How much do you pay for your iCloud+ or Google Drive storage to make sure your photos get backed up on the cloud? Imagine paying zero.

Remember a time when flagship phones came with memory card slots that let you expand storage and potentially even swap out old cards for new ones to get more storage? Sure, some phones still go as far as offering expandable storage, but for the most part, all companies have defaulted to the ‘cloud storage’ model where you pay a monthly subscription and your phone automatically backs data up without you needing to remember. It’s convenient, but it’s also costly, as you’re suddenly required to pay monthly cloud storage fees. It isn’t easy to ask phone makers to revert back to those good old MicroSD card days… but that’s where something as deviously simple as the PhotoCube PD+ comes in. Designed as a simple plug-and-play USB-C device, the PhotoCube automatically backs up your photos to an SD card for you, saving effort and money. A companion app makes the entire process as simple as clicking a button (instead of manually selecting all your images and copy-pasting them) and the PhotoCube does the rest, updating your old storage files with new ones so your photo backups are always up to date. It’ll also create separate file structures for multiple devices, letting you separately back up photos across different phones and even tablets. Your photos remain offline, so you don’t need the internet to access them – and as a result, they’re also hacker-resistant. Quite impressive for a device that just costs $55.

Designer: PhotoFast

Click Here to Buy Now: $55 $99 (45% off) Hurry! Only 4 left of 470.

The reason most people prefer cloud storage is because it’s designed to be the easiest option ever. The phone backs itself up without you needing to remember, the files get stored in a safe server somewhere else, and if you ever lose your device, you can easily restore your photos if you log into your cloud storage account. What users then ignore is the fact that they end up paying hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars each year to store their photos. The PhotoCube PD+ aims at breaking that dependency with a hardware solution that’s just as easy. Plug the PhotoCube in and it literally begins backing up your photos in an instant. Photos get stored on a MicroSD card, so you can choose how much storage you want (you get 2 terabyte MicroSD cards nowadays), and it all happens offline without eating data transfer fees.

The PhotoCube device can easily be configured using an app

The fact that your data gets stored on a MicroSD card allows the PhotoCube to be such a ridiculously compact device. It’s no bigger than an AirTag, albeit square in shape (hence its name). A card slot on one end lets you add a MicroSD card in, while a male USB-C pin on the other end lets you plug your PhotoCube into any Android phone/tablet, any iPad with USB-C, and the latest iPhone 15 series. There’s also a female USB-C port on the opposite end (right under the card slot) that allows you to charge your phone THROUGH the PhotoCube, so you can run long backups while juicing your battery – a feature so wildly convenient it deserves a special mention.

Measuring just 30mm wide and 38mm long, the PhotoCube is smaller than even an AirPods case, but it can store up to 2TB

The PhotoCube’s brilliance lies in the fact that it isn’t a one-trick pony. When it isn’t backing up photos from your phone, it works as a card reader with all your devices (especially with your laptop), allowing you to read photos from your phone, drone, or DSLR on any machine. With USB 3.2 Gen 1, the PhotoCube PD+ can transfer files as rapidly as 5Gb/s, letting you swiftly back up or even access media without waiting for stuff to load.

Speaking of swift, the tiny gadget does a remarkable job of power delivery too, allowing you to charge your phone at an impressive 60W for fast-charging. The PowerCube PD+ supports pass-through fast-charging which means your backups and your charging can happen simultaneously… and rapidly.

Photo transfers happen in tandem with the PhotoFast app, which has a few impressive features. You can do more than just backing up photos and videos – the app lets you back up contacts, calendars, documents, even music (if you still believe in listening to MP3 files)… and if you’ve already paid for cloud storage, the PhotoFast app lets you download your backups from the cloud server onto the PhotoCube so you can cancel that pesky subscription and keep your files safe locally, and access them without needing to connect to the internet. The app intelligently also allows the PhotoCube to create and maintain separate backups for separate devices, so one PhotoCube could potentially store your entire family’s data, getting you off that expensive family cloud storage plan.

This isn’t maker PhotoFast’s first rodeo. Last year’s PhotoCube PD had a similar design, but didn’t support OTG plug-and-play storage (it needed a separate power source), and it wasn’t configured to work with iPhones (because iPhones didn’t have USB-C ports until September last year). The new PD+ comes with all those improvements under the hood, and now with two color options too – a simple white and grey, and a slightly jazzed up white and sky blue. The PhotoCube PD+ starts at $55 for Kickstarter backers (the original price after the crowdfunding campaign goes up to $99) and ships starting June 2024. It doesn’t come with a MicroSD card, so you have the liberty of choosing what brand/capacity of storage card you want to pair with your gadget. That’s quite a lot of flexibility for a device that fits in your pocket and also saves you money every month!

Click Here to Buy Now: $55 $99 (45% off) Hurry! Only 4 left of 470.

