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yào original packaging design reinterprets traditional chinese pantry aesthetics

Yào Original reinterprets traditional Chinese pantry aesthetics

 

Yào Original is a contemporary food brand that reinterprets the aesthetics of traditional Chinese pantry goods through minimal, tactile design. Created by designer Carla (Yu) Pan, the brand aims to preserve cultural authenticity while speaking to a new generation of global consumers. The visual identity centers on restraint and material honesty. Simple forms, balanced typography, and a limited color palette evoke the calm rhythm of home cooking. Each package is designed as a quiet container for daily rituals, one that respects the ingredients inside as much as the traditions they come from.

all images courtesy of Carla Pan

 

 

Tactile minimalism defines Yào Original packaging by Carla Pan

 

The packaging system uses natural paper textures, recyclable materials, and subtle embossing to create a sensory connection between product and user. Every detail, from grid layout to type weight, reflects a dialogue between precision and warmth. Yào Original’s concept by designer Carla (Yu) Pan emerged from an exploration of how culture can be distilled, not decorated. By reducing visual noise, the brand allows heritage and craftsmanship to speak for themselves, transforming ordinary pantry staples into design objects that carry memory and meaning.

Yào Original reimagines traditional Chinese pantry goods through contemporary design

the brand balances cultural heritage with modern minimalism

a restrained design language defines the brand’s visual identity

simple forms and balanced typography create visual calm

typography is chosen to balance modern clarity and traditional tone

created by designer Carla Pan, Yào Original connects tradition and global sensibility

Yào Original translates cultural memory into modern design language

 

project info:

 

name: Yào Original

designer: Carla Pan

 

 

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom

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Modern Buggy UH18 teardrop toy-hauler is of a different breed, but we kinda like that

We live in a universe of overland toy haulers positioned for a range of use cases. If you go camping with your mountain bike, you could go with the Next Adventure Trailer towed to the back of your vehicle. But if your trail is beyond the paved road, Bean Pod off-road teardrop gear hauler has a spacious interior and a rooftop sleeper you’d rejoice. For the third kind, Modern Buggy has just experimented with an odd shape and design, some may loathe the bulk, but I perse find it pretty interesting.

The pictured rig is the Modern Buggy UH18 that comes equipped with a heavy-duty roof rack, a convertible sleeping couch, and an entire truck bed of space for your cargo. Designed to haul your equipment on rugged terrains, the Ultimate Hauler 18 makes a comfortable living space on the front, which extends back into the open bed accessible from the outside. The off-road adventure trailer, therefore, is pretty different from what we have already seen through the years.

Designer: Modern Buggy

The UH18 toy hauler with an intriguing design is built on a dual axle chassis and features off-roading tires. The wheels are positioned right under the cargo bed, slightly behind the living module, for perfect balance. The entire setup has a nice 14-inch ground clearance to go where the tarmac stops and your journey leads you. No matter the terrain, this toy hauler promises to let you camp where your heart desires.

The living module on the front has a teardrop camper appearance. It is accessible from doors on either side, and has a cozy interior ideal for a couple. The company doesn’t mention the possible measurements onboard, but it does reveal that the interior features a convertible couch-bed on the front and a lot of overhead storage toward the rear.

Things become interesting on the outside: Both on the front and back of the living module are storage compartments that residents can use as per their convenience. The rear cargo bed measures 10.7 feet long and 5.9 feet wide and can carry a couple of motorcycles (side by side) or a quad bike, if you may. Just right outside the living module toward the cargo bed, the UH18 teardrop trailer has a pair of storage cabinets, which are (from the factory) built to house a fridge, but users can choose to put their own cooking gear here to create an outdoor kitchen for themselves.

The Modern Buggy UH18 (like its counterpart) is made from durable, steel-framed composite material. It features AC and a fan overhead in the living unit. On top of it is a roof rack that offers more space to haul your gear. This rooftop space can be easily traded for solar panels or a rooftop tent for an extended stay in the wilderness, or create more sleeping space for a family, when necessary.

 

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Samsung Galaxy XR: When Extended Reality Meets Everyday AI

XR technology has lived in the realm of tech demos and niche gaming setups for years. Samsung Galaxy XR aims to change that by answering a fundamental question: what happens when you build extended reality around AI that sees, hears, and responds like a companion rather than a tool? Launched today as the first device running Android XR with system-level Gemini integration, Galaxy XR represents Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm’s collaborative vision for making extended reality useful in daily life, not just impressive in controlled demonstrations.

Designer: Samsung

Why This Matters: AI That Understands Context

The defining characteristic of Galaxy XR is not its display resolution or field of view. It’s Gemini integrated at the system level from the start. This is not AI bolted onto an existing product. Galaxy XR sees what you see through its cameras, hears what you hear through its microphone array, and responds through voice, vision, and gesture in ways that feel conversational rather than transactional.

In practical terms, this means you can navigate Google Maps in immersive 3D while asking Gemini for personalized suggestions about nearby places. You can watch a YouTube video and naturally ask for more information about what you’re seeing, turning passive viewing into active learning. In pass-through mode, you can draw a circle with your hand around any physical object in front of you and instantly search for information about it through Circle to Search. These are not separate features. They’re examples of what happens when AI becomes the interface layer between you and extended reality.

What Makes Galaxy XR Different: The Platform Play

Galaxy XR runs on Android XR, a new platform co-developed by Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm. The significance here is ecosystem, not just hardware. All apps built on the Android platform work out of the box on Galaxy XR. This is not a closed garden requiring developers to rebuild everything from scratch. If you use YouTube, Google Photos, Google Maps, or any Android app today, those experiences transfer to Galaxy XR with XR-specific optimizations where it matters.

For developers, the platform is built on OpenXR standards. This means experiences created for OpenXR, WebXR, or Unity can be brought to Galaxy XR without major retooling. The result is a faster path to content availability, which has historically been the death sentence for new XR platforms. Samsung is betting that an open, scalable ecosystem solves the content problem that has plagued every XR device before it.

The Hardware That Enables Daily Use

Samsung engineered Galaxy XR around a human-centric design principle: comfort over extended sessions. The design philosophy centers on reducing barriers to extended wear, addressing the primary reason most XR headsets end up collecting dust after initial enthusiasm fades. Every component choice reflects this priority.

The headset uses an ergonomically balanced frame that distributes pressure across the forehead and back of the head, minimizing facial discomfort. This pressure distribution matters because traditional front-heavy designs create hot spots that become painful after 20 to 30 minutes. By moving the battery pack outside the headset structure entirely, Samsung achieved a more compact, lighter primary unit at 545g. The separate 302g battery pack can sit in a pocket or clip to clothing, removing weight from the head entirely while extending flexibility for replacement batteries during long sessions.

