Handheld gaming devices are quite the fad these days, especially now that major PC makers have all joined the bandwagon. Although we’re reaching a point where all internal specs are becoming identical, there’s still a variety of designs and features available. Just like laptops, however, these designs are fixed and you can only select from what others have already made.

Embodying the spirit of desktop computers, this latest DIY project enables you to build your own Steam Deck clone, presuming you have the parts and skills to assemble one. Unlike other configurations, however, this isn’t relying on some low-power computer like the Raspberry Pi but instead leans on the power provided by a modular laptop design.

Designer: Beth Le

There is no shortage of mods and projects to build custom handheld PCs, whether for gaming or light computing, but the majority of these use small but under-powered single-board computers or SBCs. These are cheap, easy to cram into small shells, but will hardly be able to play any games outside of retro emulators. The problem is that there isn’t an SBC powerful enough to support that use case.

That’s where the Framework modular laptop comes in. Thanks to its modular design, it is possible to actually purchase the mainboard of such a powerful computer, and the 13-inch variant happens to be an adequate size to stuff inside a 3D-printed gaming handheld shell. Although it doesn’t exactly have gaming-worthy specs, it’s still powerful enough to run some AAA games with low settings.

The Beth Deck, which is the name for this hot new build-it-yourself handheld PC, doesn’t stop there. It also uses a matching Framework 13 battery and many off-the-shelf parts. Everything that can’t be bought can be 3D printed, and the claim is that you barely need to solder anything. You could almost say it’s like playing with LEGO, except with computer parts instead of bricks.

It’s not the perfect handheld design, of course, since the Framework 13 mainboard isn’t designed for that purpose. It does, however, reveal the possibilities available with such a modular component available for as low as $199. It might even inspire other designs that customize not just the appearance but also the controls. After all, if you can easily make a Steam Deck clone, why stop at being just a Steam Deck clone?

The post Make your own Steam Deck handheld gaming PC using a modular laptop first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple has launched its most advanced MacBook Pro lineup yet, setting a new standard for what professionals can expect from a laptop. Powered by the new M4 chips, these laptops mark significant strides in performance, efficiency, and AI capabilities while maintaining the sleek, dependable design Apple is known for. Designed with creatives, developers, and power users in mind, the new MacBook Pro is built to handle resource-heavy tasks effortlessly. The integration of AI throughout macOS Sequoia makes workflows faster and more intuitive, adapting smoothly to modern professional demands.

Image: Apple

Designer: Apple

M4 Chips: The Pinnacle of Silicon Innovation

Apple’s M4 chips are the latest evolution of Apple Silicon, built on second-generation 3nm technology. They deliver the fastest single-threaded CPU performance in a MacBook, with substantial gains in multi-threaded workloads. Whether editing high-resolution images or rendering complex 3D models, the M4 provides a smooth experience.

Image: Apple

Apple’s enhanced Neural Engine is over three times faster than its predecessor, making AI-powered tasks more responsive than ever. Apple’s M4 chip integrates machine learning accelerators directly within the CPU, complemented by an advanced GPU for heavy computational tasks. These improvements help creative professionals work more fluidly without the bottlenecks often found in traditional laptops when modeling in AI, rendering animations, or analyzing large datasets.

Base M4: Featuring a 10-core CPU with four high-performance cores and six efficiency cores, alongside a 10-core GPU, the base M4 delivers up to 1.8x faster performance for tasks like editing gigapixel photos or rendering graphics compared to the M1. With 120GB/s of memory bandwidth and up to 32GB of unified memory, the M4 base is versatile for various uses.

M4 Pro: This version of the M4 steps up with a 14-core CPU and up to a 20-core GPU. With increased memory bandwidth and more processing power, it’s ideal for professionals tackling workflows like geomapping or data modeling.

M4 Max: Designed for those who demand the most power, the M4 Max packs a 16-core CPU and a 40-core GPU, capable of handling half a terabyte per second of memory bandwidth. It’s a portable powerhouse meant for advanced simulations, large language models, and heavy 3D animation work—bringing desktop-level power to a portable form.

Display Technology for Precision and Comfort

The MacBook Pro’s Liquid Retina XDR display is a treat for those who demand precision and clarity. Adding an innovative nano-texture glass option significantly reduces glare, making it practical for working outdoors or under bright lights without compromising the screen’s color accuracy. With brightness levels reaching 1000 nits in SDR and up to 1600 nits in HDR, the display is perfect for media production, providing vibrant and true-to-life colors.

Image: Apple

Apple’s attention to display quality ensures that graphic designers, filmmakers, and photographers get reliable color consistency across projects. This helps make the MacBook Pro as comfortable for fieldwork as it is for studio editing, minimizing the need to recalibrate across different environments.

Enhanced Connectivity with Thunderbolt 5

The M4 and M4 Max models now support Thunderbolt 5, providing data transfer rates of up to 120 Gb/s. This kind of connectivity is transformative for professionals who juggle multiple high-resolution monitors or work with enormous external drives. Thunderbolt 5 ensures that moving files or efficient workflows with docking stations is as fast as possible. Additionally, the HDMI port now supports up to 8K resolution, allowing for presentation flexibility and extended work setups.

Image: Apple

MagSafe 3 is back, offering a fast and reliable charging option—enabling up to 50% charge in 30 minutes. With Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, the new MacBook Pro models are ready for seamless high-speed connections in any environment.

Apple Intelligence: AI Integration for Enhanced Productivity

Apple’s M4 chip brings AI closer to macOS Sequoia’s core experience with Apple Intelligence, a suite of smart tools for system assistance. Apple Intelligence aims to make every interaction, whether rewriting text, summarizing documents, or generating visuals, more productive. For example, the upcoming Image Playground can generate visuals for quick mock-ups. At the same time, Genmoji lets users create personalized emojis in real-time—with Apple’s promise of on-device privacy.

Image: Apple

Developers also benefit from the enhanced AI, using tools like integrated ChatGPT for prototyping or code suggestions. Researchers can streamline their workflows with instant dataset summaries, while professionals in other fields might appreciate AI-generated responses to routine communications. AI’s practicality and direct usefulness across professions make macOS Sequoia powerful and contextually intelligent.

Performance Across Creative Workflows

Apple’s M4 lineup makes a real impact across creative workflows. With Affinity Photo, users can see processing times up to seven times faster than Intel-based models and nearly double the speed of the M1. Blender users will notice significant reductions in rendering times—up to 10.9 times faster than older Intel Macs. For filmmakers, Adobe Premiere Pro’s scene detection is almost ten times faster, helping ensure seamless edits and productivity aren’t held back by hardware.

Image: Apple

This version of the M4 performs exceptionally well in heavy rendering tasks like those in Maxon Redshift, showing up to a fourfold increase in speed over Intel models. Meanwhile, the M4 Max provides incredible gains—with video processing performance enhanced over 30 times, offering near-instant previews for even the most complex projects.

Image: Apple

Advanced Camera, Audio, and Battery Life

Apple has upgraded the MacBook Pro’s camera to a 12MP unit with Center Stage, keeping users perfectly framed during video calls if they are presenting or moving about. The six-speaker sound system is another leap, delivering balanced, rich audio perfect for editing or simply enjoying media. The force-canceling woofers reduce distortion, ensuring that what you hear is always precise.

Image: Apple

Even with all these features, battery life stretches up to 24 hours, allowing for extended productivity without needing to recharge constantly. This balance of power and portability makes the new MacBook Pro perfect for professionals on the go.

Sustainability, Design, Pricing and Availability

Apple continues its commitment to sustainability by incorporating 100% recycled materials—aluminum, rare earth elements, tin, and copper—in the construction of the new MacBook Pro. The sleek new space black finish reduces visible fingerprints, keeping the device looking clean. Moreover, Apple’s ongoing focus on fiber-based packaging reflects its push to eliminate plastics by 2025 and achieve full carbon neutrality by 2030.

Image: Apple

The new MacBook Pro lineup starts at $1,599 for the base 14-inch M4 model, with special pricing for students at $1,499. The 16-inch model starts at $2,499, with pre-orders opening on October 30 and general availability beginning on November 8.

Image: Apple

Apple’s M4 MacBook Pro lineup meets today’s demanding workflows with unmatched performance, thoughtful AI integration, and a sustainable design.

The post Apple Just Gave Us 10 Reasons to Upgrade to the Ultimate MacBook Pro Powered by M4 Chips first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple is shaking things up next week with a series of announcements centered around its Mac lineup. Forget the grand on-stage unveilings this time—Apple is keeping it low-key, relying on press releases and possibly a few polished pre-recorded videos. The first wave of these announcements kicks off on Monday, October 28, 2024, and it promises to be an important moment for the company’s Mac product line. Here’s what to expect as Apple gears up to roll out its latest upgrades.

Designer: Apple

What’s Happening Next Week

Apple’s new approach avoids flashy keynotes or packed theaters. Instead, this time, as reported by Mark Gurman with Bloomberg, Apple will let its products do the talking through a week of releases, beginning with updates about its Mac lineup.

