This OLO Table is by industrial designer Joe Doucet. The material, seen up close, is quite unusual: It's made out of 100% Polygood Oyster material, which manufacturer The Good Plastic Company creates from polystyrene harvested from discarded keyboards, computer mice and refrigerators. The material can be thermoformed, as seen with the table, and in turn is also recyclable. OLO's fluid geometry reflects the closed-loop design philosophy behind the collaboration. Designed to highlight Polygood®'s unique thermoformable qualities—a rarity among recycledsheet materials—the piece features sweeping semi-circular legs and a seamless, monolithic top. Executed with precision CNC joinery and a refined silhouette,OLO bridges sustainability and iconic form in a way that feels both timely and timeless. "This project is about more than material reuse," says Joe Doucet. "It's about proving that sustainability and high design are not mutually exclusive. In fact, they're essential to one another." The OLO Table is a one-off, with no production plans announced.

If you want to feel old (well, if you’re Gen X and older), then try to ask people in a room how many have actually seen or used a typewriter. I’ve been in spaces where they think of those “devices” as ancient relics and have never seen an actual one except in pictures or old videos. There are still places in the Internet where you can actually purchase one, and I don’t mean those electric ones whose keys don’t make the clickety clacky sound. While old typewriters are very rare now, what if you found one that’s even more rare? A remarkable discovery in a New York basement has brought to light a piece of technological history: the MingKwai Chinese typewriter. This unique machine, invented in 1947 by the esteemed writer and linguist Lin Yutang, boasts the capability of producing over 80,000 Chinese characters. The story began in January 2025 when Jennifer Felix and her husband Nelson were sorting through items in Jennifer’s grandfather’s basement. Among the forgotten relics, they stumbled upon an unusual typewriter with a keyboard filled with Chinese characters. Intrigued, Nelson posted photos in a Facebook group dedicated to typewriter enthusiasts, “What’s My Typewriter Worth?”. Designer: Lin Yutang Nelson’s post sparked interest, with members quickly identifying the machine as a MingKwai Chinese typewriter. Lin Yutang, its inventor, aimed to simplify the complex task of typing in Chinese, which traditionally required enormous keyboards with thousands of individual characters. The MingKwai system ingeniously organized characters by a phonetic system, making it significantly more user-friendly. Despite its innovative design, the MingKwai typewriter had a limited production run and remained relatively obscure, especially in the United States. Finding one after more than half a century is a rare occurrence, making this discovery all the more significant for historians and collectors alike. The weight of the machine, which Nelson noted as “a ton,” hints at the intricate mechanics involved in handling such a vast character set. What Lin Yutang did was create a keyboard that had 72 options that you could combine to create the character you wanted. You needed to press one of the 36 top character component keys and one of the 28 bottom component keys at the same time and the machine would find up to 8 corresponding characters. Users can then see the options through a special viewing window called the “magic eye” and select the one they want to use by pushing the respective numerical key. Sounds like a lot of work by today’s standards but at that time, it was probably considered an innovative way of typing Chinese characters out. The rediscovery of the MingKwai offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of Chinese language processing and the ingenious attempts to bridge the gap between the complexity of the written language and the practicality of mechanical typing. While the age of typewriters has largely passed, the MingKwai stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of its inventor and the enduring quest to make communication more accessible. They’re planning to use this for research, academic programs, and exhibits. The post Obscure Chinese character typewriter rediscovered first appeared on Yanko Design.

But will it make a difference?

Reorganizations at the EPA may get rid of the agency’s fundamental program for research around the risks of toxic chemicals.

As the president heads to the Middle East, America’s dominance over A.I. chips has become a powerful source of leverage for the president.

Macworld According to Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman, 2027 will be a big year for Apple, with a couple of dramatic new iPhone designs, smart glasses, AI servers and Apple Intelligence developments, camera-equipped wearables, and a tabletop robot. But it’s the year after that when we may finally see a product a lot of Apple customers have been asking for. Gurman reported that Apple is working on a “product that will cross a foldable iPad with a touch-screen Mac” that could be revealed in 2028. That’s the only thing Gurman says about the product, but based on past reports, we can piece together what this device is so far. The major hurdle to a touchscreen Mac is the macOS user interface, which is not designed with touch targets in mind. However, it’s been reported that at WWDC this June, Apple will introduce major interface changes in macOS 16. These changes will reportedly take cues from visionOS, which will likely make the UI less cursor-centric. It’s also rumored that iPadOS 19 will become more Mac-like with multitasking and window management. So if this 2028 device is to be a hybrid Mac-iPad, WWDC will be where it all starts. As for the hardware itself, Gurman reported over two years ago that Apple was preparing a touchscreen Mac to be released in 2025. Since Gurman’s latest report is short of details, it’s not known if that 2023 project is the same one Gurman now projects for a 2028 release. And just over a year ago, Apple was granted a patent for a device that describes a Magic Keyboard-like tablet accessory, but within the patent were illustrations of a tablet with a macOS-like interface. There have also been numerous rumors about a folding iPad. So it’s clear that Apple has been working on this project for a while, and based on Gurman’s description here and past developments, it could be a while longer before it arrives. However, Apple also has big plans for the MacBook in 2026, which include a display upgrade to OLED, a 2nm M6 chip, and a thinner design.

