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Fujifilm Reimagines Photography with X half Premium Compact Digital Camera

Photography has remained fundamentally horizontal for over a century. Fujifilm’s latest creation shatters this convention with stunning simplicity. The new X half premium compact digital camera transforms how we capture images by embracing vertical orientation as its foundational design principle. This revolutionary approach acknowledges our smartphone-shaped world while delivering an experience distinctly separate from mobile photography. The camera challenges our assumptions about what photography tools should look like and how they should function. Its design speaks to a generation that consumes images vertically but craves tactile experiences beyond touchscreens.

Designer: Fujifilm

Design Origin & Philosophy

The X half emerged from Fujifilm’s experimental design workshops, where creative freedom flourishes without immediate commercial pressure. These sessions allow designers to explore concepts that challenge conventional thinking about cameras.

During one particularly productive workshop, a designer named Bueno presented a fully realized mock-up addressing his personal frustration with film photography’s ongoing costs. As noted in Fujifilm’s development history, Bueno loved shooting film but found it financially challenging, which sparked his creative solution. This origin story reveals a fascinating inversion of traditional product development cycles.

Bueno’s concept arrived as a complete physical design with no internal components or technical specifications. The engineering team faced the unusual challenge of building technology to fit an established form rather than designing around predetermined components.

Senior leadership immediately recognized the concept’s potential, supporting this rare bottom-up development process that preserved the designer’s original vision. The concept brilliantly translates half-frame film photography into digital form.

Traditional half-frame cameras, popular for their economy and distinctive aesthetic, captured two vertical images on a single 35mm film frame. This digital interpretation maintains that vertical orientation while eliminating film costs entirely. Fujifilm went further by incorporating intentional constraints that shape the photographic experience.

Physical Design & Ergonomics

The camera lacks image stabilization and captures JPEGs exclusively without RAW capability. These aren’t technical limitations but deliberate design decisions that encourage a specific relationship with photography. Users focus on composition and timing rather than post-processing possibilities or technical perfection. The design philosophy prioritizes the act of seeing over technical manipulation, encouraging photographers to develop their eye rather than their editing skills.

The X half weighs a mere 240 grams (8.5 ounces), lighter than many smartphones despite its purposeful construction. Its compact dimensions (105.8mm x 64.3mm x 30.0mm) make it genuinely pocketable, fitting comfortably in standard jeans pockets without the awkward bulge larger cameras create.

Fujifilm selected a fixed 10.8mm F2.8 prime lens, equivalent to 32mm in traditional 35mm format. This focal length provides the perfect balance between environmental context and subject isolation. According to the product specifications, this specific field of view mirrors that of the beloved Fujifilm QuickSnap disposable cameras, creating an immediately familiar perspective that feels natural for everyday photography.

The most innovative physical element is undoubtedly the Frame Advance Lever. This mechanical component serves genuine functions beyond nostalgic decoration. Users physically advance the digital frame, combining two vertical images into diptychs or merging short video clips with still photographs. The tactile resistance of the lever makes each frame advance a deliberate act, reinforcing intentionality in image-making.

Interface & User Experience

Fujifilm reimagined the camera interface from first principles rather than adapting existing designs. The 2.4-inch touch screen provides intuitive control without overwhelming complexity. Traditional button arrays have been replaced with gesture controls that feel natural to digital natives while maintaining connections to analog processes.

The interface allows users to adjust the dividing line between frames. According to the technical documentation, photographers can select narrow, regular, or bold styles reminiscent of Instax prints, and even change the color between black and white. Switching between color and monochrome modes happens through simple, intuitive controls that don’t interrupt the photographic process.

The true interface innovation appears when connecting to smartphones. The camera simulates a film development process when transferring images. Users select which “roll” to import, initiating a development sequence that builds anticipation. The digital contact sheet displays edge codes that reference specific film simulations, such as “RTR” for retro filter.

This thoughtful replication of analog workflows transforms routine file transfer into a meaningful experience that enhances the photographer’s connection to their images. The menu system abandons conventional hierarchical organization for a more intuitive approach. Instead of burying options within nested submenus, the interface presents contextually relevant controls based on shooting mode and camera orientation.

This adaptive interface reduces the cognitive load on photographers, allowing them to focus on image-making rather than menu navigation. The system learns from user behavior, prioritizing frequently used settings for faster access.