Following these initial reveals, Apple will host a hands-on experience session in Los Angeles on October 30, as confirmed by Gurman. This event will give select media and creators an exclusive first look. The news will be distributed online beforehand, allowing fans to quickly learn about the latest Mac offerings.

M4 Takes the Spotlight

At the heart of Apple’s upcoming announcements is its new M4 chip, which debuted in the iPad Pro earlier this year. Now, it’s time for the Mac lineup to receive the same power boost.

The M4 chip is expected to find its way into several new Macs, including the MacBook Pro, iMac, and Mac mini. This integration marks a significant performance step forward for Apple’s desktop and laptop offerings, bringing the same efficiency and power seen in the latest iPad Pro to its Mac devices.

MacBook Pro: Power in 14 and 16-inches

Apple plans to introduce new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models, each equipped with the M4 Pro and M4 Max chips. These updates promise significant performance improvements, focusing on enhanced RAM capacity and additional Thunderbolt ports to support creative professionals and power users.

Visually, though, don’t expect any dramatic changes. These models appear to be focused on internal improvements rather than external redesigns. The emphasis is on delivering better multitasking capabilities and faster workflows for creative professionals who need that extra power.

iMac Refresh: Familiar Looks, New Guts

The 24-inch iMac is also in line for an upgrade, finally getting the M4 chip under the hood. The refresh could include improvements in RAM and CPU core counts.

However, no major design overhaul is expected here like the MacBook Pro. Expect Apple to stick with its current colorful aesthetic while improving what’s inside. The M4 chip will enhance the iMac’s ability to handle more intensive tasks, making it a solid choice for home and office users.

Mac mini: Smaller, Yet More Capable

Among the biggest shifts expected is a redesigned Mac mini. Apple seems ready to shake up this form factor, making it even more compact—rumors suggest a design inspired by the slim profile of an Apple TV.

The new Mac mini will get both the M4 and M4 Pro chips, and it’s likely to see some tweaks in port offerings, with more USB Type-C slots added to the mix. This redesign could make the Mac mini appealing for those looking for a powerful yet space-saving desktop solution.

How Does the M4 Compare to the M3?

The short answer is that the new Apple M4 chip performs significantly better than its predecessor, the M3 chip.

Performance Improvements

CPU Cores and Speed: The M4 chip features a 10-core CPU compared to the M3’s 8-core CPU. This increase in core count contributes to enhanced multitasking and better overall processing power. The M4 operates at a base frequency of 4.41 GHz, notably higher than the M3’s 4.05 GHz. This boost in clock speed means faster response times and improved efficiency, particularly in demanding applications.

Benchmark Scores: In Geekbench v6 tests, the M4 chip demonstrates a 27% increase in single-core performance and a 30.6% boost in multi-core performance compared to the M3. Specifically, the M4 scored 3864 in single-core and 15288 in multi-core tests, while the M3 scored 3048 and 11708, respectively. These gains are significant for users relying on raw processing power and effective multitasking capabilities.

Memory Bandwidth: The M4 chip supports quad-channel memory with a theoretical bandwidth of 120 GB/s, approximately 17% higher than the M3’s dual-channel support at 102.4 GB/s. This enhancement allows for quicker data access, which is particularly beneficial for tasks involving large datasets, video editing, and other high-bandwidth requirements.

GPU Performance: The integrated GPU in the M4 chip also delivers a significant upgrade, with a Metal score of 57603 compared to the M3’s 47414—indicating roughly a 20% improvement in graphics performance. This is particularly advantageous for graphics-intensive workflows, including video rendering, gaming, and creative applications.

Architectural Enhancements

Transistor Count: The M4 chip has 28 billion transistors, compared to the M3’s 25 billion. More transistors mean the M4 can manage more tasks simultaneously, resulting in smoother performance and better multitasking. This makes the M4 ideal for demanding tasks like video editing, gaming, and other creative work where efficiency is vital.

Fabrication Process: The M3 and M4 chips are made using a 3 nm process, but the M4 uses a second-generation version of this technology, which makes it slightly more efficient and powerful. The M4 also features ARMv9 architecture, while the M3 uses ARMv8. This updated architecture means the M4 can perform tasks faster, with less delay, and handle more complex workloads more easily.

Overall, the Apple M4 chip offers substantial upgrades over the M3, especially in processing speed, core count, memory bandwidth, and graphics performance. These improvements make it a powerful choice for users seeking enhanced performance for their creative and professional workflows.

What It Means for Apple’s Lineup

If you’re a MacBook Pro user, upgrading to the M4 Pro or M4 Max could mean a big boost in your daily workflow. Faster multitasking and a smoother experience overall are on the horizon. The new Mac mini, now even smaller but packed with more power, will be perfect for those who need a compact yet capable desktop. And for iMac fans, the new M4 chip means better performance without losing the classic look everyone loves.

Make sure to mark your calendar for October 28, and keep coming back for our coverage of all the exciting news. We’ll have everything you need as Apple reveals its latest updates.

The post Apple’s Blazing Fast Performing M4 Macs Are Coming on October 28! first appeared on Yanko Design.

The 2024 Good Design Awards celebrate products that push the boundaries of design, blending innovation, sustainability, and functionality. This year’s winners illustrate a new era of thoughtful creativity, where traditional craftsmanship meets cutting-edge technology. From groundbreaking laptops to kitchen essentials reimagined, each of these products demonstrates a commitment to enhancing everyday experiences through intelligent and beautiful design. The ASUS Zenbook Duo, the KAMADO Rice Pot, the PureAura Air Purifier, the Bricks Coffee Grinder, and the Raptor Mobility Platform all reflect a dedication to practical solutions that address the evolving needs of modern consumers, with an emphasis on sustainability and user-centric innovation.

ASUS Zenbook Duo (2024): A Multi-Tasker’s Dream with Dual-Screen Innovation

The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2024), a 2024 Good Design Award winner, represents the next generation of laptop innovation, where function meets form. The Zenbook Duo breaks new ground in productivity, creativity, and usability with its distinctive dual-screen setup. Designed for professionals, content creators, and multitaskers, this laptop has features that redefine how users interact with technology. By optimizing screen real estate and incorporating advanced performance components, the Zenbook Duo offers an exceptional computing experience.

Background

ASUS has long been at the forefront of laptop innovation, consistently pushing the boundaries of design and functionality. The Zenbook Duo series has evolved from ASUS’s desire to offer users a beyond-traditional laptop experience. The core idea behind the Zenbook Duo is multitasking, a critical need in today’s fast-paced, work-from-anywhere environment. The dual-screen design, first introduced in earlier models, has been refined for 2024 to deliver better ergonomics, efficiency, and seamless usability.

For creative professionals and digital nomads, the Zenbook Duo is a true productivity tool that enhances productivity. Its second display, known as the ScreenPad Plus, provides extra workspace for applications, toolbars, and shortcuts, making multitasking smoother and more intuitive.

Specifications

• Display: Features a 14.5-inch main OLED display with 4K resolution and a secondary 12.7-inch ScreenPad Plus with touchscreen capability.
• Processor: Powered by the latest Intel Core i9, offering high-speed performance suitable for demanding applications.
• Graphics: Intel Arc Graphics
• Storage: Up to 1TB SSD, ensuring fast data access and ample space for large projects
• Battery Life: Long-lasting battery designed to support extended work sessions with dual displays.
• Connectivity: Multiple ports, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, and USB-C, allow seamless integration with external devices.

Why the Design is Notable

The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2024) is remarkable due to its innovative dual-screen layout. The integration of the ScreenPad Plus creates a distinct advantage for users who need extra screen space without sacrificing portability. This second screen can be used for various tasks, such as displaying tool palettes in creative software, handling messaging apps while working on the main screen, or even acting as a secondary display for multitasking across multiple programs.

The ergonomics of the dual-screen design have also been improved in this 2024 model. The ScreenPad Plus is slightly angled, offering a more comfortable viewing experience than previous models. This makes interacting easier and reduces neck strain for users who spend long hours on their laptops. The laptop’s slim profile and lightweight design are additional features that make it easy to carry, ensuring that users don’t have to compromise on portability.

The OLED main display delivers stunning visuals with rich colors and deep contrast, making it ideal for creative professionals who require accurate color reproduction. Furthermore, the Intel Arc Graphics ensures that even graphics-heavy tasks like video editing or gaming run smoothly, making the Zenbook Duo as powerful as it is innovative.

Evaluation Comments

The Good Design Award judges were particularly impressed by the seamless integration of dual screens, a feature that elevates the user experience beyond typical laptops. They praised the ScreenPad Plus’s functionality, highlighting how it increases productivity without adding unnecessary bulk to the laptop’s design. The judges also commended the laptop’s sleek and modern aesthetic, combining advanced technology with a stylish form factor.

Another point of appreciation was the Zenbook Duo’s sustainability efforts. ASUS has been incorporating more environmentally friendly practices into its manufacturing process, and the use of recycled materials in this model reflects a commitment to sustainability. The judges also noted how the Zenbook Duo’s long battery life and energy-efficient components contribute to its eco-friendly design.

