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Honor Magic V5 Foldable Phone Review: Redefining Foldable Design and Power

PROS:


Incredibly thin and light

Long-term software support

Stylus support on both inner and outer displays

Exceptional performance and battery life

Impressive triple camera system

CONS:


Quite pricey

Prominent camera bump

Limited market availability

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR’S QUOTE:

The Honor Magic V5 transforms foldable design from experimental to essential.

Foldable smartphones have been a fascinating dance between ambition and compromise for years now. Most attempts have resulted in phones that feel chunky, fragile, or lacking the premium experience we expect from flagship devices. The category has been filled with “almosts” and “what-ifs,” leaving many wondering if the perfect foldable would ever arrive.

The Honor Magic V5 boldly claims to solve many of these persistent issues. As of August 2025, the Ivory White model stands as the thinnest inward-folding foldable smartphone available, measuring just 8.8mm when folded and 4.1mm when unfolded. But could this be the foldable that finally bridges the gap between innovation and practicality?

Designer: Honor

Aesthetics

The Honor Magic V5 doesn’t just look thin; it makes other foldables look positively chunky by comparison. The Ivory White variant achieves those record-breaking measurements with a frosted finish that feels genuinely premium. It’s the kind of surface that hides fingerprints beautifully while catching light in all the right ways.

You’ve got four colorways to choose from: Ivory White, Black, Dawn Gold, and Reddish Brown. The catch? Only the Ivory White hits those ultra-slim measurements. The other colors are marginally thicker at 9mm folded and 4.2mm unfolded, but honestly, we’re talking about fractions here that you’ll never notice in daily use.

What strikes you immediately is how intentional everything looks. The camera housing is prominent, sure, but it doesn’t scream “afterthought” like some foldables do. Instead, it creates this visual anchor that somehow makes the whole device look balanced and purposeful rather than experimental.

The materials story here is genuinely impressive. Honor has gone all-in with aerospace-grade aluminum for the frame, carbon fiber reinforcement for the inner display, and their new NanoCrystal Shield for the outer screen. These aren’t just buzzwords; they translate into a device that feels substantial without being heavy.

When you fold this thing, it maintains clean lines that would make any minimalist weep with joy. Unfold it, and you’re looking at something that resembles a premium tablet more than a phone that happens to bend. The transformation is genuinely striking every single time.

The hinge mechanism deserves its own paragraph because it’s that good. There’s this satisfying snap when it locks into the fully open position that makes you want to keep folding and unfolding just for the tactile pleasure. It’s the kind of engineering precision that you feel in your hands.

Ergonomics

At 217g for the Ivory White model, the Magic V5 pulls off something remarkable. It’s actually lighter than plenty of regular flagship phones, which is frankly absurd when you consider what’s packed inside. This translates into a device that feels comfortable in your pocket and hand rather than like a brick.

The portability factor is where this thing really shines. Folded, it slips into pockets with the same ease as any regular smartphone. Need that larger screen? Unfold it into a 7.95-inch canvas that’s perfect for everything from productivity work to binge-watching shows during your commute.

Honor calls their hinge mechanism the Super Steel Hinge, and it lives up to the dramatic name. With 2300MPa tensile strength, it feels rock-solid while maintaining smooth operation. The resistance is calibrated perfectly, staying put at any angle while opening smoothly with one hand when needed.

The large camera bump does have a significant impact when the phone is laid unfolded on a flat surface like a table. That is, it will never really lie flat, with one corner raised higher than the rest of the phone. It wouldn’t be much of a problem if you wrap the Honor Magic V5 in a case, but then you also lose the magic of its unobstructed majesty.

Performance

Under the hood sits Qualcomm’s flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite platform, built on that second-generation 3nm process that delivers serious performance and efficiency. Paired with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 512GB of UFS 4.1 storage, this configuration handles whatever you throw at it without breaking a sweat. Honor added a titanium vapor chamber cooling system that keeps things running smoothly even during extended gaming sessions.

The dual OLED displays feature LTPO technology with adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, automatically adjusting based on what you’re doing to save battery life. Both screens hit 5000 nits peak brightness, which means they stay perfectly readable even in direct sunlight. The 100% DCI-P3 color gamut and Dolby Vision support deliver genuinely stunning visuals, whether you’re watching movies or editing photos. The consistency between both displays is remarkable.

The Multi-Flex feature lets you run three apps simultaneously on that large inner screen. The window management feels intuitive rather than forced, letting you drag and drop content between apps like you’re working on a desktop computer. It’s the kind of multitasking that actually makes sense.

Both displays support stylus input, which opens up possibilities for creative work and detailed note-taking. The stylus experience feels natural and responsive across both screen sizes, adapting intelligently to whatever space you’re working with. It’s the kind of feature that transforms how you use the device.