Visual feedback appears through subtle animations that reference analog processes. When adjusting exposure compensation, a virtual needle moves across a scale reminiscent of light meters from manual cameras. These visual metaphors create intuitive understanding without requiring technical knowledge, making the camera accessible to photographers at all experience levels.

Image Quality & Creative Features

The X half’s output demonstrates its design philosophy most clearly. Fujifilm incorporated 13 Film Simulation modes based on their 90-year color science heritage. Each simulation offers unique characteristics that influence how photographers approach different subjects and lighting conditions.

The system goes further by incorporating three new creative filters inspired by film photography: Light Leak, which creates a slightly exposed look; Halation, a halo effect that appears around light sources; and Expired Film, which mimics the grainy look of older analog film. These elements come from an internal database of authentic film artifacts, applied without preview to reintroduce the element of surprise that made film photography exciting.

This unpredictability represents a deliberate design choice that restores the anticipation often missing from digital photography. Optional date stamping mimics the iconic corner-markings found on 1990s film cameras, enhancing the nostalgic experience for users familiar with physical prints.

The camera’s grain behavior connects to its advanced image processing engine, replicating organic and irregular patterns characteristic of traditional film. The vertical orientation influences composition in profound ways. By default, photographers naturally frame subjects differently when working in portrait format. This constraint encourages fresh perspectives on familiar subjects, breaking habitual compositional patterns that develop with horizontal framing.

Color science receives special attention through custom calibration for vertical subjects. The color rendering has been optimized for skin tones, architecture, and vertical landscapes, with subtle adjustments to saturation and contrast that complement vertically framed subjects.

Environmental Considerations

Fujifilm designed the X half with environmental impact in mind. The camera’s simplified internal architecture reduces component count compared to similar-sized digital cameras, minimizing resource consumption during manufacturing while extending potential service life through mechanical simplicity. The fixed lens eliminates the environmental impact of multiple lens production and transportation, reducing materials usage and packaging waste associated with interchangeable lens systems.

Most significantly, the X half’s design philosophy encourages users to value fewer, more meaningful images. This approach reduces the environmental impact of data storage and transfer while fostering a more sustainable relationship with photography itself. By emphasizing quality over quantity, the camera encourages a more mindful approach to image creation and consumption.

My Thoughts for Now

At $849.99 USD, the X half targets photography enthusiasts seeking something beyond conventional cameras. Fujifilm clearly understands this camera serves a specific market segment rather than competing directly with multi-purpose devices. The price reflects both unique design and premium materials while offering value beyond technical specifications.

The camera’s pocketable size encourages daily carry, resulting in more frequent use than larger systems that often remain at home. This regular engagement creates more photographic opportunities, enhancing practical value. The fixed lens and simplified controls eliminate ongoing accessory costs while encouraging mastery of a single focal length.

The X half represents a significant departure from conventional camera design by challenging horizontal orientation as the default. Its most profound impact lies in embracing constraints as creative catalysts. Early testing revealed that while professional photographers initially expressed frustration, those willing to adapt discovered these limitations fostered creativity rather than restricting it.

“X half is special because it rekindles our love for the compact camera and blends it with the modern sensibilities that make it easy to make a part of our everyday lives,” explains Victor Ha, vice president of Electronic Imaging and Optical Devices Divisions at Fujifilm North America Corporation.

The camera arrives as design trends increasingly embrace digital interpretations of analog experiences. From skeuomorphic interfaces to vinyl record resurgence, consumers seek tangible, imperfect experiences within our digital world. What makes the X half truly innovative lies in its intentional subtractions from photography. By removing RAW capture options, limiting post-processing flexibility, and challenging horizontal orientation, Fujifilm creates something paradoxically nostalgic yet forward-looking.

The FUJIFILM X half compact digital camera will be available in late June 2025 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $849.99 USD and $998.99 CAD.

The post Fujifilm Reimagines Photography with X half Premium Compact Digital Camera first appeared on Yanko Design.

Screenless multi-sensory device concept helps visualize media misinformation

When I was still young and idealistic (or maybe naive), I thought that whatever is put out on legitimate media is “the truth”. But when I started university and I got to see how everything in mass media and mass communication works, I finally understood that there may be a lot of agenda setting and disinformation behind the scenes. Especially now in this media landscape, it’s getting more difficult to sift through the actual information and misinformation/disinformation.