Click Here to Buy Now: $55 $99 (45% off) Hurry! Only 4 left of 470.

The post Tiny USB Device Saves You Nearly $1000 Per Year on Cloud Storage by Auto Backing Up Your Photos first appeared on Yanko Design.

MagSafe – magnetic charging and accessory attachment technology- is arguably a big transition for smartphones. It’s an Apple prerogative and has been part of every gadget the Cupertino giant has rolled out since 2020. It is no surprise then, that there’s been an unrelenting outflow of accessories for the MagSafe-compatible iPhones, Apple Watch, and AirPods. Doing this very attractively is Leon’s Electric Trout Co., which has been designing MagSafe charger stands that are a total game changer.

In the list of metallic and plasticky MagSafe accessories, David Stychno’s Electric Trout charging docks made from acrylic are confident newcomers. They outshine the old-school docks for all things Apple with productive and sleek silhouettes that are bound to redefine convenience and efficacy. Since Electric Trout wishes to tap a large spectrum of users, it has MagSafe-compatible charging solutions for one, two, or an entire range of Apple’s handheld and wearables.

Designer: Electric Trout

As mentioned, the stands are designed to add more character than the traditional iterations. Case in point, the $39 Expo Apple Watch charging stand with watch band storage that arrives in an ‘X’ shape. The charging dock comes flat-packed and can assemble in seconds, without the use of tools or gum. You can set the watch to charge on this acrylic stand while the extra watch bands can hang by the elastic strap, so you don’t need additional place to keep your watch accessory.

If you want a more productive accessory that does more than hold and charge your Apple Watch, David’s design house has you covered with the interestingly styled upright clip NS-3 that charges a watch and iPhone and stores a pair of AirPods for you in the base. NS-3 Clip, and the previous options in the category, can be used on the nightstand or kitchen counter. It is handmade from a single piece of laser-cut acrylic.

In line with the idea is the MagSafe 3-in-1 charging stand that can help charge your iPhone, Apple Watch and AirPods on a seamless sheet of acrylic. It comes flat-packed for travel, and can become your nightstand essentially with the assembly of a kickstand. The latter allows this charging stand to be used in portrait or landscape orientations to browse or take calls while charging.

The most intriguing yet is the 3D-printed Ezl-02. It is an all-in-one dock created to let you juice up your devices with the chargers you already own. Shipped with a black Mophie wireless charging pad in the box, the Ezl-02 charges and helps organize your iPhone, Apple Watch, Airpods, and extra watch bands in one place. If you have been waiting to get home a sleep charging stand for your Apple device, which won’t add clutter, but instead would look fancy, the buck stops at the Electric Trout shop!

The post This designer is handcrafting attractive MagSafe charging stands from laser-cut acrylic first appeared on Yanko Design.

Dive into the world of cool lighting with Kismas, a Lithuanian design studio that’s turning vintage vibes into modern magic. Old-school glass blocks from the Cold War era are getting a fresh lease on life, thanks to Kismas’ playful design spirit. They’ve introduced a dreamy collection of glass brick lamps – the Vintage Line and the Modern Line. It’s like Kismas is playing matchmaker between the past and present, creating a home vibe that’s both nostalgic and cutting-edge. These lamps aren’t just illuminating; they’re time-traveling storytellers, celebrating the cool factor of vintage design. So, if you want your space to be a mix of retro charm and contemporary chic, Kismas has got the perfect lighting symphony for you!

Designer: Kismas

The Kismas Vintage Line brings forth a marriage of minimalist steel bases and reclaimed glass blocks, each with a unique history dating back to the fierce times of the Cold War. Salvaged from various Baltic countries, these original glass elements, deemed “imperfect” by the brand, find a new identity in Kismas lamps. The juxtaposition of sturdy yet subtle dark steel bases with the transparent glass blocks creates a striking visual interplay, emphasizing graphic patterns and corrugated edges.

Rich Green Lamp 01, a standout from the Vintage Line, showcases the deep green color characteristic of blocks used in brutalist buildings in the Soviet Union. Bearing marks, scratches, and small cracks, each lamp becomes a one-of-a-kind piece with a rich history. The Bigger Optical Lamp 01, another Vintage Line gem, features lighter green blocks from the ’70s-’80s in Lithuania, allowing for the use of filters that can change the color of the emitted light.

In the Kismas Modern Line, the design takes a leap forward with glass block lamps crafted by Seves Glass Blocks. Clean lines, bold patterns, and flawless clarity define this collection, paying homage to modernist architecture. The centerpiece, Doric Lamp 01, features a Doric19 glass block inspired by renowned architect Rafael Moneo, while the Linear Lamp 01 and Cross Linear Lamp 01 introduce ribbed patterns and intersecting lines for unique lighting effects. The 80s Dream Lamp 01 and Orbital Lamp 01 round out the Modern Line with a frosted surface and Maison de Verre building inspiration, respectively.

