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Huawei’s MateBook Fold Ultimate Design Redefines Mobile Computing with World’s First 18-inch Foldable Display

Huawei just shattered our expectations of what a laptop can be. The new MateBook Fold Ultimate Design doesn’t just push boundaries. It obliterates them.

Designer: Huawei

Unveiled on May 19, this groundbreaking device introduces the world’s first 18-inch foldable display in a laptop form factor. But calling it merely a laptop feels almost reductive. When unfolded, you’re looking at a stunning 18-inch canvas that somehow weighs less than many 13-inch ultrabooks. When folded, it transforms into a compact 13-inch device that slides effortlessly into a bag.

What makes this design achievement particularly impressive isn’t just the folding display itself. It’s how Huawei solved the countless engineering challenges that have prevented others from creating something this ambitious.

The innovation extends beyond mere technical specifications. Huawei has reimagined the fundamental relationship between users and their computing devices, creating something that adapts to various workflows rather than forcing users to adapt to rigid form factors.

Engineering Marvel: The Hinge

The hinge deserves special attention. Stretching 285mm across the device, Huawei calls it the “world’s largest basalt water drop hinge.” This isn’t marketing hyperbole. The three-stage shaft with mortise and tenon structure delivers a 400% increase in hovering torque compared to standard designs. What does this mean for users? Exceptional stability at viewing angles between 30° and 150°, while maintaining smooth operation at shallow angles between 0-20 degrees.

When unfolded, the MateBook measures a mere 7.3mm thick. For perspective, that’s thinner than many smartphones. Even when folded, it maintains a relatively svelte 14.9mm profile while weighing just 1.16kg. The exterior combines premium leather and metal elements, available in Black, Blue, and White colorways.

The integrated kickstand on the rear panel adds another dimension of versatility. Position the device in landscape or portrait orientation at various angles for different use cases. Present to clients, watch content, sketch ideas, or type documents. The physical form adapts to your needs rather than forcing you to adapt to it.

This level of engineering precision didn’t happen overnight. Huawei claims thousands of prototypes were tested before arriving at this final design, with particular attention paid to the durability of the folding mechanism. The company promises the hinge will maintain structural integrity through thousands of folding cycles.

Display Technology

But the true star is undoubtedly the display itself. The dual-layer LTPO OLED panel delivers an immersive visual experience with a 92% screen-to-body ratio. When fully expanded, you’re looking at an 18-inch canvas with 4:3 aspect ratio and 3.3K resolution (3296 × 2472 pixels). Fold it, and you have a more conventional 13-inch display with 3:2 aspect ratio (2472 × 1648 pixels).

This isn’t just any OLED panel. Huawei implemented the first commercial laptop application of LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) technology, reducing power consumption by 30% while enabling adaptive refresh rates. The 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio ensures deep blacks and vibrant colors across the P3 wide color gamut, while peak brightness reaches an impressive 1600 nits.

For those concerned about eye strain during extended use, the screen incorporates 1440Hz high-frequency PWM dimming and carries TÜV Rheinland Eye Comfort 3.0 certification.

Color accuracy hasn’t been overlooked either. Huawei claims each display is factory calibrated to achieve a Delta E of less than 1, making it suitable for professional creative work. The anti-reflective coating helps maintain visibility even in challenging lighting conditions.

Thermal Innovation

The revolutionary design extends beyond the visible elements. Cooling such powerful components in an ultra-thin chassis required innovative solutions. Huawei engineered diamond aluminum dual fans and an ultra-thin antigravity vapor chamber heat sink. The copper-steel composite 3D vapor chamber and distributed component layout optimize thermal performance without excessive fan noise.

Traditional cooling systems simply wouldn’t work in a device this thin. Huawei’s approach involves separating heat-generating components across the chassis to prevent hotspots. The vapor chamber technology efficiently transfers heat away from critical components to maintain performance during intensive tasks.

Fan noise has been carefully tuned to remain below 28dB during typical usage scenarios. This makes the MateBook Fold Ultimate suitable for quiet environments like libraries and meeting rooms where traditional laptop fans might prove distracting.

Performance and Connectivity

Despite its slim profile, performance hasn’t been compromised. The MateBook Fold Ultimate comes equipped with 32GB of RAM and storage options of either 1TB or 2TB SSD. While Huawei hasn’t explicitly confirmed the processor in all materials, some sources indicate it uses their own Kirin X90 chipset, a fully Chinese-manufactured ARM processor.

A 74.69Wh battery powers the device, with support for fast charging through the included 140W USB-C charger. Connectivity includes strategically placed USB-C ports, one on top and one on the side, along with dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.

The decision to position USB-C ports on different edges of the device shows thoughtful design consideration. This arrangement allows for convenient charging regardless of how the device is positioned or folded. The absence of legacy ports might disappoint some users, but reflects the forward-looking design philosophy behind the entire product.

Audio-Visual Experience

The audio experience matches the visual excellence with six speakers in total. Three 2W speakers work alongside three 1W speakers, enhanced by Huawei Sound technology. For video conferencing, an 8MP front-facing camera works alongside four microphones to ensure clear communication.

Speaker placement has been carefully considered to maintain audio quality regardless of the device’s orientation. Whether used as a tablet, laptop, or in presentation mode, the sound remains clear and directional. The multi-microphone array uses AI-powered noise cancellation to isolate voices from background noise during calls.