Yanko Design’s Take

From Yanko Design’s perspective, the ASUS Zenbook Duo (2024) is an innovative solution for professionals needing a traditional laptop. The dual-screen layout is a thoughtfully designed feature that dramatically improves multitasking capabilities. The ScreenPad Plus is particularly useful for content creators who need quick access to toolbars and controls without cluttering the main screen. The laptop’s sleek design and lightweight build make it an excellent choice for users who are always on the go, while the OLED display ensures that visual tasks are performed with the utmost clarity and accuracy.

3 Things We Love About the Design

Dual-Screen Productivity with ScreenPad Plus

The ScreenPad Plus is a transformative feature that makes multitasking easier than ever. Whether you’re a content creator managing multiple applications or a professional juggling between emails and documents, the secondary screen adds a new dimension of efficiency. It’s a versatile tool that adapts to various workflows.

OLED Display and Graphics Performance

The OLED main display provides stunning visuals with true-to-life colors and deep contrasts, making it perfect for designers, photographers, and videographers.

Ergonomic and Portable Design

Despite the dual-screen setup, the Zenbook Duo maintains a slim, lightweight profile, making it highly portable. The slight tilt of the ScreenPad Plus enhances ergonomics, making it comfortable to use even during long work sessions. ASUS’s commitment to user comfort is evident in the design, making this a laptop built for productivity without compromising on usability or aesthetics.

The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2024) raises the bar for what laptops can offer, blending innovation with practicality to enhance productivity, creativity, and the overall user experience. It’s easy to see why it was honored with a 2024 Good Design Award, and it will undoubtedly be a go-to device for professionals who need more from their technology.

KAMADO Rice Pot: The 2024 Good Design Award Winner Blends Tradition with Innovation

Cooking rice may seem simple, but achieving the perfect texture requires precision. The KAMADO rice pot, a 2024 Good Design Award winner, elevates this process by blending tradition with modern technology. Drawing on ancient Japanese cooking techniques, the KAMADO pot offers both cultural significance and contemporary convenience. This award-winning pot balances functionality and artistic design, making it a must-have for those who value precision in their kitchen.

Background

The KAMADO pot takes inspiration from traditional Japanese earthenware pots, known for their excellent heat retention and distribution. Historically, these pots were placed over open flames, requiring careful temperature control to perfect the rice’s texture. The KAMADO pot honors this heritage while incorporating smart technology to simplify the process.

The 2024 version focused on sustainability and ease of use, making it a modern kitchen essential. The pot ensures perfect rice and connects users to a deep-rooted culinary tradition.

Specifications

• Material: High-quality ceramic replicating traditional earthenware for superior heat retention.
• Capacity: Suitable for family-sized meals, cooking up to 5 cups of rice.
• Technology: Smart temperature regulation ensures consistent cooking results for different types of rice.
• Design: Neutral-toned, minimalist design that fits seamlessly into any kitchen aesthetic.
• Functionality: A precisely fitting lid ensures optimal moisture retention for perfectly cooked rice.

Why the Design is Notable

The KAMADO rice pot is remarkable for its blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. It reimagines a centuries-old method, fitting perfectly into today’s eco-conscious households. Using a material that mirrors the properties of traditional earthenware, the KAMADO pot enhances the cooking process while maintaining a connection to its cultural origins.

One distinctive feature is its ability to cook rice using only a single sheet of newspaper as fuel. This makes it a practical disaster preparedness solution and a sustainable outdoor cooking option. The pot shows how an ancient practice can adapt to modern conveniences and environmental considerations.

Evaluation Comments

The Good Design Award judges praised the KAMADO pot for its thoughtful combination of tradition and innovation. They highlighted the product’s environmental benefits, noting how it minimizes waste by reusing inner pans. Its ability to function without electricity or gas makes it versatile, especially in disaster situations or for outdoor enthusiasts. The ease of cleaning, requiring only water without detergent, further impressed judges with its eco-friendly design.

Yanko Design’s Take

We see the KAMADO rice pot as a perfect example of thoughtful, sustainable product design. More than a kitchen tool, it offers an experience—deeply rooted in tradition yet forward-thinking in application. Its ability to cook with just a sheet of newspaper makes it revolutionary in both functionality and sustainability.

The KAMADO pot shows how ancient techniques can be adapted for modern needs, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing performance. It proves that practical design can be simple, sustainable, and culturally meaningful.

3 Things We Love About the Design

Outdoor and Disaster Readiness

Cooking five cups of rice using just one newspaper is remarkable. This pot becomes essential in emergencies where electricity or gas might be unavailable. It also appeals to outdoor enthusiasts seeking sustainable cooking methods during their adventures.

Sustainability and Waste Reduction

Reusing inner pans that would otherwise be discarded reduces waste and extends the life of key components. This thoughtful reuse aligns with modern environmental standards, making the KAMADO pot an eco-friendly choice for conscious consumers.

Effortless and Eco-Friendly Cleaning

After cooking, the pot requires no heavy scrubbing or detergents—just a simple wipe with a water-soaked sponge. This approach to cleaning saves time and eliminates the need for harsh chemicals, contributing to a more environmentally friendly kitchen.

The KAMADO rice pot demonstrates the importance of maintaining cultural traditions while advancing technological and environmental standards. Its thoughtful design and practical innovation have earned it well-deserved recognition as a 2024 Good Design Award winner.

PureAura: The Portable Mini Energy-saving Air Purifier Redefining Air Quality Control

Clean air is a necessity in today’s world. The PureAura Portable Mini Energy-saving Air Purifier, recognized as a 2024 Good Design Award winner, meets the increasing demand for portable air quality solutions. Compact and energy-efficient, this air purifier combines advanced technology with user convenience, offering a reliable solution for those looking to breathe cleaner air wherever they go. With its sleek design and powerful performance, the PureAura air purifier is a significant step forward in personal air purification devices.

Background

Air purifiers have gained popularity, especially in urban areas with rising pollution levels. PureAura was developed to address the need for portable, energy-saving air purifiers for small spaces like offices, cars, and personal living areas. The focus was on creating a device that balances efficiency with portability, allowing users to maintain air quality without large, bulky equipment or high energy consumption.

The design reflects the growing awareness of environmental impact and energy efficiency. By reducing the device’s size and optimizing power usage, the creators ensured it could operate effectively in various spaces while consuming minimal electricity. It offers a solution to indoor and outdoor air quality concerns, ideal for individuals constantly moving or with limited space.

Specifications

• Size: Compact and lightweight, designed for easy portability.
• Energy Efficiency: Engineered to consume minimal energy while maintaining high purification performance.
• Technology: Advanced filtration system that captures dust, pollen, bacteria, and other pollutants.
• Noise Level: Operates quietly, ensuring it doesn’t disrupt daily activities.
• Design: Minimalist, with a sleek aesthetic that complements modern environments.
• Usage: Ideal for small enclosed spaces such as cars, personal workspaces, and bedrooms.

Why the Design is Notable

The PureAura Portable Air Purifier is remarkable for packing high functionality into a small device. Portability is often associated with reduced power, but PureAura delivers high-performance air purification while remaining energy-efficient. Its minimalist design allows it to blend seamlessly into any environment, whether on an office desk, bedside table, or in a car.

Another distinctive feature is its eco-conscious approach. The purifier’s energy-saving technology makes it a sustainable choice for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. This focus on environmental impact without sacrificing performance sets PureAura apart in the market.

Evaluation Comments

The Good Design Award judges praised PureAura for its balance between form and function. Its ability to deliver powerful air purification in such a compact form was a distinctive feature, particularly given the rising demand for portable air solutions. The judges were also impressed with the energy efficiency, allowing users to maintain air quality without high energy costs or environmental waste.

Another key point was the simplicity of operation. PureAura is designed to be user-friendly, requiring little maintenance while still offering high performance. This focus on ease of use makes it accessible to a wide range of consumers, from office workers to frequent travelers who need a portable air solution.

Yanko Design’s Take

PureAura represents a shift toward user-centric and environmentally conscious design in personal air care products. The device’s ability to function effectively in small spaces and its minimal energy consumption makes it distinctive in its category. It reflects how design and technology can solve everyday problems, particularly in environments where air quality is compromised.

The design team behind PureAura addressed aesthetic and functional concerns, creating an effective yet visually unobtrusive product. Its sleek, minimalist design fits into any space without drawing attention, ideal for consumers who want products that enhance their environment without dominating it.

3 Things We Love About the Design

Portability without Compromising Performance

One of PureAura’s strongest features is its compact size. Despite its small footprint, the device performs efficiently, making it perfect for users who need clean air on the go. Whether in a car or a small room, PureAura delivers effective air purification without the bulk of traditional air purifiers.

Energy Efficiency

The air purifier is remarkable for its minimal energy consumption. It works continuously without significantly impacting electricity usage, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious consumers. Its energy-saving performance makes it cost-effective for daily use at home, in the office, or on the move.

Quiet Operation

The low-noise feature is valuable for users who need the air purifier running throughout the night or during work hours. Its quiet operation ensures it doesn’t disrupt sleep or concentration, making it perfect for bedrooms, offices, and nurseries.