Kismas doesn’t stop at elegant design; it introduces a creative twist with light filters that can instantly transform the ambiance of a room. These easy-to-install filters come in seven hues, from the cinematic Dirty Yellow and Tokyo Blue to the subtly neon Dark Pink and Neon Green. Primary Red adds a vibrant touch perfect for lively gatherings, while Pale Rose and Aprico offer a warm and cozy glow.

The post Kismas Glass Brick Lamps: A Fusion of Vintage Elegance and Modern Innovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

With 25 submissions to the LEGO Ideas forum (5 of which crossed the 10,000 vote mark), LEGO builder Dimexart is somewhat of a veteran when it comes to putting plastic bricks together. The brick aficionado’s latest creation combines LEGOs with the real-world in the form of a vintage radio that actually plays music. Made from over a thousand LEGO bricks, this vintage radio has a secret flap on the back that lets you slide your smartphone in. Switch on Spotify or YouTube, select your favorite track, and hit play as you pop your phone into the LEGO Vintage Radio and it recreates the feeling of having an antique radio playing your favorite tracks! The best part, Dimexart’s build comes with functional knobs and buttons that you can twist and press, moving sliders inside the gizmo just like you would with an authentic AM/FM radio.

Designer: Dimexart

Strangely enough, Dimexart made a radio back in 2021 out of LEGO bricks, and it did cross the 10,000 vote mark too, but was rejected by LEGO’s internal team. Unfazed by this, Dimexart went back to the drawing board and decided to tweak the radio to make it even better. The new MOC (My Own Creation, as it’s called in LEGO parlance) now features a flap on the back that let’s you slide any smartphone in, using the phone’s speakers and the acoustic chamber of the empty LEGO radio to create that warm, slightly twangy audio associated with radios of the past.

In Dimexart’s demo, he even uses the phone screen to mimic the warm backlight seen in most radio control panels. Given that they were sometimes used at night too, radios came with lights in their gauges so you could see which station you were on. Dimexart’s build uses light from your smartphone’s screen to create a similar experience.

The dials on the left and right are both functional and cause sliders inside to move left or right to indicate the station/frequency or the volume. There are dials/knobs and buttons on the bottom too, which are functional in that they can be interacted with – but that’s about all they do. It’s a fun interaction, however, and recreates the real tactile joy of the radio, which firmly belonged in a much more hands-on era long before touchscreens dominated our lives. The radio comes with a wood-inspired aesthetic, a rather realistic set of grills, and that gorgeous control panel on the bottom that I’m sure you won’t be able to get enough of.

Dimexart’s entry currently has 3,228 supporters as of writing this article. If you want to vote for the entry (and hopefully see it turn into a retail box set), vote for it on the LEGO Ideas website here.

The post This LEGO Vintage Radio lets you actually play music through your smartphone… first appeared on Yanko Design.

Post-pandemic, the return of the workforce to offices means the environment is stressful and tensions are high. The tolerance levels are at a new low for most, and the smallest things like an inconsistent Wi-Fi or unannounced email from the boss can get the blood pressure rising. Stress ball with its form factor helps in physical and emotional relief therapy, and now a designer believes a wireless mouse can take over and help the working professional ease their anger with a mouse press.

Negativity is not a post-pandemic symptom anyway. Amid negative emotions and intolerance, anger has always reigned supreme in humans. Anger is closely related to the development of illness and only a few remedies can help. One over-the-counter option is a stress ball that doctors and therapists advise for easy and quick anger release, and borrowing an idea from it, the Vent wireless mouse is a functional option for stressed and enraged employees.

Designer: Jeong Kim and Weekend-Works

If I remember correctly, research a few years back disclosed that a mouse (through the way a person moves the cursor at different speeds) can predict anger and frustration. But what do you do when you know you’re angry? Of course, you don’t need a mouse to predict that for you, but a wireless mouse to help you release that without breaking the screen down is a handy option.

To that end, the Vent wireless mouse has been made from a silicone cover, that is made thick on the sides and back. These are parts that one holds in the palm when working. The designers believe, that when angry, the user can clinch the palm around the mouse and its soft touch can absorb the anger like the stress ball. Definitely not so much softly, but almost enough to calm you down.

With the use of silicone as its construction material, the Vent wireless mouse should be waterproof and hygienic peripheral. It can – like some previously made silicone mice – be cleaned without the risk of damaging the innards. This makes it a viable option in two ways (as an anger manager and hygienic peripheral) in this post-COVID lifestyle that we are embracing.

The post Vent wireless mouse’s soft touch can calm your anger down and get you back working stress-free first appeared on Yanko Design.