The battery situation is where Honor really flexed their engineering muscles. That 5820mAh silicon-carbon battery is one of the largest you’ll find in any foldable smartphone. The 15% silicon content should help it maintain capacity better over time compared to traditional lithium batteries.

Charging speeds are genuinely impressive with 66W wired charging that fully juices the device in about 43 minutes. The 50W wireless charging provides convenient top-ups throughout the day. The Power Enhanced Chip HONOR E2 manages everything intelligently, adapting to your usage patterns and environmental conditions.

The camera system represents a genuine step forward for foldable photography. You get a 50MP main sensor with OIS, a 64MP periscope telephoto with 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultra-wide camera. Each lens offers distinct capabilities that cover most shooting scenarios you’ll encounter. With cameras like that, it’s easy to forgive that large bump on the phone’s back.

The Honor Magic V5’s triple camera system delivers results that genuinely compete with traditional flagship smartphones, which is pretty impressive for a foldable. The 50MP main sensor with OIS produces sharp, detailed images with excellent color reproduction across various lighting conditions. The 64MP periscope telephoto camera really stands out here, offering crisp 3x optical zoom shots that stay sharp even when pushed to higher digital zoom levels.

MagicOS 9.0 feels purpose-built for the foldable experience rather than adapted from a regular phone interface. Google Gemini integration is thoughtful, with a convenient double-tap gesture to launch the AI assistant. The AI Call Translation processes everything on-device for privacy, supporting six languages with real-time translation.

Additional AI features include deepfake detection during video calls, which adds security that’s becoming increasingly relevant. The Magic Portal feature uses gesture recognition to provide contextual actions, making interactions more intuitive across those large display surfaces. It’s the kind of software polish that makes the hardware shine.

Sustainability

Durability has always been the Achilles’ heel of foldable smartphones, but Honor took a comprehensive approach to solving this challenge. The Magic V5 carries IP58 and IP59 ratings, providing genuine protection against dust and water rather than the limited environmental protection many foldables offer.

The hinge mechanism is engineered to withstand 500,000 folding cycles, which translates to years of worry-free use, even if you’re the type who fidgets with folding mechanisms. The inner display benefits from carbon fiber reinforcement and a non-Newtonian fluid layer that hardens upon impact while staying flexible during normal use. It’s genuinely clever engineering.

That outer screen features NanoCrystal Shield, offering 15x improved scratch resistance compared to standard glass. This ensures the device maintains its pristine appearance even after extended daily use. The coating technology represents a genuine advancement in mobile display protection that you can actually feel.

Honor has committed to seven years of Android OS and security updates for the Magic V5 in the EU and UK markets. This ranks among the longest support commitments in the smartphone industry, demonstrating genuine confidence in the device’s long-term viability and user value.

Combined with silicon-carbon battery technology that should maintain capacity better over time, this creates a device designed for longevity. The AI-powered foreign object detection system adds another protection layer, alerting users if debris gets detected between screens before folding. It’s proactive rather than reactive protection.

The materials choices reflect a commitment to both immediate durability and long-term sustainability. From the aerospace-grade aluminum frame to the advanced display coatings, everything feels built to last rather than designed for planned obsolescence. It’s refreshing in a market often focused on annual upgrades.

Value

At £1,699.99/€1,999.99, the Honor Magic V5 positions itself firmly in premium foldable territory. This pricing reflects the advanced technology packed inside and the significant research investment required to achieve record-breaking thinness while maintaining durability and performance. The engineering achievement alone justifies considerable cost.

The Magic V5 offers something many foldables don’t: zero compromise on essentials. Battery life matches or exceeds traditional flagships, the camera system competes genuinely with the best available, and build quality inspires confidence rather than anxiety about durability.

That seven-year software support commitment adds significant value over time, essentially guaranteeing your investment stays current and secure well into the future. For design enthusiasts and early adopters, the Magic V5 represents the current pinnacle of foldable engineering achievement.

Compared to other premium foldables, the Magic V5 offers superior battery life, faster charging, and longer software support. The combination of the thinnest form factor available with flagship-level performance creates a unique value proposition that’s genuinely difficult to match in current market conditions.

Professionals needing large-screen productivity benefits in a portable package will definitely appreciate the engineering excellence. Creative individuals who appreciate cutting-edge design will find genuine appeal here, especially with support for a stylus on the outer cover screen. The unique combination of form factor innovation, premium materials, and thoughtful software integration creates a package that justifies its premium positioning.

While the price point limits mass-market appeal, the Magic V5 serves an important role in pushing the entire foldable category forward. Engineering achievements and design innovations pioneered here will inevitably trickle down to more affordable options in future generations. It’s advancing the entire category.

