In Captain America: Brave New World, Digital Domain brings explosive energy to the screen with a thrilling 8.5-minute CG aerial dogfight over the Indian Ocean. Tasked with crafting this high-speed sequence, the VFX team—led by supervisor Hanzhi Tang—overcame major challenges in scale and motion, using a blend of photorealistic environments, dynamic cloudscapes, and a custom cloud shader.The scene features Captain America and Falcon in a tense battle to prevent war, filled with stunning visuals like missile interceptions and shield-surfing action. With detailed previs and close collaboration with Marvel Studios, Digital Domain delivered seamless character animation, realistic aircraft, and vast ocean shots.The result is a high-stakes, visually gripping set piece that stands out as a technical and creative achievement, capturing the intensity and spectacle that defines the MCU. The post Captain America: Brave New World – VFX Breakdown by Digital Domain appeared first on Vfxexpress.

The Fast Company Impact Council is an invitation-only membership community of leaders, experts, executives, and entrepreneurs who share their insights with our audience. Members pay annual dues for access to peer learning, thought leadership opportunities, events and more. I’m not one to jump on every shiny new tool just because it’s trending. Some tech tools, gadgets, and software have transformed my life for the better (like the Meta Quest), and some ventures did not fare so well (I will ignore Apple Watch’s reminders to stand until the end of time).   But AI? It’s different. AI isn’t in the same league as the other tech you know and love. This is not just another tool, it’s a shift in how we think, create, and operate. At Quantious, we’ve dedicated the past few years to learning everything there is to know about AI, and we’ve embraced it not as a crutch, but as a catalyst.   As a longtime agency owner, I know the importance of finding ways for my team to work smarter, faster, and more creatively. So, here’s why I encourage my employees to use AI every day.  1. AI allows us to be better creatives  We keep up with the news—we know some are saying that AI will kill creativity and make us dumber. At Quantious, we prefer to give our employees ownership to explore firsthand how AI tools can fuel fresh ways of thinking and offer new angles. Our designers leverage AI while prototyping, our copywriters lean on it to work through creative blocks, and our strategists use it to analyze massive amounts of data effortlessly.   Through experimentation and education on responsible AI practices, we’re seeing that AI isn’t replacing our creative instincts, it’s sharpening them. We’re breaking through limits, unlocking ideas we never considered, and pushing creative boundaries in our work like never before.   2. AI keeps us at the top of our game  AI is only going to get more advanced, more complex, and more intelligent. By weaving AI into our daily processes now in ethical and responsible ways, we’re future-proofing our team and staying ahead of the curve.   AI literacy will soon be table stakes for business leaders and employees looking to stay at the top of their game. We’re already “bridging the gap between awareness and applied proficiency,” a goal organizations must embrace to remain competitive.  Most importantly, we’re cultivating a workplace culture that thrives on change instead of fearing change. We prioritize ongoing training, fostering a culture where our teams feel empowered to experiment with AI, and excited to discuss tips, tricks, and findings. This isn’t just a valuable mindset to have—it’s our edge.   That said, our team knows better than to fully rely on AI tools. We’ve asked ChatGPT to pull trending news articles, to which it created fake URLs to nonexistent stories. We’re not just using AI, we’re understanding its quirks, its limitations, and how it’s evolved over time.   3. AI supports remote (and hybrid) work  Quantious is fully remote, with employees worldwide, so staying aligned and organized is crucial to our success. We now generate advanced spreadsheet formulas in minutes to streamline our workflows, saving our teams countless hours. We get AI-generated meeting note summaries after internal meetings, a simple yet effective way to document our company procedures and keep everyone in the loop.   AI has made our remote work more productive, seamless, well-documented, and so much more. We’ve crossed a threshold—AI has redefined teamwork, and there’s no going back  There are endless AI tools that can help you do everything from managing tasks to improving your public speaking skills. Without taking the time to learn about these tools, you’ll never know what you’re missing out on.  At the end of the day, AI is just another tool. How we use it is what counts most. Encouraging my team to explore AI is not about replacing talent or even “working smarter, not harder” (though I’m not against the latter). It’s about cultivating a positive workplace culture alongside a team full of curious, adaptable, and continuous learners. My team and I refuse to sit on the sidelines while the industry evolves. Instead, we’re here to shape how it grows.   Lisa Larson-Kelley is founder and CEO of Quantious. 

