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Apple’s M5 MacBook Pro Just Leaked Through FCC Filings, But There’s a Slight Delay

Apple’s playing coy again, but the FCC just handed us a breadcrumb trail that leads straight to the M5 MacBook Pro. While Tim Cook’s team stays radio silent on official announcements, regulatory filings have surfaced with model number A3434, a designation that doesn’t match any existing Apple laptop in their current lineup. The timing checks out perfectly with Apple’s usual product cadence, appearing just weeks before what could be a launch announcement. We’re likely looking at late 2025 or early 2026 for availability, which means the hype machine is already spinning at full throttle.

Here’s what makes this filing particularly interesting: it confirms wireless standards testing, but conspicuously leaves out Wi-Fi 7 support that’s expected to debut on the M5 iPad Pro models. Whether that’s a deliberate hardware choice, a testing limitation, or Apple segmenting features across product lines remains unclear. But it raises questions about Apple’s connectivity strategy across their M5 ecosystem, especially when the iPhone 17 already shipped with the N1 chip that enables Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6, and enhanced AirDrop functionality. The inconsistency feels odd for a company that usually maintains feature parity across flagship devices.

Designer: Apple

The actual hardware refresh appears to be evolution rather than revolution. Don’t expect a dramatic redesign after the 2021 overhaul that brought back MagSafe, upgraded the display with ProMotion and mini-LED backlighting, and added back the HDMI port and SD card slot that professionals actually wanted. Apple’s sticking with that form factor, which makes sense given how well received it was after years of that questionable Touch Bar experiment. The real story lives inside the chassis with the M5 silicon, reportedly delivering a 15 to 25 percent performance bump over the M4 while improving energy efficiency. That’s the kind of generational leap that keeps Apple Silicon competitive with whatever Intel and AMD are throwing at the wall.

Apple’s planning the full spectrum of configurations with standard M5, M5 Pro, and M5 Max variants, following the established playbook. Development codenames J714 and J716 have surfaced in supply chain reports, pointing to at least two distinct MacBook Pro models in the pipeline. The M5 Max will likely pack the same ridiculous core counts we’ve come to expect, probably pushing 40 GPU cores and unified memory configurations up to 128GB for the pros running demanding workloads. Thunderbolt 5 support is expected on higher-end models, doubling bandwidth to 80 Gbps bidirectional, which matters significantly for anyone daisy-chaining multiple 8K displays or working with massive RAW video files.

The release timing breaks from Apple’s recent October pattern for MacBook Pro refreshes. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman notes that mass production is “nearing” but not yet in full swing, suggesting a potential delay into early 2026. Apple pulled this same move with the M2 Pro and M2 Max MacBook Pros, launching them in January 2023 instead of the expected October 2022 window. Supply chain constraints, chip yields, or simply wanting to space out major product launches could all factor into the decision. The iPhone 17 launch in September already gave Apple its big moment this fall, so pushing the MacBook Pro into Q1 2026 creates another news cycle without cannibalizing holiday sales of existing M4 models.

What remains frustrating is how little has actually leaked beyond these FCC filings and vague performance estimates. No concrete benchmark scores, no detailed specifications on memory bandwidth improvements, nothing about potential changes to the Neural Engine for AI workloads. Apple’s gotten better at plugging leaks, which is great for their controlled narrative but terrible for those of us trying to make informed purchasing decisions. The M4 MacBook Pros are still relatively fresh, having launched less than a year ago, so anyone who bought in recently shouldn’t feel too burned. But if you’ve been holding out with an Intel MacBook Pro or even an M1 generation machine, the M5 refresh represents a compelling four-generation leap that will be immediately noticeable in compile times, export speeds, and battery life.

The post Apple’s M5 MacBook Pro Just Leaked Through FCC Filings, But There’s a Slight Delay first appeared on Yanko Design.