The PureAura Portable Mini Energy-saving Air Purifier sets a new benchmark for personal air care devices. With its focus on portability, energy efficiency, and sleek design, it’s clear why it was chosen as a 2024 Good Design Award winner. For those looking to improve their personal air quality without sacrificing style or sustainability, PureAura offers the perfect solution.

Bricks Coffee Grinder: A Design Masterpiece for Coffee Lovers

For coffee enthusiasts, the grind is as crucial as the beans. The Bricks Coffee Grinder, a 2024 Good Design Award winner, perfectly balances functionality and style. This grinder goes beyond being just a kitchen tool—it’s an example of how thoughtful design can enhance the coffee-making experience. Whether you’re a professional barista or a home brewer, the Bricks Coffee Grinder delivers precision, efficiency, and aesthetic appeal in a compact package.

Background

Coffee culture has evolved, with consumers becoming more knowledgeable about making the perfect cup. Central to this process is the grind. Coffee grinders have moved beyond mere functionality, embracing design and craftsmanship. The Bricks Coffee Grinder was created with these evolving needs in mind.

The development of the Bricks grinder focused on making high-quality grinding accessible to everyone without sacrificing aesthetics. The design draws on traditional hand grinders while incorporating modern elements to improve ease of use and grind consistency. This tool was made for those who understand that a great grind is essential for a great cup of coffee.

Specifications

• Material: Crafted from durable, high-quality materials with sleek metal and ceramic construction.
• Grind Settings: Multiple settings, from coarse to fine, to suit various brewing methods such as espresso, pour-over, or French press.
• Manual Operation: Hand-crank design offers a tactile, engaging experience for coffee lovers who appreciate grinding their beans by hand.
• Compact and Portable: Designed for easy storage and portability, ideal for home use and travel.

Why the Design is Notable

The Bricks Coffee Grinder is remarkable because it combines functionality with a sleek design. Many grinders focus on function or form, but the Bricks grinder balances both. Its minimalist aesthetic, paired with the tactile pleasure of manual grinding, transforms the task into an enjoyable experience.

Another key feature is the grind precision. With adjustable settings, users can achieve the exact grind consistency needed for their preferred brewing method. This level of precision is often found in high-end, professional grinders, but the Bricks grinder delivers this in a compact, user-friendly package.

Additionally, the Bricks Coffee Grinder emphasizes portability without compromising performance. Its compact design makes it easy to carry for those who want to bring their coffee ritual on the go. The sturdy construction ensures durability for daily use, all while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

Evaluation Comments

The Good Design Award jury praised the Bricks Coffee Grinder for its simplicity and attention to detail. They commended the product for blending traditional manual grinding with modern design principles. The user-friendly operation caters to both novices and experienced coffee enthusiasts.

The judges were also impressed by the Bricks grinder’s focus on sustainability. Its manual operation reduces reliance on electricity, making it an eco-conscious choice compared to electric grinders. The durable materials highlight the product’s commitment to longevity, cutting down on waste by reducing the need for frequent replacements.

Yanko Design’s Take

The Bricks Coffee Grinder represents how form and function can work together. The design reimagines a simple tool, providing both visual and practical value. Its compact size and portability make it perfect for coffee lovers who value quality and convenience in their coffee-making routine.

We appreciate the craftsmanship of the Bricks grinder. Manual operation saves energy and offers a more personal coffee-making experience. The ability to precisely control the grind size adds to its appeal, catering to various brewing preferences, from espresso to pour-over.

The attention to detail—whether in the smooth crank motion, finely tuned grind settings, or premium materials—ensures that this grinder will stand the test of time in terms of durability and design appeal.

3 Things We Love About the Design

Sleek Aesthetic and Durability

The Bricks Coffee Grinder’s minimalist design adds visual appeal to any kitchen. Crafted from high-quality materials, it combines beauty with durability, ensuring it will last through years of daily use. Its sleek finish complements modern kitchen decor, and its compact form ensures it won’t take up much counter space.

Precision Grinding

With multiple grind settings, the Bricks grinder allows users to achieve the perfect grind size for their preferred brewing method. This level of precision is usually reserved for higher-end electric grinders, but the Bricks model offers this in a manual, tactile experience. Whether you prefer a coarse grind for French press or a fine grind for espresso, this grinder delivers.

Portability and Environmental Friendliness

The Bricks Coffee Grinder’s portability is a significant advantage. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, making it perfect for coffee enthusiasts who enjoy freshly ground coffee on the go. Additionally, its manual operation eliminates the need for electricity, reducing energy consumption and making it an eco-friendly choice.

The Bricks Coffee Grinder is beyond a coffee tool—it’s an experience. Its thoughtful design and superior performance make it a must-have for any serious coffee lover. With a focus on sustainability, precision, and user experience, it’s clear why this product earned a 2024 Good Design Award.

Raptor: Next-Gen Mobility Platform – The Future of Sustainable Transportation

Mobility is evolving quickly, with advancements in electric platforms and autonomous driving reshaping the future of transportation. The Raptor: Next-Gen Mobility Platform, a 2024 Good Design Award winner, embodies this transition. Developed as a versatile and energy-efficient platform, Raptor pushes the boundaries of urban and shared mobility solutions. Its design and technological integration position it as a leading innovation in next-generation mobility, balancing performance, sustainability, and accessibility.

Background

The Raptor platform was created to address modern mobility challenges like urban congestion, environmental sustainability, and the demand for flexible, modular transportation solutions. Traditional vehicle designs limit adaptability and scalability, making it hard to keep up with the rapidly changing needs of urban environments. The Raptor platform was designed to serve multiple use cases, from personal transportation to shared mobility services, while maintaining a low carbon footprint.

Urban centers worldwide seek efficient transportation systems that reduce emissions and ease traffic congestion. Raptor’s modular architecture meets these needs, adapting to various types of vehicles, from lightweight personal transporters to shared shuttles. Its development reflects the growing trend toward electric platforms that fit seamlessly into the smart cities of tomorrow.

Specifications

• Platform Type: A modular, electric-powered platform designed for multiple vehicle configurations.
• Powertrain: Fully electric with energy-efficient propulsion systems aimed at reducing emissions.
• Modular Design: Can be adapted for different vehicle formats, from personal mobility devices to larger public transportation vehicles.
• Autonomous Capabilities: Equipped with advanced sensors and software, allowing for future autonomous driving applications.
• Sustainability: Energy-efficient systems paired with recyclable materials for a reduced environmental impact.
• Connectivity: Integrates with smart city infrastructure and other digital ecosystems for seamless operation in urban settings.

Why the Design is Notable

The Raptor platform sets itself apart with its forward-thinking approach to mobility. Unlike traditional platforms designed for a single purpose, the Raptor features a modular design that can be configured for different vehicle types. This provides an ideal solution for various mobility needs, from personal e-scooters to shared shuttles and delivery vehicles.

Another highlight is its environmental focus. The electric powertrain reduces emissions and ensures energy efficiency, aligning with global trends toward sustainable urban living. Using recyclable materials lowers its ecological footprint, making it a responsible choice for future transportation needs.

The Raptor’s integration with smart city systems and potential for autonomous driving ensure that it can evolve with advancing technology. Built to work seamlessly with digital infrastructures, it offers the potential for autonomous fleet management and efficient urban traffic flow.

Evaluation Comments

The Good Design Award judges were impressed by the Raptor platform’s versatility, modularity, and sustainability. They highlighted how the platform adapts to various vehicle types without sacrificing efficiency or performance. The ability to create different vehicle formats from the same structure is a significant innovation that sets the Raptor apart.

The platform’s environmental impact also stood out. Its energy-efficient electric powertrain and use of recyclable materials are crucial steps toward making urban mobility more sustainable. The platform’s readiness for smart city integration and future autonomous driving systems was also a key factor in its recognition, showcasing its long-term potential in urban transportation.

Yanko Design’s Take

We see the Raptor platform as a major advancement in next-generation mobility. Its modular nature provides flexibility in vehicle design and represents a sustainable shift in how we approach transportation in cities. The platform’s adaptability makes it relevant for various uses, from personal mobility devices to shared transport solutions.

What is remarkable to us is how the Raptor is built for the future. With its electric powertrain, it tackles the critical issue of reducing emissions in congested cities, while its potential for autonomous driving aligns it with future technology. Its integration into smart city ecosystems shows a commitment to solving today’s mobility problems and preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.

3 Things We Love About the Design

Modular and Adaptable Design

The Raptor platform’s modular design is a distinctive feature. It allows manufacturers to create multiple vehicle formats from the same platform, making it highly versatile. Whether it’s a compact e-scooter or a larger shared shuttle, the Raptor accommodates various needs, offering flexibility that is rare in the mobility space.

Sustainability at Its Core

We also admire the focus on sustainability. The electric powertrain ensures zero emissions during operation, contributing to cleaner air in urban areas. Additionally, the platform’s use of recyclable materials in its construction means it has a reduced environmental impact, aligning with global goals of reducing waste and promoting green living.