Material selection plays a role beyond weight reduction. The frame combines structural rigidity where it matters for optical alignment with cushioning at contact points. The detachable light shield demonstrates Samsung’s recognition that users switch between mixed reality and full immersion throughout a session. Removing the shield drops bulk and improves peripheral vision awareness for multitasking in physical spaces. Attaching it blocks external light for deeper immersion during media consumption or gaming. This modular approach lets users configure the device for specific use cases rather than compromising across all scenarios.

The display is a 4K Micro-OLED panel with 27 million pixels across a 109-degree horizontal and 100-degree vertical field of view, with a 6.3-micron pixel pitch that delivers exceptional clarity. Refresh rates run at 72Hz by default, with options for 60Hz or up to 90Hz upon request. The panel covers 95 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut, delivering color accuracy that matters for content creation and media consumption.

Galaxy XR achieves precise spatial awareness through a comprehensive sensor array. Two high-resolution pass-through cameras enable mixed reality experiences. Six world-facing tracking cameras monitor head position and movement. Four eye-tracking cameras enable gaze-based interaction. Five inertial measurement units, one depth sensor, and one flicker sensor complete the sensor suite, working together to create responsive, immersive experiences. The device also supports iris recognition for security, unlocking the headset and authenticating app passwords through biometric scanning.

Audio capabilities include a six-microphone array with beamforming technology that filters external noise and captures your voice clearly during calls or voice commands. The dual two-way speaker system (woofer and tweeter configuration) supports Dolby ATMOS for immersive spatial audio. For media enthusiasts, Galaxy XR handles UHD 8K video playback at 60fps with HDR10 and HLG support, along with a comprehensive codec library including H.265, VP9, and AV1.

Powering the experience is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon XR2+ Gen 2 platform with 16GB of memory and 256GB of storage. The Hexagon NPU handles advanced AI processing locally, enabling the multimodal interactions that define the device. Battery life sits at 2.5 hours for video playback and up to 2 hours for general use, which includes multitasking across YouTube, Chrome, and Google Meet with Avatar mode active. Actual battery life varies by network environment, features and apps used, and many other factors. Galaxy XR can be used while charging, extending session time when stationary. For users requiring vision correction, prescription lens inserts are available separately and can be fitted to accommodate individual needs.

Which Features Matter Most: The Consumer Lens

Three capabilities stand out for consumer relevance:

Spatial Computing for Productivity: Mobile workers and remote professionals benefit most from Galaxy XR’s ability to project multiple virtual screens in physical space. You can browse three websites in Chrome while watching a YouTube video and running a Google Meet call with your avatar standing in for you. This is not about replacing your laptop. It’s about creating workspace flexibility when traveling or working in spaces where multiple physical monitors are not practical. Frequent travelers gain the most utility here, transforming hotel rooms and coffee shops into productive multi-screen workstations.

Auto-Spatialization of Photos and Videos: Galaxy XR can convert your existing 2D photos and videos into 3D experiences. This brings personal memories to life with depth and dimensionality that flat screens cannot replicate. The quality and availability of spatialization varies based on the original media, but the feature transforms how you revisit captured moments. Families and memory keepers find particular value in reliving travel photos, family gatherings, and milestone events with added spatial dimension.

Immersive Entertainment Without Boundaries: Content creators and gamers stand to benefit most from Galaxy XR’s entertainment capabilities. The device creates a personal theater experience through its 4K Micro-OLED display. Sports fans can watch multiple games simultaneously, feeling as though they are in the stadium. Gamers can chat with Gemini for real-time coaching and tips while playing XR-specialized games. Adobe’s Project Pulsar enables cinematic video editing with 3D depth, layering captions or icons behind subjects on a canvas larger than any physical monitor. Video editors and digital artists gain workspace expansion without physical monitor investments.

Note that some features may require app downloads from Google Play Store and may require subscriptions or payments. App availability and features may vary by country and language.

The Enterprise Angle: Beyond Consumer Use

Samsung is not positioning Galaxy XR exclusively for consumers. The company partnered with Samsung Heavy Industries to utilize the device for virtual shipbuilding training, addressing work productivity and safety in heavy industry. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon Spaces technology provides developers with tools to bring enterprise applications to Android XR, enabling advanced training, co-design of solutions, and secure remote collaboration.

This dual focus on consumer and enterprise use cases reflects Samsung’s long-term XR roadmap, which includes multiple form factors beyond headsets. The company is developing AI glasses in collaboration with Google, partnering with Warby Parker for technology-forward eyewear and Gentle Monster for fashion-oriented designs. These devices will connect to the Android XR ecosystem, extending XR capabilities into daily wearables that blend advanced functionality with style and comfort. For everyday users, this means accessing XR features without the bulk of a headset. The glasses form factor enables on-the-go information access, navigation assistance, and smart notifications while maintaining the social acceptability and fashion-forward design that makes all-day wear practical.

The Bottom Line: A Platform Bet on Everyday XR

Galaxy XR is not trying to be the most powerful XR device on the market. It’s trying to be the most useful. The focus on multimodal AI, open ecosystem compatibility, and ergonomic design reflects Samsung’s belief that XR moves from concept to everyday reality only when it solves real problems in familiar contexts.

The device launches October 21 in the USA and October 22 in Korea. Pricing has not been announced. Success will depend on whether the Android XR ecosystem attracts enough developer support to create the content variety that makes daily use compelling. But the foundation is solid. Samsung, Google, and Qualcomm have built a platform that gives XR a legitimate shot at mainstream relevance.

The post Samsung Galaxy XR: When Extended Reality Meets Everyday AI first appeared on Yanko Design.

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masterpiece in motion rolls-royce phantom centenary private collection 100 years in making

rolls-royce debuts phantom centenary private collection

 

A moving manifestation of a century of design and engineering excellence, the Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary Private Collection is an ode to the nameplate’s 100th anniversary. The Phantom model has captivated the world’s most influential figures since its inception in 1925, spanning eight generations. The Private Collection edition, limited to just 25 examples, sees the marque’s team of bespoke designers, engineers, and craft artisans embark on a meticulous research journey, culminating in a master artwork that captures the identity and history of every generation of Phantom. Unveiled to designboom in an exclusive preview at Goodwood, the complete car is a bold statement that honors the past – particularly the 1926 Phantom of Love and 1930 Phantom II Continental – and highlights the principles that will guide the legendary nameplate into its next century.

the Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary Private Collection is an ode to the nameplate’s 100th anniversary

all images courtesy of Rolls-Royce

 

 

century of phantoms distilled through archives and craft

 

The Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective – a team of skilled designers, engineers, and artisans – immersed themselves in the Phantom’s legacy, meticulously studying its identity, pivotal figures, and defining events from the 1920s to the present day. This deep dive generated a master artwork including 77 hand-sketched motifs, which are now exquisitely woven into the marque‘s Phantom Centenary Private Collection. These influences tell the storied history of the Phantom, incorporating everything from pioneering woodcraft and laser-etched leather to couturier-designed textiles and sketch-like embroidery.