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manuel cervantes draws on hacienda traditions to shape regenerative coastal living in mexico

Rancho Sereno integrates wooden volumes with coastal setting

 

Rancho Sereno, designed by Manuel Cervantes Estudio, is a 22,000-sqft residence within the 3,000-acre regenerative development of Xala on Mexico’s Pacific Costalegre coast. Set 120 meters inland from the shoreline, the house is positioned to protect native dunes and vegetation, integrating architecture with the surrounding coastal ecosystem. The residence is organized as a series of single-story wooden volumes interwoven with gardens, creating a porous boundary between indoors and outdoors. This arrangement draws inspiration from the spatial rhythms of traditional Mexican haciendas, reinterpreted in a contemporary, low-impact form that prioritizes connection with the landscape. Sustainability guided the material approach. More than 95% of the structure is built from renewable wood, including framework, roofing, windows, and doors, reducing reliance on heavier structural elements such as steel and aluminum.

all images courtesy of Manuel Cervantes Estudio

 

 

material continuity defines Rancho Sereno by Manuel Cervantes

 

Operable wooden panels and louvered shutters promote natural cross-ventilation, allowing ocean breezes to replace mechanical cooling systems. Exposed walls highlight the natural tones and textures of wood and micro-cement, emphasizing a tactile and material-driven experience. The flooring, executed by a Belgian team known for collaborations with Axel Vervoordt, employs micro-cement applied in a technique that produces smooth, joint-free surfaces. This continuous treatment enhances spatial flow and reinforces the relationship between interior and exterior spaces.

 

Manuel Cervantes Estudio’s Rancho Sereno avoids excessive glazing and heavy construction systems, relying instead on natural ventilation, shading, and simple material choices to reduce environmental impact. The result is a residence that merges architecture and landscape, balancing traditional references with contemporary methods to create a low-impact coastal dwelling rooted in its site.

Rancho Sereno’s outside lounge al fresco

 

Rancho Sereno’s outside lounge al fresco

outside lounge

sun deck and pool

dining room

bedroom

bedroom

bathroom

dining room

Rancho Sereno’s outside lounge al fresco

 

project info:

 

name: Rancho Sereno at Xala | @xala.mx
architect: Manuel Cervantes Estudio | @manuelcervantes

location: Xala, Mexico

 

 

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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The 2026 Nissan Sentra Redefines Compact Premium Through Daring Design

Nissan gave its design team three words for the 2026 Sentra: daring, vitalizing, resonating. The result is a compact sedan designed to feel sculpted, premium, and connected through proportion, surface language, and atmospheric lighting. The focus: solving specific design problems rather than accumulating features.

Designer: Nissan

How do you create visual drama through restraint? How do you democratize luxury materials in a mainstream price point? How do you make a compact footprint feel spatially generous? The Sentra demonstrates that accessible pricing doesn’t require design compromise.

Exterior: Tension Through Restraint

The evolved V-motion grille integrates seamlessly into the lighting signature, sharpening Nissan’s design language while maintaining continuity. When you unlock the Sentra, the headlights choreograph a greeting: turn signals, beams, and signature lighting sequence into a ritual that transforms approach into experience.

Slim projector LED headlights appear black when dormant, revealing themselves only when activated. Visual drama emerges from tension, not decoration.

Energetic surfacing creates that tension deliberately. The sleek cabin contrasts with sharp shoulder surfaces and strong fenders. A balanced character line visually lowers the car, creating stability and presence that defies the compact footprint. Every crease and curve shapes both airflow and perception. Trunk sculpting, reduced wheel arches, and shaped mirrors define planted stance and visual motion while serving aerodynamic purpose.

Wheel designs progress from clean machined alloys to sculptural 10-spoke 18-inch wheels that emphasize movement even at standstill. Colors function as curated palettes spanning Imperial Bronze to Energetic Ember. Four two-tone combinations pair body colors with black roofs, altering proportion dramatically and creating tension between body and cabin.

The SR trim shifts the design persona through performance aesthetic: blacked-out grille, spoiler, red badging. The SL maintains restrained premium stance through crafted details rather than aggressive styling.

Interior: Visual Horizon and Material Reduction

The cabin’s defining gesture is the visual horizon line created by dual 12.3-inch displays. This simplifies the dash, flattening clutter into a modern digital plane where information becomes accessible without overwhelming. The interface prioritizes calm and clarity.

Physical buttons remain for core functions while a touch-sensitive climate control panel represents material reduction and tidy interaction design. Fewer knobs create cleaner sightlines.

Three rectangular dashboard elements house the vents, a deliberate design callback to the outgoing Sentra’s three circular vents reinterpreted for modern lines. Soft door touchpoints make every interaction intentional through tactile design decisions.