Smart City Integration and Future-readiness

The Raptor platform’s ability to integrate with smart city infrastructure is forward-thinking. Its built-in connectivity and potential for autonomous driving make it a future-proof solution that can evolve with urban transportation systems. As cities become smarter and more reliant on digital infrastructure, the Raptor’s seamless integration offers a clear advantage.

The Raptor: Next-Gen Mobility Platform raises the bar for urban transportation solutions. Its versatility, sustainability, and ability to integrate with advanced digital systems position it as a powerful example of how design and technology can work together to shape the future of mobility.

The post 5 Game-Changing 2024 Good Design Award Winners Redefining Everyday Products first appeared on Yanko Design.

Laptops today are truly powerful computers worthy of the title of “desktop replacements,” but despite their name, they have never really been great to use on your lap. Yes, you can put them there, at least until they get too hot, but they’re not the most comfortable nor the most ergonomic positions. Some laptop desks or trays, particularly the ones with cushions, try to fix some of that by slightly raising the laptop while still pressing down on your lap and preventing proper blood circulation. The ones with legs, on the other, are best used in bed or sometimes on desks, undoing the benefit of portability. This rather curious design, however, promises to address all those and let you use your laptop in your seat or even have food or a drink on the side.

Designer: FansDreams

Unlike a typical laptop desk with legs, the Fansdreams Pi takes a few pages from the Japanese art of paper folding to keep its form slim and light. In a nutshell, it uses downward force to lock the legs in place and uses flat planes to hold the desk up. Thanks to that, the Pi is only 0.5 inches (12.7mm) thin when folded, while the use of PU leather and high-strength fiberglass gives it its durability and light 2-lb weight.

Perhaps more interesting than its appearance is the different functions the foldable desk serves. Of course, it holds your laptop up at a higher level, but there’s also enough space to put other items at the side, like a game controller, a bowl of food, or even a drink. Ideally, you wouldn’t put liquid near a laptop, but it can happen at times. And when not in use as an actual laptop desk, the Fansdreams Pi can function as a car table for actual eating or maybe working white paper.

The Pi laptop desk has one rather curious form where you turn it upside down and use one of the legs to raise the laptop at an incline. This configuration is good for having the screen at a higher level, though you’ll probably have to use a separate keyboard to type more comfortably. Either way, it’s also a good demonstration of how sturdy and stable the legs can be if they can support the weight of the laptop directly.

The Fansdreams Pi’s thin and lightweight design makes it easy to bring anywhere, though its rather long surface might not fit some smaller bags. And while it does bring the convenience of being able to work even in a car, it does encourage a rather unusual and somewhat unhealthy lifestyle of simply working and eating anywhere.

The post Origami-inspired foldable laptop desk also functions as a car table and food tray first appeared on Yanko Design.

PROS:

• Gorgeous Ceraluminum design with a unique tactile experience


• Ultra-thin and lightweight chassis for effortless portability


• Lush and vibrant 14-inch 3K 120Hz OLED display


• Impressive performance, including light gaming

CONS:

• Port selection is a bit constrained


• RAM is integrated into System-on-Chip

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Packing incredible performance in a compact and beautiful design, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 redefines what ultraportable laptops are capable of and demonstrates how to deliver a design that you can feel.

For the longest time, Apple MacBooks have set themselves apart from the rest of the laptop crowd with their stylish designs, while laptop manufacturers preferred to focus on the performance and technical aspects of their products. Consumer tastes have shifted, however, and brands have started their search for thinner and lighter designs, though they always get stumped by the laws of physics and the limits of technologies and materials. Always in Search of Incredible, ASUS decided to look to other places for inspiration, both from other industries and Mother Nature herself. The result is a new “meta-material” Ceraluminum, which debuted on the ASUS Zenbook S 14, a rather striking laptop that promises the best of all worlds. Naturally, we couldn’t resist getting our hands on it and taking it for a test run to see whether its beauty runs deep.

Designer: ASUS

Aesthetics

Laptop lids are often made from metal like aluminum or plastic, both of which offer different strengths but also weaknesses. Lately, titanium has become the hot new material for electronics because of its durable and lightweight properties, but it is far from the end-all and be-all of metallic products. Taking a page from the aerospace and luxury watch industries, ASUS developed a new oxidation or “ceramization” to produce a sort of hybrid or meta-material, if you would, that combines not only the lightness of aluminum and the hardness of ceramic but also creates a new visual and tactile experience never before seen on a laptop.

“Ceraluminum” is the marketing term for what ASUS previously called Plasma Ceramic Aluminum, and our very own Vincent Nguyen describes the material in better detail. The end result is a laptop cover that looks nothing less than a piece of art, especially with the lines that cross its surface to create geometric patterns. Not only is the laptop great to look at, but it also feels great to touch. There’s a certain degree of roughness to its surface, almost like paper. Considering its paper-light weight and thinness, it almost feels like you’re simply carrying a stack of white or gray paper.

And yes, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 is unbelievably thin and lightweight, only 1.1cm (0.47 inches) thin and 1.2 kg (2.65 lbs) light. It gives the laptop a rather striking profile that grabs attention from any angle. And with its tactile design and lightweight body, you might find yourself wanting to carry the laptop in your arms often, truly a design that you can feel.

Fortunately, the laptop’s beauty doesn’t disappear when you lift up the lid. The very thin bezels almost disappear completely, giving way to the bright and colorful ASUS Lumina OLED display. The clean and modest design of the keyboard and the touchpad pad perfectly complement the minimalism of the laptop’s lids. Even the rather unique ventilation grid lying between the keyboard and the display hinge brings functional aesthetics into the picture. No matter which way you look at and hold the Zenbook S 14, you are greeted by a strikingly elegant display that you touch with your eyes as well as with your fingers.

Ergonomics

With such a thin and light design, there is really no argument about the portability of this laptop. You can easily carry it anywhere by hand or slip it inside a bag, and use it anywhere as well, including on your laptop. This makes the Zenbook S 14 ideal for people who find themselves always on the move, sometimes even at a moment’s notice. Best of all, they aren’t losing out on power and performance, as we’ll see later, so there are almost no downsides to its design.

That said, if you’re a bit picky about your typing experience, you might have some issues with the ASUS Zenbook S 14’s keyboard. With a profile as thin as this, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that the keyboard actually has a bit of a shallow travel distance, just around 1.1mm. Mind you, that’s not exactly a deal breaker and we found it to still be quite comfortable and enjoyable to type on. In fact, considering that same thin profile, it’s a miracle that this keyboard could actually feel this good. Again, your mileage might vary, but keyboard connoisseurs might want to take note of this detail.

Another minor matter that may or may not ruin your experience is the very bright keyboard backlight. Although adjustable, even its dimmest setting might feel a little blinding to more sensitive eyes, especially in a dark room. On the bright side (no pun intended), the light and the keys are also very visible even in bright surroundings. Again, not a huge flaw but something you’ll want to consider based on your personal preferences.

Performance

You might be wondering what the catch is since thin laptops have traditionally been underpowered to the point of being unusable for anything but the most basic computing tasks. There are a small number of gotchas, indeed, but not in the ways you might expect and definitely not damning enough to ruin mar the Zenbook S 14’s prestige. In fact, it’s pretty mind-blowing that this ultra-thin laptop is able to perform this well, offering a no-compromise mobile computing experience.

Part of that is thanks to the new Intel Lunar Lake processor, specifically the Core Ultra 7 258V. It uses a system-on-chip design that integrates a CPU, a dedicated NPU (Neural Processing Unit), an Intel Arc Xe GPU, and 32GB of RAM. Yes, that memory is built into the processor, which does have an important implication we’ll get to later. Regardless, this compact silicon design is what allowed Intel and ASUS to maximize internal space, allowing them to cram more or bigger components, like a 72Wh battery.

The Zenbook S 14’s raw benchmark performance is nothing short of impressive, easily matching other 28W laptops. Considering ultra-thin 14-inch laptops often operate at a much lower 15W TDP to avoid overheating, this is quite a remarkable feat. Perhaps the most telling achievement is how this slim laptop can deftly handle gaming loads with medium graphics settings instead of the typical low settings. Although it’s not marketed as a content creation or gaming laptop, it can definitely fit the bill with some performance tweaking and adjustments.

What’s a bit more interesting, however, is how the laptop’s performance seems to lean more towards unplugged use. Of course, this is perhaps one of the most important considerations for a laptop, since wouldn’t want to have it always plugged in, defeating the purpose of its portability. Long story short, the Zenbook S 14 seems to perform best when on battery, providing a good balance of power and efficiency to meet any computing need anywhere, anytime. And with mixed use, you can get a little under 20 hours of battery life on a single charge. That’s well under ASUS’s advertised 27 hours of non-stop video playback, but the realistic numbers are still quite good.

This makes the ASUS Zenbook S 14 a great all-around laptop, and that includes multimedia and, as mentioned, even games. The 14-inch 3K OLED screen is just breathtaking with its brightness and colors, and being part of the ASUS Lumina line, it is also PANTONE-validated, making it an excellent tool for creators, and the monitor’s 120Hz is actually a must-have for gamers. Four high-quality speakers give a punchy treatment to videos and music, making this laptop a multimedia powerhouse despite its modest and business-minded looks.