Niice Studio has responded to this post-truth reality with a conceptual device named TOTEM. This screenless, sculptural tool aims to navigate media misinformation not by acting as a direct fact-checker, but rather as a barometer, subtly indicating shifts in informational patterns, pressure, and overall volatility. It operates on the principle of translating abstract fluctuations within the media environment into tangible, sensory forms. Instead of presenting raw data, it offers a more nuanced system of feedback through physical, tactile means.

Designer: Niice Studio

The device analyzes incoming media content, including headlines, images, and textual posts, identifying known falsehoods. However, its intervention is not one of outright censorship or blocking. Instead, TOTEM introduces visual placeholders or subtle redactions, creating spatial gaps or minimal warnings that signal the presence of unreliable elements before the user fully engages with the content. It’s made up of three interconnected units working as a unified structure.

TO1 is the insight visualized that generates daily printed discs as a representation of either the stability of disruption of media patterns. Imagine that it’s like printing a coin to represent the news. A normal coin means the news was pretty reliable. A weird-looking coin means there was a lot of shaky or false information going around.

TO2 meanwhile is the responsive alert system which performs a physical action when it detects lies or verified distortions. This part is like a built-in alarm. If TOTEM sees something that’s definitely a lie, it will do something you can notice right away – maybe it will change color or shake a little to warn you. Lastly, the TO3 is the background content filter that analyzes media and replaces falsehoods with visual placeholders or subtle redactions.

The way they described things is still very conceptual and how it will work in real life as it is screenless and symbolic is pretty vague. But it’s an interesting vision for a future where technology aids in media literacy not through direct intervention, but through subtle, sensory cues that empower individuals to critically assess the information they encounter. The project sparks a conversation about alternative approaches to tackling misinformation, moving beyond the reliance on screens and direct data output towards more embodied and intuitive forms of media consumption.

The post Screenless multi-sensory device concept helps visualize media misinformation first appeared on Yanko Design.

Anomalo FM Radio Is A Playful Gadget That Blurs the Line Between Toy and Tech

Sometimes, the most delightful gadgets are the ones that don’t take themselves too seriously. The Anomalo FM radio is a perfect example: a burst of color and quirky design that looks like it stumbled out of a toybox rather than an electronics shelf. For tinkerers and collectors, this is the kind of device that sparks curiosity before it even plays a single note.

At first glance, the Anomalo radio is more playful sculpture than serious music machine. Its key feature is the prominent antenna that stretches upward, refusing to blend into the background like most radios. The rest of the device is a riot of limbs: chunky, candy-colored branches radiate out, each with a different function, making the radio look like a tiny robot waiting to spring to life.

Designer: SHINKOGEISHA

What makes the Anomalo radio truly fascinating is how those limbs create a three-dimensional interface. No two controls are alike: a roulette-style wheel on one branch lets you zip through stations, a bright red barrel cranks up the volume, and a large yellow speaker pumps out your favorite tunes. One stubby cylinder even houses the batteries, while wires snake through the limbs like veins, giving the whole thing a living, animated vibe.

Rather than hiding the functional parts, Anomalo puts everything on proud display. The antenna isn’t tucked away or disguised. It’s the backbone of the whole device, supporting each arm and giving the radio its playful, almost insect-like stance. For anyone who ever loved transforming robot toys, there’s a sense of nostalgia in the way Anomalo stands and operates.

The radio is crafted using digital fabrication techniques, with components produced from PLA material. While PLA isn’t as tough as industrial plastics or resin, the freedom of digital fabrication lets the designers get wildly creative without being boxed in by traditional manufacturing constraints. The result is a radio that feels as much like a DIY art project as a consumer electronics device.

This approach also points toward a wider trend: as digital fabrication tools become more accessible, everyday electronics are becoming bolder and more individual. Instead of sleek, sanitized gadgets, we’re seeing a new wave of playful, personalized products that invite owners to engage, tinker, and show off their unique style.

For makers, design fans, and anyone with a soft spot for gadgets that break the mold, the Anomalo FM radio is a cheerful reminder that tech can be fun, expressive, and just a little bit wild. Whether you’re tuning in for music or just admiring its form on your shelf, it’s a conversation piece that proves the future of electronics is anything but boring.