Space, Materials, Light: Orchestrating Premium

Spatial generosity defines the interior experience. Open geometry within a compact footprint demonstrates intentional moves that maximize volume and openness. The cabin feels larger than its dimensions through these spatial decisions.

Upholstery tells material narratives. TailorFit quilted leatherette with asymmetrical stitching represents democratic luxury, bringing premium textile language to compact buyers. Sport cloth with accent stitching becomes kinetic expression. These are design personas made tactile.

Ambient lighting orchestrates mood. The 64-color customizable system democratizes luxury lighting language typically limited to premium segments. This is atmospheric design tool woven into the spatial experience. Heated surfaces and dual-zone climate control function as comfort rituals.

Technology: Clutter-Free Surfaces, Connected Living

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto remove cords from the cabin landscape, creating cleaner lines and reduced visual noise. Wireless charging continues that philosophy, eliminating cable clutter that typically compromises interior design.

The Bose Premium Audio system distributes sonic texture that complements visual atmosphere through acoustic architecture. The myQ Universal Garage Door Opener dissolves boundaries between transportation and living space, integrating the car into the home ecosystem.

Blind Spot Intervention functions as subtle design intervention rather than beeping system. ProPILOT Assist emphasizes human-machine partnership, reducing fatigue by sharing control. The Around View Monitor provides spatial awareness that transforms parking and maneuvering into confident, stress-free interactions. Ten airbags integrate seamlessly into the design framework, ensuring protection without compromising clean surfaces.

Design Archetypes: SR Performance, SL Premium, SV Transitional

The SR embodies performance aesthetic through blacked-out grille, spoiler, 18-inch wheels, and two-tone roof treatment. Visual distinction emerges through design detail, not aggressive styling.

The SL represents crafted premium through quilted upholstery, ambient orchestration, and machined aluminum wheels. Attainable luxury positioning through designed refinement rather than badge engineering.

The SV Premium offers transitional luxury, combining ambient lighting, wireless charging, heated surfaces, and upgraded audio for buyers seeking premium design elements.

Motion: Supporting the Design Mission

A retuned 2.0-liter engine and CVT underpin the design focus, making the ride quieter and more composed. Rigid structure engineered for silence and smoothness serves spatial experience. The powertrain exists to support the design mission: making the compact sedan feel premium through every interaction, every surface, every moment.

The transformation earned validation in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Initial Quality Study, confirming that design excellence and reliability coexist. The 2026 Nissan Sentra reaches showrooms later this year, redefining what compact sedans can achieve through intentional design thinking.

The post The 2026 Nissan Sentra Redefines Compact Premium Through Daring Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

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carsten höller’s mirrored slides spiral down facade of moderna museet in stockholm

A spiraling artwork at stockholm’s Moderna Museet

 

Stockholm Slides, a new large-scale artwork by Carsten Höller, has taken form on the facade of Moderna Museet in the Swedish capital. The installation consists of two spiraling slides that descend from the museum’s rooftop to the street below, turning the building’s outer wall into a site of movement and play. The work officially opens to the public on October 4th, 2025, adding an interactive addition to the museum’s permanent collection.

 

Höller has built his career on creating interactive works that invite direct participation — he erected a Slide Tower at the Vitra Campus as far back as 2014. His background in scientific research, especially the study of insect communication, informs his approach to art as a process of experiment and response. With Stockholm Slides, he extends this interest into architecture, transforming the museum exterior into a channel for both physical descent and psychological intensity.

Carsten Höller, Stockholm Slides, 2025 | images © My Matson/Moderna Museet

 

 

mirrored choreography by carsten höller

 

Carsten Höller’s two Stockholm Slides are identical in length, 39 meters (128 feet) each, but mirrored in their rotation: one coils clockwise, the other counterclockwise. Together they span a vertical drop of fifteen meters (49 feet) from the roof terrace to Slupskjulsvägen, on the museum’s waterside. This doubling allows two people to ride in tandem, creating what the artist has called a ‘mirrored choreography.’

 

The physical experience of the slides is tied to architecture as much as to play. As visitors enter at roof level, they confront the building from an unusual vantage, before being carried downwards in a narrow steel spiral that frames glimpses of the city and the harbor. Gravity becomes an architectural force, guiding bodies in parallel arcs along the museum’s surface.