The camera quality represents a significant upgrade from typical laptop webcams. The 8MP sensor captures more detail than the standard 720p cameras found in most laptops, while the wide-angle lens ensures you stay in frame even when moving during calls.

HarmonyOS 5: A New Computing Paradigm

Perhaps the most intriguing aspect beyond the hardware is the software. The MateBook Fold Ultimate runs HarmonyOS 5, marking the first time this operating system appears on a Huawei laptop. This represents a significant departure from Windows, offering users a third major OS option alongside Windows and macOS.

HarmonyOS 5 is designed specifically for this unique form factor. Intuitive gestures include three-finger swipes to move windows across screens and five-finger spreads to maximize applications. When positioned at a 90-degree angle like a traditional laptop, the bottom half can function as a virtual keyboard with customizable skins, adjustable key spacing, and haptic feedback through a linear motor.

The operating system adapts intelligently to different usage scenarios. When folded, it automatically adjusts the interface for a more traditional laptop experience. When fully opened, it transforms into a tablet-like environment optimized for touch interaction. This contextual awareness extends to connected peripherals as well, with the interface changing based on whether the physical keyboard is attached.

Input Options

For those who prefer physical keys, Huawei includes an ultra-thin 5mm wireless keyboard weighing just 290g. This keyboard features 1.5mm key travel, lasts up to 24 days on a single charge, and magnetically attaches to the back of the device when not in use.

The keyboard design deserves special mention. Despite its ultra-thin profile, Huawei has managed to deliver a surprisingly satisfying typing experience. The keys offer tactile feedback that rivals much thicker keyboards, while the full-size layout prevents the cramped feeling often associated with portable keyboards.

Touch input has been optimized as well. The display supports 10-point multi-touch with pressure sensitivity, making it suitable for digital art and note-taking. Palm rejection technology works remarkably well, allowing users to rest their hand on the screen while writing or drawing without causing unwanted input.

Versatility and Use Cases

The versatility of the MateBook Fold Ultimate is perhaps its greatest strength. It transitions seamlessly between tablet mode, laptop configuration, and presentation setup. The built-in kickstand allows positioning at various angles in both portrait and landscape orientations.

Creative professionals will appreciate the large canvas for digital art and design work. The 18-inch display provides ample space for complex projects, while the foldable nature means you can still take this capability on the road. Business users can leverage the presentation mode for client meetings, with the large screen eliminating the need for external displays in many scenarios.

Students might find the combination of note-taking capabilities and full-size keyboard particularly appealing. The ability to fold the device partially creates a natural reading angle for digital textbooks, while the performance specifications handle research and productivity applications with ease.

Market Position

Priced at CNY 23,999 (approximately $3,300) for the 1TB model and CNY 26,999 (roughly $3,700) for the 2TB variant, the MateBook Fold Ultimate Design positions itself firmly in the premium market. It will initially launch in China on June 6, with international availability planned for later dates.

While foldable laptops aren’t entirely new, Lenovo pioneered the concept years ago, Huawei’s implementation represents a significant leap forward. The larger screen, thinner profile, innovative hinge mechanism, and comprehensive ecosystem integration through HarmonyOS demonstrate what’s possible when design and engineering excellence converge.

The pricing strategy places this device in competition with high-end laptops and creative workstations rather than mainstream consumer devices. Huawei is clearly targeting professionals and enthusiasts who value cutting-edge technology and are willing to invest in unique capabilities not found elsewhere.

Future Implications

The MateBook Fold Ultimate Design doesn’t just represent another iterative step in laptop evolution. It reimagines what portable computing can be. Whether this specific implementation becomes the new standard remains to be seen, but Huawei has undoubtedly expanded our understanding of what’s possible in mobile computing design.

As with most breakthrough technologies, we can expect the concepts pioneered here to eventually trickle down to more affordable devices. The engineering solutions developed for this premium device will likely inform future products across various price points, potentially making foldable displays a common feature in laptops within the next few years.

The introduction of HarmonyOS to the laptop form factor also signals Huawei’s ambitions beyond smartphones and tablets. Creating a cohesive ecosystem across all computing devices could position the company as a more comprehensive alternative to established players in the personal computing space.

The post Huawei’s MateBook Fold Ultimate Design Redefines Mobile Computing with World’s First 18-inch Foldable Display first appeared on Yanko Design.

The World’s First ‘Autofocus’ Spectacles: Hands-on with the ViXion 01S at BEYOND Expo 2025

You walk into a tech expo expecting the usual suspects – glasses with cameras, wearables that whisper AI prompts in your ear, maybe even a pair of glasses that let you take and make calls hands-free. But tucked away at BEYOND Expo was a pair of spectacles that did something very simple but extremely revolutionary – it used algorithms to improve your vision.

The ViXion 01S is arguably the world’s first ‘autofocus’ spectacles, designed to work for any sort of vision ailment that requires vision-corrective devices or spectacles. The product’s creator, initially working with visually impaired children, saw how frustrating it was for them to constantly switch between glasses for reading and distance. That pain point sparked a concept: what if eyewear could adapt the way eyes naturally do? None of that ‘let ChatGPT identify objects for me’, just a pair of spectacles that enable you to see better.

