoil & Fry function, for instance, promises to save up to 33% in energy usage. It’s clear that AEG has aligned its smart technology not just with convenience, but with the goal of making kitchens more eco-friendly.

The discussion also touched on design and aesthetics. AEG’s range isn’t just high-tech—it’s designed to be visually appealing. Paola praised the sleek, minimalist look of the appliances, which come in Matt Black and Glossy Black, noting that they not only enhance the cooking process but also complement modern kitchen interiors.

As the cook-off neared its conclusion, Paola and Anna finished the risotto with a flourish, adding burrata for a creamy, indulgent finish. The results were met with unanimous delight as the hosts tasted the dish and marveled at how easy the process had been, thanks to AEG’s smart kitchen tools.

The post AEG’s Smart Kitchen Challenge at IFA 2024: CEO + Chef in a High-Tech Cook-off first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 10

Rumors we got right (and wrong) with the September 2024 Apple Keynote

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Apple’s September event remains every tech nerd’s most awaited time of the year for two reasons. For starters, it’s the announcement of brand-new gear that we can get our hands on… but more importantly, it’s a validation of everything we’ve been hearing and assuming over the years. There’s never a single day when people aren’t actively trying to find out details on what Apple will do next. The company has a rock-solid reputation for keeping its products under wraps until they’re ready to launch… but sometimes things slip through the cracks. Us nerds love to speculate on these rumors, and come September, the keynote feels like judgment day – where some rumors get turned into reality, and others into rubble.

As Apple unveiled their latest slew of devices today, it’s interesting to see exactly where the rumors were right, and where we were absolutely off mark. For starters, we all expected next-gen AirPods Max headphones (given that it’s been 4 years since their first launch) as well as a Watch Ultra 3. Apple conveniently skipped those devices, only to announce minor upgrades to them (nice way of saying they’re already perfect the way they are). Meanwhile, rumors of a ‘capture’ button on the iPhone seemed as good as true with phone-makers actually displaying iPhone 16 cases at IFA 4 days before Apple’s formal launch. So without further ado, here’s a look at all the rumors over the past year, and whether they made it or not.

Rumors we got wrong:

1. Apple Watch X would see a radical redesign for the 10th anniversary

Honestly, it feels a little heartbreaking to see that Apple didn’t give the Watch a 10th-anniversary makeover the way they did with the iPhone X back in 2017. A lot of us were pinning our hopes on seeing a radical redesign (some speculated flat edges like on the iPhone), while others tried hinting at a new form factor. None of that turned out to be true, as Apple announced a nominally slimmer Watch Series 10 (measuring 9.7 mm thick) with a larger display. The design, for the most part, remains entirely the same, except that now the Watch has a re-engineered speaker system that can play audio from podcasts and music apps, allowing you to listen clearly through your watch instead of needing AirPods.

2. Apple would announce a Watch Ultra 3

It seemed natural that a Watch Ultra 3 would drop this year, considering Apple refreshed the Watch Ultra after a single year too. However, the Watch Ultra 2 only got a new color upgrade this year, with a gorgeous satin black finish. Everything about the Watch Ultra 2 remains the same on the design and hardware front, although Apple did announce a set of stunning Milanese metal straps for both the Natural as well as the Satin Black color finishes.

3. Launch of the AirPods Pro 3 and AirPods Max 2

Apple launched the AirPods Pro 2 in September 2022, and the AirPods Max as early as September 2020. It felt all but natural to expect the company to give these devices their due upgrades, but it seemed like Apple had other plans. The company didn’t upgrade their highest-end earbuds and headphones but rather decided to give them a set of new protective features. The new AirPods (across the entire range) will have built-in hearing protection features that not only keep your ability to hear intact over time, but also provide tools to measure your hearing loss – something that’s usually a concern with prolonged earphone/headphone usage. Pending FDA approvals, the AirPods will have clinically validated hearing test features, as well as an over-the-counter hearing aid feature. Oh, and while the AirPods Max didn’t get an upgrade, they DID get 5 new color options, along with USB-C charging… finally.

4. Launch of an iPhone Slim

I had my doubts about this, but when Apple announced the world’s slimmest iPad clocking in at a mere 5.1 millimeters in thickness, it seemed like Apple had similar plans for the iPhone 16 series. However, none of that was true. Call it post-Bendgate-trauma or just something Apple isn’t planning on working on, but the iPhone Slim never really became a thing. I’ll be honest, if Apple DID want to make a slim iPhone, the best way to do it would be to turn it into a foldable… but it seems like we’re years away from that for now.