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Cyberdeck Briefcase Laptop Channels 70s Sci-Fi for DIY Tech Lovers

Laptops haven’t quite reached the same plug-and-play modularity as desktop PCs, but tinkerers have found ways to piece together unique machines using Raspberry Pi boards as the guts, Arduino microcontrollers for extra tricks, and 3D printing to craft custom shells. The result is a wave of personalized cyberdeck designs, each one showing off its creator’s vision of portable computing with a heavy dose of personality.

If you’ve ever dreamed of walking around with a computer straight out of a retro sci-fi movie, this DIY cyberdeck briefcase laptop is the stuff of geeky fantasies. Today’s electronic components and digital fabrication tools mean anyone with enough patience and creativity can build a custom computer that feels more like a prop from a 1970s space adventure than a modern laptop.

Designer: rawkout1337

This particular cyberdeck, known simply as Cyberdeck 1.1.0, doesn’t try to outdo the most extreme designs, but it still packs plenty of character into a briefcase-sized package. Instead of chasing the thin, minimalist look of commercial laptops, it leans into bold shapes, chunky silhouettes, and a color scheme that would have been right at home on the set of a 70s or 80s sci-fi show. You half expect to find it on the lap of a spaceship pilot or tucked under the arm of a secret agent from the future, or at least the future envisioned by the 70s and 80s.

What really sets the Cyberdeck 1.1.0 apart is the playful placement of its components. The power button, trackball, and mouse buttons all live on the upper half of the computer, right next to the compact screen. Using the trackball requires gripping the edge of the lid, while the three mouse buttons are tucked along the back edge, making you interact with the machine in a completely different, almost cinematic way.

Most of the internals are off-the-shelf parts, but there’s enough custom wiring and soldering to keep seasoned makers entertained. The mechanical keyboard is satisfyingly chunky, and the panels snap together with a satisfying click, thanks to the wonders of 3D printing. Even the handles are made from bent metal bars, giving the closed briefcase a portable, industrial vibe, perfect for a quick getaway or a dramatic reveal at a hacker meetup.

Of course, carrying a bright, boxy computer through airport security is bound to draw some second glances. But that’s half the fun: this is a laptop that refuses to blend in, embracing the spirit of DIY and cyberpunk with every detail. For makers, tinkerers, and sci-fi fans, the Cyberdeck 1.1.0 is a reminder that computers can be quirky, bold, and a little bit rebellious, just like the people who build them.

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5 Best Tech Gadgets Of April 2025

April 2025 was an exciting month for tech enthusiasts, with designers and creators blending nostalgia, minimalism, and modern features to produce outstanding gadgets. April’s best gadgets were not just about raw performance—they were about thoughtful design, tactile pleasure, and bringing a sense of joy and simplicity back to technology.

Whether you’re a music lover, a fan of classic mobile experiences, or someone who appreciates both form and function on your wrist, this collection of five exciting gadgets will capture your imagination. Let’s explore what makes each of them special and pick out which one is your favorite!

1. iPod Video

The iPod was once a symbol of the digital music revolution, instantly recognizable by its click wheel and iconic design.  Canadian YouTuber Zac Builds breathed new life into this classic device by creating a thoroughly modern iPod Video from scratch. This isn’t just a restoration—it’s a complete reimagining, blending the timeless appeal of the fifth-generation iPod with today’s tech standards.

The most impressive exterior update is the use of transparent faceplates and click wheels, allowing users to admire the device’s inner workings like a piece of mechanical art. But the real magic happens inside. Gone is the original hard drive, replaced by a lightning-fast 256GB SD card for improved speed, reliability, and storage. The old screen has been swapped for a vibrant, high-contrast IPS display, making album art and menus pop like never before. Modern conveniences abound: USB-C charging, Bluetooth audio, and support for high-fidelity FLAC files bring the iPod into the present.

What we like

Includes USB-C charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and FLAC support, making it compatible with current tech and high-quality audio.
Upgraded battery allows for extended use, giving users up to a month on a single charge.

What we dislike

This upgraded iPod is a one-off creation, not a mass-market product—replicating it requires technical skill and custom parts.
As a custom project, it’s not widely available for purchase, making it a dream for enthusiasts rather than a mainstream option.

2. a_77 Laptop

Amidst a sea of similar laptops, the a_77 stands out as a truly original approach to mobile computing. Designed by Braz de Pina, this laptop centers its entire layout around the keyboard, resulting in an ultra-compact and visually striking device that eliminates anything superfluous. The 65% keyboard size shapes the compact form factor, prioritizing comfort and functionality with every key press.