Carsten Höller installs two spiral slides on the facade of Stockholm’s Moderna Museet

 

 

architecture for exhilaration

For Carsten Höller, the Stockholm Slides belong to a lineage of what he terms ‘influential environments.’ These are installations designed to generate specific mental and emotional states by altering spatial perception and the body’s relation to built form. In this case, visitors feel both exhilaration and unease, a controlled surrender to velocity contained within a structural system.

 

Although only two riders can descend at once, the artwork extends its influence outward. Pedestrians along the waterfront, as well as diners inside the museum restaurant, can witness the bodies rushing by. In this sense, the installation is a performance in which the architecture mediates between the riders, the observers, and the urban setting.

each slide measures 39 meters in length with a vertical drop of 15 meters

Stockholm Slides descends from the rooftop to the waterfront street

the slides frame fleeting views of the city and harbor as riders descend

Carsten Höller describes the slides as ‘influential environments’ that alter perception

two people can ride at once in opposite rotations

Stockholm Slides joins the Moderna Museet Collection with a renewable five year permit

 

project info:

 

name: Stockholm Slides

architect: Carsten Höller | @carsten.holler

location: Stockholm, Sweden

museum: Moderna Museet | @modernamuseet

dates: October 4th, 2025 — December 31st, 2030

photography: © My Matson | @mymatson

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Vivo V60 Review: Premium Looks, Great Camera, and Long Battery Life for Under $500

PROS:


Flagship-level main and telephoto camera capability

Slim form factor with minimal design

Large 6500mAh battery with fast charging

CONS:


No wireless charging

Weak ultra-wide camera

No 4K 60FPS video recording

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR’S QUOTE:

The Vivo V60 is a thoughtfully designed mid-range smartphone that continues the V series’ tradition of stylish aesthetics and capable cameras.

The Vivo V series has built a reputation for offering a stylish design and capable cameras within the mid-range segment. Just six months after the release of the Vivo V50, the company has introduced its latest model, the Vivo V60. Although the upgrade cycle is short, Vivo has used this time to refresh the design and improve the camera system. One of the key changes is the addition of a telephoto camera. This marks a new step forward for the series, with a stronger emphasis on mobile photography.

With these improvements, the Vivo V60 positions itself as more than just a minor refresh. It reflects Vivo’s ongoing effort to push the V series forward and respond to user expectations. The question is whether these changes are enough to make the V60 a standout choice in the highly competitive mid-range market. Let’s take a closer look at what this new model brings to the table.

Aesthetics

The Vivo V60 continues the series’ focus on sleek and stylish design. It features a minimalist aesthetic with a slim form factor and a refined finish that feels premium for a mid-range device. Vivo offers the V60 in a range of color options to suit different tastes. Summer Blue, Desert Gold, and Mist Grey deliver understated, elegant looks. Berry Purple (the unit used for this review) adds a pop of color for users who prefer a more expressive style. Ocean Blue, which is available only in India, stands out the most with a unique rippling, wave-like pattern that adds depth and movement to the surface.

The back panel of the Berry Purple model has a matte texture that resists fingerprints while reflecting light in subtle and elegant ways. The included case matches the color of the device, which is a nice touch. In terms of design language, the V60’s rear panel looks more similar to the Vivo X200 FE than to the previous V50.

The camera setup is arranged cleanly across the upper-left corner. The main and telephoto cameras are stacked vertically within an oval-shaped camera island, with the Zeiss logo placed neatly between them. Next to this module, the ultra-wide camera and LED flash are aligned vertically in a separate column, keeping the layout balanced and visually distinct.

Ergonomics

Holding the Vivo V60 is a pleasure, thanks to its balanced weight and thoughtfully contoured edges. Vivo has crafted the V60 with dimensions that feel just right for a modern handset, but the experience shifts subtly depending on the color you choose. The Mist Gray edition is the slimmest and lightest of the lineup, measuring 163.29mm tall, 76.72mm wide, and just 7.53mm thick, with a weight of 192 grams. Opt for Dessert Gold, Berry Purple, or Summer Blue, and you’ll find the phone slightly thicker at 7.65mm and a bit more substantial at 200 grams. Those seeking the exclusive Ocean Blue will notice a 7.75mm thickness and a weight of 201 grams.

Regardless of the variant, the phone’s gently curved front and back ensure the V60 nestles comfortably in your palm, with a silhouette that never feels bulky or awkward. Even after a marathon day of scrolling, gaming, or snapping photos, your grip remains secure and natural, with no pressure points digging into your hand.