Rumors we got right:

1. The Apple Watch would get ZERO AI features

This felt surprisingly sad even for a rumor, but when WWDC rolled out, everyone was quick to notice that WatchOS didn’t get mentioned EVEN ONCE during the Apple Intelligence segment. I dismissed it as just a mere mistake, hoping that Apple would announce big AI features for the 10th anniversary Watch, but alas, the Watch Series 10 did NOT get any AI features. Sure, it has neural cores in its S10 SIP that uses machine learning to detect heart problems, falls, and now even sleep apnea… but ‘intelligent Siri’ won’t be coming to the Watch any time soon. Or any Apple Intelligence feature for that matter.

2. The AirPods Max would get upgraded to USB-C

It’s surprising that Apple’s ENTIRE consumer product line got upgraded to USB-C, but the AirPods Max got left behind. First announced in 2020 (when Lightning connectors were still a thing), Apple practically ignored their flagship headphones for the next 4 years (it still sold like hotcakes), and just as we were hoping for an AirPods Max 2, Apple just decided to give their existing headphone collection 5 new color variants. However, along with the new colors, the AirPods Max DID finally get upgraded to a USB-C charging protocol, which means practically every mobile device (AirPods, iPad, and iPhone) has officially ditched the Lightning connector. In fact, it’s just the Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, and the Magic Keyboard that still have a Lightning port on them… but I guess the EU isn’t complaining about those.

3. The iPhone 16 series would have a Camera Control button

Arguably the biggest change to Apple’s iPhone since the Action Button, the new Camera Control button is surprisingly great. We speculated that it would just be a simple shutter button, but news later highlighted that it would have haptic control, along with a touch-slide feature. Obviously, these rumors only highlight half the truth… because it’s easy to speculate on hardware, but not on software. The Camera Control button’s features were finally announced at the keynote, highlighting how capable this new button would be. Aside from opening the camera and clicking photos, the button can zoom in/out, adjust focus, switch through presets, and do a whole bunch of exciting new things.

4. A larger iPhone 16 Pro Max with a bigger battery, bigger 6.9″ display, and thinner bezels

Apple announcing their iPhone launch in the MIDDLE of IFA 2024 in Berlin felt like a strategic move… and turns out, it was one, because even though the iPhone 16 wasn’t announced, cases for the new iPhone 16 series were on display at IFA, causing everyone to get a fair idea of what the new phones would look and feel like. Once I saw these cases on display, I obviously had to take a closer look… and upon doing so, I couldn’t help but notice how the 16 Pro Max case was significantly larger than my 15 Pro Max smartphone. Turns out, Apple DID end up making their flagship phones bigger (with the iPhone 16 Pro Max having a whopping 6.9-inch display), while making displays thinner, and cramming an even larger battery into their phones. The largest on any iPhone, as Apple personnel tend to say.

5. The iPhone 16 would get a direct bump to the A18 chip

When Apple announced that their iPad Pros would skip the M3 and go directly to M4, my jaw dropped. It seemed inconceivable that Apple would leapfrog ITSELF, but once I saw the announcement, the rumor that the iPhone 16 would get an A18 chip seemed more believable. Traditionally, the base-model iPhones get the same chip as the previous year’s Pro models… but Apple decided to be kind this year. Given how so much of the new iPhone would be centered around Apple Intelligence, it made sense to build a NEW chipset just for handling these AI tasks. The iPhone 16 series is the first phone to get Apple’s latest A18 chipset, and as Tim Cook says, is truly the first iPhone built from the ground-up for Apple Intelligence.

The post Rumors we got right (and wrong) with the September 2024 Apple Keynote first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 09

Tamagotchi Celebration Egg has recycled eggshell casing

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Any child of the 90s has probably at one point or another got their hands on a Tamagotchi. Before there were mobile phones where we spend most of our eyes and fingers on, we had to feed, clean and take care of our virtual pets on a regular basis. In case you didn’t know, there are still a lot of Tamagotchis around and it is celebrating its 28th birthday with a special egg surprise.

Designer: Bandai Namco

The Original Tamagotchi Celebration Egg will be arriving in a very special packaging inside and outside by 2025. What makes this special is that it goes back to its egg roots since the toy’s name comes literally from the Japanese word for egg, tamago. Instead of the normal plastic casing, this one is made from recycled eggshells, giving it a smooth, matte finish, much like a real egg’s look and feel.