Verdict

The Honor Magic V5 represents a watershed moment in foldable smartphone development. By achieving the title of world’s thinnest foldable, Honor proved that thinness and durability can coexist beautifully. The Ivory White model’s remarkable 8.8mm folded and 4.1mm unfolded dimensions set a genuinely new standard for the category. What makes the Magic V5 special, however, goes beyond record-breaking dimensions.

This is a foldable that disappears into your pocket like a regular phone, yet unfolds into a productivity powerhouse when needed. The seven-year software support commitment, combined with advanced materials and engineering, suggests longevity rather than quick obsolescence. For those ready to embrace mobile computing’s future, the Honor Magic V5 offers a compelling glimpse of what that future looks like.

The post Honor Magic V5 Foldable Phone Review: Redefining Foldable Design and Power first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Design Impact Scholarship Offered for MBA Equivalent for Designers

Business executives seeking to level up can enroll in an MBA program, but there’s no equivalent for industrial designers. Future London Academy, a UK-based executive education organization, aims to change that. They’re offering an Executive Programme for Design Leaders, as well as a Design Impact Scholarship to cover the £45,000 (USD $60,627) tuition.

The Executive Programme for Design Leaders at Future London Academy is the only Executive MBA equivalent that is made specifically for Creative Directors and Design Leaders with 15+ years of experience who want to learn the business side of design, scale businesses, become greater leaders, and make more impact with their work. Taught directly by C-level leaders from the top companies, this 9-week programme is broken down into 5 intensive modules in London and California.
The selected candidate will join the 2026/27 cohort and gain business strategy, finance, leadership, and operational skills from C-level executives at companies like AKQA, Google, Zaha Hadid Architects, Saatchi & Saatchi, and Uber and then apply this knowledge to drive meaningful change in their field.
Submissions close on 17 September 2025.

You can learn more about the application process here.

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5 Best Tiny Pocket Knives Under $100 That Deliver: Minimal Carry, Maximum Utility

Most EDC lovers have been carrying knives for years, and I’m sure they will tell you that size matters when it comes to EDC. You want something that disappears in your pocket but doesn’t disappoint when you need it. After scrolling through dozens of tiny blades, I’ve found five that truly deliver on both fronts. These aren’t just miniature novelties; they’re serious tools.

These knives cleverly and efficiently maximize every millimeter without sacrificing the things that matter. Sharp edges, reliable locks, quality materials, and deployment you can count on. These excellent knives offer precision engineering in palm-sized packages that redefine what’s possible in minimal form factors – and they’re all priced under 100 dollars! Dive in, and choose the perfect pocket knife for you.

Why Every Pocket Needs A Tiny Knife?

Most knife tasks don’t require a massive blade. Opening packages, cutting zip ties, trimming loose threads, slicing tape—these everyday jobs need precision, not power. A tiny knife handles 90% of your cutting needs while taking up barely any pocket space. Plus, they’re way less intimidating in office environments and TSA-free for most domestic flights.

Tiny pocket knives are actually more convenient than larger folders for quick tasks. No fumbling with bulky handles or worrying about blade length laws. You can keep one on your keychain, in a coin pocket, or clipped inside a laptop bag. When something needs cutting right now, these little guys are already in your hand before you finish reaching for them.

1. The Cubik

I’ll be honest, when I first heard about a “gravity knife,” I did wonder how legit it could actually be. But the Cubik completely changed my mind about physics-based deployment. You simply need to press the button, flip it upside down, and gravity does all the work. No springs to break, no mechanisms to jam, just simple physics working exactly like it should every single time.

Priced at $59, the machined titanium feels incredible in hand, and at 2.6 inches long and 0.2 inches thick, it’s genuinely pocketable. The diagonal grip lines aren’t just for looks; they provide solid purchase when you’re working. That tungsten carbide glass-breaker on the back isn’t something I hope anyone ever needs to use, but knowing it’s there gives serious peace of mind.

What we like

Gravity deployment requires zero maintenance.
Tungsten carbide glass-breaker included.

What we dislike

Won’t deploy if you’re not holding it right.
Blade length limits bigger cutting jobs.

2. Corgi V

Don’t let that bright orange fool you; the Corgi V is all business under its cheerful exterior. I love how this knife breaks the “tactical black everything” mold that dominates EDC. The 14C28N blade takes a wicked edge and holds it well, while the all-metal construction feels substantial without being heavy.

At 3.48 inches closed, it’s on the larger side of “tiny,” but that extra size translates to a more comfortable grip. The bead-blasted finish on that orange aluminum handle catches light beautifully and hides scratches well. Sure, the handle isn’t ergonomically sculpted, but sometimes simple geometric shapes work better than over-engineered curves. And with a price tag of $79, it feels like a steal!

Click Here to Buy Now

What we like

Quality 14C28N steel holds an excellent edge.
Eye-catching design stands out from black tactical clones.