The past two months have been an amazing month for furniture design, showcasing creativity, innovation, and a strong commitment to sustainability and adaptability. The ever-evolving needs of modern living have inspired designers worldwide to produce pieces that are aesthetically appealing and also functional, modular, and environmentally responsible. Whether you’re looking for a transformative piece for your compact apartment, a sustainable solution for your furry companion, or an artistic conversation starter, this month’s standout designs offer something for every taste and need. Each design here reflects the unique vision of its creators, blending functionality with artistry and responding to the demands of contemporary life. 1. Carpentopod The Carpentopod is a groundbreaking fusion of classic woodworking and advanced robotics. This impressive table features 12 articulated legs that allow it to traverse a room semi-autonomously, delivering snacks and beverages at your request. By integrating robotics into a functional table, the Carpentopod redefines what furniture can do and pushes the boundaries of home innovation. Central to its design is an intricate leg mechanism, crafted through the use of sophisticated computer simulations. Thousands of potential designs were tested using machine learning, with only the most effective achieving the smooth, stable horizontal motion needed to keep the tabletop level while in motion. This meticulous process ensures that the Carpentopod can travel without causing spills, representing a significant leap forward in mobile furniture engineering. What we like Seamlessly blends artisanal craftsmanship with state-of-the-art technology. Delivers enhanced convenience by transporting refreshments directly to users. What we dislike The mechanical complexity may lead to increased maintenance needs. 2. Chameleon Furniture The Chameleon Furniture concept takes inspiration directly from nature’s most versatile creature, the chameleon, known for its remarkable ability to adapt to different environments. This innovative piece, brought to life with robust iron construction, embodies the spirit of transformation and adaptability. The Chameleon is more than just a clever name—it’s a solution for those who crave both versatility and strength in their living spaces. One of the most appealing aspects of the Chameleon is its user-friendly assembly process. It relies on just four screws and a set of iron plates, making it a breeze to set up and dismantle as needed. The straightforward mechanism means you don’t have to be a DIY expert to alter your space or move the piece from one room to another. What we like The furniture can easily switch between functions, making it ideal for spaces that require regular reconfiguration. Crafted from sturdy iron, the Chameleon offers both durability and longevity. What we dislike While its industrial look suits many modern interiors, it may not blend seamlessly with more traditional or cozy decor styles, limiting its appeal to certain households. Users looking for a wider range of functional or visual options may find its adaptability somewhat limited compared to more modular systems. 3. Sisto Sisto, designed by Italian designer Edoardo Lietti, demonstrates that genius often lies in simplicity. Born out of a desire to combine classic Italian craftsmanship with contemporary minimalism, Sisto is a multi-functional furniture piece made from just six panels of plywood. At first glance, it may appear to be a simple chair, but its true magic lies in its ability to transform effortlessly into a variety of household essentials. Flip, turn, or stack, and Sisto becomes a low stool, side table, bookshelf, or work desk. Its geometric design and exposed fasteners highlight the honest beauty of the materials while offering surprising flexibility. This piece draws inspiration from the regal throne, yet its understated elegance and practicality make it suitable for any space, from compact apartments to modern offices. What we like Sisto’s ability to morph into multiple furniture types makes it exceptionally practical for small spaces or anyone who values adaptability. The clean lines, exposed joints, and natural wood finish give Sisto a timeless charm that seamlessly fits modern and rustic interiors, making it a design-forward choice. What we dislike Due to its lightweight construction and the use of only six panels, some configurations may feel less stable, especially when used as a taller shelf or table. While the exposed fasteners and plywood are part of the design’s charm, they may not appeal to those who prefer upholstered or more refined furniture finishes. 4. Lotte Chair The Lotte Chair by Sarah Hossli exemplifies a human-centered approach, seamlessly blending form and function to address a real need with refined elegance. Developed in partnership with the Neubad multigenerational house in Basel and furniture manufacturer Girsberger, this chair demonstrates how thoughtful innovation can enhance everyday life. The standout feature of the Lotte Chair is its extended armrests, which wrap fully around the seat to form an intuitive handrail system. This allows elderly users to rise from the chair with minimal effort and greater independence. The design is the result of thorough research, including prototype testing with residents in care homes and consultations with medical professionals, ensuring that it meets practical and ergonomic needs. What we like Effectively addresses mobility challenges for elderly users while maintaining a dignified appearance. Incorporates circular economy principles, making it easy to maintain and environmentally responsible. What we dislike The specialized nature of the design may limit its appeal for general use. The complexity of production could contribute to higher manufacturing costs. 