In keeping with the eco-friendly celebration of the Tamagotchi’s anniversary, the packaging is also made from recycled paper. Aside from those two special things, you can play with your virtual pet in its usual way by feeding them, cleaning them up when they poop, and even disciplining them when they’re being naughty. And of course, they will grow up to be different characters, depending on how you take care of them.

This particular celebration egg can still be attached to your bag or even to your clothes with the ball chain, since you of course need to carry it around with you at all times. It will be available exclusively through Amazon by 2025 and will cost just $29.99.

The post Tamagotchi Celebration Egg has recycled eggshell casing first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 09

Apple Unveils iPhone 16 with Enhanced Camera, Customizable Controls, and A18 Chip

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Apple introduced the iPhone 16, showcasing new durability, performance, and personalization features. The device retains its sleek look but incorporates significant upgrades, including color-infused glass in ultramarine, teal, and pink, alongside white and black. This design innovation gives the iPhone 16 a refreshed, vibrant appearance.

Designer: Apple

The iPhone 16 builds on the Action Button first seen in the iPhone 15 Pro, allowing users to access customizable functions quickly. A new dedicated camera button brings a more traditional camera experience, instantly launching the camera and functioning as a hardware shutter.

Powered by Apple’s new A18 chip, the iPhone 16 is built for handling advanced tasks, particularly those requiring machine learning and AI. The 16-core Neural Engine is twice as fast as the previous generation, significantly improving processing power for AI workloads. Apple increased memory bandwidth by 17%, allowing more efficient handling of large models and intensive tasks like large language models. The A18’s six-core CPU is 30% faster than the iPhone 15’s, with improved power efficiency and extended battery life. Apple claims the iPhone 16 can outperform some high-end desktop PCs.

The display has also seen upgrades, with brightness reaching 2,000 nits in sunlight and dropping to one nit in low-light environments for more comfortable viewing. The Ceramic Shield glass is 50% tougher than previous versions, adding to the iPhone’s overall durability and water and dust resistance.

Apple’s focus on AI brings Apple Intelligence to the iPhone 16. This system integrates generative models directly into the device, allowing for more natural language understanding and personalization. It can rewrite messages, suggest professional tones, and even create emojis based on descriptions. Additionally, users can use the new Visual Intelligence feature through the camera, which allows the device to identify objects, locations, and events simply by pointing the camera. This feature provides quick access to information such as restaurant details, event schedules, or product identification, bringing a new level of interaction to the iPhone.

The iPhone 16’s camera system has also been upgraded with a 48-megapixel main camera, allowing users to capture images with more detail. A new 2x telephoto option offers optical quality, made possible by the device’s computational photography capabilities. The ultra-wide camera, now with autofocus, allows for better low-light performance and macro photography, while spatial video and photo capture bring new dimensions to memory preservation, compatible with Apple’s Vision Pro headset.

Overall, the iPhone 16 introduces more power, control, and personalization options, making it a versatile tool for users who demand both performance and convenience in their daily tasks.

The post Apple Unveils iPhone 16 with Enhanced Camera, Customizable Controls, and A18 Chip first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 09

Apple Unveils iPhone 16 Pro with New Camera, Video, and Audio Features Powered by A18 Pro Chip

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Apple has introduced the iPhone 16 Pro, bringing significant updates to both its design and performance. The iPhone 16 Pro now features larger displays—6.3 inches for the Pro and 6.9 inches for the Pro Max—making them the biggest iPhone screens yet. Despite the larger size, Apple has minimized bezels, resulting in a sleek, nearly edge-to-edge look. The adaptive 120Hz ProMotion technology provides smooth scrolling, while the always-on display functionality gives users quick access to key information.

Designer: Apple

The iPhone 16 Pro’s design is constructed using aerospace-grade titanium, offering both durability and lightness. This titanium body is available in four finishes: Black Titanium, White Titanium, Natural Titanium, and Desert Titanium. The device also incorporates a new thermal architecture that improves sustained performance while keeping the phone cool during heavy use. The Pro models are also water and dust-resistant, ensuring longevity in various environments.

Photography: Real-Time Control and Customization

The iPhone 16 Pro empowers creativity through its 48-megapixel fusion camera, which integrates a second-generation quad-pixel sensor capable of reading data twice as fast, allowing for zero shutter lag. Whether capturing fast-moving subjects or subtle details, this new system ensures uncompromised resolution and detail. The sensor’s high-speed data transfer to the A18 Pro chip allows users to capture 48-megapixel proRAW and HEAT photos effortlessly.