What we dislike

The capsule handle can feel slippery when wet.
Larger footprint than ultra-compact options.

3. Tiflex

The Tiflex is tiny, smaller than most of my house keys, but don’t underestimate it. That replaceable scalpel blade is surgically sharp, literally. If you keep one on your keychain, you can honestly forget it’s there until you need to open a package or cut something that demands precision. The titanium construction means it’ll outlast everything else on your keyring.

The replaceable blade system is commendable. When it gets dull, you don’t sharpen or replace the whole knife, just pop in a fresh scalpel blade. The flipper tab works perfectly for one-handed opening and doubles as a finger guard. At $59 with ten replacement blades included, it’s an incredible value for titanium construction.

Click Here to Buy Now

What we like

Replaceable scalpel blades stay razor-sharp.
Keychain size with premium titanium build.

What we dislike

The tiny handle makes extended use uncomfortable.
Need to buy replacement blades eventually.

4. Tops Home Store Titanium Knife

This weird little comma-shaped knife shouldn’t work, but somehow it does. The hollow, filigree handle looks like it would be impossible to grip, but those cutouts create texture that your fingers can grab onto. At 1.65 inches closed, it’s ridiculously compact, yet the clever design makes it surprisingly usable.

For ten bucks, the titanium construction is honestly shocking. Yeah, the blade is tiny, but it handles all those little cutting tasks that pop up daily. The see-through handle creates this cool depth effect, and every single person who sees it will ask where you got it from. It will become a conversation starter that happens to cut things really well.

Click Here to Buy Now

What we like

Unbelievable value at $10 for titanium.
Unique design guaranteed to start conversations.

What we dislike

Extremely limited blade length.
Open design can collect lint and debris.

5. Speedy

The Speedy is hands-down the fastest-deploying knife I’ve ever seen. That spring-loaded mechanism launches the blade out so fast it’s almost startling the first few times. Once you get used to it, though, you’ll spoil yourself for slower knives. The deployment is addictive, and you will catch yourself fidgeting with it constantly.

At 2.2 inches closed with a 1.45-inch blade, it’s truly pocket-friendly while packing serious cutting power. The G10 handle provides excellent grip, and Bomber & Company’s build quality is solid after a decade in the business. Yes, the blade is short, but that spring deployment makes up for it when you need to cut something right now.

Click Here to Buy Now

What we like

Millisecond deployment beats everything else.
Proven manufacturer with solid reputation.

What we dislike

Short blade limits versatility.
The spring mechanism will eventually need maintenance.

Finding Your Perfect Tiny Companion

All these nifty knives excel in different situations. The Cubik’s gravity mechanism never gets old, the Corgi V brings joy to mundane tasks, the Tiflex disappears until you need surgical precision, the Comma Knife starts conversations, and the Speedy satisfies that need for speed we all have.

The real magic happens when you find the one that matches your daily routine. Whether you need the Tiflex’s keychain convenience, the Speedy’s rapid deployment, or the Cubik’s maintenance-free operation, there’s a tiny knife here that’ll become your new favorite carry. Once you experience the convenience of a properly designed tiny blade, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without one.

The post 5 Best Tiny Pocket Knives Under $100 That Deliver: Minimal Carry, Maximum Utility first appeared on Yanko Design.

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Beech wood nutcracker concept is inspired by French tradition

If you love both thoughtful design and timeless kitchen tools, the Maillet nutcracker by Eloi Goulhot is sure to catch your eye. Inspired by the traditional French method of cracking nuts with a mallet, this beautiful piece brings a charming update to a classic approach. Crafted from durable beech wood and finished with a practical rubber cap, Maillet is as sturdy as it is stylish.

Cracking nuts has always been a bit of a ritual. Many people have fond memories of using heavy kitchen tools or even improvised mallets during the holidays to enjoy fresh walnuts and hazelnuts. The Maillet nutcracker takes this age-old tradition and reimagines it for the modern home. Its clean lines and natural materials are perfect for anyone who appreciates minimalist design, while its clever mechanism makes cracking nuts both fun and effective.

Designer: Eloi Goulhot

Maillet has a unique blend of simplicity and innovation. Rather than using complicated gears or levers, you simply place a nut in the circular chamber and strike the end with the mallet handle. The rubber cap on the striking end not only extends the life of the tool, but also helps to absorb impact, protecting your countertop and making the process quieter than you might expect. The result is a satisfying crack that splits the shell without crushing the nut inside.

The beech wood used for Maillet is not just attractive, but also chosen for its strength and resilience. This kind of wood is known for withstanding repeated impacts, which is exactly what you need in a nutcracker. The smooth finish feels comfortable in your hand, and the simple form makes it easy to display in your kitchen or dining room. It’s a tool you’ll be proud to leave out on the counter, ready for use at any moment.