The power button sits on the right side of the frame, positioned about halfway down the height of the device, with the volume rockers just above it. While this arrangement keeps the buttons within easy reach, some users may find the placement a little too low, especially during one-handed use or when reaching quickly. It is a detail that design-conscious users might notice, particularly if they are accustomed to higher button placements on other smartphones.

The on-screen fingerprint scanner, though fast and accurate, is positioned very close to the bottom edge of the display. This location keeps the visual experience clean but may require users to shift their grip more than expected, especially when unlocking the phone single-handedly. For those with smaller hands, this might feel just right, but users who prefer a scanner placed slightly higher may need a period of adjustment. It is a minor ergonomic trade-off in an otherwise comfortable design.

Performance

Thanks to the updated chipset, everyday use feels smooth and responsive. While the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 is not the newest or most powerful processor on the market, it delivers solid performance for daily tasks. Paired with 8GB or 12GB of RAM and storage options of 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB, the V60 handles multitasking well. Whether you are switching between social media, messaging, or productivity apps, the phone keeps up without noticeable lag. Even with multiple apps running in the background, performance remains steady.

Gaming performance is respectable for its class. Popular titles like Genshin Impact, Call of Duty: Mobile, and PUBG Mobile run at medium to high settings with stable frame rates, although extended play sessions can lead to some warmth around the back panel. Thermal management is decent, and performance throttling is minimal under sustained load.

Photography is a major selling point for the V60, and Vivo’s engineering team has delivered a camera system that punches well above its weight. The triple camera setup includes a 50MP main camera, a 50MP telephoto camera, and an 8MP ultra-wide camera.

The 23 mm equivalent main camera uses a 1/1.56-inch Sony IMX766 sensor with an f/1.9 aperture and optical image stabilization. It captures vibrant, detailed images in daylight and performs well in low-light environments, producing balanced exposures with minimal noise.

The standout is the 73mm equivalent periscope telephoto lens. It features a 50MP Sony IMX882 sensor with a 1/1.95-inch size, an f/2.7 aperture, and optical image stabilization. It delivers excellent results. The camera app supports up to 10x digital zoom, though image quality starts to drop off beyond 4x, as expected.

Overall, both the main and telephoto cameras are impressive for a device in this category. However, one limitation is the relatively long minimum focusing distance, and there is no dedicated macro mode. If you enjoy taking close-up shots of flowers, insects, or small objects, this may not be the ideal phone for that purpose.

The 8MP ultra-wide camera is a step down from the 50MP sensor found in the previous model, but it still adds useful versatility for capturing landscapes and group shots. However, it falls short of the main and telephoto lenses in terms of sharpness and overall image quality.

In terms of video recording, the V60 supports up to 4K resolution at 30 FPS with the main, telephoto, and front-facing cameras. When recording in 1080p, all three can shoot at 60 FPS. The ultra-wide camera is more limited, offering a maximum of 1080p at 30 FPS.

The Vivo V60 features a 6.77-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate and a resolution of 1080 × 2392 pixels (FHD+). Vivo claims a peak brightness of up to 5,000 nits. While real-world conditions rarely reach that number, the screen remains easily visible even in bright sunlight.

Battery life is another area where the Vivo V60 stands out. Its large 6,500mAh battery easily powers the device through a full day of heavy use and often stretches into a second day for lighter users. In testing, the phone performed exceptionally well in active usage scenarios, backing up Vivo’s endurance claims. It also supports 90W wired charging, which delivers fast top-ups, though it lacks wireless charging support.

Sustainability

Vivo makes no claims about using recycled or sustainable materials in the V60, which may disappoint eco-conscious users. However, the phone is built with long-term durability in mind. It features IP68 and IP69 ratings, offering strong resistance to dust, submersion, and high-pressure water. Diamond Shield Glass and an internal cushioning structure improve drop resistance, while platinum-plated ports and a One-Tap Water Ejection feature enhance protection against moisture and corrosion.

On the software side, Super Battery Saver and Bypass Charging work to reduce heat during charging and preserve battery health. These optimizations help the device maintain consistent performance over time. According to Vivo, the V60 is built to last up to four years without noticeable slowdowns, making it a durable option within its class, even if not the most sustainable.