Modern homes require modern fragrance solutions. We all like a pleasant and fresh-smelling home, with aromatic fragrances drifting around. But sometimes pesky odors do crawl into our homes, and despite our best efforts we can’t always be vigilant about them, and nip them in the bud. This is where innovative and functional fragrance solutions are needed to do what you are unable to do. These handy little designs range from relaxing aroma diffusers to eco-friendly air purifiers – they ensure that there is always fresh air in your home, and nasty odours are eliminated from a mile away. From a natural air purifier that uses a miniature forest to clean your home environment to a bedside lamp integrated with a scented candle – these are the ingenious home fragrance solutions you need for your precious living space.

1. Briiv Pro

The Briiv Pro is an eco-friendly purifier that harnesses nature and technology to cleanse the air in your home. The Briiv first made a debut in 2020, and the new and improved Briiv Pro is more powerful than ever. It is a ‘mini forest’ that can purify a 16 sq.m room in 21 minutes. This makes the Briiv Pro around 6900% more effective than house plants!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Briiv Pro is 6900% more effective than house plants, which is truly commendable for a purifier of its size. Besides being a boon for the air in your home, it is also quite good-looking, unlike the ugly boxy appliances that are called air purifiers these days.

What we like

• It is equipped with an AI-based sensor
• It has a whisper-soft noise level
• It works using a layered trifecta of coconut fiber, moss, and a silk nanofiber matrix with activated carbon

What we dislike

• It doesn’t have any air quality indicators
• Only available in one base color, there aren’t any options to choose from

2. Battery-Free Aroma Diffuser

This battery-free aroma diffuser is another great alternative to have some fresh and fragrant air in your home. It lets you take a deep relaxing breath, without harming the environment in any way. The battery-free diffuser harnesses the power of a single candle through the simple use of physics and science, to spread pleasant-smelling air in your home.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser is a battery-free product. It doesn’t need any external power sources to operate, it relies solely on the heat of a single candle to spread relaxing aromatic scents throughout your home. The diffuser is built from sustainable materials and has a minimalist and eco-friendly ethos.

What we like

• Made using recyclable materials
• Compatible with different kinds of essential oils

What we dislike

• It can be difficult to adjust the intensity of the aroma since the diffuser doesn’t have electric controls

3. Japanese Lantern Candle

Another way to spread some aromatic scents through your home, and eliminate bad odors is by using this stunning Japanese lantern candle. Designed to look like a traditional Japanese ‘chouchin’ lantern, the candle has a pillow-inspired shape, and is a fantastic fit for your bedroom or bathroom, allowing you to also indulge in some pampering.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69

Why is it noteworthy?

The quaint Japanese lantern candle gives a contemporary take on an iconic Japanese design. It emits a relaxing glow and spreads a pleasant aroma, which also showcases a minimalist design that merges perfectly with any modern living space. Handcrafted by artisans in Kurashiki, Japan, the candle is a specimen of meticulous Japanese craftsmanship.

What we like

• Since the wax is non-melting, you get an amazing clarity on the candle

What we dislike

• The candle is a fire hazard and must be used with caution around children and pets

4. Retro Candle Lamp

This little vintage-inspired lamp is called the Retro Candle Lamp, and it will make a fitting addition to your bedside table. Besides doing the obvious job of lighting up your room with a soft subtle light, the candle lamp is also equipped with an empty platform to hold scented candles. By adding scented candles to the lamp, you can spread a sweet scent around your room.

Why is it noteworthy?

The warmth from the lamp activates the fragrance molecules in the candle, and it emits a pleasant smell, without you even lighting it! This eliminates the risk of having an open flame right near your bed. It is a safe design, that also successfully deals with any odour issues you may have at home.

What we like

• The light of the lamp can be dimmed at your convenience
• The lamp features a handle on the top, which lets you rotate, carry, and position the lamp without touching any parts that may have gotten too hot

What we dislike

• Not a great option for those who like watching an open flame flickering

5. The Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set

Coined the Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser Set, this little relaxation-inducing design recreates the smell and the experience of a mesmerizing outdoor fire. It captures the smells, scent, earth, and joy of a memorable outdoor fire within the comfort of your own home, without any of the dangers of a large outdoor fire.

Click Here to Buy Now: $99

Why is it noteworthy?

The mini hardwood used for the diffuser is collected from branches that were intended to be discarded away. They give off a warm smoky smell when burnt on the stainless steel mini oven, giving off a comforting aroma. You can add a few drops of the essential oils extracted from Mt.Hakusan trees, and an authentic outdoor scent will spread through your home.

What we like

• The diffuser can be used as a cooking or heating stool as well, by adding a piece of solid wood, making it a multifunctional design

What we dislike

• Requires small pieces of wood.