Maillet is a kitchen accessory, a conversation starter, and a nod to French heritage. Whether you’re preparing a cheese board, baking with fresh nuts, or simply enjoying a healthy snack, this nutcracker adds a touch of elegance to the experience. Its straightforward operation also makes it enjoyable for kids and adults alike, turning a simple task into a shared activity. This stands out for its honest materials and thoughtful design. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best solutions are the ones inspired by tradition and refined with care. If you’re looking to add a beautiful and functional piece to your kitchen, Maillet is a delightful choice that combines utility with French-inspired charm.

The post Beech wood nutcracker concept is inspired by French tradition first appeared on Yanko Design.

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fractured stone forms shape tourist facilities by MVRDV on taiwan’s southern coastline

MVRDV to redesign tourist infrastructure in taiwan

 

MVRDV, working with HWC Architects, wins the commission to redesign the tourist infrastructure of Jialeshui, Taiwan, with their masterplan Nature Rocks!. Located on a dramatic stretch of coastline in the far south of the country, where wind and sea have sculpted sandstone into animal-like rock formations, the project proposes improved accessibility and visitor facilities while keeping all new construction within the site’s already developed footprint. By echoing the fractured, layered geology of the region, the design turns roads, paths, and buildings into rocky fragments that appear to emerge from the terrain.

all renderings by MVRDV

 

 

Jialeshui’s Coastline as a Cracked Stone Landscape

 

Jialeshui, part of Kenting National Park in Pingtung County, is among Taiwan’s most well-known geological parks. Visitors come for formations such as Rabbit Rock, Toad Rock, and Seal Rock, yet despite its popularity, the site has struggled with inadequate infrastructure. A narrow road currently serves as the only connection between forest and shoreline, forcing shuttle buses, cyclists, and pedestrians to share space. Small kiosks and pavilions have been damaged repeatedly by typhoons, leaving the area both congested and fragile.

 

WIth Nature Rocks!, the architects at MVRDV address these challenges by reshaping circulation and public spaces as a cracked stone landscape. The straight road is broken apart and re-stitched into a system of pathways that flow between forest and coast, dividing into zones for walking, cycling, shuttle buses, and rest. Some of the rock-like fragments rise into small buildings that house a visitor center, exhibition spaces, restrooms, and lookout points. The roof of the largest volume becomes a panoramic terrace for stargazing and views of the sea. At the entrance, three sculptural structures cluster together as a gateway, while along the route, new kiosks and viewpoints replace outdated facilities at existing points of interest, including the sea lookout, the stone deck, and the waterfall.

MVRDV wins the commission to redesign the tourist infrastructure of Jialeshui, Taiwan

 

 

Concrete and planting strategies complete Nature Rocks!

 

MVRDV carves cracks between the rock-like elements that act as passive drainage channels, helping to manage stormwater and flooding while also allowing vegetation to take root and animals to move between forest and shore. A planting strategy layers tall native trees near the forest edge, shifting to salt-tolerant species by the coast, while even the concrete structures are intended to weather and host mosses and plants over time. Concrete is selected as the only material capable of withstanding the site’s harsh climate, and its aggregate will partly be recycled from demolished buildings.

 

By confining interventions to previously developed areas and allowing natural systems to shape the design, MVRDV and HWC Architects aim to strengthen Jialeshui’s role as a geological park without eroding the qualities that made it famous. 

located on a dramatic stretch of coastline in the far south of the country

wind and sea have sculpted sandstone into animal-like rock formations

the project proposes improved accessibility and visitor facilities

the design turns roads, paths, and buildings into rocky fragments that appear to emerge from the terrain

MVRDV addresses challenges by reshaping circulation and public spaces

 

project info:

 

name: Nature Rocks

architect: MVRDV | @mvrdv

location: Manzhou Township, Pingtung County, Taiwan

 

client: Pingtung County Government

founding Partner in charge: Winy Maas

director: Gideon Maasland

head of Taiwan: Hui Hsin Liao

design team: Valentina Fantini, Samuel Tam, Vivian Yang

copyright: MVRDV Winy Maas, Jacob van Rijs, Nathalie de Vries

 

co-architect: HWC Architects

structural engineer: Cross Structural Engineer & Associates

MEP: LiPeng Professional Electrical Engineer Firm

surveyor: JengShing Surveying and Mapping Engineering Co., Ltd.

environmental advisor: D.H. Engineering Consultants Ltd.

The post fractured stone forms shape tourist facilities by MVRDV on taiwan’s southern coastline appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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Remember That Legendary Goal? Moisés Muñoz on Mexico’s Past, Present, and World Cup Future

For more than a decade, Moisés Muñoz was a familiar presence between the posts for some of Mexico’s most iconic teams. From his dramatic heroics with Club América to his steady presence on the national team, Muñoz carved out a career from moments of pure magic as goalkeeper. But long after his last save, and that legendary goal, his actual voice remains just as important in the world of fútbol.