Value

The Vivo V60 is available in several international markets, including India, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Pricing varies by region, but Vivo aims to keep the phone under the equivalent of $500 USD, making it a strong contender in the mid-range segment. Its sleek design and premium feel help it stand out among competitors at this price point.

In addition to its stylish look, the V60 offers impressive camera performance and excellent battery life, making it a great choice for users who prioritize photography and all-day usage. However, if you are looking for a phone specifically geared toward gaming, there are better options available with more powerful hardware and gaming features. Overall, the V60 strikes a good balance between design, functionality, and affordability for most everyday users.

Verdict

The Vivo V60 is a thoughtfully designed mid-range smartphone that continues the V series’ tradition of stylish aesthetics and capable cameras. With a refreshed look, a new triple-camera setup, and a battery that easily lasts through a full day or more, the V60 offers meaningful improvements over its predecessor. It may not reinvent the category, but it certainly pushes the series forward in the right ways.

Performance is solid for everyday use, and while it may not be the top pick for hardcore gamers, it handles most tasks with ease. The addition of a dedicated telephoto lens gives the V60 a real edge in mobile photography at this price point, although the lack of a macro mode and a downgraded ultra-wide camera are small trade-offs. For under $500, the Vivo V60 presents an appealing mix of style, substance, and endurance, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking a well-rounded mid-range smartphone.

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Lowe wallet from The James Brand brings modern, minimalist design to your pocket

If you’re looking for the perfect blend of modern style, minimalism, and practical design in an everyday accessory, the James Brand Lowe Wallet stands out as a top contender. Designed by the innovative team at The James Brand, this wallet is making waves among those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and thoughtful details.

The Lowe Wallet is all about simplicity and efficiency. It boasts a slim profile that easily slips into your pocket or bag without adding unnecessary bulk. This makes it especially appealing for anyone who prefers to travel light or wants to avoid the uncomfortable bulge that traditional wallets can create. Despite its compact size, the Lowe Wallet doesn’t compromise on functionality. It’s designed to securely hold your essential cards and some cash, making it an ideal choice for daily use.

Designer Name: The James Brand

Crafted with premium materials, the Lowe Wallet showcases The James Brand’s commitment to quality. The wallet is constructed using a combination of 600D nylon and Hypalon, both known for their durability and water resistance. This means your wallet can withstand the rigors of everyday life, whether you’re commuting in the city, heading out on a weekend adventure, or simply running errands. Every stitch and detail has been carefully considered, reflecting The James Brand’s philosophy of creating products that last.

One of the standout features of the Lowe Wallet is its clever design. It uses a simple elastic band system to keep your cards secure while allowing for quick and easy access. This eliminates the need for zippers or snaps, reducing wear and tear and keeping the overall design clean and streamlined. The wallet can comfortably hold up to six cards, along with folded bills, which is plenty for most people’s daily needs.

The Lowe Wallet isn’t just functional as it brings style to its design too. Its minimalist aesthetic is enhanced by subtle branding and a choice of understated colorways, making it easy to pair with any outfit or personal style. Whether you’re dressed up for a night out or keeping things casual, this wallet fits right in. For those who care about sustainability, The James Brand has ensured that the Lowe Wallet is made with materials that are not only tough but also environmentally conscious. The use of durable synthetics means you won’t need to replace your wallet anytime soon, reducing waste over time.

Carrying the Lowe Wallet is more than just a practical choice; it’s a statement about valuing quality over quantity and embracing a lifestyle that prioritizes the essentials. It’s perfect for anyone who values efficiency, durability, and style in their everyday carry. This wallet is proof that sometimes less truly is more, and that the right accessory can make everyday life a little bit simpler and a lot more stylish.

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Aussie modder turns the dead LEGO Game Boy into a functional handheld

The LEGO 72046 Game Boy released a couple of months ago, is one of the smallest video game sets released by the group to rejoice this fall. That said, the display set lacked just one little thing: the ability to play real Nintendo games. Natalie the Nerd, who’s a renowned Game Boy modder in the community, has got the dead set to play actual Game Paks, or any other modern homebrew titles. The Aussie modder even promised avid fans that she’ll release a $50 kit, so that you can play arcade titles on your LEGO Game Boy.