The nearly square, compact screen keeps the design minimal, while the keyboard offers clever details such as a bold power button and a dedicated CoPilot key to boost productivity. Bright colors and a playful style enhance its appeal, making the a_77 an excellent companion for students, digital nomads, or anyone who wants tech that’s as fun as it is functional.

What we like

Extremely portable with a lively, engaging design.
Efficient, thoughtfully designed keyboard layout.

What we dislike

The small display may feel restrictive for some tasks.
Its unconventional style might not suit fans of classic laptops.

3. Sidephone

While most modern phones chase ever-larger screens and all-in-one functionality, the Sidephone takes a radically different path by embracing physical buttons and modularity. This device is a love letter to the tactile joy of pressing real keys, offering an experience that feels refreshingly direct in a world full of glass slabs.

The Sidephone is all about efficiency—no more endless scrolling or tapping, just the instant satisfaction of a button press. But its most groundbreaking feature is its patented swappable keypad system. Users can easily change the keypad layout to suit their needs, thanks to a clever design that employs magnets and clips for quick, secure swaps. Want a classic T9 for texting, a gaming-specific layout, or a minimalist design for distraction-free use? Simply pop off the current keypad and snap on a new one.

What we like

Swappable layouts allow users to tailor the phone for texting, gaming, or minimalism, making the device uniquely versatile.
Real, physical buttons provide a delightful and efficient alternative to touchscreen typing.

What we dislike

As a feature phone, it lacks the advanced apps and capabilities of modern smartphones, which could be a downside for some users.
Those accustomed to touchscreen devices might find the Sidephone’s approach restrictive or old-fashioned.

4. Vetra Orbit One

The Vetra Orbit One concept smartwatch is a refreshing antidote to the sensory overload of most wearable tech. Instead of bombarding you with notifications and flashy graphics, it brings a sense of calm and tactile pleasure to your wrist, inspired by the craftsmanship of traditional watchmaking.

The design is minimalist, with clean lines and a focus on essential information, making it a sophisticated accessory that complements your style rather than competing for attention. The Orbit One’s key feature is its emphasis on tangible interaction—think rotating bezels and textured surfaces that invite you to touch and engage, rather than just tap.

What we like

Combines the satisfying feel of classic watches with a streamlined, user-friendly interface.
Delivers only the most important information, reducing distractions and making it a pleasure to wear daily.

What we dislike

As a concept device, it may not yet be available for purchase, and final features could change before release.
The minimalist approach may mean fewer apps and integrations compared to mainstream smartwatches.

5. Nintendo Wii U Revival Handheld

Nintendo’s spirit of creativity is reimagined in this sleek handheld, which serves as a modern tribute to the often-overlooked Wii U gamepad. Rather than mimicking the hybrid nature of the Switch, this device is dedicated solely to handheld gaming, delivering a streamlined experience focused on fun and nostalgia.

Its design is clean and intuitive, featuring a sharp central display, symmetrical analog sticks, and a well-organized button arrangement that feels instantly familiar to Nintendo enthusiasts. Shedding the bulkiness of the original Wii U controller, this new version is lightweight and highly portable, perfect for gaming on the go. Practical updates like USB-C charging, a classic D-pad, and a variety of eye-catching color options (including a dazzling gold Zelda edition) highlight its modern appeal.

What we like

Huge library of retro Nintendo games spanning multiple generations, playable offline without extra fees
Slim, ergonomic build with up-to-date features like USB-C and a responsive D-pad

What we dislike

Heavy focus on older titles may not attract gamers seeking the latest big-budget releases
Lacks hybrid or TV docking capabilities, which may limit its versatility compared to the Switch

The post 5 Best Tech Gadgets Of April 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

MSI Prestige 13 AI+ Ukiyo-e Edition: A Luxurious Fusion of Art and Innovation

For collectors and admirers of Japanese culture, few things are as enticing as a modern masterpiece that marries tradition with technology. MSI’s Prestige 13 AI+ Ukiyo-e Edition laptop embodies that union, showcasing a breathtaking collaboration with OKADAYA, the famed lacquerware artisans whose legacy stretches back more than four centuries. This limited edition laptop is equal parts technological marvel and work of art, destined to become a coveted collector’s piece.