6. Olfactive Stéréophonique

Called the Olfactive Stéréophonique, this unique device is a scent diffuser in the shape of a speaker. The device mimics the shape of a horn speaker, but doesn’t emit melodies, instead, it spreads some lovely scents in your home. Inspired by the shape of an antique speaker, it will fill up the room with a fragrance-like sound.

Why is it noteworthy?

The fragrance diffuser emits the smell uniformly and efficiently, unlike the usual front or upward aroma-blasting diffusers that we see on the market. For this concept, the designers borrowed theories from high-efficiency sound wave guides, creating a unique diffuser.

What we like

Equipped with a package of 10 capsules – recreating the aroma of nostalgic incense “used in Hindu and Buddhist temples and the unique smell of ancient wooden structures

What we dislike

• High price for a diffuser, may not sit right with everyone

7. Stress-Free Aroma Diffuser

Meet the Stress-free Aroma Diffuser, a nifty little design that lets you sit back and relax while breathing in a gaming mix of aromatic blends that have been specifically picked to soothe your mind, and help you unwind. Besides spreading pleasant aromas through your home, it is also designed to help you de-stress.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149

Why is it noteworthy?

The diffuser creates its gentle breeze, allowing the aroma to softly and evenly disperse wherever you’re sitting, with a porcelain filter soaking up the oil to provide a long-lasting experience.

What we like

• Besides functioning as an aroma diffuser, it also serves as an elegant decoration piece

What we dislike

• The diffuser seems easily breakable, it must be handled with caution and care

8. Statement Floral Bud Vase

The best way to add some sweet-smelling fragrances to your home is by introducing some flowers. And this pretty little metal flower vase seems like a striking fit to hold your favorite floral arrangement. The Statement Floral Bud Vase will showcase the natural beauty of a flower and its stem while letting the natural fragrance of the flower spread through your home.

Click Here to Buy Now: $35

Why is it noteworthy?

The minimal and stylish flower case is designed to seamlessly merge with all kinds of interior spaces. It is also carefully weight to prevent it from topping over, and it is specially designed to fully display the flower, and all complete focus on it.

What we like

• The vase is available in silver and pink gold, giving you two elegant options to choose from
• Highlights and showcases the natural beauty of the flower, without stealing away any attention

What we dislike

• The size of the vase is quite compact, so it can’t hold too many flowers and isn’t the best fit for larger flowers
• It can get easily knocked over since it is quite small

9. Aroma Fragrance Pin

Another way to guarantee sweet-smelling surroundings at all times is to carry a little pin on your body! Called the Aroma Fragrance pin – this little pin is a tiny holder that can hold a little cotton dabbed with your favorite essential oil. You now have a strong yet subtle fragrance enveloping you through the day, no matter where you go. It leaves a pleasant smell wherever you are in your home!

Click Here to Buy Now: $49

Why is it noteworthy?

The pin creates an individual fragrance bubble for you, that follows you everywhere. You can easily top it up, once the smell starts to fade away. The pin is a useful option for people with sensitive noises who may get affected by the aerosol particles in typical perfumes.

What we like

• The pin resembles a fashionable button-style accessory and is available in a variety of colors to choose from

What we dislike

• The quality of the aromatic oil you use will determine how long the aroma lasts, so you may need to partake in some trial and error till you find the perfect fit

10. Ploud

Ploud is a versatile little hanger that will never let you pull out another crumply or smell shirt from your wardrobe. It allows you to hang your clothes in two different ways – either you hang them traditionally, or you fasten them. Also interestingly, the hanger’s arms clip off in the middle, offering space to stick in a fragrance of your choice, and then close it back up.

Why is it noteworthy?

The hanger comes along with an interchangeable scent stick that you can replace whenever you like. Ploud ensures your clothes smell fresh and clean, without that pesky detergent odor. It will leave your clothes fragrant at all times, and might even leave a pleasant residual fragrance in your cupboard.

What we like

• Provides versatility, and keeps your clothes nice-smelling

What we dislike

• It’s a concept, so we are unsure how practical or functional it will be as a tangible product

The post Top 10 Home Fragrance Solutions You Need For A Pleasant + Fresh Smelling Living Space first appeared on Yanko Design.

Dubbed the Paperang Q1, this portable ‘vocabulary card’ works better than Duolingo, allowing you to take quizzes, access flash cards, and quickly pick up new phrases. It’s smaller than a Kindle, and does a much better job of teaching you a new language than those translator apps that only focus on short-term gains. And unlike other e-ink readers, this comes with a speaker too, enabling audio-based learning.

Designer: Zuoyebang Education Technology (Beijing) Limited

The Paperang Q1 comes with a 3.9-inch e-ink display with touch input, along with a home button on the side and a record button on the top. Its staggered design gives it a distinct aesthetic that makes it instantly recognizable, with its quadrilateral forms intersecting each other to give you an overall rectangle that still feels different. Except, what you’d expect to be a camera bump is, in fact, the speaker unit that pumps out rich audio. The bump also gives your fingers a place to rest as you’re holding the device.