One area where the Zenbook S 14 might come up short for some people is the number of ports available. Remember that time when Apple got chided for replacing all the ports on MacBook Pros with just four C-Type Thunderbolt 4 ports? It’s not as bad here, but there will definitely be some who will find the selection far too modest. There are only two of those USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, both of which can be used for charging, data, and video out. There’s also one full-sized USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A port, one HDMI 2.1 port, and a headphone/mic combo jack. That’s pretty much it. There isn’t even an SD card reader, which will probably disappoint photographers. Both USB-C ports are located on the same side, which forces you to have the charger and dongles competing for space. The lack of other ports might not be that big of a problem when you dock the laptop at home or in the office, but if your office tends to change locations, you’ll have to bring a hub with you as well.

Sustainability

ASUS has been working hard to step up to the challenge of making the world a greener place for future generations, and its most ambitious attempt yet can be seen in its most ambitious material design as well. Ceraluminum isn’t just a fancy new material with a beautiful aesthetic and satisfying texture; it is also a more sustainable alternative to the usual metal anodizing techniques used by manufacturers. Instead of corrosive acids that release harmful toxins into the air, ASUS’ ceramization process uses water and super-high voltage electricity to produce an even better oxide layer, creating this blend of lightweight durability your fingers will love.

The ASUS Zenbook S 14 is also made to last, thanks to that Ceraluminum material that’s not only scratch-resistant but also smudge-resistant. And despite its luxurious aesthetic, this laptop actually boasts military-grade MIL-STD-810H compliance, ensuring that it can survive accidental bumps, high-frequency vibrations, and extreme temperatures. One aspect that takes a point from its longevity is the fact that you can only upgrade the M.2 NVMe SSD, and only up to 1TB capacity. The 32GB of RAM is, as mentioned, fixed and soldered. Yes, that might be enough for most use cases, but only today. Who knows how demanding apps and services will be just a few years from now.

Value

Most people marvel at ultra-thin laptops but pass them over because those slim profiles barely have enough power to meet their needs. Finding the right balance between portability, power, and price is like a hunting game, but you don’t need to go any further than what ASUS is now offering on the table. With a beautiful 14-inch screen, only 1.1cm thick, and weighing only 2.65 lbs, the ASUS Zenbook S 14 delivers a versatile machine that doesn’t compromise on performance, at least not in significant ways.

Best of all, it’s an absolute beauty to behold and to hold! Ceraluminum might sound like a buzzword, but its aesthetic value and tactile experience are the real deal. The $1,499.99 price tag for the 32GB RAM model is indeed nothing to scoff at either, but when you realize all the value that you’re getting, it’s almost a steal.

Verdict

We have finally reached a point where laptops no longer need to be hulking blocks of metal just to catch up with their desktop counterparts. While they still lose out on raw performance and customization, today’s laptops can be slimmer than ever and, more importantly, offer a design experience that desktop towers can only dream of. Of course, it takes no small amount of creative thinking, bold decision-making, and the courage to go beyond the boundaries of convention to create an amazing experience that will satiate consumer’s thirst for better-designed products. ASUS has definitely proven that it isn’t averse to taking that big leap, and the Zenbook S 14 is a shining testament to that daring spirit to create designs that you can see and feel.

The post ASUS Zenbook S 14 Ceraluminum Laptop Review: Elegance You Can Feel, Power You Can Touch first appeared on Yanko Design.

ASUS has long been recognized for its forward-thinking approach to technological innovation. With Ceraluminum, the company shifts focus, moving beyond performance metrics and engaging users on a sensory and emotional level. At the “Design You Can Feel” exhibition during the London Design Festival, ASUS presented this unique material in an artistic context, blending technology, material science, and human-centered design. This exhibition explored how technology doesn’t need to feel cold or distant but can foster emotional engagement and tactile experiences that draw users in.

Designer: ASUS

At the core of this shift is Ceraluminum, a revolutionary material that merges aluminum’s structural benefits with the tactile qualities of ceramic. With its four-year development, this material represents a significant leap forward in the functionality and aesthetics of ASUS’s products. Ceraluminum invites users to touch, explore, and experience their devices in a more intimate, human-centered way. It’s a breakthrough that combines art and technology, reshaping how we engage with our tech.

Ceraluminum: A Material with Presence

Ceraluminum reflects ASUS’s focus on creating materials that enhance functionality while fostering a more personal and tactile user experience. From my interpretation of their design philosophy, ASUS aims to develop materials that resonate emotionally with users, evoking a sense of warmth and connection—without suggesting metaphysical attributes like having a soul. Unlike traditional metals that feel cold and impersonal, Ceraluminum exudes warmth and tactility. It absorbs light and reduces glare while offering a textured, matte finish that invites interaction. Chief Design Officer Mitch Yang elaborated on the significance of this during the panel discussions, emphasizing that the texture and feel of Ceraluminum are key to fostering a deeper connection between users and their devices.

Developed through a unique micro-arc oxidation (MAO) process, Ceraluminum begins as lightweight aluminum and is transformed into a hybrid material through a high-voltage plasma discharge. This creates a ceramic oxide layer that maintains aluminum’s strength and lightness but offers ceramic’s hardness, scratch resistance, and tactile warmth. This unique combination gives ASUS’s devices a distinctive feel and presence, setting them apart from the sea of cold, reflective metal gadgets on the market.

Yang explained further, “Ceraluminum allows us to create devices that don’t just look good but feel meaningful to the touch. It changes how users interact with their technology, inviting them to explore the material with their hands, not just their eyes.”

SUSA: Embodying Calm Technology

At the center of the “Design You Can Feel” exhibition was SUSA, a conceptual AI-powered device designed by London-based Future Facility. This device embodies ASUS’s philosophy of calm technology, where tech is designed to be intuitive, unobtrusive, and calming rather than overstimulating. Encased entirely in Ceraluminum, SUSA represents the potential of this material to facilitate more mindful, tactile interactions with technology.

SUSA’s design is deliberately minimalist. It features a perforated screen that subtly filters its digital display, minimizing distractions while maintaining core functionalities such as photography, navigation, and calls. By encouraging users to engage with the physical object rather than becoming consumed by the screen, SUSA promotes a more intentional relationship with technology.

Leo Leitner, a designer at Future Facility, explained this during the panel discussion, stating, “SUSA is a reflection of how we can rethink the role of digital devices in our lives. By using Ceraluminum, we create a product that feels more natural and calming. It’s about slowing down, encouraging the user to focus on what’s important rather than being overwhelmed by constant notifications.”

Kim Colin, also from Future Facility, expanded on this by adding, “The tactile nature of Ceraluminum allowed us to create a product that feels inviting and grounded. It shifts the focus from what the device can do to how it feels when used. That tactile warmth is crucial to fostering a more mindful, human-centric interaction.”

SUSA is more than a concept. It represents a future where technology is integrated into our lives in ways that promote mental well-being, offering a calming influence rather than a constant source of overstimulation.

Collaborations with Global Designers: Ceraluminum Through the Eyes of Art

The “Design You Can Feel” exhibition also served as a platform for international designers to reinterpret and manipulate Ceraluminum in their own creative ways, showcasing its versatility beyond traditional tech applications. By inviting leading artists and designers to explore the material, ASUS highlighted how Ceraluminum can inspire new forms of user interaction. Each designer’s work emphasized tactile engagement and explored how material science can evoke emotional responses while remaining functional.

Giles Miller Studio (UK) approached Ceraluminum from a design perspective that blurred the lines between industrial application and artistic expression. Miller’s work focused on transforming the surface texture of Ceraluminum, turning it into a canvas for intricate patterns and reliefs. By manipulating its reflective qualities, Miller demonstrated how Ceraluminum could become a material that protects and decorates, elevating everyday technology into something more visually dynamic.

Designer: Giles Miller Studio

The studio used light to reveal hidden details in the material, inviting users to interact with their devices in new ways. Miller explained during the panel that they wanted to capture the subtle shifts in light as users moved their devices, turning a practical surface into an artistic experience. “Ceraluminum gave us the ability to create a surface that changes with the viewer’s movement, transforming the device from an object of utility into something more engaging,” Miller noted. This emphasis on the material’s light-reflecting properties invited deeper emotional engagement, making the device feel more personal.

Natural Material Studio (Denmark) took an organic approach to Ceraluminum, focusing on its ability to mimic natural textures. Their contribution aimed to highlight the material’s matte finish and tactile softness, drawing inspiration from natural elements like stone and sand. By working with Ceraluminum’s porosity, they created objects that felt grounded and familiar, offering a contrast to the typically sleek, hard surfaces of most technology.

Designer: Natural Material Studio

The goal was to craft a sensory experience that reminded users of nature. Their work emphasized the tactile qualities of Ceraluminum, offering an experience that felt like the material had been shaped by natural forces rather than human technology. “We wanted the object to feel as if it had always existed—like a pebble-shaped by the sea,” the studio shared during the exhibit. Their designs provided a sense of calm, reinforcing ASUS’s broader mission to create technology that connects users to the natural world while still harnessing advanced materials.