5. Biting Edge As pet ownership continues to rise, so does the demand for furniture that caters not only to humans but also to their four-legged friends. Biting Edge, founded by sisters Ivana and Tamara Petruša, has made a name for itself by merging minimalist design with sustainability and pet-friendly functionality. Recognizing that pets are central members of many households, the brand’s pieces are thoughtfully designed to serve both owners and animals. Among Biting Edge’s impressive offerings is “Eat Prey Love,” a dog feeder that incorporates airtight storage for kibble, treats, and accessories, and features adjustable bowls to accommodate pets of various sizes. The “By The Way” modular wall shelf, “Bowls and Flowers” wall-mounted feeder and planter, “Beauty for the Beast” mini house, and “One Bite Stand” solid wood feeder are all crafted from high-quality, non-toxic materials, ensuring safety for pets and peace of mind for owners. What we like The thoughtful ergonomics and adjustable features ensure that pets of different sizes and needs are accommodated, making daily routines more convenient for both pets and owners. The use of non-toxic, high-quality materials underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility and the health of household members. What we dislike While perfect for pet owners, those without animals may find the furniture’s features unnecessary, limiting its versatility for broader audiences. The focus on sustainability and quality materials can lead to higher costs compared to mass-market pet furniture. 6. Loopo System The Loopo Modular Furniture System is a game-changer for anyone who values flexibility and creativity in their living space. Inspired by the mathematical concept of loops—patterns that repeat endlessly with infinite variations—Loopo reimagines furniture as a continuously adaptable system rather than a static object. Each component serves as a building block, allowing users to experiment with arrangements and create custom solutions for their unique needs. From shelving units and storage to seating and display surfaces, Loopo can be reconfigured countless times, offering both function and fun. The system stands out for its adaptability but also for its user-friendly design. Unlike traditional modular furniture that can require specialized tools and technical know-how, Loopo pieces connect intuitively, making assembly and rearrangement accessible to everyone. What we like The modular components can be arranged and rearranged to fit changing needs, making the system ideal for dynamic households, offices, or display spaces. By reducing the need for new materials and allowing for repeated use and reconfiguration, Loopo supports eco-friendly living and responsible consumption. What we dislike The sheer number of possibilities can be overwhelming for some, requiring time and experimentation to find the best configuration for a given space. While highly functional, the system’s focus on modularity means some elements may be less comfortable than traditional, purpose-built furniture, particularly for seating. 7. duk Furniture Furniture design often walks the line between form and function, but the Duk series by Studio TOOJ blurs that boundary with a touch of magic. This collection, developed in partnership with biotech innovator MycoWorks, is named after the Swedish word for “tablecloth” and is visually inspired by the draped softness of fabric, despite being crafted from rigid materials. The secret lies in the use of Reishi—a groundbreaking, leather-like material derived from the root structure of mushrooms—paired with meticulously sculpted wood. The result is furniture that appears to float, with surfaces that ripple and fold like cloth, creating an illusion that captivates and delights. Each piece is finished with the innovative Reishi material, giving it a unique texture and organic feel that sets it apart from conventional furniture. What we like The illusion of flowing fabric combined with the tactile beauty of organic materials makes each piece a conversation starter and a functional piece of art. The use of mushroom-derived Reishi material demonstrates a commitment to sustainable practices and the exploration of new, eco-friendly resources in furniture making. What we dislike While visually stunning, the unique materials used in the Duk series may be more susceptible to wear or damage compared to traditional finishes, requiring careful handling.  The innovative construction and materials might necessitate special care routines, which could be less convenient for users seeking low-maintenance furniture options. 8. Flat Stool The Flat Stool highlights how simplicity and ingenuity can come together in modern furniture design. Instead of relying on screws, hinges, or adhesives, it uses gravity and precise dovetail joints to stay securely assembled. This avoids the use of potentially harmful glues and also makes the assembly process intuitive and environmentally friendly. A key aspect of this stool is its ability to transform from a flat-packed shape into a functional seat without any extra hardware. This is possible thanks to kerf bending, which enables the sides to curve gracefully, resulting in a smooth, cohesive silhouette. The Flat Stool is both easy to transport and aligns with sustainable design principles, making it an appealing choice for eco-conscious consumers. What we like Uses sustainable construction techniques, avoiding screws and adhesives. Simple flat-pack format makes it easy to assemble and move. What we dislike May lack the stability found in stools with traditional metal fittings. Minimalist build may restrict it to lighter or occasional use. 9. Walle The Walle Stool masterfully blends minimalism with practical function, offering a thoughtful solution for those brief pauses throughout the