The Paperang Q1’s simplistic design opens it up to a lot of visual exploration. The two forms can be paired in distinct colors, creating a fun and funky palette.  The device itself comes in black and white variants, although it does feature replaceable metal backplates that add a touch of color to the overall gadget, allowing users to choose between classic or vibrant color schemes.

The post Handheld e-ink reader helps you pick up and practice new languages first appeared on Yanko Design.

Anyone who even vaguely remembers the late 2000s remembers Aerogel, the ‘wonder material’ that was 99% air, and had the incredible ability to insulate against high heat or cold because of its thermal absorption properties. Aerogel got all the press back in the day, but didn’t really see much consumer application because of how difficult it was to produce. Cut to the year 2024 and a Tokyo-based company has managed to find a fitting application for Aerogel. Meet SpacePeak, an outdoor jacket that sits on the bleeding edge of technology with its own aerogel insulation layer that can protect you in temperatures as extreme as -40°C (-40°F). What’s more, it has a 3-in-1 design with removable inner layers, allowing you to wear it in regular weather too, and it has over 20 pockets for all your EDC and essentials.

Designer: Tatsuya Dobashi

Click Here to Buy Now: $299 $479 ($180 off). Hurry, only 8/170 left! Raised over $115,000.

SpacePeak has perfected aerogel technology to retain the most heat from your body. From there, heat circulates throughout your whole jacket keeping you warm and dry even in the harshest conditions.

The SpacePeak comes with a two-part design that gives you 3 jackets in one. On the inside, it features a functional puffer jacket, insulated with Aerogel and a thermal layer that helps keep you warm and snug in pretty much any weather. The outer jacket is a waterproof wind-breaker with a hood that helps ensure you stay dry in the rain or during a blizzard. Wear them individually based on what the weather is, or combine them together to give you a jacket powerful enough to brave all the elements. The outer layer is rated 20,000mm waterproof and keeps you from succumbing to rain, storm, sleet, and snow, while the inner aerogel jacket helps build an impermeable barrier between your body temperature and outer temperature.

You can finally ditch your puffy jacket and start wearing something that keeps you warmer with less weight and fluff.

The jacket is rated to protect you in temperatures as low as -40°C (also -40°F), although lab tests show the SpacePeak can easily endure temperatures as low as -196°C (-320°F). While there’s really no place on Earth where humans would endure those temperatures, it’s good knowing that the jacket can handle pretty much the coldest weather possible without giving up. That being said, it’s worth noting that the aerogel doesn’t physically warm you – it creates a thermal barrier between the cold environment and your warm body, so you don’t lose any body heat to the cold outdoors.

Store your laptop or tablet in the back pocket to carry your valuables safely and efficiently.

Chances are that places that hit -40°C aren’t the kinds of places you want to be carrying massive backpacks to either, which is why the SpacePeak packs more than 20 pockets for pretty much all your gear. Strategically placed all across the jacket’s inner and outer surfaces, the SpacePeak has every slot imaginable, with large pockets big enough for iPads, protected pockets for gadgets like cameras and phones, waterproof pockets for bottles and food, and quick-access pockets for keys and money. The 20+ tactical pockets turn your jacket into a backpack of sorts, without all the bulkiness associated with backpacks. Your belongings are strategically placed across the jacket, making them A. accessible, but more importantly B. less likely to weigh your shoulders down because of the distributed weight. Besides, who wants to rummage through a backpack in sub-zero temperatures, right?!

The enhanced 20,000 mm waterproofing doesn’t just stop the rain from getting to you, Its waterproofing makes it wind resistant, and it easier to brush dirt, snow, mud and other muck off your jacket.

That being said, you’d expect a jacket with this laundry-list of features to be extremely bulky, but the implementation of aerogel allows the SpacePeak to be thinner and lighter than your average down jacket. Down (or feathers) works exactly like aerogel, using trapped air to create a thermal barrier – however, what down does with an inch of thickness, the Aerogel does with 1/10th the amount, giving you an extreme-weather jacket that doesn’t turn you into the Michelin man or a human marshmallow because of all that padding.

The aerogel used within the SpacePeak was developed by S. Kistler, a company founded after the American scientist and chemical engineer credited with inventing the material in the first place. The aerogel, despite being highly insulating, is breathable, durable, and will retain its thermal properties even after a 100 washes (even with regular use the jacket can probably use a wash once a year). The SpacePeak comes in 4 sizes, ranging from M to 4XL, with a starting price of $299 and global shipping – just in case you want your jacket dispatched to the Arctic Circle!

Click Here to Buy Now: $299 $479 ($180 off). Hurry, only 8/170 left! Raised over $115,000.