Super Champagne Crystal coating achieves a deep metallic shimmer through iridescent particles of crushed glass

 

 

black, white and gold exterior design

 

The exterior of the Phantom Centenary sparkles in the spotlight, evoking the golden age of Hollywood and the flowing silhouette of 1930 Phantom II Continental. A two-tone of Arctic White for the side body, and Black for the upper body is finished with the specially developed Super Champagne Crystal, which achieves a deep metallic shimmer through iridescent particles of crushed glass infused into the clear coat. Crowning its bonnet, a solid-cast 18-carat gold Spirit of Ecstasy bears a specially developed ‘Phantom Centenary’ hallmark. The ‘RR’ Badge of Honour is also presented in 24-carat gold and white enamel for the first time. Special disc wheels complete the exterior, each engraved with 25 lines, totaling 100 lines to celebrate the centenary.

special disc wheels complete the exterior, each engraved with 25 lines – one for each year of the centenary

 

 

interior design unfolds bespoke canvases

 

Inside, the driver and passengers are immersed in a century of Phantom stories that unfold across various canvases. Recalling the marque’s chauffeur years, the car returns to when the driver’s front seat was finished in durable leather while the rear cabin offered luxurious fabrics. The rear seats take inspiration from the 1926 Phantom of Love with its handwoven Aubusson tapestries. The seat artwork is a three-layered story: a high-resolution printed background of historical places, a second layer of finely drawn past Phantoms, and a third, uppermost layer of abstract embroidery representing seven significant owners. Specially adapted ink printing, 16,000 irregular-stitched embroidery, and laser-etched artwork combine to realize the most intricate seat composition ever created by Rolls-Royce.

a century of Phantom stories unfold across various canvases in the interior design

 

 

The Anthology Gallery, the cockpit’s centerpiece, sits in the fascia and dramatically frames the view from the windshield. It features 50 3D-printed, vertically brushed aluminium ‘fins’ interlaced like book pages. Each fin is sculpted with letters forming quotes drawn from a century of press acclaim, subtly lit by shifting illuminations.

the Anthology Gallery features 50 3D-printed, vertically brushed aluminium ‘fins’ that interlace like book pages

 

 

As another superlative, the Phantom Centenary Private Collection’s interior also showcases the most intricate woodwork ever created for a Rolls-Royce. Rendered in stained Blackwood, the door panels depict the nameplate’s most significant voyages: both Sir Henry Royce’s winter and summer residences, and the first Goodwood-era Phantom’s 4,500-mile cross-Australian journey. Each composition combines 3D multi-directional marquetry, laser etching, 3D ink layering, and gold-leafing to create dimension. The journey routes gleam in 24-carat gold leaf, painstakingly cut and placed, with the exact locations of Royce’s homes marked with a single 2.76 mm gold-leaf dot. The wooden surfaces are completed with etchings of the original 1925 Phantom I and the current Phantom VIII on the rear picnic tables.

wood etchings of the original 1925 Phantom I and the current Phantom VIII adorn the rear picnic tables

ink printing, 16,000 irregular-stitched embroidery, and laser-etched artwork realize Rolls-Royce’s most intricate seats

the driver’s front seat is finished in durable leather while the rear cabin offers luxurious fabrics

3D multi-directional marquetry and gold-leafing depict Phantom voyages on the stained Blackwood door panels

Starlight Headliner’s 440,000 stitches reference a photograph of Henry Royce under his garden’s mulberry tree

designboom editor Tim Spears previewed the Rolls-Royce Phantom Centenary Private Collection at Goodwood

a solid-cast 18-carat gold Spirit of Ecstasy bears a specially developed ‘Phantom Centenary’ hallmark

the ‘RR’ Badge of Honour is presented in 24-carat gold and white enamel for the first time

only 25 examples will be manufactured for the centenary celebration

 

 

project info:

 

brand: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars

model: Phantom Centenary Private Collection

examples: 25

year: 2025

The post masterpiece in motion rolls-royce phantom centenary private collection 100 years in making appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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MVRDV breaks ground on innovation park in germany, ‘the global home of human AI’

‘innovation park artificial intelligence’ now underway

 

Construction has begun on the MVRDV-designed campus of the Innovation Park Artificial Intelligence (IPAI) in Heilbronn, Germany. The Dutch practice designed the masterplan for the IPAI Konsortium, the 30-hectare development will accommodate over 5,000 researchers and students dedicated to advancing responsible AI technologies.

 

At the heart of MVRDV’s masterplan is a large circular form, defined by two offset axes that organize the site into distinct yet connected zones. The geometry establishes a sense of cohesion across the campus while maintaining openness to the surrounding landscape. Within this framework, MVRDV envisions a network of laboratories, housing, and a cultural building that bridges the scientific community with the public.

 

The first construction phase defines the campus core. Buildings extend from the western edge toward a central plaza anchored by the communications centre and restaurant. Around this public space, the architects have arranged key functions: a mobility hub, start-up and innovation centre, living lab, and a ten-story office building. Together they form a legible foundation for future expansion.

MVRDV designs the masterplan with a distinctive circular shape | visualizations © IPAI / MVRDV / Vivid

 

 

mvrdv’s Human-Centric space for ‘responsible AI’ research

 

Working in AI is very technical; people spend a lot of time tied to their screens,’ MVRDV founding partner Jacob van Rijs says, describing the spirit of the Innovation Park campus.We designed the IPAI CAMPUS as a counterweight to this, with a focus on wellbeing.’

 

This intent is evident in the site’s pedestrian character and extensive green landscape. Wind studies informed the arrangement of open spaces to create comfortable microclimates, encouraging outdoor work and recreation. Sports facilities, shaded paths, and tactile materials bring a rhythm of movement and rest uncommon in technology campuses.

 

Across the site, buildings incorporate organic surfaces and visible timber structures. The tactile quality of facades, together with breezy interiors flooded with sunlight, demonstrates MVRDV’s aims toward human-scale design within a tech-driven environment.

the mobility hub serves as a central hub for logistics and infrastructure | visualization © IPAI / MVRDV / Vivid

 

 

A Family of Buildings with Distinct Identities

 

Each structure within the Innovation Park reveals a specific spatial logic tied to its program. The cylindrical communication centre, clad in a reflective facade, will serve as the public heart of the campus with exhibition and seminar spaces. Across the plaza, a cream-colored restaurant is carved by orange recesses that form sheltered terraces for social gatherings. The mobility hub introduces visitors through a light-filled atrium, while the living lab opens outward with panoramic glazing that allows passersby a glimpse of ongoing experiments.