Designer: Nendo for ViXion

And that idea, or rather that phrase stopped me dead in my tracks – autofocus glasses. Possibly the world’s first. But not in the way a camera might autofocus on a face. These use a depth-perception sensor embedded subtly between the lenses, analyzing how far away you’re looking and adjusting the focus of the lenses in real time. The result is magic in the truest sense: your focus shifts from a book in your hand to a sign across the hall, and the glasses reshape their optics in under a second. Block the sensor, and the illusion becomes obvious – your vision blurs instantly, reminding you that these glasses are doing some serious computing… in split-second moments too.

Forget bifocals or progressive lenses. The ViXion 01S behaves like multifocal glasses with a brain. It doesn’t rely on zones etched into the lens. Instead, it features dual variable lenses that morph their curvature to suit your focal length, from up-close at 10 inches to a clear view across a room. Whether you’re myopic, hyperopic, presbyopic, or dealing with the messier combinations like anisometropia, the ViXion adjusts. it goes all the way from a power of negative 10 to positive 10, covering possibly the entire gamut.

For me, a guy who’s had specs since 1997, it felt incredible. I’ve got a power of nearly -6.5, something that’s a little too high for most tech devices. For example, I can’t vision-correct images in most VR headsets because they don’t go all the way as high as negative 6.5. The average human has not more than minus 2 or 3, or positive 1 or 2.

Setup is easy enough. A short calibration lets you fine-tune your pupillary distance and correct vision strength – up to +10 or -10 diopters, via a simple switch on either side of the glasses. From there, it’s mostly hands-free. The battery runs over 15 hours on a full charge and tops up via USB-C, making it an all-day companion that recharges while you sleep.

The aesthetic comes courtesy of Nendo, Japan’s minimalism maestros. Lightweight at just 55 grams, the frame wears its technology like a tailored suit – sharp, unobtrusive, refined. The fact that such an elegant design houses motorized lenses and a depth sensor almost feels like a flex.

Awards followed, naturally. The ViXion 01S has been recognized at CES, IFA, and the Good Design Awards in Japan. Most recently, it clinched the Beyond Award this year, validating both its design and innovation chops.

At $500, this isn’t an impulse buy, but consider the math. If you’re someone juggling reading glasses, computer glasses, and regular prescription lenses (not to mention the cumulative cost of eye exams and replacements), it starts to look a lot more reasonable. Especially when one device replaces all the rest.

The post The World’s First ‘Autofocus’ Spectacles: Hands-on with the ViXion 01S at BEYOND Expo 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Hug Me Chair Is An Emotive, Ergonomic Seating That Blends Comfort, Style, and Sculptural Design

Commemorating the spirit of resilience and transformation, the “Hug Me” Chair emerges as an emotional and artistic response to three decades of inspiration drawn from Steel-Land, a powerhouse in China’s high-end home furnishings industry. This chair pays homage to Steel-Land’s journey, channeling its story of growth, endurance, and heartfelt connection with customers into a single, memorable piece of design.

The genesis of the Hug Me Chair stems from the symbolic narrative of Steel-Land’s 30-year milestone. From its early days in 1993, when it entered the market with innocent ambition, to its current position as a trusted industry name, Steel-Land’s evolution is reflected in the chair’s enveloping form. The chair’s extended armrests, mimicking an embrace, represent both affection and gratitude, encapsulating the emotional warmth and recognition that Steel-Land sought and eventually earned.

Designer: Zipeng Zhou

The Hug Me Chair distinguishes itself with a design that speaks volumes. Its naturally flowing armrests create a visual and tactile representation of a hug, giving users a sense of emotional and physical comfort. Meanwhile, the solid and grounded base evokes stability and strength, symbolizing not only durability but also the firm foundation that inspired this design. This thoughtful balance of emotional narrative and practical form gives the Hug Me Chair a unique presence, equal parts sculpture and sanctuary.

The chair invites interaction through its variety of fabrics and colors, offering personalized luxury. The polyester fiber option, enhanced by advanced 3D technology, delivers a soft, breathable, and deformation-resistant texture. The lambswool variant, with its delicate curl and warmth, mirrors natural wool, offering comfort and a cozy aesthetic. Both fabrics are resistant to pilling and wear, maintaining a pristine look over time.

Multiple color options allow the Hug Me Chair to adapt easily to a range of interiors, from understated modern to relaxed rustic, creating spaces that feel grounded, inviting, and distinctly human.

Designed with ergonomic precision, the Hug Me Chair supports relaxation in any setting. Its 105-degree reclining backrest complements the human form, making it ideal for reading, lounging, or shared moments at home. The inner metal framework is paired with slow-rebound molded foam for a seating experience that is both firm and cloud-like.

Exquisite hand-stitching, an integrated molding structure, and glue-free construction contribute to its structural integrity and environmental consciousness. With lotus leaf bionic technology applied to the fabric, the chair resists water and stains, allowing for effortless maintenance without compromising its luxurious look and feel.

At the heart of the Hug Me Chair is a careful negotiation between visual expression and everyday functionality. The design challenge was to maintain a distinct, sculptural aesthetic while enhancing comfort and ensuring long-term durability. Through meticulous research and craftsmanship, this balance was achieved, resulting in a product that offers as much meaning as it does comfort.