The post Remember Aerogel? This insulated outdoor jacket has an aerogel layer, giving you -40°F protection first appeared on Yanko Design.

You can do a lot in your backyard! We shouldn’t underestimate our backyards, as they can be major spaces of fun, recreation, and relaxation. Spring is around the corner, and if you’re gearing up for spring season, then you’ve reached the right list. We’ve curated a collection of innovative and functional designs that are the right fit for the spring season. From a portable tiny home on wheels that you can set up in your yard, to a gardening kit that can help you get your hands muddy and green – these unique and functional designs are all you need for a great spring season.

1. Nestron Tiny Homes

Nestron has designed a range of sleek and futuristic tiny homes that feature a highly customizable, and aesthetically pleasing prefab design. The collection includes – Cube One (C1), Cube Two (C2), and Cube Two X (C2X), and they are priced between $42.2k to $126.6k. The homes make for excellent portable tiny home on wheels, that you can take along for your spring adventures, or set up in your backyard!

Why is it noteworthy?

The futuristic homes include solar electricity (or local electricity), heating, and a fully-equipped bathroom with a smart toilet. The interiors can be customized, and they’re quite stunning and ideal for sci-fi fans who want their own futuristic homes!

What we like

• The homes are built from recyclable materials
• Everything is handled by Nestron – from logistics and transport to unloading, so you don’t need to worry about anything

What we dislike

• The homes aren’t very spacious. The most expensive option, the Cube Two X, provides only 398 square feet of space

2. Garden Domes

These quaint little garden domes by Hypedome are designed to serve as office space, yoga dens, additional sleeping quarters, or even calm spaces to rest in. They are a great option if you like sleeping under the stars, of course without the fear of rain and snow. The geodesic domes are designed to make indoor-outdoor living accessible.

Why is it noteworthy?

The domes are designed to offer you an indoor-outdoor space that allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature without having to deal with its extreme side. It may look like the hemispherical garden domes are made from glass, but they are 200 times more durable weather-resistant, and UV-protected too.

What we like

• They can be used all year round since you can easily heat them during the winter

What we dislike

• The domed outer wall/ceiling makes the interiors seem smaller than they are
• You can’t have furniture set against the curved wall, which wastes precious real estate

3. The Gardener’s Tool Seat

If you’re in the mood to get down and dirty and grow some stuff in your yard this spring, then you need to get this Gardener’s Tool Seat. It gives you everything you could need – a collapsible seat to sit on, gardening tools, and a bonus pocket for carrying a cool drink.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Tool Seat features a standard collapsible tool that is made from stainless-steel piping with a nylon fabric seat, and a smart detail at the base that lets you hang your gardening toolbag underneath it. The bag comes equipped with a gardening toolkit.

What we like

• It features a space on the inside to accommodate your gardening trimmings

What we dislike

• The seat doesn’t look too comfy to sit on for long periods

4. Yuanye Foldable Outdoor Grill

Called the Yuanye, this portable outdoor barbecue grilling pan is something that you can carry with you on your outdoor adventures, or use to cook up some delicious food in your yard. It resembles a portable projector and can be used with a gas tank, fire source, and oil storage module. It is super useful with good-looking aesthetics.

Why is it noteworthy?

As you open up the grill, you’ll see two partitions that let you grill meats on one side, and vegetables on the other. It is a portable grill that is inspired by a suitcase, but instead of storing clothes, it stores the food you need to eat.

What we like

• Fashionable, good-looking, and portable appliance
• You can cook meats as well as veggies on it, preparing a well-balanced meal

What we dislike

• It’s a conceptual design so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

5. Smart Coop

This smart coop is meant to simplify every task related to chicken raising. The coop is equipped with an inbuilt IoT camera, that lets you keep a tab on your chicken’s health remotely, even if you’re on the other end of the world. The door can be scheduled to open and close as per your chickens’ habits.

Why is it noteworthy?

The coop can accommodate six chickens, which is enough to sustain a small family. The coop is also weather-resistant, and durable enough to handle the elements. The freshly laid eggs can be collected via a secure hatch without disturbing the chickens within.

What we like

• The aesthetics haven’t been ignored, the various elements feature contrasting coral hues

What we dislike

• You need a suitable backyard to accommodate the coop, cant be placed in all yards

6. Dufour

This wooden tiny home called Dufour transports you to a world of luxury, comfort, and elegance. It is built by German tiny house creator Berghaus, and the wooden cabin provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern luxury.

Why is it noteworthy?

The tiny home is packed with modern-day luxuries, and it is equipped with two loft bedrooms each with a staircase of its own from the main floor. It measures around 26 feet in length, which makes it much larger than most tiny homes.