 

The start-up and innovation centre, defined by its bright red volume and pitched roof, invites informal collaborations around a central green courtyard. Nearby, the ten-story office building’s pleated facade integrates photovoltaics and creates a shifting play of light across its surface. Inside, double-height communal ‘living rooms’ punctuate the work floors, offering moments of pause and exchange.

the communication centre will serve as the public heart of the campus | visualization © IPAI / MVRDV / Vivid

 

 

Since winning the IPAI CAMPUS competition in 2023 (see designboom’s coverage here), MVRDV has refined the masterplan through close collaboration with the IPAI Konsortium. Sustainable principals have been embedded in each design decision through the use of MVRDV’s CarbonSpace tool, which quantifies the embodied carbon of materials and guides the selection of low-impact alternatives.

 

As a result, several of the campus buildings employ hybrid timber construction, including the start-up and innovation centre, the living lab, and the office building. Each aims for a reduced carbon footprint without sacrificing spatial ambition. The communications centre, start-up and innovation centre, and office building are all pursuing DGNB certification from the German Sustainable Building Council.

the mobility hub introduces visitors through a light-filled atrium | visualization © IPAI / MVRDV

a restaurant is carved by orange recesses that form sheltered terraces | visualization © IPAI / MVRDV / Vivid

the ten-story office building’s pleated facade integrates photovoltaics | visualization © IPAI / MVRDV

a start-up and innovation centre shows bright red volumes and pitched roofs | visualization © IPAI / MVRDV

inside, double-height communal ‘living rooms’ punctuate the work floors | visualization © IPAI / MVRDV

 

project info:

 

name: Innovation Park Artificial Intelligence (IPAI)

architect: MVRDV | @mvrdv

location: Heilbronn, Germany

client: IPAI Konsortium (State of Baden-Württemberg, the Dieter Schwarz Foundation, Schwarz Gruppe, the City of Heilbronn)

in collaboration with: LOLA Landscape Architects alongside Thornton Tomasetti, Studio
Animal-Aided Design, REALACE, Peutz Consult, and Gruner Deutschland

previous coverage: March 2023

The post MVRDV breaks ground on innovation park in germany, ‘the global home of human AI’ appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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When Rivals Become Allies: Atari’s Intellivision Revival

If you were a fully formed human in the 80s and you were into gaming, you lived through the fun rivalry between Mattel’s Intellivision and Atari’s…well, Atari. While eventually they were trumped by the Nintendo vs Sega wars later on, OG gamers knew the joy of playing games like Pong and Starship if you had an Atari and Tron and Utopia if you had Intellivision. The latter is now getting a revival through a surprising channel.

There’s something deliciously ironic about Atari resurrecting its old nemesis from the 1980s console wars. The Intellivision Sprint, launching December 5th for $150, represents one of the most interesting plot twists in gaming history: the rival who won gets to write the other’s comeback story.

Designer: Atari

For those who weren’t around during the First Console War (yes, that’s the actual name), Intellivision was Mattel’s answer to the Atari 2600 back in 1980. It wasn’t just another “me too” competitor. Intellivision genuinely brought something different to the table with superior graphics, more realistic sports games, and those wonderfully weird controllers with their numeric keypads and removable overlays. It was the console equivalent of the Pepsi Challenge, and plenty of gamers picked the other guy.

Fast forward to 2024, and Atari now owns the Intellivision brand. Rather than letting it collect dust in their IP vault, they’ve partnered with Plaion to give this classic system a proper 45th-anniversary celebration. And honestly, the design choices here show they’re doing more than just cashing in on nostalgia. The new Sprint keeps the iconic gold and black color scheme with that distinctive wood grain front panel. It’s unapologetically retro without looking like a cheap knockoff or an overwrought “reimagining.” This is important because retro console revivals can go either way. You either nail the authenticity or you end up with something that feels like a toy from a hotel gift shop.

What makes this release genuinely interesting isn’t just the hardware aesthetics. It’s what they’ve included. The Sprint comes loaded with 45 built-in games spanning sports, strategy, and arcade titles. You get classics like Astrosmash, Shark! Shark!, Star Strike, and Boulder Dash. The sports lineup includes Baseball, Soccer, Tennis, and Super Pro Football, showcasing what made Intellivision a legitimate competitor back in the day.

Here’s where Atari shows they understand what made the original special: they’re including those controller overlays. If you never used an Intellivision, those overlays were genius. They slipped over the numeric keypad to show you which buttons did what for each specific game. It was low-tech augmented reality, making complex games playable on a simple controller. The modern upgrades are thoughtful rather than excessive. Two wireless controllers replace the wired originals (thank goodness). There’s HDMI output for modern TVs and a USB-A port for library expansion, suggesting more games might be coming down the line. They’ve modernized the experience without losing the plot.

From a design perspective, this hits that sweet spot between preservation and progress. The team hasn’t tried to make the Intellivision “cool” or “edgy.” They’re letting the original design language speak for itself while adding just enough contemporary functionality to make it actually usable in 2025.

What’s particularly fascinating is the cultural moment this represents. We’re in an era where gaming history is being actively preserved and repackaged by the very companies who created it. Atari could have let Intellivision fade away. Instead, they’re positioning themselves as “caretakers” of gaming heritage, as VP Matt Burnett put it. That’s a much more interesting role than just being a retro gaming company churning out nostalgia products.

Is this for everyone? Probably not. But for design enthusiasts who appreciate thoughtful product revival, tech heads interested in gaming history, or anyone curious about what the console wars looked like before PlayStation and Xbox, the Intellivision Sprint is genuinely intriguing. It’s a tangible piece of pop culture archaeology that you can actually play. Sometimes the best design isn’t about reinvention. Sometimes it’s about knowing exactly what to keep and what to carefully update. Atari seems to have figured that out with this one.

The post When Rivals Become Allies: Atari’s Intellivision Revival first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Vivo X300 Pro Review: A Camera Powerhouse with Battery Concerns

PROS:


Outstanding camera system with Zeiss collaboration

Optional photographer kit extends camera experience

Bright LTPO AMOLED display

CONS:


Underwhelming battery performance

Shorter software support compared to some other flagships

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR’S QUOTE:

Using the Vivo X300 Pro feels a bit like carrying a professional toolkit in your pocket, ready for anything from spontaneous street scenes to carefully composed portraits.

Vivo launched the X300 Pro and X300 in Shanghai and invited us to experience the new devices firsthand. This opportunity sets the stage for a hands-on review that moves beyond the spec sheet and dives into real-world performance. From the first moments with the device, it was clear that Vivo aims to set a new standard for flagship camera phones.