Nice Workshop (South Korea) explored the application of Ceraluminum in larger-scale objects with their “Aluminium Formwork Series”. Moving away from electronics, they demonstrated how Ceraluminum could be used in furniture design by applying ASUS’s ceramicization process to aluminum forms. This process resulted in furniture pieces with a textured, stone-like finish that invited touch and interaction. Founder Hyunseog Oh said their goal was to make aluminum—a traditionally cold, hard material—feel softer and more approachable.

Designer: Nice Workshop

Their work showed how Ceraluminum’s unique texture could be adapted to everyday objects, making them more inviting and user-friendly. “We wanted people to feel comfortable interacting with furniture in the same way they interact with their devices,” said Oh. This exploration of Ceraluminum’s versatility in non-tech applications expanded the material’s potential, proving it could enhance electronics and the physical spaces we inhabit.

Fernando Laposse (Mexico) brought a sustainability-focused lens to the exhibition, concentrating on how Ceraluminum could be repurposed and recycled to reduce environmental impact. Known for his work with natural fibers, Laposse saw potential in Ceraluminum’s longevity and durability. He explored how the material could be integrated into sustainable design practices, offering a responsible alternative to more wasteful production methods.

Designer: Fernando Laposse

Laposse’s work aligned with ASUS’s vision for creating long-lasting products that reduce waste and contribute to a circular economy. By focusing on Ceraluminum’s recyclability, he highlighted its potential to contribute to sustainable design efforts. “Ceraluminum’s strength and durability mean it can be repurposed, not discarded, ensuring that our devices leave a smaller environmental footprint,” Laposse explained. His approach resonated with ASUS’s commitment to sustainability, demonstrating that high-tech materials and responsible design can coexist.

Studio Furthermore (UK) embraced a more experimental approach, pushing Ceraluminum’s potential beyond the traditional limits of material design. Their contribution focused on the material’s transformation through ceramicization, exploring how different textures and surface treatments could evoke new tactile experiences. By experimenting with forms and patterns, Studio Furthermore demonstrated how Ceraluminum could serve as a medium for creative exploration, where users could discover new ways to interact with their devices.

Designer: Studio Furthermore

The studio’s work underscored how Ceraluminum is durable and capable of provoking emotional and tactile connections. By emphasizing the material’s sensory qualities, they invited users to engage more profoundly and rigorously with their devices. “We wanted to encourage users to touch and feel their devices, not just see them as tools,” the studio remarked. Through their experimental processes, Studio Furthermore showcased how Ceraluminum could foster more profound, more meaningful interactions between users and the objects they use every day.

Final Thoughts: A Sensory Future for Technology and Design

ASUS’s “Design You Can Feel” exhibition and the development of Ceraluminum represent a forward-thinking approach to how technology integrates into our lives. With this material, ASUS bridges the gap between the tactile and the technological, offering users an experience that goes beyond performance to touch the soul of design.

Ceraluminum’s durability, tactile warmth, and matte finish go beyond aesthetic choices; they reshape how we interact with devices moving forward. This material reflects ASUS’s commitment to creating devices that resonate emotionally, offering comfort, engagement, and fostering a deeper connection.

Through collaborations with global designers, ASUS has highlighted the potential of Ceraluminum to transform not just technology but how we live, interact, and engage with the objects around us. As we move forward, Ceraluminum is poised to lead a new design wave that prioritizes emotional resonance, environmental responsibility, and the fusion of art with cutting-edge material science.

The post Design You Can Feel: ASUS Ceraluminum Blends Technology with Tactile Artistry first appeared on Yanko Design.

Life can sometimes take us places we never planned or even dreamed of going to. While some people fear and stress over life’s unpredictable journeys, others have grown to embrace and even love the adventure, both figuratively and literally. Designers, artists, and content creators today have their beloved computers and tools at home or in the office, but they know better than anyone that inspiration can strike when and where we least expect it, not to mention suddenly having to do work just after we stepped outdoors. Laptops were made for this purpose, but their thick and heavy bodies didn’t exactly make for comfortable mobility, while tablets went the opposite extreme and prized portability over the performance that professionals need. The ASUS ProArt PZ13 makes the bold promise of delivering the best of both worlds, so we naturally had to put it to the test to find it out if could really meet the demands and desires of designers and creatives on the go.

Designer: ASUS

Aesthetics

At first glance, you might not think much of the ASUS ProArt PZ13, but closer inspection reveals it has two sides to its design, matching its 2-in-1 detachable laptop functionality. On its own, it’s a rather stylish and striking tablet, black as black, unlike black tablets that look more like “space gray” or other shades. ASUS’s “nano black” coating, also seen on the ASUS ProArt PX13 we reviewed recently, reduces the reflection of light, making it darker than typical metal or plastic surfaces with glossy finishes, no matter the lighting condition or angle. It gives off a professional and elegant character that you’d come to expect from mature designs used in professional settings.

The ProArt PZ13’s CNC-engraved unibody aluminum alloy chassis gives the device structural integrity, durability, and a simple yet sophisticated appearance, highlighted even more by its ultra-slim 9mm profile. There are barely any breaks in the tablet’s visual appearance, aside from a single visible USB-C port, two ventilation grilles at the top, and one air-inflow grille on the back. The classy yet subtle ProArt logo sits at the bottom, opposite the requisite regulatory markings and branding.

All in all, the ASUS ProArt PZ13 exudes an aura of professional beauty befitting a tool for agile creatives, but that image might be challenged by the protective accessories that add value and change the aesthetic a bit. Included in the package is a magnetic keyboard cover and a magnet back plate with a kickstand, both necessary if you’re carrying this portable computer around. They are designed to offer rugged protection and definitely look the part, though it’s a bit strange that ASUS opted for a different hue that sharply contrasts with the pitch-black body of the tablet itself. Gray with a tinge of green, these accessories will be an acquired taste and might not sit well with some people, both in color and in the rugged, ridged design.

Ergonomics

Combining power and portability is always a delicate balancing act. Due to the laws of physics, you can only cram so much into a small space before you start weighing the object down or making thermal management impossible. Conversely, you can only remove so much before performance starts to take a hit. Thanks to its choice of components, especially the processor, the ASUS ProArt PZ13 manages to strike quite a nice balance, weighing only 0.85kg (1.87 lbs) on its own.

That does carry a bit more heft compared to an iPad Pro, for example, or even a Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra, but when you consider that this is a Windows machine with fans inside, that’s still a pretty impressive feat. That makes the ProArt PZ13 very usable as a tablet, whether for reading documents, watching videos, or even making art, though you won’t want to hold it up with your bare hands for a long time either. This also makes the device easy to carry around the house, the office, or even outdoors, especially if you know you won’t need a keyboard to type on.

The story changes a little bit when you do need to add the keyboard and kickstand to the formula, almost doubling the weight of the device. It’s still significantly lighter than a laptop, but it’s no thin tablet either. And you will most likely have to use both the back plate and the keyboard together since there’s no way to prop up the tablet without the kickstand. That also means you can really only use this 2-in-1 device as a laptop when you’re on a flat and long surface like a table, making the “lapability” of the design quite low.

Performance

This is hardly the first 2-in-1 detachable Windows laptop, but the ASUS ProArt PZ13 is one of the first few to use Qualcomm’s new energy-efficient Snapdragon X Plus silicon. This Arm-based processor is closer to the Apple M chips than, say, Intel or AMD, and is in fact directly targeting Apple Silicon devices. Qualcomm earlier launched the beefier Snapdragon X Elite, but that in no way means that this is an underpowered version, especially considering it still boasts the same 45 AI NPU TOPS performance even with only 8 cores.

In other words, Windows itself runs quite smoothly on this machine, as well as any other piece of software that’s actually designed for or adjusted to work on this computing platform. That includes a growing number of Adobe products like Photoshop and Premiere, popular comics drawing software Clip Studio Pro, and more. The ProArt PZ13 and the Snapdragon X Plus shine brighter when those apps need some AI power, thanks to that dedicated NPU chip that doesn’t choke the main processor.

There, however, also lies a bit of the rub. That smooth and responsive experience works best on software that has already been adapted to work on Snapdragon processors, which isn’t the case for the hundreds of popular Windows programs out there. Yes, those apps can still run thanks to a special emulation layer, and yes, performance has improved significantly since the earlier days of Windows on ARM, but that extra layer is still there and can still affect your performance, especially when it comes to games. The same is true with peripherals you want to connect to the device, especially ones that need special drivers that aren’t supported by this platform yet.

In exchange for that uncertainty, the choice of a Snapdragon X Plus processor brings with it the peace of mind that you won’t have to scramble for a power outlet every few hours. The 70Wh battery can last almost a full day, give or take a few hours depending on your use, which is something even the most generous estimates on an Intel or AMD laptop can even boast about. It also chargers quickly over USB-C using the included 65W charger, though that also means you can use almost any standards-compliant USB-C charger as well.