At first glance, the Prestige 13 AI+ Ukiyo-e Edition dazzles with the iconic image of “The Great Wave off Kanagawa” by Katsushika Hokusai gracing its lid. This isn’t a print or a decal, but a meticulously hand-crafted scene brought to life with eight layers of Yamanaka lacquer, each applied and polished by hand. The artistry is tangible; each ripple and crest in the waves carries texture and depth, begging to be admired up close and even touched.

Designer: MSI x OKADAYA

The unique lacquer process is what makes this laptop truly stand out. Lacquer artists from OKADAYA build color and texture bit by bit, layering paint until the scene attains a richness and resilience not found in ordinary finishes. Gold powder is expertly placed into the waves, adding shimmering highlights that shift with the light. It’s a vibrant homage to the Ukiyo-e tradition, yet it feels fresh and contemporary atop a state-of-the-art device.

MSI’s attention to detail shines through in every corner of the Prestige 13 AI+ Ukiyo-e Edition. Golden text glimmers on the laptop’s ports, while the keyboard is crowned with a piano gloss finish and gilded lettering. These subtle touches ensure that the artistic theme runs throughout, making every interaction a celebration of craftsmanship and luxury.

This is not a mass-market machine. With only 1,000 units slated for production, each laptop is an exclusive statement piece for those who appreciate both sophisticated technology and the enduring allure of Japanese artistry. While the price hasn’t been confirmed, it’s easy to imagine it joining the ranks of other rare luxury tech collectibles.

MSI’s Ukiyo-e Edition isn’t just about beauty. It’s a masterclass in how ancient craft can be reimagined for the digital era, creating products that feel meaningful, memorable, and utterly unique. For those lucky enough to own one, they will have in their hands not just a laptop but also a celebration of heritage and a bold vision for what happens when art meets innovation.

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Fossil Furniture collection uses playful monolithic designs

When I was young, one of my favorite things to do with my Legos was to create pieces of furniture using different bricks and shapes. Of course these designs were pretty random and if made into actual furniture, they would probably not hold anyone or anything up as they were pretty whimsical. I didn’t grow up to be a furniture designer (or any kind of designer) but I’m always interested when I see designs that play around with various shapes and sizes.

The Fossil Furniture collection is a collaboration between Ukrainian designer Dmitry Kozinenko and furniture brand oitoproducts. It is able to reimagine familiar furniture archetypes, like the armchair, pouf, and bench through the lens of monolithic forms and a vibrant visual language. The core concept for the upholstered furniture is that of combining various basic geometric volumes but with the sculptural monolith design as the common element.

Designers: Dmitry Kozinenko for oito design

Each piece in the collection embodies the core concept of juxtaposing simple geometric forms, ingeniously merging square and round modules in a way that evokes the intuitive joy of building sets. The Fossil chair stands out with its unique structural composition: while grounded by two straight, supportive legs at the back, the front is defined by a gently curved, almost embracing round base. This clever combination creates a dynamic form that serves both as a comfortable stool and an aesthetically pleasing footrest, hinting at flexible usage within a living space.

Echoing the chair’s design ethos, the Fossil pouf adopts a similar silhouette, retaining the distinctive base and seat module but elegantly omitting the backrest, offering a more informal and adaptable seating option. Completing the set is the Fossil bench, which expands upon the pouf’s concept. It features a similar rectangular seat module, yet elongated to comfortably accommodate two or even three individuals, depending on their size. This extended form makes it an ideal addition to dining areas, entryways, or any space where shared seating is desired, reinforcing the collection’s blend of individual comfort and collective functionality.

The “Fossil Furniture Collection” beautifully underscores the notion that true innovation in design doesn’t necessitate a complete severance from the familiar. Instead, it often flourishes within the realm of clever reinterpretation, taking established forms and breathing new life into them through a playful and imaginative lens. This approach fosters a sense of immediate connection and accessibility, allowing users to appreciate the collection’s novelty without feeling alienated by radical, unfamiliar silhouettes. It’s a testament to the power of subtle yet impactful design choices, proving that even the most fundamental furniture pieces, those we interact with daily, hold untapped potential for reimagination.