Vivo has built a reputation for crafting standout camera phones, and my experiences with both the globally available X100 Pro and the X200 Pro proved just how capable their devices can be. Impressive zoom features, tasteful color science, and reliable performance in all kinds of lighting made those models favorites of mine. My anticipation for the X300 Pro was high, especially with Vivo positioning this brand-new series for a global audience and promising new levels of innovation.

Designer: Vivo

There is even more for photographers and enthusiasts to look forward to with this release. The coveted photographer kit, a bundle of specialized accessories including a telephoto extender (more on this later), was previously exclusive to the X200 Ultra. Now, it is available for both the X300 Pro and the X300, although the kit for the X300 remains limited to China. We put the X300 Pro through its paces and found that almost every aspect impressed. However, the battery left room for improvement. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the X300 Pro a compelling, though not flawless, flagship experience.

Aesthetics

While many competitors are shifting design languages for their new flagship phones, Vivo has taken a different approach by refining its established aesthetic. The X300 Pro keeps the signature large round camera module, but the ring encircling it is now much narrower and more discreet than before. With the frosted glass back panel in the muted brown variant I have on hand, the phone exudes a sense of quiet sophistication.

The prominent camera module sits at the top center, with the LED flash positioned just to its upper right. The ring surrounding the cameras features fine lines reminiscent of a classic focus ring, and a delicate, shiny copper accent at its base. These subtle details combine to give the device a premium, thoughtfully crafted feel. The camera module houses a triple camera setup along with a dummy placement, all arranged symmetrically with the Zeiss logo at the center, adding to the balanced look.

Vivo offers four color options: white, black, brown, and blue. Each color is soft and nuanced, with a frosted glass finish that adds a touch of elegance to every variant. The cohesive design across the color palette ensures the X300 Pro looks refined no matter which shade you choose. Every detail, from the texture to the camera ring, contributes to a unified and premium impression.

Ergonomics

Despite its premium look and large display, the Vivo X300 Pro manages to feel well-balanced in the hand. Measuring 161.98 millimeters tall, 75.48 millimeters wide, and just 7.99 millimeters thick, it strikes a satisfying balance between presence and comfort. The weight is substantial at 226 grams, giving the phone a solid, reassuring feel without tipping into unwieldy territory.

Both the screen and the aluminum alloy frame are completely flat, creating a modern, minimalist profile that feels crisp and purposeful. The flat edges of the frame give your grip a sense of stability, while the frosted glass back remains smooth and resists fingerprints. Thoughtfully rounded corners soften the look and prevent discomfort during long periods of use, making it easy to enjoy photography or media without distraction.

Button placement is mostly intuitive and easy to reach, although the new customizable Shortcut Button sits high on the left side, which makes it difficult to access comfortably with one hand. On the other hand, the fingerprint scanner is positioned at about one-third up from the bottom of the screen, making unlocking and using the phone smooth and natural. The phone’s overall construction and proportions make it a pleasure to hold, blending substantial build quality with practical everyday usability.

Performance

Camera performance

The Vivo X300 Pro is a true all-rounder, but its camera system easily steals the spotlight. On the back, you will find a main camera with a 24mm equivalent focal length and Sony’s latest 1/1.28-inch LYT-828 sensor, paired with an f/1.57 aperture and gimbal-grade stabilization. Zoom enthusiasts will appreciate the 85mm equivalent 200MP telephoto camera, which uses a large, customized 1/1.4-inch Samsung HPB sensor paired with a Zeiss APO lens and an f/2.67 aperture. The 50MP ultra-wide camera completes the rear setup, featuring a 1/2.76-inch JN1 sensor and an f/2.0 aperture. The front-facing camera uses the same JN1 sensor, so selfies and video calls maintain a high level of detail and color consistency.

Main, 1x

Ultra-wide

However, the impressive hardware is only part of the story. The addition of Vivo’s V3+ imaging chips and Zeiss’s signature tuning brings extra depth and character to every photo, making images from the X300 Pro uniquely vibrant and balanced. The results you get from the X300 Pro camera system are nothing short of remarkable, whether you’re shooting in bright daylight, capturing intricate macros, or zooming in on distant subjects. Even low-light scenes come alive with clarity and rich detail.

Telephoto, 10x

Portrait, Macro

All cameras produce images with consistent, true-to-life color and excellent dynamic range. Shadows and highlights remain balanced, delivering deep blacks, well-preserved highlights, and realistic tones. Zoom capabilities are especially impressive, with the 200MP telephoto camera capturing distant subjects with precision and confidence. Whether you are photographing architectural details from across the street or wildlife at a distance, the telephoto lens keeps images sharp and vibrant. 

Photographer Kit

For those ready to take mobile photography further, the photographer kit is a thoughtful collection of accessories designed for maximum creative flexibility. The kit includes a PGYTECH phone case with a built-in kickstand, an external grip with a 2300mAh battery, a lens attachment, a 2.35x telephoto extender, a 52mm filter adapter ring, and a convenient strap. Every piece feels purpose-built to turn the X300 Pro into a genuine tool for serious creators.

After attaching the telephoto extender, you simply tap a small icon on the camera UI to switch into telephoto extender mode. Vivo has mentioned that this step will become even more seamless in the future, thanks to embedded NFC for automatic detection. The images captured with the telephoto extender are excellent across a range of lighting conditions, showing off the power of the camera system. Occasionally, at higher magnifications, you might notice that skin appears more processed, giving it an oil paint-like texture, but this is only an issue when zooming in very close. Overall, the kit delivers new creative opportunities and strengthens the X300 Pro’s appeal to anyone passionate about mobile photography.

Shot with Telephoto Extender

Shot with Telephoto Extender

Shot with Telephoto Extender

Creative shooting modes and features

There is so much you can do with the X300 Pro’s camera system. If you have plenty of light and do not mind larger file sizes, the 50MP mode on the main camera and 200MP mode for the telephoto deliver incredibly sharp, detailed photos. In low-light or backlit situations, the flash stands out, especially for portraits, illuminating faces naturally and preserving skin tones without washing out the details.

Shot with Telephoto Extender

Shot with Telephoto Extender

Vivo continues to offer a rich variety of creative styles like Zeiss, Vivid, and Texture, and has expanded the options on the X300 Pro’s camera UI. New choices such as B&W, Classic Negative, Positive Film, Clear Blue, and more are now available right at your fingertips. According to Keshav Chug, a product manager at Vivo, applying these styles in-camera creates better results than using filters after the shot. You will also find a combined Landscape and Night mode, with long exposure now tucked into this feature. AI visual effects let you change your scene to different times of day, regions like snow town or desert, seasons, or even add creative touches such as fireworks.