Moisés Muñoz on Mexican Fans 

When Muñoz talks about the game in an interview with Nuestro Stories, it’s with the clarity of someone who’s lived and breathed it very personally. And as the 2026 FIFA World Cup inches closer, he’s thinking not only about the sport’s past, but where it’s headed.  One thing he insists hasn’t changed is the emotional core of the game, especially in Mexico. 

“Mexican fans don’t just watch the game, they feel it,” Muñoz says in his native Spanish. “We do something very similar to American culture, like the ‘tailgate,’ but essentially, everyone gets together and makes plenty of food and makes it a point to watch these games with loved ones.”

From the Goal Box to the Studio Lights

When chatting with us, his passion only intensifies when we ask about the upcoming World Cup. Though he’s played in his share of high-stakes matches, Muñoz still marvels at the ways Mexicans take the global tournament to heart. 

These days, Muñoz gets to witness those moments from a different vantage point. As a commentator for Fox Sports during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, he traded adrenaline-fueled saves for studio lights and earpieces. It wasn’t an easy shift at first, apart from having to learn some more English, but of course, Muñoz tells us, he missed the pulse of the crowd as a player. 

“I definitely had to read up on my English more and prepare, but in general, what an amazing experience to be able to commentate during the Copa Mundial,” he says. “It really is a different perspective, you learn how to analyze the game more when you’re not on the field. As of right now, I don’t have any plans to commentate again for the next World Cup, but I really loved doing it for the last.”

As for Mexico’s prospects in 2026, Muñoz is cautiously optimistic. He knows better than most that hope alone won’t carry a team past the group stage, but instead, he argues the country is doing much better tactically at this time than in years past. 

“I think Mexico’s chances of actually winning the whole thing are quite big. We’re doing better strategically, we’ve only gotten better with time,” he adds. “Even with Mexico getting to host some of the tournament, we’re going to have all eyes on us and it will be a very big stage.”

Pride, People, and a Little Tequila

Reflecting on his career, one that inspired young Latino fans across Mexico, the U.S., and the world, Muñoz doesn’t talk much about trophies or stats. Instead, what matters most to him is the connections he’s made with people who saw themselves in him. 

“I carry that responsibility of representing Mexico with a lot of pride,” Muñoz says. “To be able to be a small representation for Mexicans everywhere, I don’t take that for granted. I really have loved being a part of the national team. It’s everything to me. And the love I’ve received back from people, from fans, from everyone. It’s just such a big honor.”

It’s no wonder Gran Centenario named him a Leyenda, aka an ambassador of Mexican pride and ancestry. He’s one of the few legends the brand has chosen to represent their Mexican pride and ancestry. 

“I don’t even drink that much, but honestly, if you want to have a good time, tequila is a must for Mexicans watching a soccer game.”

For Moisés Muñoz, whether it’s defending the net, lifting spirits, or raising a glass, it all comes back to the same mission: honoring Mexico, on and off the field.

The post Remember That Legendary Goal? Moisés Muñoz on Mexico’s Past, Present, and World Cup Future appeared first on Nuestro Stories.

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Charlie: A Revolutionary Induction Range with a Built-In Battery

In America, the phrase “Now we’re cooking with gas” was slang for “Now we’re really operating efficiently.”

It originated as a marketing slogan in the 1930s, created by the American Gas Association to push newfangled gas-fired ranges and ovens. And back then, gas stoves were indeed a step up from its predecessor: The wood-fired stove.

Times have changed. We now know that “cooking with gas” could be likened to “playing with fire,” in terms of our health. “You wouldn’t stand over the tailpipe of a car breathing in the exhaust from that car. And yet nearly 50 million households stand over a gas stove, breathing the same pollutants in their homes,” Rob Jackson, an environmental scientist at Stanford University and lead author on a study on pollution from gas cooking, told Food Manufacturing. Gas stoves release pollutants like nitrogen dioxide, which is linked to asthma, and benzene, which is linked to cancer.

Gas stoves can also be a hassle for those who live in cities. Imagine an entire apartment building filled with gas stoves. If a gas leak is detected, as happens a lot—U.S. fire departments are called to some 125,000 residential gas leaks each year—gas to the entire building must be shut off while the problem is addressed. No one in the building can cook until it’s fixed—and that can literally take months.

Electric stoves emit no fumes and are more efficient, with up to 80% of the heat generated reaching the target pots and pans. (Gas stoves waste about 50%.) Induction stoves are better still; since they only heat the surface that contacts the pot, their efficiency is around 90%.

The main hassles of switching to an electric or induction stove are the higher cost of the units, and the added expense of retrofitting them. Electric and induction stoves require 240V outlets, higher-amperage breakers and new wiring, which means you’ve got to hire an electrician to get into the walls.