What we like

• It can be used as a family home or a comfy vacation rental
• It is topped with solar panels

What we dislike

• It lacks a terrace (expandable or fixed) that can provide a viewing space when in transit

7. Bello! Bench

Called the Bello! bench, this sturdy little outdoor bench is designed by aluminum producer Hydro, and it is inspired by pasta, or more specifically – penne rigate! The unique-looking pasta-inspired bench would make an excellent addition to your yard, for those somber spring evenings when you want to get some fresh air inside your system.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Bello! bench is a versatile piece of furniture that is inspired by the shape, form, and design of pasta. You can use it both indoors and outdoors, and it has been crafted from ninety percent recycled and one hundred percent recyclable aluminum.

What we like

• Inspired by penne rigate, which influences its ridged and textured surface
• Customizable piece that can be modified to integrate lamps, tables, or charger

What we dislike

• The shape of the bench is unlike the typical ergonomic benches we sit on, so it could have a slipping sensation, and be uncomfy to sit on for longer durations

8. The +Base Modular Grill

The All-in-One Grill is ideal for your yard during the spring season. It can support almost any kind of cooking – from frying to smoking, stewing, grilling, or evening keeping some wine warm. This unique and innovative griller is a great fit for your backyard, garden or porch. You can cook up some of the veggies you’ve grown in your garden!

Click Here to Buy Now: $449

Why is it noteworthy?

The All-In-One Grill is designed by a small family-owned Japanese factory, and it is carefully designed to maximize the limited amount of space available. The wooden base protects the table from the grill’s hot bottom, which also functions as a lid when the griller has to be stowed away.

What we like

• The modular griller lets you cook in seven different ways
• It simplifies outdoor cooking, allowing you to cook up meals in your yard

What we dislike

• Hardcore grillers may not like the design or prefer it

9. Panama Banana

Called the Panama Banana, this hammock is the perfect piece of furniture for your yard. It is inspired by tropical elements like the shape of a surfboard and is inspired by the curvature of a banana. It has a tranquil and chill vibe to it, which makes it an excellent addition to your garden or backyard.

Why is it noteworthy?

It’s as comfortable as a hammock or sun chair, but rocks to and fro like a rocking chair, giving you an experience that’s sure to steal your entire afternoon and some more.

What we like

• The hammock is coated with a water-resistant wax, and it is perfect for outdoor use or indoor use with an outdoor view

What we dislike

• There is no option or scope for personal customization

10. Böste Lounge Chair

The Böste Lounge Chair is designed by the Swedish furniture company Skargaarden, and it is a minimal and well-designed sturdy lounge chair for your yard. It is designed to weather over time, adding a wonderful patina to the chair, and giving it a different visual with time.

Why is it noteworthy?

The chair is named after the designer’s hometown in Southern Sweden and draws inspiration from the classic Westport Chair. It is a Scandinavian version of the Westport chair, and it has quite a unique form, as the back and the seat coincide at an interesting angel, which calls users in to sit down comfortably in a gently reclined position.

What we like

• Features a separate footrest, that lets you sleep comfortably
• Built from sustainably sourced teak

What we dislike

• Aesthetically similar to other outdoor chairs on the market, they could have worked upon the looks

The post The 10 Best Designs You Need In Your Yard Or Garden To Gear Up For Spring 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Portable speakers come in all types, sizes and themes but never before have I laid my eyes on one that looks like a front-loading washing machine. Only possible in the concept design world realm, this Bose branded portable speaker concept is a true conversation starter in any geeky den.

The intriguing design of this compact sound blaster tickles my fancy for its ingenuity in the placement of the different elements. Most definitely, you’ll start to see all those front-loading washing machines as a huge speaker once you lay your eyes on this concept. However, in reality, all the button placements and speaker components are designed in a way that they seem like the perfect amalgam of portable audio equipment and a miniature washer for your undergarments.

Designer: Hari 3D

Although there is no detailed information about this concept’s development stage, there’s a picture at the end suggesting a prototype or a display model is indeed crafted by the designer. Dressed in a cool titanium grey finish, the portable speaker is a treat to watch if you are an audiophile who appreciates modern product design. The front of this cool gadget has all the audio telemetry to show the player controls on the touchscreen display along with the volume rocker knob, power button and play/pause buttons. On the left bottom side, there’s the Bass actualizer knob.

To the front lies the subwoofer and on each side are the stereo speakers to beam quality sound. Wireless connectivity should be a given on this one since no one in 2024 would buy a portable speaker without that option. Frankly speaking, this portable speaker concept would rock your desk setup as well. Folks over at Bose would also be keenly viewing this design language if they want to add something on these lines to their existing line-up.

Disclaimer: Please note that this concept design is not affiliated with the Bose brand in any manner and is solely intended for conceptualization purposes.

The post Concept Bose Sound Spin portable speaker is disguised as a miniature front-loading washing machine first appeared on Yanko Design.