day. Designed for transitional spaces where a quick rest is needed, this metal stool cleverly incorporates storage for two to three books, keeping a short literary escape always within reach. It’s an invitation to slow down, reflect, or recharge—even if just for a few minutes. The stool consists of only four main parts and can be assembled with just four screws. The bottom shelf locks into place using notches in the legs, eliminating the need for extra hardware. This straightforward construction makes assembly quick and easy and also ensures the stool can be packed flat, making it convenient for shipping and storage, perfect for compact living environments. What we like Built-in book storage makes it ideal for spontaneous reading breaks. Straightforward assembly and compact packaging suit small spaces and frequent movers. What we dislike Limited storage may not satisfy those with larger book collections. Minimalist design might not appeal to fans of more decorative furniture. 10. Tila Chair The Tila Chair from Shepherd Studio is an interesting exploration of density and materiality in modern furniture design. With its seat and backrest composed of hundreds of polished spheres, this chair functions not only as seating but also as an eye-catching sculptural centerpiece. Its unconventional form breaks away from traditional seating expectations, making it a great conversation starter and a dramatic addition to any space. Inspired by the classic marble game, Tila, the chair is constructed using 210 stainless steel spheres, all supported by a sleek tubular frame. This playful yet sophisticated approach highlights both the tactile and visual qualities of the materials, creating a dynamic interplay between structure and surface. The Tila Chair blurs the line between functional furniture and contemporary art, elevating the ambiance of modern interiors. What we like The lustrous chrome finish reflects its environment, amplifying the chair’s visual impact. The array of spheres creates captivating patterns of light and shadow, adding depth and intrigue. What we dislike The design’s intricate surface may be difficult to clean, as dust and fingerprints can accumulate between the spheres. The post 10 Best Furniture Designs Of March-April 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

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The acting head of the General Services Administration says it has no DOGE team. It merely lists at least a half-dozen DOGE affiliates on payroll and has a section of its building for DOGE use only.

Macworld For years, the Apple was infamous for offering users little control over their iPhone experience, especially compared to Android phones. Through recent OS updates, Apple addressed common user concerns by unleashing the system, letting you customize its functionality and appearance. Many of these new options, however, are buried deep behind endless menus, and many users aren’t even aware they exist. If you’re running the latest iOS 18 version on your iPhone, you may want to look into these seven settings right away. 1. Turn off Apple Intelligence Apple Intelligence is one of the most contentious iOS 18 additions, partially because of all the negative press it attracted. The first-party AI suite has been rolling out gradually throughout the past months, and some of its core features, like the new more capable Siri, have been delayed indefinitely. If you’re not actively relying on Writing Tools, Genmoji, Image Playground, notification summaries, or its other perks, you may want to turn off Apple’s AI system altogether. This lets you reclaim around 6GB of local storage on your iPhone. Go to Settings > Apple Intelligence & Siri. Turn off the Apple Intelligence toggle on this page and confirm your choice. Keep in mind that future OS updates may re-enable it automatically, so you may have to repeat this process whenever you update your iPhone. Bonus tip: In the Action Button settings, you can program said button to launch your favorite third-party AI chatbot app, such as ChatGPT, as a decent alternative. Foundry 2. Set up Camera Control With the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro models, Apple introduced an all-new Camera Control button. The hardware change aims to make the latest iPhones more appealing to mobile photographers. Thanks to its touch- and pressure-sensitive surface, the button lets users launch their preferred camera app, lock the exposure, control the zoom, pick a Photographic Style, shoot, etc. Though to make the button more efficient, there are some settings you may want to tweak. Launch Settings > Camera > Camera Control. On this page, you may want to pick the Single Click option and turn off the Require Screen On toggle. These changes make capturing fleeting moments easier, as they reduce the number of clicks needed to launch the assigned camera app. You can also choose which camera app the button launches by visiting the Camera section on the same page. Bonus tip: If you have a favorite Photographic Style, you can set it as the default that applies to all of your future shots in the Camera settings. 