The post Hug Me Chair Is An Emotive, Ergonomic Seating That Blends Comfort, Style, and Sculptural Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple WWDC 2025 Prepares to Redefine Visual Design Across iOS, macOS, and Beyond

Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference has always served as a measuring stick for where the industry is headed. WWDC 2025, confirmed for June 9 through 13, will once again be hosted entirely online and free for developers. It arrives with an in-person event at Apple Park on June 9. While Apple has not formally confirmed a theme, the event artwork suggests a forward-looking emphasis on new platforms and interface possibilities. This year’s agenda positions design as central to the evolution of Apple’s platforms.

Designer: Apple

The keynote will begin on June 9 at 10 AM PDT, followed by the Platforms State of the Union at 1 PM. Sessions and activities will run throughout the week via the Apple Developer app, website, and YouTube channel. Apple confirmed over 100 video sessions, along with online labs, group discussions, and direct access to Apple engineers and designers. The tone suggests a deeper engagement with user interface thinking and system integration.

iOS 19 Expected to Lead Major Software Announcements

At the center of WWDC 2025 is the upcoming iteration of Apple’s mobile operating system. While Apple has not officially detailed iOS 19 features, developer expectations suggest refinements to control surfaces, interaction layers, and visual consistency. Any confirmed design changes will be shared during the keynote. Until then, all speculation about Control Center, iconography, or UI behavior remains unverified.

Apple’s approach to interaction design often follows patterns introduced at WWDC. Prior releases have prioritized clarity, accessibility, and cross-platform alignment. This trend is likely to continue with announcements spanning iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and visionOS.

Consistent Language Across All Platforms

WWDC 2025 is expected to continue Apple’s push toward a more unified design system. While not confirmed, it’s likely that macOS 16, visionOS 3, and watchOS 12 will reflect many of the interface principles that appear in iOS 19. The intention doesn’t seem to be to make everything look the same. Instead, it’s about achieving continuity across devices as users shift from one screen to another.

macOS 16 may show tighter alignment with iPadOS in how visual structure and behaviors are handled. This wouldn’t mean reducing the desktop to a tablet model. Instead, we could see refinements in how macOS surfaces content, handles animations, or layers interactions, particularly in ways that reduce friction when moving between Mac, iPhone, and iPad. These developments are expected to support more fluid transitions in daily workflows while preserving the depth macOS users rely on. WWDC 2025 will reinforce this approach. Apple has stated that WWDC25 will offer insight into new tools, frameworks, and features. While not explicitly positioned as part of a unified design system, these resources are expected to support developers working across Apple platforms.

Developer Labs, Direct Engagement, and Student Recognition

The conference will feature one-on-one and group labs that allow developers to connect directly with Apple engineers and designers. These sessions, available online throughout the week, offer practical guidance across platform capabilities, interface behavior, and system-level challenges. For those attending the in-person Apple Park event on June 9, Apple has confirmed access to keynote and Platforms State of the Union viewings, plus opportunities to meet with experts and participate in curated experiences.

Apple is also continuing its focus on emerging talent through the Swift Student Challenge. On March 27, applicants will be notified of their status. Fifty Distinguished Winners will be invited to Cupertino for a three-day experience as part of Apple’s broader educational programming. This initiative remains a central part of WWDC’s mission to foster future developers, designers, and creators.

Design at the Center of Software Innovation

WWDC 2025 is not a hardware event. No new devices have been confirmed. Apple’s focus remains on software tools, development capabilities, and the visual systems that shape product interaction. Any rumors surrounding hardware announcements, including displays or silicon upgrades, remain speculative and are not supported by Apple’s official press release.

The week of June 9 will offer developers a first look at how Apple is evolving its software platforms. The decisions unveiled during WWDC 2025 are likely to shape digital experiences far beyond Apple’s own ecosystem. For the design community, this remains a critical moment to understand the trajectory of user interface development across modern computing platforms.

The post Apple WWDC 2025 Prepares to Redefine Visual Design Across iOS, macOS, and Beyond first appeared on Yanko Design.

Ultra-Slim Cyberpunk Keyboard is 37% slimmer than Apple’s own Magic Keyboard

Even though Apple DID make a 5.3mm iPad Pro, let’s just remember that they didn’t have as much success slimming down their keyboards. Remember the infamous butterfly keys on the MacBooks of 2015? Well, after that travesty, Apple just went back to what worked – relying on good-old scissor switches that resulted in a marginally thicker, yet more practical and functional device. At just 8 millimeters thick, the ‘mikefive’ doesn’t look like it should be real—let alone functional. But it is. It’s 37% slimmer than Apple’s Magic Keyboard and still manages to pack in 1.8mm of key travel, tactile mechanical switches, wireless connectivity, and a cyberpunk-grade metal chassis. It’s the kind of gear that looks like it came from a movie prop shop specializing in dystopian sci-fi—only it types better than most of what’s on your desk.

The mastermind behind it is Reddit user dynam1keNL, an industrial product designer who clearly decided the mechanical keyboard rabbit hole didn’t go deep enough. Built from scratch around Kailh’s obscure PG1316 laptop switches, the mikefive is what happens when obsessive design meets precision engineering. The custom transparent caps, the CNC-machined aluminum chassis, the completely flush PCB layout—it’s all been meticulously dialed in to create a keyboard that doesn’t just challenge what a mechanical board can be. It redefines it.

Designer: dynam1keNL

To start, the mikefive is built around the Kailh PG1316 switches—a lesser-known, laptop-style mechanical switch that isn’t just slim, it’s shockingly tactile. These things have a travel of 1.8mm, and despite their wafer-thin profile, they pack a surprisingly aggressive tactile bump. It’s a bold choice that bucks the trend of soft, mushy low-profile inputs. You feel every keypress, and not in a nagging way—more like a firm handshake with every letter.