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MB&F SP One has a transparent dial, is brand’s slimmest and smallest watch ever

MB&F is a watchmaker you’d repeatedly turn to for high-stake complications and innovation, whether you’re in awe of the charm of the Horological Machines or the intricacies of the Legacy Machines. The watches in these collections are time tellers that “reinterpret fine watchmaking into kinetic, 3-dimensional sculptures” you can adorn on the wrist. Now somewhere in between the Horological and the Legacy Machines, is the Special Projects collection of undefinable timepieces spearheaded by the all-new SP One, which the company says, is its slimmest and perhaps the simplest watch, ready for everyday wear.

Coming from MB&F, that would sound unfamiliar. But whether it is with the slightly affordable M.A.D.Editions timepieces, M.A.D.2 or the SP One – the slimmest and smallest timepieces in the Maximilian Büsser and Friends repertoire – there is a slight change in approach to watchmaking from the brand. The basic ethos remains unaltered, but the approach is more mass appealing than, for the longest time, being something unattainable for even some collectors.

Designer: MB&F

The exciting new Special Projects One (or SP One) is designed to be the thinnest watch in the brand’s collection, but it remains within the 3-dimensional architecture that’s true to MB&F’s popularity. This unique watch, which was initially nicknamed “Three Circles,” features a clean yet mindboggling dial: It’s transparent and features three components that seem to be floating in mid-air within the case. The case: Well, it’s another exciting story.

The three gravity-defying components – the barrel, balance wheel, and dial – are sandwiched between sapphire crystals on the front and back. The case is pebble-like and really tiny. It measures only 38mm and is 12mm thick, and is completely bezel-free and has detachable lugs that allow the watch to be paired with a calfskin leather strap, so it can be worn as a dress watch. To that accord, MB&F provides the SP One in two models: platinum and rose gold. The platinum model with a sky-blue bevelled flange is priced CHF 63,000 ($75,000), and the rose gold edition with anthracite bevelled flange is priced lower at CHF 58,000 ($70,000).

The visually distinguishing element on the SP One is also the crown, which sits at ten o’clock. The unconventional watch is powered by a completely in-house SP One movement, most of which remains hidden away behind the floating dials, but is visually connected by a three-spoked bridge that kind of seems to be holding everything in place on the absent dial. The manual winding movement offers a 72-hour power reserve and consists of 191 components and 31 jewels. The pleasant appearance of the SP One and its intricate horological genius make it look delicate, but that’s apparent. Being an MB&F, you would want to guard it with your life on land, underwater, it can handle up to 30m conveniently.

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Ergonomic Office Chairs Are Lying to You – This Chair Massages Your Spine Instead Of Cradling It

It doesn’t take long for a bad chair to make its presence known. That quiet pinch in your lower back, the sluggish haze from poor circulation, the awkward neck tilt that becomes second nature after long hours at your desk—these are all familiar signs that your chair isn’t keeping up. Standing desks and stability balls offer clever workarounds, but they’re solutions that orbit the real problem. What if we stopped trying to adapt ourselves to sitting and started designing a chair that actually adapts to us? That’s where the LiberNovo Omni enters, not just as a chair but as a radical rethinking of how we interact with our workspace.

Visually, it’s unapologetically overengineered, but in a great way. You see the exposed joints, the angular precision, and know it wasn’t sculpted for aesthetics alone. It’s designed to be dynamic, because nobody benefits from a sedentary lifestyle. The OmniDyna Support system responds to micro-movements with real-time adjustments powered by embedded sensors and low-noise actuators. Unlike traditional chairs that pretend movement is optional, the Omni understands it’s inevitable. Rather than correcting your posture, it flows with it.

Designer: LiberNovo

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The Bionic FlexFit Backrest, made up of 16 precision joints and 8 kinetic panels, mirrors your spine with accuracy. Rather than just a curved backrest that purportedly corrects your spine, this one mimics it. Whether you’re craning forward to sketch or sinking back to recharge, the six-point coordination system syncs your upper and lower body into a unified axis of comfort. Think exoskeleton, but providing support as well as comfort.

Traditional seating assumes people freeze once they find a “neutral position.” But the data says otherwise – most users shift postures 10 to 15 times an hour. The Omni embraces that need for movement with a support profile that evolves as you do. And it doesn’t just adapt, it actively aids recovery. Hit a key combo and the built-in spinal stretch module activates, arching and curling the seat like a chair-sized yoga instructor performing Cat-Cow. Yes, this is the only ergonomic office chair that gives your spine a stretch massage.