3. Adjust the Lock Screen Another relatively new iOS feature lets you change the included Lock Screen controls. If you’re unhappy with the Camera and Flashlight buttons, you can pick something else—or nothing at all. Tap and hold on the Lock Screen then tap Customize > Lock Screen. You can then tap on the default toggles to replace or remove them. Bonus tip: iOS 18 also enables you to fully customize the Control Center, so you can similarly add and delete toggles based on your personal needs. To find that, open the Control Center by swiping down down from the top right, then tap the plus (+) symbol in the top left. Foundry 4. Limit spammy Phone interruptions Don’t you just hate it when your iPhone rings, only to realize it’s a spam call from a random number? Fortunately, iOS can silence unknown callers to minimize distractions. Calls still come through and are sent to voicemail; your iPhone will simply not vibrate or make noise. Go to Settings > Apps > Phone > Silence Unknown Callers. Enable the individual Silence Unknown Callers toggle on this page. An “unknown caller” is a number that isn’t in your contacts, your outgoing call list, or your Siri Suggestions (from important Messages or emails for example). So if you are expecting a call from a number you haven’t contacted before (like a plumber or electrician), you may not hear it ring. Bonus tip: You can similarly filter texts from unknown senders by toggling the Filter Unknown Senders option in the Messages app’s settings. Foundry 5. Add a magic touch One of my favorite lesser-known iOS features is the back tap gesture. When enabled, you can tap twice or thrice on your iPhone’s back to execute a task of your choice, such as screenshotting, going to the Home Screen, etc. It also supports custom actions you create in the Shortcuts app, offering endless remapping possibilities. Head to Settings > Accessibility > Touch > Back Tap. On this page, you get to pick the separate actions for the Double Tap and Triple Tap gestures using their respective menus. Bonus tip: You can get rid of the intrusive popup that appears every time you double- or triple-tap the iPhone’s back by turning off the Show Banner toggle in Back Tap settings. 6. Minimize motion sickness Many of us get motion sickness when using our smartphones in moving vehicles. Fortunately, you can reduce its effect by relying on a newly added iPhone feature. The tool works by displaying tiny dots on your screen that mimic the vehicle’s movements, tricking your brain into thinking the environment is fixed. Launch Settings > Accessibility > Motion > Show Vehicle Motion Cues. In this section, you can choose between On, Automatic, and Off. If you set the feature to work automatically, it’ll show the circles whenever your iPhone detects it’s in a moving vehicle. Bonus tip: You can add a dedicated Vehicle Motion Cues toggle to the Control Center to quickly jump between its different options without repeating the process above. 7. Mute the keyboard Sound pollution is very real, and as a responsible adult, you’d want to reduce the unnecessary noise you produce, particularly when in public. A prominent annoyance with the iPhone’s built-in keyboard is the sound it makes with every keystroke. Fortunately, you can effortlessly mute it once and for all. Go to Settings > Sounds & Haptics > Keyboard Feedback. Turn off the Sound toggle on this page. Bonus tip: In the same section, you can enable the Haptic toggle, which provides sensory feedback with every key click. This could elevate the digital typing experience—sans disturbing people around you. Foundry Make your iPhone truly yours The iPhone has long catered to tech newbies with its uncomplicated approach and by thinking on users’ behalf. While recent updates have enriched the system with deeper customizations and more advanced preferences, the default settings continue to get the job done reliably. By taking this route, Apple maintains the iPhone’s user-friendly reputation, while also offering tech enthusiasts the space to get creative with how their devices function and look. So, go ahead and make the needed tweaks to shape the iOS experience in a way that serves your unique everyday workflows.

Apple invests quite a bit of time, money, and effort into its environmental initiatives, but it's hard to see whether or not its efforts are making an impact.Eucalyptus trees | Image credit: ekaterinvor on PixabayThe saying goes, "the road to hell is paved with good intentions." It's very possible to do a lot of harm while attempting to do a lot of good.In 2020, Apple announced "Apple 2030;" a highly ambitious goal of becoming 100% carbon neutral by 2030. While Apple has already been carbon neutral on the global corporate level, the company wants to become carbon neutral across its entire business, manufacturing supply chain, and product life cycle. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

LA Mayor Karen Bass has signed a pair of new executive orders clearing leftover hurdles in the way of an effective post-fire recovery for the Pacific Palisades in Los Angeles.  According to the language of a press announcement, the orders a) establish the plan check Self-Certification program for qualified architects; and b) allow city planning staff to augment their reviews using AI technology. In Bass's own words, "these initiatives will help reduce timelines and further streamline the rebuilding process to keep our recovery effort on track to be the fastest in modern California history." They follow an earlier order from January that touched on a number of rebuilding solutions while defining "Eligible Projects." Currently, just 23 rebuilding permits have been issued in the Palisades. 

Street Fighter 6 is set to add the fourth and final DLC character of its Year 2 pass in the form of Elena a little over a month from now, ahead of which Capcom is continuing to show off new gameplay footage for the character.  The capoeira expert, who was first introduced to the franchise with Street Fighter 3: New Generation, will bring “a herd of fluid moves,” as Capcom puts it. That is on full display in the newly released gameplay trailer, which showcases Elena in action against multiple other characters. Check out the gameplay trailer below.  Street Fighter 6 is available on PS5, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, and PC, and launches for the Nintendo Switch 2 as a launch title on June 5. Elena will join the game’s roster on the same day, though depending on your time zone, she could become available late on June 4.