A new 48-megapixel ultra-wide camera complements the fusion camera, offering high-resolution shots with autofocus. It excels in capturing wider scenes and stunning macro shots, delivering sharpness and clarity that make it indispensable for creative users. The 5x telephoto camera—with Apple’s longest focal length—provides incredible zoom capabilities from a distance, while the Tetra Prism design improves optical performance for more detailed, high-quality images.

To streamline the photography process, the iPhone 16 Pro introduces an upgraded camera control system. This interface lets users quickly switch between lenses and adjust the depth of field and exposure with a dedicated slider. Later this year, a two-stage shutter will be added, allowing users to lock focus and exposure with a light press, offering precision when reframing shots.

Advanced Photographic Styles and Real-Time Grading

Apple has enhanced the creative range of the iPhone 16 Pro with advanced photographic styles, allowing users to personalize their photos in real-time. With the A18 Pro chip, the image pipeline dynamically adjusts skin tones, colors, highlights, and shadows, enabling a wider range of aesthetic choices. Users can apply styles like black-and-white, dramatic tones, and other custom looks that go beyond basic filters and fine-tune the look with a new control path that simultaneously adjusts tone and color.

What sets these styles apart is the ability to change them after capture, allowing greater flexibility in editing. The real-time preview enabled by the A18 Pro gives users a professional-level color grading experience as they shoot, a significant upgrade for photographers looking for more creative control.

Video: Cinema-Grade Capabilities

The iPhone 16 Pro significantly advances video recording. The new 4K 120fps recording in Dolby Vision is possible thanks to the faster sensor in the 48-megapixel fusion camera and the high transfer speeds of the Apple camera interface. The image signal processor (ISP) of the A18 Pro allows for frame-by-frame cinema-quality color grading, enabling professional-quality video capture directly on the iPhone.

One of the most exciting features is the ability to shoot 4K 120 ProRes and Log video directly to an external storage device, perfect for high-end workflows that demand high frame rates and extensive color grading control. Users no longer need to commit to frame rates upfront—they can adjust playback speed after capture. Whether for slow-motion effects or cinematic storytelling, the iPhone 16 Pro offers flexible playback options, including quarter-speed, half-speed, and 1/5-speed for 24fps cinematic moments.

The camera control interface supports third-party apps like FiLMiC Pro and Grid Composer, enabling advanced features such as precise framing based on the rule of thirds and other composition tools. This further solidifies the iPhone 16 Pro as a versatile tool for video creators.

Audio: Studio-quality sound and Spatial Audio

The iPhone 16 Pro also delivers significant audio upgrades. Four studio-quality microphones provide low noise levels for true-to-life sound capture, whether recording vocals or instruments. The reduced noise floor ensures high-quality audio, which is essential for professional recordings.

A new feature is spatial audio capture during video recording, enhancing the immersive experience when paired with AirPods or viewed on Apple Vision Pro. The spatial audio capture allows dynamic editing through the new audio mix feature, which uses machine learning to separate background elements from voices. This feature includes three voice options: in-frame mix, which isolates the person’s voice on camera; studio mix, which replicates a professional recording environment by eliminating reverb; and cinematic mix, which positions the vocal track upfront with surrounding environmental sounds in the background.

For content creators, Voice Memos now offers the ability to layer tracks on top of existing recordings. This is especially useful for musicians, who can now add vocals over a guitar track or any other instrumental recording. The system automatically isolates the voice from the background audio for a clean, professional result.

A18 Pro Chip: Powering Creativity and Performance

At the core of the iPhone 16 Pro’s new capabilities is the A18 Pro chip, built with second-generation 3-nanometer technology for improved performance and efficiency. The 16-core Neural Engine is designed for tasks requiring high computational power, such as machine learning and generative AI. With a 17% increase in system memory bandwidth, the iPhone 16 Pro can handle tasks such as ray tracing in gaming, 4K video editing, and more.

The A18 Pro chip’s enhanced image signal processor (ISP) enables real-time color grading and supports the advanced photo and video capabilities of the iPhone 16 Pro, ensuring that every shot and video benefits from professional-level quality. The chip’s GPU also provides 20% faster performance, allowing for smoother gaming and more efficient graphics rendering.

iPhone 16 Pro: Is It Time to Switch or Upgrade?