Regardless of what you use it for, you will be experiencing a bright, colorful, and vibrant 13.3-inch 3K screen, thanks to ASUS’s Lumina OLED technology. Professionals who require color accuracy will be delighted to know that it’s Pantone-validated and has support for 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. Even better, ASUS offers all the sliders and switches you need to customize the display to your requirements and tastes. Its refresh rate does cap out at only 60Hz so it won’t be the best option for gaming, which isn’t what you’ll be using this laptop for most of the time anyway.

The ASUS ProArt PZ13 only has one USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C port visible for quick access to a charging port, but don’t fret, it isn’t the only one. There’s another USB-C port of the same type hidden behind a silicone flap, which also hides a full-sized SD card reader. Digital photographers will probably delight in the inclusion of this port which is absent on almost all tablets these days, while those who regularly work with microSD cards will be happy to know that ASUS actually ships an adapter in the box. The one catch to this design is that you can’t have an SD card permanently inserted there because a part of it juts out of the frame, making it impossible to close the silicone flap over it. It’s clearly not designed for storage expansion but removable storage to support the workflows of camera users.

Sustainability

Unlike with its other products, ASUS is a bit silent on the amount of recycled materials it uses for the ProArt PZ13. Rather than focus on the use of sustainable materials, it instead highlights the ways this device can last a long, long time before it needs to be turned in for proper disposal and recycling. With an IP52 rating and conforming to the US MIL-STD-810H spec, you can carry and use this portable tablet with confidence anywhere, knowing that it can keep up with you wherever life or work takes you. Of course, the kickstand back cover and keyboard cover offer additional protection as well, which is all the more reason you won’t want to keep these three pieces apart for long.

One detail about that detachable magnet keyboard, however, might be a source of worry for some. While more convenient than a USB connection but also more reliable than Bluetooth, this design has a tendency to break easily due to wear and tear. ASUS will undoubtedly sell these separately for some time, but there will always come a point when they will go out of production, perhaps outliving the ProArt PZ13 itself. Reliability has improved over the years, of course, but it’s still something to keep in mind with this type of detachable keyboard.

Value

The ASUS ProArt PZ13 is both familiar and completely new. Its 2-in-1 detachable laptop design is something we’ve seen since the very first days of the Microsoft Surface, but its combination with a Snapdragon X Plus is just as new as the processor itself. To some extent, it’s wading into uncharted waters, but it isn’t alone either, and its biggest rival is none other than Microsoft itself and the latest Surface Pro. Fortunately, ASUS has its work cut out for it thanks to its competitive pricing.

At first glance, the ProArt PZ13’s $1,100 price tag seems to be on the losing end compared to the Surface Pro’s $1,000, but then you have to consider what you’re actually getting in the package. ASUS bundles the keyboard cover with the tablet, while that’s a separate $180 purchase for the Surface Pro, at least for the keyboard that can also charge the Microsoft pen. Neither comes with a compatible pen, and those cost an additional $100 for the ASUS Pen 2.0 and $130 for the Surface Slim Pen. That brings the total to $1,200 for the ASUS ProArt PZ13 and $1,310 for the Surface Pro, and even then you’re only getting 256GB of storage versus the generous 1TB on ASUS’s 2-in-1 laptop. In this context, there really is no contest between the two.

Verdict

The ASUS ProArt PZ13 promises the Holy Grail of mobile computing, offering reliable performance and long battery life in a thin and light design, and for the most part, it does deliver on those. Granted, software support on Windows on ARM processors like the Snapdragon X Plus is still a bit of a gamble, but things are getting better quickly, especially for the more popular programs used by professionals and hobbyists alike. Things are far from perfect, but for creatives looking for a reliable and stylish computer they can easily take anywhere, the ProArt PZ13 is definitely worth considering.

The post ASUS ProArt PZ13 2-in-1 Laptop Review: Portable Partner with Plenty of Potential first appeared on Yanko Design.

Come IFA 2024 and the race for the next generation Copilot+ PCs has kicked off. While Asus has showcased its portfolio of technologically advanced laptops, Samsung is keeping it low-key. The South Korean tech giant has introduced its debut entrant – Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 – into the Copilot+ PCs arena through a blog post.

Why has Samsung refrained from showcasing the thin, lightweight, and highly powerful laptop at the IFA is anybody’s guess, but from what the blog post reveals, the Book5 Pro definitely has an OLED display and a battery life to win more customers than the predecessors would have. Considering the fact that the laptop will be available only in select markets – France, Germany, the UK and the US per se – at launched later this month, the initial sales may not be clear indicators, the numbers would likely rise as and when the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 goes on sale in other parts of the world.

Designer: Samsung

AI-focused Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 is powered by an Intel Core 7 Ultra Series 2 processor, which would provide the next level of computing prowess to this convertible laptop. Offered with a 16-inch OLED display, that can rotate a full 360 degrees, the laptop comes with an S Pen to ensure you can use it as a Windows tablet when you need it.

So, instead of just being a game-changing laptop, the Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, of course, is an undeniable tablet as well. Adding to it is its 10-point multi-touchscreen display that touts 3K super-resolution and 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. Despite its large 16-inch form factor, the convertible laptop weighs only 1.69kg and measures roughly 12.8mm at the thickest point.

Besides the immaculate display and the incredible computing power – thanks to its 200V Lunar Lake Intel processor that provides the laptop with 47 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of NPU (neural processing unit) power, which qualifies the system for the Copilot+ PC branding – it also impresses with its battery life. Interestingly, the Book5 Pro 360 comes with a 76Wh battery that powers up using a 65W USB-C adapter and can easily last up to 25 hours of video playback blasting out through its Dolby Atmos quad speakers.

Samsung provides the Galaxy Book 5 Pro 360 with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM paired with a choice of 512GB or 1TB NVMe SSD. For connectivity, this slim laptop accommodates a HDMI 2.1 port, a pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-A 3.2, and a headphone/mic combo jack. Featuring Wi-Fi 7 (be, 2×2) and Bluetooth 5.4 support, the laptop is available for preorder as we speak. It is priced at £1,700 ($2,250) for the 512GB variant, and £1,900 ($2,500) for the 1TB version in the UK.

The post Galaxy Book5 Pro 360: Samsung’s AI-Powered Convertible Laptop with Lunar Lake and 25-Hour Battery first appeared on Yanko Design.

Not only is the HONOR MagicBook Art 14 thinner AND lighter than Apple’s latest MacBook Air, it happens to have more ports, thinner bezels, and a higher screen-to-body ratio. However, the most impressive part about the entire laptop is the visible lack of a notch in the screen, like the one on Apple’s MacBook series. Honor’s solution is equal parts bizarre and clever – a magnetic snap-on camera accessory that docks inside the laptop when you’re not using it.

This rather innovative camera accessory measures a few millimeters and fits right inside the laptop’s body when not in use. However, when you need to attend a video call, the camera module pops right out of the side of the laptop, and magnetically attaches to the top of the laptop screen. The solution circumvents Apple’s notch problem, while also giving you a convenient privacy filter – you can simply pull the camera off to disconnect it.

The MagicBook Art 14’s camera outputs 1080p videos, and uses a powerful set of magnets to automatically connect either to its docking point on the side of the laptop, or the connection hub on the top of the screen. The super-slim camera module doesn’t sport a battery, which means it automatically powers down if disconnected. Pogo-pins on the camera’s base let you instantly connect the module to your laptop. No software, no drivers, no Bluetooth, no configuring… nothing. Snap on, and the camera starts working… snap off, and it is physically disconnected. The only caveat is that you do stand a chance of potentially losing the webcam if you aren’t careful. Honor doesn’t mention if the webcam module is available separately (just in case you lose yours), but it does have incredibly strong magnets, so when it’s attached, you can rest assured that it won’t accidentally fall off.

The snap-to-connect camera feels so simple and intuitive that it makes USB webcams look sluggish. The camera has the form factor of a tiny thumb drive, and includes the camera itself, the pogo-pin connectors, the powerful rare-earth magnets, and a tiny light that glows when the camera’s connected. A notification displays on the laptop screen to tell you whether the camera’s paired properly or not. It’ll even let you know if the camera is stowed in the side of the laptop.

The coolest part, however, is that the camera is reversible – another feature that allows the MagicBook Art 14 to stand out against the MacBook or any other laptop. Flip the camera over and dock it facing the other way, and you have a front-facing camera, perfect for presentations. You can literally flip the camera in the middle of a meeting and the video automatically flips over.

Flip the camera 180 degrees for front-facing video.

The HONOR MagicBook Art 14 is thinner AND lighter than the MacBook Air, while still boasting a larger 14-inch screen. Honor’s CEO pointed out that despite this, it also has a USB-A and HDMI port apart from 2 USB-C ports, outpacing the MacBook Air even in port quantity. The MagicBook Air 14 was announced at IFA 2024, although there’s no official word on price yet.

The post HONOR MagicBook Art 14 Hands-On at IFA 2024: Honor just Killed Apple’s MacBook Notch in the Best Way first appeared on Yanko Design.