We used to see a lot of pure form exploration in ID student work. These days school projects are growing more research- and digital-based, with less of an emphasis on form. So when it comes to seeing strange, experimental new shapes, it is the EDC microeconomy that's leading the charge.A case in point is this bizarre Tactitool, by an independent fabricator called Full Carbon Alchemist. It's essentially a knurled aluminum sleeve that chunkifies a AAA flashlight, and adds three weaponizing protrusions that I can only call carbon fiber knuckles.To some extent, form does follow function here. The carbon fiber protrusions are umbrella-shaped, providing hooks on either side for, get this, carrying grocery bag handles. There's also a pair of glassbreakers on the bottom, as being trapped inside something seems to be a common EDC market worry. For all of the fabrication that went into this object, I'm surprised to see it retails for $42.

Apples flagship headphones are set for a transformative software enhancement this April that introduces two long-awaited audio capabilities. The premium over-ear AirPods Max will soon support genuine lossless audio reproduction alongside dramatically reduced latency performance advancements that significantly expand their utility for both discerning listeners and creative professionals.Designer: AppleWhen connected via the supplied USB-C cable, AirPods Max will process audio at 24-bit/48kHz resolution without compression artifacts. This represents a fundamental shift in how these headphones handle digital signals, preserving delicate sonic textures and spatial cues that compression algorithms typically sacrifice. The result is audio reproduction that faithfully mirrors studio masters, maintaining the subtle tonal characteristics and acoustic environments captured during recording.The implications for Apple Music subscribers are substantial. Through these headphones, the services vast catalogexceeding 100 million tracksbecomes accessible in its highest-quality format. The lossless enhancement also applies to Apples Personalized Spatial Audio technology, elevating three-dimensional sound reproduction with greater accuracy and definition.For audio professionals, the introduction of ultra-low latency processing addresses a critical limitation that previously restricted these headphones from serious production work. By reducing signal delay to match Apples built-in device speakers, AirPods Max become a viable tool for tasks requiring immediate audio feedback. Musicians can now monitor performances without distracting timing discrepancies, while producers can make precise mix decisions with confidence in what theyre hearing.The firmware update establishes a particularly distinctive capability in the professional audio landscape. AirPods Max will stand alone as the sole headphone solution that supports both creation and mixing in Personalized Spatial Audio with dynamic head tracking. This exclusive functionality offers spatial audio designers unprecedented control when developing immersive content, as the headphones accurately translate head movements into corresponding audio perspective shifts.Interactive media experiences also benefit considerably from the latency reduction. Gaming becomes more responsive as audio cues align precisely with the on-screen action, while content creators conducting live streams can maintain perfect synchronization between visual and audio elements. This technical refinement eliminates the slight but perceptible delay that compromises timing-sensitive applications.The enhancement arrives through firmware distribution in April, coinciding with iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and macOS Sequoia 15.4 updates. Current AirPods Max owners with USB-C connectivity receive these advancements without additional cost, while new purchasers can select from five finish options (midnight, starlight, blue, purple, or orange) at the established $549 price point.Connectivity expands through Apples optional USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable ($39), which enables integration with conventional audio systems found in travel environments and vehicles. To fully leverage the spatial audio production capabilities, users require Logic Pro for Mac alongside an iPhone equipped with TrueDepth camera technology for creating personalized spatial profiles.This substantial firmware enhancement demonstrates how software evolution can fundamentally redefine hardware capabilities, extending the functional lifespan of premium audio products while introducing entirely new creative possibilities for existing owners.The post AirPods Max Getting Major Sound Upgrade with Lossless Audio and Zero-Lag Performance first appeared on Yanko Design.