Now a California-based company called Copper has solved at least one of those problems. They’ve designed Charlie, a revolutionary induction stove that comes with a battery. Why? Because you can plug it into a regular 120V outlet, no rewiring necessary. The battery draws power at night, when electricity costs are cheaper; when it’s time to cook during the day, Charlie’s got all the juice it needs. It can run all four burners and the oven at the same time.

The problem Copper hasn’t yet solved is the cost. Charlie runs six grand, about double what you’d pay for a high-end electric or gas stove. Hopefully those costs will come down over time.

Even with the high price tag, the company has managed to strike a deal with the NYC Housing Authority to deliver 10,000 units. Clean-energy government incentives—which will probably go away under the new administration—brought the price down to $3,200 per unit at the time the deal was struck. The Charlie units will be a boon for building managers who don’t want to deal with gas hassles and don’t have the budget to retrofit every apartment’s kitchen with 240V.

One challenge with installation I should mention is, the battery-laden Charlie units are extremely heavy, at over 350 lbs. (Electric or gas stoves usually weigh less than half that.) For the sake of the installers, hopefully they’re going into elevator buildings.

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hybrid office-residence extends raw concrete balcony above recessed timber mass in india

3dor DESIGNS A Mixed-Use Office and Residence in Kerala

 

3dor Aapees, designed by 3dor Concepts, is a mixed-use project located in Chalad, Kannur, Kerala, India. The building integrates office and residential functions within a semi-urban context, framed by a green landscape on one side and residential neighborhoods on the other. The design balances the public character of the office with the privacy required for the residence, while maintaining spatial connections between both functions.

 

The building follows the site’s natural slope with a linear massing strategy, minimizing disturbance to the topography. To avoid clustering and enhance spatial quality, a void was introduced into the block, creating a visual and physical link between the two floors. This also ensures daylight and ventilation reach both residential and office areas.

all images courtesy of 3dor Concepts

 

 

Layered Living and Working Spaces define 3dor Aapees

 

The residential level, situated on the basement floor, is organized through zoning based on privacy needs. Public spaces such as the living room are oriented toward the northwest, using their position as a buffer against the evening sun. A waterbody between the living and dining areas separates public and semi-private zones while contributing to natural cooling, ventilation, and daylight.

 

At ground level, the office is accessed through a veranda that acts as a transitional space between exterior and interior. Inside, the workplace emphasizes openness, with flexible layouts instead of enclosed cubicles. Meeting spaces are located above the living area, linked by an open transitional zone that overlooks the waterbody. Balconies extend from these rooms, reinforcing visual and spatial connections with the outdoors. The architectural team at 3dor Concepts designs the first floor as a dynamic, adaptable zone that supports multiple uses, from workshops and in-house presentations to informal gatherings. Its open layout and connection to a balcony allow expansion for larger group activities, while the adjoining terrace functions as both a viewing deck and an outdoor workshop space.

3dor Aapees combines workspace and residence in Chalad, Kannur

 

 

Balancing Raw Aesthetics with Contextual Sensitivity

 

Materiality plays a central role in the design. The office employs raw, exposed materials that establish a clear architectural character. Concrete is used consistently for walls, floors, and ceilings, with shuttering patterns left visible. Wooden detailing, created from repurposed timber, highlights openings and provides warmth. Flooring combines cement finishes with rough-textured Kota stone, while exposed metal elements serve structural and connective purposes. Together, these materials create a tactile, unembellished aesthetic.

 

The design also integrates regional principles into a modern framework. Large overhangs provide shade and rain protection, while pivoted doors allow for daylight and natural ventilation. Rather than replicating traditional forms, the project reinterprets local strategies through contemporary materials and construction methods. 3dor Aapees positions itself within the scale of its neighborhood, emphasizing contextual modernism and human-centered spatial design. By merging workspace and residence, the project reflects evolving patterns of urban life while supporting flexibility, openness, and environmental responsiveness.

raw concrete defines walls, floors, and ceilings with visible textures

 

a ‘foot’ step decorates the building’s entryway

rough Kota stone and cement finishes ground the interior palette

repurposed timber highlights openings with crafted wooden details

regional strategies are reinterpreted through modern materials and design

daylight and ventilation are enhanced through strategic massing

living areas face northwest, buffering against the evening sun

wooden louvers filter light within the open workspaces

3dor Concepts adds wooden ‘undas’ into the living area

linear massing follows the site’s natural slope with minimal disruption

 

project info:

 

name: 3dor Aapees

architects: 3dor Concepts | @3dor_concepts
design team: Ahmad Thaneem, Muhammed Jiyad, Muhammed Naseem
location: Chalad, Kannur, Kerala, India

 

 