Humanistic

Among all these creative options, I still find myself drawn to the “Humanistic” mode, which has been a favorite on previous Vivo devices. Designed for street photography, this mode captures candid moments with stylistic color and atmosphere, giving ordinary scenes a documentary feel. With so many tools and effects, it can feel a little overwhelming at first. Even after a week of use, I still feel like I am discovering new features. The good news is that even if you are just starting, the X300 Pro makes it easy to capture great images right out of the box.

Video performance

The video performance of the X300 Pro is just as impressive as its photography features. The phone supports up to 8K video recording at 30 FPS with the main camera, while all cameras can record up to 4K at 60 FPS. For those seeking more creative control, the main and telephoto cameras offer Log recording up to 4K at 120 FPS, and the ultra-wide camera supports Log at up to 4K 60 FPS. Transitions between cameras while filming are smooth and seamless, making it easy to switch perspectives in real time, though Log recording is limited to a single camera during capture.

Flash, No Flash

Vivo’s stabilization system, with gimbal-grade hardware in the main camera, keeps handheld video steady and visually appealing, even when you are on the move. The Zeiss partnership brings excellent color science and dynamic range to video, so your clips look natural and vibrant straight from the camera. Audio quality is also impressive, with clear, balanced sound thanks to intelligent noise reduction and multiple microphones.

Everyday experience and software

Inside the X300 Pro, you will find the powerful MediaTek Dimensity 9500 chipset. This flagship processor is built on an advanced 3nm process, delivering fast, efficient performance for everything from gaming to multitasking. Paired with up to 16GB of RAM, the phone handles demanding apps and smooth transitions with ease, so you can work, play, and create without any slowdowns.

Running the show is OriginOS 6, layered over Android 16. In the past, Vivo’s global devices used Funtouch OS while OriginOS was reserved for the Chinese market. With the X300 Pro, Vivo has unified the user experience, so everyone now gets OriginOS 6, no matter where they are.

The interface feels modern and intuitive, featuring a design that is clearly inspired by iOS with its smooth visuals and organized layout. There are thoughtful touches and plenty of options for customization, allowing you to make the phone feel truly your own. Vivo promises up to four years of major Android upgrades, so the X300 Pro is ready to stay current and secure over time. Smart features throughout the system make daily tasks easier and let you personalize your experience to match your style.

Display Experience

Vivo equips the X300 Pro with a 6.78-inch, completely flat LTPO AMOLED screen. Its sharp 1260 by 2800 pixel resolution and adaptive 120Hz refresh rate deliver smooth visuals in every scenario. Even in bright sunlight, the screen’s peak brightness of up to 4500 nits ensures everything stays clear and vivid.

Whether you are watching movies, editing photos, or scrolling through your social feeds, colors appear vibrant and details remain crisp. Support for HDR10+ and advanced color technology adds depth and realism to every image. This display makes daily tasks and entertainment feel immersive from the moment you turn it on.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery capacity depends on the region. The Chinese version of the X300 Pro features a 6,510mAh battery, while the global version comes with a 5,440mAh battery. Both versions should, in theory, provide enough power for a full day’s use. However, in my testing with heavy camera usage, the X300 Pro struggled to last even half a day.

It is important to note that the software on my device was not the final production version. There is hope that Vivo will improve battery efficiency before the official release, which is especially important for anyone who enjoys long shooting sessions. Reliable battery life will be crucial for creative users who rely on their phone throughout the day.

When it is time to recharge, the X300 Pro supports 90W wired charging and 40W wireless charging. These fast-charging options make it easy to get back to your day without long waits. While quick charging helps offset battery drain, consistent all-day endurance will be essential for the X300 Pro to truly stand out among power users and photographers.

Sustainability/Repairability

While Vivo’s primary focus is clearly on innovation and camera technology, sustainability does not seem to be at the forefront of the X300 Pro’s design philosophy. The phone is built to last, boasting both IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance. This level of protection means the X300 Pro can handle accidental spills, splashes, and even brief submersion, adding durability that helps extend its lifespan in everyday use.

On the software side, Vivo offers four years of major OS updates and four years of security updates for the X300 Pro. This level of support goes a long way toward keeping your device current and protected, though it does fall behind some competitors that now offer even longer update cycles. For users who tend to keep their phones for several years, this is an important consideration. Even so, the combination of sturdy construction and a reasonable update policy makes the X300 Pro a strong choice for anyone seeking a device built to endure regular use over time.

Value

Vivo officially announced the global launch of the X300 Pro, alongside the X300, on October 30. In China, the X300 Pro starts at 5,299 yuan (about $740 USD) for a 12GB/256GB configuration.  (about $820 USD), while the 16GB/1TB satellite communication bundled with the photographer kit costs 8,299 yuan (about $1,170 USD). This aggressive pricing makes the X300 Pro especially attractive in its home market, considering its advanced camera system, vibrant display, and premium build.

Pricing for regions outside China has yet to be revealed. Since brands often use more aggressive pricing strategies domestically, it is likely that the X300 Pro and its accessories will cost more in other markets. Even so, the strong set of features and creative tools make this phone a compelling option for anyone who values top-tier photography and everyday reliability in a flagship.

Verdict

Vivo’s X300 Pro feels purpose-built for anyone who values creativity and design. Thanks to the collaboration with Zeiss, the camera system truly stands out, offering a suite of features and color science that make every shot feel intentional and polished. Using this phone feels a bit like carrying a professional toolkit in your pocket, ready for anything from spontaneous street scenes to carefully composed portraits.

Of course, there are trade-offs to keep in mind. Battery life under heavy camera use could be better, and while software support is solid, it does not quite match the leaders in the field. Still, for those who want their phone to be as creative as they are, the X300 Pro delivers a uniquely flexible and inspiring experience.

The post Vivo X300 Pro Review: A Camera Powerhouse with Battery Concerns first appeared on Yanko Design.

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india mahdavi and we are ona on unveiling their rose-draped speakeasy for art basel paris

india mahdavi and we are ona present rose, c’est la vie

 

Hidden behind an unmarked door in Paris’ 7th arrondissement, ‘Rose, c’est la vie’ is an unexpected sanctuary of softness amid the intensity of Art Basel Paris 2025, conceived by architect and designer India Mahdavi in collaboration with Luca Pronzato, founder of We Are Ona, and Mexican chef Jesús Durón. The week-long pop-up is set inside a former car repair shop, turned into a radical speakeasy of texture, warmth, and color, where every surface is swathed in a floral pink textile inspired by the Rose d’Ispahan. The project reimagines hospitality as an act of emotion, what Mahdavi calls ‘the seriousness of happiness.’