Even before the set became officially available for purchase a few days ago, Natalie took measurements from the announced press documentation of the set to create the custom kit. According to the tech-savvy modder who knows the Game Boy inside and out, rerouting the CPU, PCBs, power regulation, and capacitors is not much of a challenge for her. The main challenge was fitting everything inside the housing to make playing games possible.

Designer: Natalie the Nerd

What might seem like a cake walk for Natalie isn’t at all easy, as it involves taking the millimeter-perfect measurements and then 3D printing the custom components. She had to build a special circuit board to make the thing work without going for the easy way out – without going down the emulation rabbit hole. The space-conscious build within the LEGO model uses the LEGO model’s cartridge slot to fit the real cartridges to play games. Since she didn’t have the real thing until only a couple of days now, she was in the unknown about the tactile behavior of the LEGO buttons on the thing. Thankfully, LEGO Group takes things seriously, and the buttons work fine to implement real-world functionality. For now, to make the A and B buttons function perfectly, she has held them in place with an elastic band. As a permanent fix, Natalie will 3D print a LEGO piece to hold a custom PCB for the intended functionality.

According to Natalie, the power circuit is one used for her Safety Charger boards, tweaked to have a soft latching power button. The board also has extra pinouts for the 3D printed button matrix and audio. The power input is via the USB-C port connected to the 3D printed adapters that look like LEGO studs for a snug fit. The build has the speaker’s function missing as she’s figuring out how to connect them to the audio pins. The rear panel that holds the fake cartridge in place now has a slot that initiates the game for real.

The aftermarket she’s going to create for interested modders will require some basic level of soldering skills and circuitry know-how. Since it is going to be a raw affair, only wannabe modders are advised to go ahead with buying it. Natalie hasn’t detailed the availability of the DIY kit for the LEGO Game Boy, but it should be available in the coming weeks.

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MAD shares latest images of shenzhen bay cultural plaza as it nears completion

clustered monoliths take shape in shenzhen

 

The Shenzhen Bay Cultural Plaza, designed by MAD, is approaching completion in the city’s Houhai district. First unveiled in June 2020, the project has been documented through several phases of construction, with images released in February 2025 marking significant progress. MAD has now shared one final set of photographs by Zhu Yumeng ahead of the plaza’s expected opening later this year.

 

Designed as a public space between Shenzhen’s central business district and the bay, the development extends across 51,000 square meters. Its total built area of 188,000 square meters includes multiple exhibition halls, theaters, and public facilities. As construction concludes, the plaza will become a landmark of the larger Shenzhen Bay Culture Park, focusing on ecology, urban infrastructure, and public life.

images © Zhu Yumeng

 

 

mad’s green urban living room

 

From the outset, the architects at MAD emphasized the plaza’s role as a civic landscape. ‘Shenzhen Bay Culture Plaza should be a green urban living room that grows alongside the city’s development,’ notes lead designer Ma Yansong. The architecture merges public gathering areas with an expansive green roof that overlooks the city’s broader ecological network.

 

The plaza’s exhibition hall is embedded beneath rolling lawns, creating continuity with adjacent parks and green belts. Pedestrian bridges extend connections into surrounding neighborhoods and commercial districts, while the slopes and open courtyards above host walking paths, picnic areas, and spaces for informal social activity.

the program includes nine exhibition halls, a theater, a lecture hall, and an art collection library

 

 

Landform and Ecological Integration

 

By moving much of the program underground, MAD frames the surface as a landscape intervention rather than a conventional building. This approach is a reminder of Shenzhen Bay’s role as an ecological corridor along the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, a habitat for migratory waterbirds. Planting strategies prioritize native vegetation, and a variety of tree species have been selected to enhance seasonal biodiversity while supporting avian feeding areas.

 

This new topography shifts with the seasons and offers shaded areas in summer and open clearings in winter. The landscape’s integration of ecological systems with public amenities means that the project stands as both a cultural space and a contributor to the bay’s environmental resilience.

the project was first unveiled in June 2020 and completion is expected by the end of 2025

 

 

Programmatic flexibility is a defining feature of MAD’s Shenzhen Bay Cultural Plaza. The central pool can be converted into an open-air theater for concerts or outdoor film screenings, and courtyards and green terraces provide platforms for markets, performances, and community events. A network of bicycle lanes and walking paths links the site to main city routes and extends its reach as an everyday, easy-to-access public amenity.