The design language leans into a sleek cyberpunk aesthetic: a CNC-machined aluminum chassis that feels like it belongs on the deck of a spaceship, paired with transparent keycaps that hint at the internals while catching ambient light like crystal circuitry. The keycaps are proprietary, square-shaped, and clear, subtly marked with mold letters from the inside.

What makes this keyboard doubly fascinating is that it isn’t some big brand prototype or crowdfunding darling, it’s a homebrew labor of love from a designer-engineer with a background in industrial product design. The entire board, including its impossibly compact controller and 301230 battery, is laid out like a masterclass in minimalism. The switch mounts directly to the PCB with no pins poking through, letting the board itself double as the bottom plate.

Both halves of the unibody design are angled 15 degrees for comfort, creating a total ergonomic tilt of 30 degrees. The bottom edge has been subtly shaved down near the thumb cluster to avoid interference. And while there’s a slight warp on one end from hotplate soldering (just old-fashioned human error), it’s barely a blemish on an otherwise refined build.

Despite its experimental nature, the keyboard’s wireless connection (courtesy of a nicenano v2) works flawlessly, even with the metal chassis surrounding the internals. Clever placement of the Bluetooth antenna and strategic removal of ground planes near it help the signal escape.

Typing on the mikefive is a tactile revelation. Coming from linear switches, the force required by the PG1316s might be a shock, but there’s a tactile clarity here that’s hard to ignore. And when you realize your wrists aren’t straining after hours of use, the ultra-low height starts to feel like a long-overdue standard.

The post Ultra-Slim Cyberpunk Keyboard is 37% slimmer than Apple’s own Magic Keyboard first appeared on Yanko Design.

Cat care set brings a minimalist but functional aspect to cat grooming

If I had the ability to actually care for an animal, I would probably get a cat. I know myself enough that I know I could never be able to properly take care of them but a cat seems to be pretty low maintenance. But for actual cat people who know what they’re talking about, it’s also important to establish routines with their pets especially when it comes to hygiene and grooming. Memes and real-life anecdotes make it seem that cats aren’t the easiest to groom or to bond with, but what if you could combine the two?

The Mew Cat Care Set reimagines feline grooming with a minimalist and functional approach. This thoughtfully designed kit comprises three essential tools—a brush, nail clipper, and catnip container—neatly housed within a sleek, compact case. Crafted with daily use in mind, this kit emphasizes user convenience and aesthetic appeal. The case features soft curves, a minimalist silhouette, and a matte finish, allowing it to blend seamlessly into various home environments. Each component is precisely engineered to fit perfectly inside the case, ensuring organized storage and excellent portability.

Designers: Jonggun Kim and Seungeop Lim

The kit’s functionality is centered around the essential aspects of feline hygiene. Regular grooming is paramount for a cat’s well-being. Brushing helps to remove loose fur and prevent matting, especially crucial for long-haired breeds, while also stimulating blood circulation and spreading natural oils across the coat, contributing to a healthy and shiny appearance. The inclusion of a nail clipper underscores the importance of maintaining a cat’s nail health. Regularly trimming claws prevents them from overgrowing, which can lead to painful ingrown nails and potential damage to furniture.

What sets the Mew Cat Care Set apart is its thoughtful integration of catnip. Catnip is well-known for its ability to induce a state of playful euphoria or relaxed contentment in many cats. By including a dedicated catnip container within the set, the designers cleverly address a common challenge: making grooming a more positive experience for the cat. Introducing catnip during or after a grooming session can help create a positive association with the routine, turning what might otherwise be a stressful event into a bonding opportunity. This aligns with the understanding that establishing routines, especially positive ones, is crucial for the well-being of pets.

The emphasis on daily bonding is a key aspect of the Mew Cat Care Set’s design. Grooming, when approached with patience and care, can be a significant way to strengthen the relationship between a cat and its owner. The Mew Cat Care Set appears to be a tool designed to facilitate one important facet of this multifaceted bond.

The post Cat care set brings a minimalist but functional aspect to cat grooming first appeared on Yanko Design.

Stream Deck Modules Let Makers and Tinkerers Build Dream Control Setups

For years, Elgato’s Stream Deck has been the secret weapon of content creators, making streaming, editing, and managing complex workflows a breeze with its customizable LCD keys. But at Computex, Elgato revealed a bold new approach promising to shake up how all sorts of users interact with their digital worlds. Enter Stream Deck Modules: a modular, maker-friendly take on the beloved control deck, now primed for DIY enthusiasts, tinkerers, and inventive businesses.

The charm of the original Stream Deck lies in its tactile, programmable keys that trigger everything from scene switches to macros and app launches. But with the new Module lineup, Elgato strips away the branding and unleashes the core technology. Imagine building your own gadget or custom workstation and snapping a Stream Deck right into the mix, no need to hack apart a retail unit or invent your own hardware from scratch.

Designer: Elgato

Available in 6, 15, and 32 key variants, the Stream Deck Module is all about flexibility. Each one arrives in a sturdy aluminum chassis, ready to drop into anything you can dream up, from video switchers and control surfaces to interactive kiosks and custom keyboards. The unbranded design means it disappears seamlessly into your project, letting your own branding and interface take the spotlight.