Then there’s the recline. Not a casual lean-back, but a modular, angle-specific system tuned for function. Deep Focus Mode, Solo Work Mode, Soft Recline Mode, and Spine Flow Mode – each one adjusts the backrest tension, seat pan tilt, and lumbar pitch with near-obsessive precision. The LiberNovo Omni provides 4 recline angles, from 105°, up to a 160° ‘zero gravity’ mode, allowing you to easily switch between work, gaming, and relaxation.

Nearly every element of the Omni is designed to be micro-adjusted, so the chair suits you from neck to thigh to wrist. The 4D armrests pivot, slide, and elevate to match everything from tablet sketching to elbow-hovering gaming. The headrest rotates, shifts vertically and horizontally, or comes off completely. Lumbar support is motorized and adjusts within a two-inch range via onboard toggle. Even the materials are layered with intent: a breathable mesh outer shell, an adaptive memory foam mid-core, and a rigid aerospace-grade frame underneath. It breathes, conforms, and supports without compromise.

This isn’t a chair for occasional use or short sessions like the one at your dining table or on the porch. It’s a full-shift command center overengineered to the point of being decades ahead of its time – but perfect for the sedentary lifestyle that’s been plaguing most professions for over a decade now. The developer pushing commits at 2 a.m., the editor polishing their cut frame-by-frame, the gamer six hours deep into a campaign – these are the people who’ll feel the difference in the first hour and won’t go back.

Click Here to Pre-Order Now: $10 (Unlock an extra $50 off the Kickstarter Launch Price of $698). Hurry, only 500 units available! Deal ends soon.

The post Ergonomic Office Chairs Are Lying to You – This Chair Massages Your Spine Instead Of Cradling It first appeared on Yanko Design.

Spanish Winery Made From Hempcrete Blocks Is Setting A New Standard For Sustainability & Wine Heritage

In the peaceful countryside of Zayas de Báscones, Spain, a new winery by Fran Silvestre Arquitectos is quietly emerging. The Bodegas Dominio d’Echauz winery is designed to be more than just a site for making wine. Once finished, it will function as an archive, a research lab, and a sanctuary focused on preserving and studying rare grape varieties. This thoughtful approach blends modern architecture with a mission to protect local wine heritage, making the winery an important space for both production and conservation in the region.

Designer: Fran Silvestre Arquitectos

Unlike many wineries built for scale, this project takes a more modest, thoughtful approach. The planned curved white structure will follow the natural lines of the surrounding vineyards, making it feel like a seamless part of the landscape. Despite its understated appearance, the building stands out for its innovative use of materials and focus on sustainability.

The winery will be built mainly from hempcrete blocks—a mix of hemp fibers, lime, and water—known for being both strong and environmentally friendly. These blocks will form two curved walls, adding both stability and a gentle visual appeal. A single-pitch metal roof will top the structure, while Diathonite, a cork-based insulating mortar, will coat the walls, floors, and ceilings to improve insulation throughout.

These materials work together to create a unified, seamless look while delivering strong thermal performance. This helps keep the interior temperature stable, which is essential for wine aging and can reduce or even remove the need for mechanical cooling or heating.

The winery’s minimalist white color scheme and natural finishes align with Fran Silvestre’s broader design philosophy. Here, these choices are both practical and beautiful. The white cork render reflects sunlight, helping the building stay cool during Castile’s hot summers. Its low profile keeps the structure discreet, blending it into the landscape. Despite its simplicity, the design leaves a lasting impression. Inside, the space is organized for efficiency. Grapes enter at one end, move through fermentation, and age in oak barrels before bottling. The layout also provides space for tasting, gatherings, research, and storage.

These thoughtful design choices highlight the winery’s true mission. Rather than focusing on mass production, the space is dedicated to micro-vinification—small batches that explore the preservation and potential of rare grape varieties. Developed with Vitis Navarra, the project aims to protect grapes at risk of extinction, creating a living genetic archive rather than chasing high output. In the context of shifting climates and changing tastes, these lesser-known varietals could shape the future of winemaking.

The first collection, called Basajaun after a Basque forest spirit, symbolizes the winery’s role as a quiet guardian of natural and cultural heritage. When finished, the winery will be more than just a place for wine; it will stand as a living archive of sustainability and stewardship.

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