 

Visitors arriving from surrounding commercial centers will be able to cross directly into the rooftop park or descend into underground cultural spaces without encountering traffic.

 

The program includes the North Hall, South Hall, and Theme Hall, which together provide nine exhibition halls and approximately 50,000 square meters of display space. Additional facilities such as a 720-seat stone theater, a 330-seat lecture hall, and an art collection library contribute to the cultural program.

a main exhibition hall is enclosed by a green roof that connects to surrounding parks

the landscape integrates ecological restoration with public spaces

native vegetation and seasonal planting strategies support migratory bird habitats

outdoor spaces include terraces, courtyards, and a pool that can become an open-air theater

pedestrian bridges and cycling paths connect the plaza to city routes

 

name: Shenzhen Bay Cultural Plaza

architect: MAD | @madarchitects

location: Shenzhen, China

status: under construction

previous coverage: June 2020, February 2025

photography: © Zhu Yumeng | @yumeng_zhu_coppakstudio

 

area: approximately 51,000 square meters
gross construction area: 188,000 square meters

principal partners: Ma Yansong, Dang Qun, Yosuke Hayano

principal associate partners: Tiffany Dahlen, Li Jian

 

design team: Zhang Chao, Li Cunhao, Zhang Kai, Xu Shaohua, Ma Yiran, Li Hui, Yoshio Fukumori, Zhang Yaohui, Sun Feifei, Li Gang, Ning Tong, Haruka Tomoeda, Natawat Warotdulyavat, He Xin, Zhang Jiahao, Li Leyuan, Cao Xi, Maria Soledad, Sun Jingyi, Gan Mengjia, Wang Fei, Pan Jifu, Xu Tianyang, Tian Jin, Zou Dengyu, Yang Xuebing, Li Xinyun, Huang Jinkun, Lin Zihan, Jiang Linyun, Luis Torres, Neeraj Mahajan, Zhang Tong, Wang Yiwei, Wei Yunzhao, Raquel Valdes, Emma Sanson, Niu Shaobo, Huai Wei, Kenji Hada.

 

client: Shenzhen Municipal Bureau of Culture, Radio, Television, Tourism and Sports
construction: Nanshan District Construction and Public Works Bureau

construction agent: China Resources Land (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd.

The post MAD shares latest images of shenzhen bay cultural plaza as it nears completion appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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Core77 Weekly Roundup (9-29-25 to 10-3-25)

Here’s what we looked at this week:

Frank the Dogtopus is a smart design for a dog toy: It’s low-tech, durable, eco-friendly and time-consuming.

With this $400 ultrasonic chef’s knife, 40,000 vibrations a second do the cutting for you. (Alternatively, you could learn to sharpen the knife you already have.)

Succuc’s handsome 3D printed vessels.

The Soundcore Nebula X1 Pro is an impressive portable outdoor theater with a 16.7′ inflatable screen and surround sound.

Flos Design Space, featuring lighting design classics alongside contemporary models, opens in Chicago.

Industrial design case study (from a mechanical engineer): This beautiful, tiny Featherforged bike pump.

Charlotte, by Crest Robotics and Earthbuilt Technology, is a 3D printer that walks and lays walls.

Titaner’s innovative take on the fractal vise.

Industrial designer Friedrich Gerlach’s elegant Lecrase Stool is made of leather offcuts.

From Sweden, the Nomad Collection: Sleek, cast-aluminum power strips with plug-in lamps.

Fidlock’s nifty variety of magnetic buckles.

Artist Sven Sauer’s dazzling kinetic light installation brings a message of hope.

Nikon’s compact indoor binoculars, designed for concert halls and museums.

The Stockman Trekka 01 is an Australian off-road camper trailer designed specifically for e-bikers.

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Nikon’s Compact Indoor Binoculars

Most of the binoculars Nikon makes are bulky, black, have a technical look to them, and are made for the outdoors.

But they also make this discreet, compact 4x10D CF pair, designed to not look out of place in indoor settings. Specifically, concert halls, theaters and museums.

The design is simple and basic: The only things you fiddle with are the central focus knob, and the two halves, which are hinged to adjust for your eye spacing.

They offer 4x magnification and offer a wide field of view, making them ideal for concerts. But the lenses are such that for museum use, you can use them to see details of objects as close as 3.9 feet away.

They come in three colors, a leather case is included, and they run $225.