 

On the occasion of the event, designboom speaks with Mahdavi and Pronzato about the origins of their collaboration and the making of this multisensory dining experience.We’re in a world that is quite aggressive right now,’ Mahdavi tells us. ‘The past is past and the future — we don’t know. My work is always about creating memories, creating an ephemeral moment of happiness that you can take away with you.’

images by Laurent Giannesini, unless stated otherwise

 

 

 a speakeasy of softness at art basel paris

 

The collaboration, Pronzato explains, grew out of a long-standing admiration for Mahdavi’s work. ‘At We Are Ona, we create culinary experiences where we like to invite not only guest chefs but also creatives, designers, artists, and architects to think in their own way about the culinary experience,’ the founder of the nomadic dining collective shares with designboom. ‘I’ve always dreamed of working with India, and I’m super happy today to celebrate her work and let our guests experience an India Mahdavi pop-up.’

 

What began as conversations between Paris and Mexico evolved into the idea of an ‘ultra-feminine, feminist speakeasy.’ For Mahdavi, this was a conscious departure from We Are Ona’s earlier projects, which she observed had been led mainly by men. ‘I thought I had to make a rupture,’ the Paris-based architect and designer notes. ‘A continuity within the quality, of course, but a rupture with the aesthetics that were being brutalist, minimalist, etc. I wanted it to be immersive — the experience has to start from the street. Where are you going? How do you enter? Having a bit of a surprise.’ 

 

That sense of discovery guided the search for the venue. After reviewing several options, the team settled on an old carrosserie, a former car workshop, where the rough industrial shell could contrast with Mahdavi’s delicate transformation, as her design wraps the entire interior in a bespoke textile inspired by the Rose d’Ispahan, a small and fragrant Persian flower often used in decorative arts. Find our full conversation with Luca Pronzato of We Are Ona and India Mahdavi below.

‘Rose, c’est la vie’ is an unexpected sanctuary of softness amid the intensity

 

 

in conversation with India Mahdavi and Luca Pronzato

 

designboom (DB): How did the idea for this collaboration come about? When did you start talking about it?

 

Luca Pronzato (LP): At We Are Ona, we create culinary experiences where we like to invite not only guest chefs but also creatives, designers, artists, and architects to think in their own way about the culinary experience. We are a culinary experience. And I’ve always been dreaming to work with India Mahdavi. I mean, I’ve been a big fan of India’s work for a really long time. We’ve been talking about it for a long time, and I’m super happy today to celebrate India’s work and to let the We Are Ona guests experience India’s Mahdavi pop-up.

the week-long pop-up is set inside a former car repair shop

 

 

DB: Was the location something that We Are Ona decided first and then invited India, or did you discuss it together?

 

LP: What I love in this creative process is the conversation that we have along the way with India. It’s pretty much carte blanche at We Are Ona. Of course, we still need to build a functional restaurant for a week, but I remember India talking to me about this idea of creating a super feminine speakeasy, where you can push a door in Paris and arrive in India’s world.

 

India Mahdavi (IM): My first reaction was to notice that We Are Ona has worked with a lot of men and fewer women. I thought I had to really make sort of a rupture, a continuity within the quality, of course, but sort of a rupture with the aesthetics that were being sort of brutalist, minimalist, etc. I wanted it to be a very immersive experience. And the experience has to start from the street. So, where are you going? How do you enter? Having a bit of a surprise element.

 

I started working with this idea of a fabric on the theme of the rose, which was inspired by the rose of Isfahan, a city in Iran. It’s a very small rose that’s beautiful and that has the most incredible perfume. It’s used a lot in Iran on plates and decorative arts. I just took it to a different scale and it turned into this kind of shimmery, feminine world. I say feminine because there’s something very radical in that, which is usually considered strong in a way. But I felt like maybe in this environment of the art fair, it would be nice to also have this feeling of being embraced by your grandmother, in a way. So, it was me responding not only to We Are Ona, but to the event in Paris, and also to my own aesthetics. What’s interesting about this experience is that you’re kind of free to work with your imagination and what you want to say.

 

Then when I had this idea and showed it to Luca, he said, ‘I love it.’ I said, ‘We have to find a place where we can have this element of surprise.’ So, it really feels like a speakeasy. We found an old garage. Luca and his team proposed maybe five to ten spaces, and we saw which one could work and what sequences we could create around them, and then chose the one that worked best.

the industrial shell contrasts with Mahdavi’s delicate transformation

 

 

DB: You wanted to create a contrast between something typically seen as masculine, like a car workshop, and a much softer, more delicate atmosphere?

 

IM: It’s a carrosserie, so it’s where you work on the metalwork of cars. It’s an old carrosserie that had been transformed into sort of an office space, but you still have this roughness of the industrial feel of the building. The way you enter will be the surprise. But in any case, it’s a contrast, having this space, which is kind of rough, completely covered in one pattern.

Mahdavi’s design wraps the entire interior in a bespoke textile inspired by the Rose d’Ispahan

 

 

DB: Could you elaborate on the design concept, especially the all-over textile treatment, and how it contributes to the tactile and immersive quality of the space?

 

IM: The fabric gives you a very special feel. First of all, it’s a big space, and you want to absorb all the sound, so there’s an idea of comfort, of course. But I’ve always been interested in designing patterns for fabrics or wallpapers, and that’s part of my language. I use ornament a lot in my work because I think that it’s a way of really giving some kind of new identity to a space that we’re modifying. It’s an efficient and beautiful way of doing that.

 

At that moment, I was also designing a line of fabrics for this French company called Pierre Frey. So, we used that as a base, we took this fabric, scaled it right, and worked with them to produce it. It’s based on the rose. It’s very fresh, very familiar, because we’ve all seen homes covered with floral patterns, and I’m just taking it to a different level, making it a bit radical. I say it’s an ode to soft power, because soft power is something subtle that does exist, but when you have it all over, it becomes very powerful.

the space becomes a tactile cocoon

 

DB: Luca, how do the dining elements and overall experience dialogue with India’s design?

 

LP: It’s a total. Everything was settled with India, from the main architecture to the table design, tablecloths, plates, glasses, cutlery, and the aprons of the staff, even adding some surprises around the idea of the rose.

 

We also created a conversation with Jesús Durán, an amazing chef from Mexico that I really love. I think this will really add a lot to the experience. He’s one of the most incredible emerging talents — he used to work at Pujol, and we worked on some projects in Mexico with India. So there’s a nice link there.

guests share a communal table

 

 

DB: The way you describe this experience, it sounds like you’re focusing on positive elements — softness, happiness, warmth, and coziness. Why was it important to highlight these in this project?

 

IM: You know, we’re in a world that is quite aggressive right now. We’re surrounded by a future we don’t know. So I think that’s what it is, it’s about the present moment, the past is past and the future we don’t know. My work is always about creating memories, creating an ephemeral moment of happiness that you can take away with you. The idea of the experience is really important — we see so many images on social media that we don’t know what’s real anymore. The only way to know if something is real or not is to live it, to experience it yourself. So I think this multisensorial experience is super important. It’s also about togetherness, because with this dining experience you’ll be sitting maybe next to somebody you don’t know, since it’s communal tables. You’ll share the same experience, which will engage conversations and encounters. All these people coming are interested in experience, in design, in food. It’s all about that.