Every key is a vivid 72×72 pixel LCD display, bursting with colorful icons and smooth animations. Whether you want snappy transitions for a live show, custom shortcuts for editing, or intuitive controls for a product prototype, these keys make every workflow energetic and engaging. For DIYers, it’s a playground of possibilities. For entrepreneurs and manufacturers, it’s a shortcut to market-ready, field-proven user interfaces.

One of the best parts is the compatibility: Stream Deck Modules work right out of the box with Elgato’s software and huge ecosystem of plug-ins. The same intuitive setup that creators love is now available to engineers, OEMs, and anyone who wants to build smarter tools. And with comprehensive documentation included, the guesswork is gone—getting your big idea up and running is faster than ever before.

Elgato’s new “Stream Deck Everywhere” strategy is shaking the boundaries of what a control deck can do. No longer limited to content creation, the technology is set to power workflows across an ever-expanding range of industries—broadcast, healthcare, entertainment, hospitality, and beyond. Whether you’re a maker ready to tinker or a company looking to modernize your hardware, Elgato’s Stream Deck Modules are ready to put control in your hands, wherever you work, play, or invent.

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Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G: Flagship features packed in a budget phone

Smartphone shoppers often face a frustrating dilemma: spend a fortune on a premium device with all the bells and whistles, or settle for a budget phone that cuts too many corners to hit its price point. This compromise typically means sacrificing camera quality, display performance, or processing power – the very features that enhance our daily digital experiences. The mid-range market attempts to bridge this gap, but rarely delivers a truly satisfying balance of high-end specifications and reasonable cost without significant compromises in build quality or user experience.

The Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G boldly challenges this status quo by bringing genuine flagship-level features to the budget-conscious consumer. What makes this offering particularly intriguing is how Infinix has prioritized features that genuinely impact user experience rather than simply checking specification boxes for marketing purposes. Let’s see if it manages to meet those goals or if it cut too many corners to achieve its mouth-watering price point.

Designer: Infinix

Aesthetics

The Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G stands out in terms of design, drawing inspiration from automotive engineering. The frame is crafted from Armor Alloy, a robust blend of Damascus steel and aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, paired with a durable glass back panel. This combination enhances both strength and premium appeal.

The Note 50 Pro+ 5G is available in three color variants: Titanium Grey, Enchanted Purple, and the Racing Edition. We had the chance to review the Racing Edition, which draws influence from BMW’s Physital design philosophy, blending physical and digital aesthetics. The Racing Edition features a matte silver back panel with textured vertical lines, complemented by the iconic tri-color racing stripes, symbolizing dynamism and speed.

The device is also defined by its glossy octagonal camera island, located at the upper left corner. The camera island houses a triple camera setup, paired with the Bio-Active Halo AI Lighting System and an LED flashlight. The lighting system reacts to your phone’s activity, changing colors in response to charging, notifications, incoming calls, and gaming, adding a touch of flair to everyday interactions. It is also a sensor for measuring heart rate and blood oxygen levels. While the concept is intriguing, the term “AI” seems a bit of a stretch, as the feature feels more gimmicky than groundbreaking.

Ergonomics

With dimensions of 163.36 x 74.35 x 7.99 mm and a weight of 209 grams, the device feels solid and premium in hand. However, this solid build comes with a slight downside. That is, the phone is a bit top-heavy, creating an unbalanced feel when holding it. Another notable ergonomic issue occurs when the phone is placed face up on a flat surface. Due to the pronounced camera island, the device has a tendency to wobble, making it less stable when resting on a desk or table.

While the phone’s design is generally comfortable for regular use, gaming is where the camera island becomes an ergonomic hurdle. When holding the device horizontally for gaming, the raised camera module interferes with your grip, which can be distracting and uncomfortable during longer sessions. The fingerprint scanner, located near the bottom of the display, also presents a bit of a challenge. The placement makes the transition from unlocking the device to navigating through the interface somewhat awkward.

Overall, the Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G is solidly built, but the top-heavy design, wobbling issue, and less-than-ideal fingerprint scanner placement can make for an occasionally frustrating user experience. While it’s not uncomfortable to hold, these small design decisions can impact long-term usability.

Performance

The Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G boasts a 6.79-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 1080 x 2436, supporting a 144Hz refresh rate, HDR10+, and up to 1300 nits peak brightness (550 nits typical). The display is vibrant and fluid, offering rich colors and smooth animations whether you’re browsing, watching videos, or gaming. Even in direct sunlight, the screen stays bright and readable. Additionally, it remains responsive when used with wet fingers or in wet conditions, ensuring precision without any issues. The bezels are impressively thin and nearly symmetrical, enhancing the immersive viewing experience.

Complementing the display is a dual speaker setup tuned by JBL, which promises a more premium audio experience on paper. However, in practice, the speakers felt inconsistent. Volume remains relatively quiet up to around 80%, then suddenly spikes when pushed beyond that. The overall sound lacks balance. Bass is weak, and the mids and highs don’t carry much depth. For casual use, it’s adequate, but audio enthusiasts may find it underwhelming.

Under the hood, the Note 50 Pro+ 5G is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 Ultimate chipset, coupled with 12GB of RAM (expandable virtually to 24GB) and 256GB of storage. Running Android 15 with Infinix’s XOS 15 skin, the phone delivers a smooth, responsive experience across the board. Performance holds up impressively well even during graphically intense games like Call of Duty: Mobile and Genshin Impact, with no noticeable lag or stutter.