For professional creators, the iPhone 16 Pro delivers the performance and tools needed to meet demanding creative standards. Powered by the A18 Pro chip, it offers advanced photographic styles, pro-level video recording, and studio-quality audio. Whether capturing intricate details in images, producing cinematic-quality videos, or recording clear, high-fidelity audio, the iPhone 16 Pro provides the precision and control necessary to achieve your creative goals. This upgrade is a powerful creative tool designed to push the boundaries of your work, supporting and enhancing your vision with every use.

The post Apple Unveils iPhone 16 Pro with New Camera, Video, and Audio Features Powered by A18 Pro Chip first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Sep 09

Elevate Your Apple Experience: Top Accessories to Boost Your Ecosystem

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Apple has always been about creating seamless, beautifully designed products that blend style and functionality. As the Apple Event sparks excitement for the latest innovations, it’s the perfect time to look at must-have accessories that fit perfectly into the Apple ecosystem. Whether you’re using the latest iPhone, AirPods, or AirTags, these essential tools will help you get the most out of your Apple devices while keeping you stylish and organized.

1. MagSafe Origami Grip Stand: Where Function Meets Design

The MagSafe Origami Grip Stand is the perfect fusion of minimalism and innovation, offering a stylish yet practical way to interact with your iPhone. Inspired by the ancient art of origami, this grip stand provides you with a versatile solution for propping up your phone, holding it securely, or even sticking it to magnetic surfaces.

Simply attach it to your iPhone using MagSafe technology, and you’ve got a slim, water-resistant grip that folds away when not in use. Whether you’re watching the latest Apple Event on your phone or video chatting with friends, this grip stand makes using your iPhone easier and more comfortable.

Click Here to Buy Now: $45

Why It’s Essential:

  • MagSafe compatibility for seamless integration with your iPhone.
  • Origami-inspired design blends functionality with elegance.
  • Perfect for hands-free use and magnetic surface attachment.

2. AirPods/AirPods Pro Neck Strap: Fashion Meets Function

Your AirPods are more than just wireless earbuds—they’re an essential part of your Apple setup. The AirPods/AirPods Pro Neck Strap turns your wireless earbuds into a fashionable accessory, ensuring you never lose them again. Worn as a stylish necklace, this woven strap keeps your AirPods securely around your neck, using a One Click Patented Magnetic Lock to hold them in place.

Relive the days when losing one earbud was a constant worry—this neck strap keeps your AirPods safe and stylish while giving you peace of mind. Whether you’re commuting, working out, or just going about your day, you’ll always have your AirPods ready.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39

Why It’s Essential:

  • Stylish necklace design turns AirPods into a fashion statement.
  • Magnetic lock ensures security while still offering easy access to your AirPods.
  • No more worrying about losing half of your pair!

3. Battery-free Amplifying iSpeakers: Amplify Your Tunes Anywhere

Leave the cables and batteries behind with the Battery-free Amplifying iSpeakers. This clever speaker takes your iPhone’s sound and naturally amplifies it, all without the need for batteries or power. Simply place your iPhone in the slot, and let the Duralumin metal enhance your sound waves. Designed using the golden ratio for optimal aesthetics, this speaker not only boosts your music but also adds a sleek, modern touch to any room.

Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or relaxing at home, this speaker offers an elegant solution to amplify your favorite playlists with no hassle.

Click Here to Buy Now: $179

Why It’s Essential:

  • Battery-free design means you can amplify your sound anywhere.
  • Crafted from vibration-resistant Duralumin for durability and style.
  • Perfect for boosting your iPhone’s audio, anytime, anywhere.

4. AirTag Carabiner: Never Lose Your Valuables Again

Whether you’re heading to work or taking a weekend getaway, keeping track of your belongings has never been easier with the AirTag Carabiner. Crafted from high-quality Duralumin, this carabiner is not only lightweight but also incredibly durable. Snap it onto your bag, bike, or umbrella, and know that your AirTag will keep track of it, no matter where you go. With the precision and convenience of Apple’s Find My network, you’ll never have to worry about losing your most important possessions again.

Designed to be discreet yet elegant, this handcrafted accessory complements your everyday style while offering the peace of mind that comes with knowing you can always locate your belongings.

Click Here to Buy Now: $119

Why It’s Essential:

  • Made from lightweight, durable Duralumin, used in aircraft and spaceships.
  • Keeps your AirTag secure while adding a sleek touch to your everyday items.
  • Perfect for busy individuals who need to track their belongings on the go.

The post Elevate Your Apple Experience: Top Accessories to Boost Your Ecosystem first appeared on Yanko Design.

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