 

LP: I totally agree with India. The point on human experiences is so important because all these details have been designed to put the guests into a full culinary experience. That’s something we’re really proud of at We Are Ona, creating this togetherness.

Durón’s menu interacts with Mahdavi’s sensory landscape

 

 

project info:

 

name: Rose, c’est la vie, We Are Ona x India Mahdavi

artist: We Are Ona@we.are.ona

designer: India Mahdavi | @indiamahdavi 

location: Paris, France (7th arrondissement)

 

chef: Jesús Durón

occasion: Art Basel Paris 2025

The post india mahdavi and we are ona on unveiling their rose-draped speakeasy for art basel paris appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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Hardware is the New Salt: AI, Trust, and the New Era of Product Development

Editor’s Note: This essay is part of a new series exploring how AI is transforming the way physical products are imagined, designed, and built. Hardware is the New Salt will spotlight several thinkers and makers at the intersection of AI and product design and their insights into this dynamic technology ecosystem. This series is supported by Enzzo, who offers an AI-first product development platform created to support the next generation of builders.

As a product development executive, leader in hardware innovation, and consultant for startups and scale-ups, and currently Vice President of Product Development at Polaroid, I spend my days thinking about how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we design, build, and think about hardware.

The AI gold rush isn’t hypothetical. It’s here. And like many leaders in hardware and connected product design, I’m experiencing a tension: excitement over a transformative new tool and concern about its rapid integration into workflows, often without structure, oversight, or even visibility.

Across our global teams, engineers are quietly experimenting with AI in their daily tasks. They’re not hiding it, they’re just doing what good engineers do: testing the tools at their disposal. But silent adoption creates challenges. When teams work independently, the organization loses the ability to learn together, missing chances to develop coherent strategies for integrating and governing AI tools effectively.

Because in the end, successful integration hinges on trust.

This isn’t the first wave of technological change in hardware design. We’ve previously experienced major shifts with the introduction of sophisticated computer-aided engineering tools, especially advanced multiphysics simulations like thermal analysis, fluid dynamics, and structural simulations. Initially, these simulation tools weren’t immediately trusted or widely adopted. Engineers approached them cautiously, validating outputs carefully, and learning the boundaries of their reliability while improving their accuracy.

AI differs not just in scale but in speed and accessibility. Previous tools were introduced methodically and top-down, carefully tested by R&D before wider implementation. AI, however, emerged bottom-up, rapidly adopted by anyone with internet access and a laptop. This democratization is powerful, but it also comes with risks.

Moving Faster, But With Intention

When engineers across disciplines (mechanical, electrical, firmware, product management, etc.) integrate AI independently, creativity and efficiency can flourish. Tasks can accelerate, concepts refine rapidly, and more ideas can be tested and improved.

However, acceleration without clear direction increases risks. Teams equipped with powerful tools but lacking shared guidelines might move faster, but potentially in the wrong direction. While AI can shorten development cycles dramatically, without careful application, it also increases the likelihood of costly missteps.

Faster development alone isn’t the goal. Simply launching more products quickly isn’t enough. What truly matters is improving the quality and impact of the products we create. AI’s greatest value isn’t just speed, it’s the ability to rapidly iterate, test, and refine ideas, leading us not just to more products, but significantly better ones.

The most important factor in making AI work isn’t speed, it’s intentionality.

Critical Thinking in the Era of AI

AI doesn’t replace critical thinking, it demands more of it. Historically, we’ve built trust in simulation tools through structured validation, learning their strengths, and clearly understanding their limitations. We taught engineers to critically evaluate simulation results, knowing these tools were helpful guides, not absolute truths.

Today, however, many treat AI outputs like definitive answers without enough skepticism. AI provides highly confident answers, but confidence doesn’t equate to correctness. With traditional research and learning, sources are transparent and easily verified. With AI-generated content, the reasoning and sourcing behind answers remain opaque, making verification significantly harder.

To make AI a trusted partner, we must develop frameworks and practices that reinforce critical thinking, encourage scrutiny, and support thoughtful decision-making. Trust in AI isn’t earned through casual use; it must be systematically verified, continuously challenged and improved over time.

Navigating the Path Forward

AI is still maturing, quickly and unpredictably. Attempting to immediately standardize AI governance could quickly become outdated. Instead, a layered approach makes sense: beginning with internal policies, sharing best practices widely, and eventually converging on industry-wide frameworks as the technology stabilizes.

My approach to AI is careful but optimistic. I use AI actively but always deliberately, like operating a powerful new machine whose limits aren’t fully understood. I encourage my teams to deeply engage with AI, question results thoughtfully, and develop strong critical thinking habits around the technology.

The future of AI depends heavily on the people who use it, not casually or passively, but intentionally and thoughtfully. As leaders, we must champion transparency, encourage disciplined experimentation, and equip our teams with the tools and mindset to think critically alongside AI.

We stand at a crossroads. AI can help us become more innovative or more careless. It can amplify excellence or accelerate mistakes. It’s up to us to guide AI thoughtfully and intentionally, ensuring we build a future that reflects the best of our human capabilities, enhanced, not replaced, by technology.

About the author:
Maarten van der Heide is a seasoned product leader with 20+ years of experience driving hardware and software R&D across consumer tech, mobility, and imaging. With a background in physics and early work in advanced research labs, he now leads Product Development at Polaroid and advises startups through MomentumLabs Consulting. He’s also a Fellow at Conduit Labs, exploring where sustainability meets tech. Maarten’s focus: building amazing products, high impact teams, and scaling organizations and processes for success.

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A Measuring Cup that Squeegees Itself Clean

This UpCup is an interesting kitchen gadget design by Australian kitchen goods brand Dreamfarm. Aimed at the anal retentive cooking set—those who want to get every last drop—it’s a measuring cup that can scrape itself clean, completely evacuating its contents. Think honey, peanut butter, batter, et cetera.

The plunging squeegee mechanism can then be popped out, and the entire thing can be thrown in the dishwasher.

It works with dry goods too, of course.

As you can see by the gradations on the handle, in the image above, it locks to pre-set volumes (1 cup, 1/2 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/4 cup, 0 for scraping) though I can’t tell if that would make filling easier or harder; I don’t trust myself to fill right up to the brim without spilling any.

Locking at 0 is clever, though—it allows you to scrape off stuff that tends to cling.

The UpCup is made from BPA-free Tritan and runs $17.50.

See Also:

Objects that let you get the last drop of toothpaste out of the tube