For the first time in an Infinix smartphone, the Note 50 Pro+ 5G introduces a comprehensive suite of AI features. What stands out, however, is how these tools are seamlessly integrated through “One-Tap Infinix AI”. By simply long-pressing the power button, regardless of the app you’re using, Folax, Infinix’s AI assistant, is instantly accessible. From summarizing or translating on-screen content to describing images or even editing photos, the AI offers a wide range of functions.

The addition of Google’s Circle to Search further enhances the experience. This integration feels incredibly well-thought-out, as it consolidates multiple AI tools under a single gesture, eliminating the need to switch between apps. It’s a convenient, user-friendly feature that simplifies multitasking without compromising functionality.

Another interesting addition is the ability to measure heart rate and blood oxygen levels by placing your finger on the Bio-Halo AI lighting sensor. While it may not replace dedicated health devices, it’s a novel feature to have built into a smartphone, particularly at this price point. Its usefulness will vary depending on user habits, but it adds an unexpected layer of utility.

The Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G boasts, which is relatively rare in this price range. The system consists of a 50 MP main sensor, a 50 MP 3x telephoto lens, and an 8 MP ultra-wide camera, offering great versatility for mobile photography. While this combination is a standout feature at this price point, the real question is how well it performs in everyday use. Let’s dive in and see how it stacks up.

The main camera uses a 1/1.56-inch Sony IMX896 sensor with an f/1.8 aperture and optical image stabilization (OIS). In well-lit conditions, it produces sharp, detailed images with vibrant colors, though the contrast can sometimes be a bit strong. Night mode performance is solid, capturing clear and well-exposed shots with minimal noise, although light sources can occasionally appear overexposed.

The telephoto camera delivers 6x optical zoom with lossless clarity and extends up to 100x zoom. Between 3x and 6x, photos are rich in detail, with a good dynamic range that performs well across different lighting conditions. Beyond 6x, image quality starts to degrade, which is expected at higher magnifications. The ultra-wide camera also performs admirably. While it’s not as sharp as the main or zoom cameras, it still captures vibrant and clear images. Selfies from the 32 MP front-facing camera are generally good, though they can sometimes appear a bit faded.

For video, the Note 50 Pro+ 5G can record up to 4K at 60 FPS with the main and telephoto cameras, while the ultra-wide is limited to 2K at 30 FPS. The front-facing camera is capped at 4K at 30 FPS. Video footage from the main and telephoto cameras is smooth, though there are some minor hiccups. Unfortunately, you cannot switch between cameras while recording. Additionally, panning can cause stuttering in the viewfinder, and rapid movement results in judder in the video. Fortunately, you can turn on ultra-stabilization at 4K 60 FPS, and it works quite well.

With its sizable 5,200 mAh silicon-carbon battery, the Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G ensures you can go about your day without worrying about battery life. It easily lasts a full day of regular use. But the impressive battery specs don’t end there. The device supports 100W wired charging and 50W wireless charging, both of which are flagship-level capabilities. Additionally, the phone offers reverse charging, providing 10W through wired connections and 7.5W wirelessly, adding even more versatility to its power management.

Sustainability

The Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G is designed with durability in mind. The phone’s side frame is made from Armor Alloy, a robust blend of Damascus steel and aerospace-grade aluminum alloy, ensuring the phone is built to last. Paired with a durable glass back panel, this combination enhances the phone’s overall sturdiness, making it a reliable option for everyday use.

Additionally, the phone comes with an IP64 rating, offering protection against dust and water splashes. While this level of protection is not the highest available, it provides sufficient durability for typical day-to-day scenarios, giving users confidence that their device can handle the occasional exposure to water or rough environments.

However, when it comes to software longevity, the phone’s sustainability potential falls short. Infinix promises two years of Android updates and three years of security updates only, which is relatively limited when compared to other devices in the same price range. Many competing smartphones offer three or more years of operating system updates and security patches for up to four or five years, which means that the Note 50 Pro+ 5G may require a replacement sooner than some users might expect in order to stay up-to-date with the latest features and security improvements.

Value

At a price of $370, the Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G delivers exceptional value for money. With a feature set that includes a 6.79-inch AMOLED display, powerful performance, and a versatile triple-camera setup, it competes well in the mid-range smartphone market. Infinix has certainly packed a lot of premium features into an affordable device.

What truly sets the Note 50 Pro+ 5G apart is the inclusivity of its package. Along with the phone, Infinix includes a 100W charger brick, a USB-C to USB-C cable, earphones, a MagSafe-like phone case, and a glass screen protector, offering a generous bundle that enhances the overall value of the device. That said, it’s worth noting that the Note 50 Pro+ 5G isn’t available in the US.

Verdict

The Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G impresses with its robust performance, premium design, and an array of thoughtful features, all wrapped in an affordable price tag of $370. It stands out in the mid-range segment by offering a large, vibrant AMOLED display, a capable triple-camera setup, and strong performance driven by the MediaTek Dimensity 8350 chipset. Additionally, the generous package that includes a 100W charger, USB-C cable, earphones, a MagSafe-like case, and a glass screen protector further enhances its value proposition, making it a complete package for those who want more out of their device.