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

The post hybrid office-residence extends raw concrete balcony above recessed timber mass in india appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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some thoughts blends narrative of taste at captain george flavor museum in shanghai

captain george flavor museum designed by some thoughts

 

In Shanghai, China, a new kind of coffee experience has emerged: the Captain George Flavor Museum, designed by spatial design studio Some Thoughts. This project is more than a coffee shop; it is a singular ecosystem centered on flavor, masterfully blending taste, design, and aesthetics. The museum’s entrance, designed as a recessed portal, prepares visitors for a journey ahead, while its vintage aesthetic — steeped in craftsmanship and a profound sense of history — eschews modern sleekness. This design transcends visual nostalgia, embodying a cultural reimagining of time and a spiritual dialogue with the past.

some thoughts blend time and flavor

 

The interior of Captain George Flavor Museum is thoughtfully segmented into three distinct zones: a casual coffee lounge, a retail area for custom-blended beans, and a dedicated brewing space. This careful arrangement, underpinned by a meticulous service framework, allows Captain George to connect with customers on a richer, more multidimensional level. Some Thoughts views specialty coffee as a counterpoint to efficiency, a celebration of time’s intrinsic value. Accordingly, the space weaves a narrative of ‘time and flavor’ through spatial arrangement, curatorial displays, lighting, and decorative elements to create a cohesive experience.

A harmonious blend of industrial and human elements defines the aesthetic. Custom black steel fixtures and coffee equipment bring a professional rigor, while the liberal use of vintage furniture and carefully selected artifacts imbues the space with warmth. In the retail area, an orderly array of black cast-iron cabinets symbolizes the brand’s relentless pursuit of quality and meticulous categorization. The back of the museum is a stage for the pursuit of perfect flavor. A long bar counter in the brewing room transforms the space into a centerpiece for interaction, where the sensory delight of patrons converges with the art of coffee. Ultimately, the Captain George Flavor Museum delivers an experience that is deeply human, timeless, and centered entirely on the celebration of flavor.

 

 

 

project info:

 

project: Captain George Flavor Museum
designer: Some Thoughts / @somethoughts_official

 

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: tim spears | designboom

The post some thoughts blends narrative of taste at captain george flavor museum in shanghai appeared first on designboom | architecture & design magazine.

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LEGO Ideas Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship sets sail in matte black skin

LEGO Group has been on a roll lately with releases almost every third day. Right from the Hogsmeade Village Collectors’ Edition to the fan-made submissions like the Goblin Stadium to the Ideas division. A couple of months ago, the Black Pearl MOC set, consisting of almost 4,600 pieces by LEGO Ideas creator Tobnac overshadowed his own submission of the Flying Dutchman.

Finally, the idea has been taken in good spirit by the community, and the official Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship has been announced. Being part of the LEGO Icons universe makes it even more special. Intricate in every detail, the 2,862-piece set will impress the most finicky Pirates of the Caribbean fan. Measuring almost 13 inches tall and 9 inches wide, the Sparrah’s LEGO ship interpretation has rotating dials for deploying the starboard cannons.

Designer: LEGO Ideas

The ghost galleon has everything that’ll bring a smile to a Jack Sparrow fan’s face. It has a working wheel for steering the rudder, the deck can be opened up to reveal the interior captain’s quarters, while the hull can be separated from the waterline to enjoy the mini boat in sailing mode. Other noticeable details like the separate furnishings, candlesticks, detachable rowboat, an apple, and minifigure figurehead are included to extend the sense of realism. Obviously, this set would be incomplete without the minifigures, hence there are detailed minifigures of the characters from the movies from the franchise, including Captain Jack Sparrow, Will Turner, Elizabeth Swann, Hector Barbossa, Gibbs, Cotton, Anamaria draped in her flamboyance, and Marty in a gold dress. Pintel and Ragetti are missing from this set, as LEGO could have gone the extra mile to add them as well.

Compared to the previous official Pirates of the Caribbean set, this one is bigger and more impressive. In fact, this is the biggest ever set in the series. There have been other pirate ship LEGO sets in the past; this one trumps them all with its intimidating dark skinned sails and Hull. The level of detail put into replicating Captain Jack Sparrow’s ride is immense, and we appreciate the effort. However, the official naming convention of the set seems a bit odd, as it could have been easily called the Black Pearl. This sounds crisp and will click with the franchise fans instantly.

For LEGO Insiders, the set will be available to buy on September 12, while the usual sale will commence on 15 September for fans. Priced at $380, the set will elevate the look of any geek den or a pop culture-inspired living room shelf. Definitely a fat price tag for a LEGO set, but the group has been gravitating towards bigger sets lately, including the Harry Potter, Willy Wonka, and Wicked.

The post LEGO Ideas Captain Jack Sparrow’s Pirate Ship sets sail in matte black skin first appeared on Yanko Design.