The world of 3D printing has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception, empowering both individuals and companies to bring their creative visions to life with unprecedented speed and precision. These technological marvels have democratized manufacturing, allowing hobbyists to fabricate custom parts while enabling businesses to rapidly prototype designs without expensive tooling processes. The ripple effects of 3D printing innovation extend far beyond traditional manufacturing, with applications emerging in surprising sectors from customized food production to biomedical implants.Despite these advances, most 3D printers remain bulky fixtures confined to workshops, makerspaces, or dedicated areas within homes and offices. This spatial limitation has created a significant barrier for creators who need flexibility in their work environments or who travel frequently. The stationary nature of conventional 3D printers restricts spontaneous creativity and collaborative opportunities, forcing makers to adapt their workflow around the printers location rather than the other way around. This fundamental constraint has long been overdue for disruption.Designer: AnycubicEnter the revolutionary concept of a fully foldable, portable 3D printer that promises to liberate makers from their desks. This ingenious design features five rotational axes that enable the entire unit to collapse into an incredibly compact form factor, measuring just 75mm in height when folded roughly the size of a standard briefcase. The sophisticated joint system allows the print head to be positioned precisely at any point within its operational range, accommodating projects of various dimensions while maintaining the portability that traditional printers lack.The transformative potential of this portable printer extends far beyond mere convenience, fundamentally changing how designers and engineers approach their creative process. No longer tethered to a single workspace, professionals can now bring their manufacturing capabilities directly to client meetings, field locations, or collaborative sessions with colleagues. This mobility fosters a more dynamic, responsive approach to prototyping and production, where ideas can be tested and refined in real time regardless of location.Despite its compact folded dimensions, the printer unfolds to reveal impressive capabilities, offering a maximum print height of 460mm with precision that rivals larger desktop models. The multi-axis arm design not only serves the practical purpose of foldability but also creates a visually engaging experience as users watch the print head navigate through three-dimensional space with balletic precision. This mechanical choreography transforms the printing process from a hidden operation into a fascinating display of technology in motion. The angled control interface enhances user interaction, providing intuitive access to printing parameters while maintaining a sleek profile that complements the overall design aesthetic.For the makers, designers, and visionaries, this foldable printer represents more than just another tool and symbolizes freedom from spatial constraints that have limited creativity. The ability to pack professional-grade manufacturing capabilities into a portable package means that inspiration can be acted upon immediately, regardless of location. Designers working in remote areas, educators conducting workshops, or entrepreneurs pitching prototypes can now bring production capabilities directly to where theyre needed most, eliminating delays between concept and creation.The post Foldable portable 3D printer concept revolutionizes design and manufacturing first appeared on Yanko Design.

The initial design was missing some important context.

Debate is now raging over what is, and isn't, included.

The ad hoc addition to the otherwise tightly controlled White House information environment could create blind spots and security exposures while setting potentially dangerous precedent.

Depending on who you ask, the internet weighs no more than a potato, a strawberryor something much, much smaller. WIRED investigates.

On the latest episode of the HomeKit Insider Podcast, your host dives into HomePod mini 2 and HomePod 3 rumors, evidence pointing to cameras in Matter version 1.5, Nanoleaf's new computer light, and SwitchBot's leaked Hub 3.HomeKit Insider PodcastThe bulk of the episode is spent surrounding Apple's efforts on the HomePod mini 2 and HomePod 3. Both rumored to launch this year, we go into new features, software changes, and other improvements to expect.While the 2025 crop of HomePods will have similar designs to what's shipping now, rumors suggest better audio, improved Siri, and new internal chips will all arrive. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

Apple has handed out the first release candidates for this generation of betas, with RC builds of iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS 15.4, tvOS 18.4, watchOS 11.4, and visionOS 2.4 now available.Examples of Apple Intelligence at work. The RC beta round follows after the fourth for iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, macOS 15.4, tvOS 18.4, watchOS 11.4, and visionOS 2.4, which shipped on March 17. The third appeared on March 10, the second landed on March 3, and the first round surfaced on February 21.A release candidate is typically the last phase of a developer beta generation, with it effectively containing what should be provided to the public for the final release. While Apple aims to seed just one RC build of each operating system, this can sometimes stretch to a second. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

More evidence attesting to the performance of recycled concrete construction and demolition waste as an alternative to traditional Portland cement mixtures has been advanced in a new research paper from scientists at the University of So Paulo and Princeton University. They found that their proprietary mix demonstrated strength gains and workability that were comparable with current industry standards, saying its widespread implementation has the potential to cut emissions by up to 61%. The new research adds to recent discoveries made by researchers in Germany. (h/t ScienceDaily)