While the device has a few ergonomic quirks, such as a top-heavy design and camera island wobbling, the overall user experience remains solid. The AI integration through “One-Tap Infinix AI” is a standout feature, providing quick and effortless access to a wide range of AI tools. Despite some limitations in software support, the Infinix Note 50 Pro+ 5G remains a well-rounded, feature-packed option for tech enthusiasts, gamers, and photographers who don’t want to break the bank. However, its absence in the US market is a downside for those hoping to purchase locally.

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A new generation minimalist camera that’s a breeze to use for content creators

In a landscape where complexity often overshadows usability, the ARCO camera introduces a refined approach to digital shooting where smartphones have taken over. Reimagined for creators, ARCO represents a new generation of minimalist cameras that combine thoughtful design with professional-grade performance. Developed with both professionals and enthusiasts in mind, it offers an elegant balance between form, function, and creative freedom.

ARCO is designed around a clean, ergonomic structure that prioritizes ease of use. With a streamlined body made from durable yet lightweight materials, it is ideal for creators on the move. The matte aluminum finish, compact size, and intuitive control layout make the camera comfortable to handle and visually understated—perfect for those seeking a distraction-free shooting experience.

Designer: Sri Nikesh

The camera features a high-resolution sensor capable of producing sharp images and 4K video, supported by versatile lens compatibility and advanced color science. A magnetic lens locking mechanism ensures quick and secure lens changes, adding to its seamless workflow. Designed to operate continuously for up to six hours, ARCO supports long-form content creation without interruptions. With Bluetooth 5.0, NFC capabilities, and dual noise-canceling microphones, it’s well-equipped for modern content production. For creators seeking performance, style, and simplicity in one cohesive package, ARCO stands out as a compelling solution in the evolving world of digital imaging.

The user interface is built for efficiency and clarity. A 2.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen provides high-contrast visuals and real-time control, displaying critical settings—shutter speed, ISO, aperture, and battery life—at a glance. Positioned for quick visibility, this top-mounted display minimizes menu diving and allows photographers to stay focused on their composition. ARCO’s control system further reinforces its minimalist philosophy. A rotary dial with an OK button enables smooth navigation through settings, while dedicated buttons for image review and zoom allow for precise inspection on the go.

A customizable “C” button gives users the freedom to assign shortcuts, enhancing workflow efficiency. The control knobs and shutter button are strategically placed for natural finger positioning, ensuring responsive handling during fast-paced shoots. A distinct red video button provides immediate access to recording functions, streamlining transitions between photo and video modes. Tactility plays a central role in the ARCO experience. Each control element is crafted for precision, offering tactile feedback that reinforces user confidence. A multi-functional touch button adds flexibility, allowing for quick adjustments with minimal effort.

Behind the minimalist exterior is a product shaped by real-world insights. The design team focused on addressing common frustrations with compact cameras—cluttered controls, disengaging interfaces, and a lack of emotional connection. By drawing from brutalist architecture and analog design cues, ARCO was developed through iterative sketching and modeling, resulting in a camera that is as functional as it is aesthetically grounded.

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Mars Hydrosphere project envisions life underwater in Mars

Could the future of Martian colonization involve not just living on the red planet, but living under its surface? That’s the provocative question posed by Clouds Architecture Office (Clouds AO) with their ambitious “Mars Hydrosphere” project, showcased at the recent Venice Architecture Biennale. This visionary proposal reimagines human settlement on Mars, moving beyond the familiar imagery of surface habitats and instead proposing a thriving underwater merchant city nestled within a massive, geologically formed reservoir.

The “Mars Hydrosphere” concept tackles the significant challenges of establishing a long-term human presence on Mars, particularly the hostile surface environment with its thin atmosphere, extreme temperature fluctuations, and radiation exposure. Clouds AO’s solution is both ingenious and visually striking: to utilize the potential of subsurface water bodies, hypothesizing the existence of large, stable, and radiation-shielded liquid water reservoirs deep beneath the Martian crust.

Designer: Clouds Architecture Office

Their proposal envisions the creation of a sprawling, submerged urban center within such a reservoir. This underwater city, dubbed a “merchant city,” is not simply about survival; it’s about establishing a self-sustaining and commercially vibrant community. The design draws inspiration from aquatic life and the unique properties of water, suggesting a network of interconnected, buoyant structures anchored within the vast underwater space.

Renderings of the “Mars Hydrosphere” depict a mesmerizing world of floating modules, illuminated by artificial light penetrating the water. These modules would house residential areas, research facilities, and, crucially, commercial hubs. The “merchant city” aspect suggests a future where resources extracted from Mars or traded with Earth could be processed, exchanged, and utilized within this unique environment. The stable, temperature-controlled, and radiation-protected underwater environment would provide a sanctuary for human life and allow for diverse activities, potentially including aquaculture and advanced materials processing.

While acknowledging the significant technological hurdles involved in such a project, including the initial discovery and access to large subsurface water reservoirs, the creation of large-scale underwater habitats, and the development of efficient transportation systems to and from the surface, Clouds AO emphasizes the long-term viability and potential benefits of this approach. The natural protection offered by Mars’ geology and the properties of water allows the “Mars Hydrosphere” to offer a compelling alternative to traditional surface-based colonization efforts.

The project serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the possibilities for future human settlements beyond Earth. By challenging conventional ideas and embracing a more aquatic vision, it invites us to consider the diverse and perhaps unexpected ways in which humanity might one day make Mars its new home.

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