Microsoft and OpenAI are renegotiating their multibillion-dollar partnership deal to better align with each company’s evolving goals in the artificial intelligence race, the Financial Times reported. The talks center on a critical balancing act. OpenAI wants to set the stage for a potential IPO by restructuring into a more traditional for-profit entity. Microsoft aims to secure long-term access to OpenAI’s technology beyond their current contract’s 2030 expiration date. “A critical issue in the deliberations is how much equity in the restructured group Microsoft will receive in exchange for the more than $13 billion it has invested in OpenAI to date,” according to the FT report. The companies are at a crossroads. What started as a straightforward funding relationship in 2019 has grown more complex as OpenAI’s ambitions have expanded. “Microsoft’s interests go beyond equity — it’s about return on investment, sustained AI infrastructure growth, and maintaining Copilot’s edge by anchoring it on OpenAI models,” said Neil Shah, VP for research and partner at Counterpoint Research. “Microsoft would like to continue having a big slice of it, being one of the key initial supporters and investors.” What’s in it for Microsoft? Microsoft is reportedly willing to give up some equity in OpenAI’s restructured business. In exchange, it wants guaranteed access to OpenAI’s future AI models – even those developed after their current contract ends in 2030. “If Microsoft trades equity for extended model access, it’s signaling a pragmatic pivot from ownership to operational leverage,” said Abhivyakti Sengar, practice director at Everest Group. “This would give Microsoft continued dominance across enterprise applications without the burden of influencing OpenAI’s increasingly complex governance structure, especially if OpenAI transitions to a Public Benefit Corporation.” The Redmond-based tech giant has already integrated OpenAI’s technology across its product lineup, from Bing search to Office applications. This integration strategy has helped Microsoft position itself as an AI leader despite arriving relatively late to the generative AI boom. “This renegotiated partnership will further help Microsoft enhance Azure’s AI capabilities by prioritizing technological access over equity, providing financial flexibility for OpenAI to expand its enterprise solutions and scale operations,” said Charlie Dai, VP and principal analyst at Forrester. “Microsoft’s rumored willingness to reduce its OpenAI equity in favor of longer-term tech access signals a shift from financial patronage to platform pragmatism,” noted Sanchit Gogia, chief analyst at Greyhound Research. “We see this as Microsoft doubling down on AI enablement over AI ownership — a move that could widen its appeal while containing regulatory risk.” OpenAI’s transformation and growing independence OpenAI’s journey from non-profit research lab to potential public company highlights the enormous capital requirements of cutting-edge AI development. The ChatGPT-maker recently reaffirmed nonprofit control – a structure that would allow it to pursue both social good and profits. This structure would make a future IPO possible while maintaining some connection to its original mission. “For Microsoft, stepping back from equity while securing longer-term access could reduce risk exposure while preserving its core advantage: exclusive commercialization rights embedded in its enterprise stack,” Sengar said. Simultaneously, OpenAI has been building independence from Microsoft. The company has pursued enterprise customers directly – potentially competing with Microsoft – while developing its own computing infrastructure called “Stargate” with partners such as SoftBank and Oracle. “Considering the rapidly evolving AI landscape with what DeepSeek has shown, it would be prudent also for Microsoft to diversify and hedge its bets beyond OpenAI to boost Copilot capabilities with multiple models and give its enterprise customers more choice,” Shah pointed out. Mission versus money At its core, OpenAI’s transformation illustrates the fundamental tension between its original mission to develop “AGI that benefits humanity” and the commercial realities of current AI development. “The implication for PBC structure stems from what is OpenAI’s future vision on how it wants to position the company and make greater strides in AGI, which requires greater focus on ethics, fairness, safety, accessibility, and governance,” Shah added. Forrester’s Dai said OpenAI’s potential transition to a nonprofit corporation could prioritize accountability and transparency for ethical AI development over pure profit, driving the AI industry to rebalance innovation with societal safeguards in AI’s rapid evolution. “Investor patience and AGI’s uncertain timeline will be the key challenge to balance mission alignment with capital needs, while the reliance on enterprise revenue and ethical governance will determine long-term viability,” he added. Regulatory hurdles add another layer of complexity. Delaware’s attorney-general, Kathy Jennings, according to the report, announced plans to review whether OpenAI’s new structure ensures “the non-profit entity retains appropriate control over the for-profit entity.” What’s next? Despite the tensions, both companies recognize their mutual dependence. Industry observers believe the outcome will have far-reaching implications. “That transition, if successful, may establish a new hybrid model for the AI sector, where mission alignment coexists with commercial scale,” Sengar added. “But the real test will be whether OpenAI can maintain investor trust while pursuing long-horizon goals like AGI, which have uncertain timelines and ethical landmines.” “Investor patience and AGI’s uncertain timeline will be the key challenge to balance mission alignment with capital needs, while the reliance on enterprise revenue and ethical governance will determine long-term viability,” Dai said.

Apple is getting ahead of the back-to-school rush with a trio of creepy, college-themed ads aimed at students — just in time for graduation season.Image Credit: AppleIt's May, which means graduation parties are on the horizon and college prep is in full swing. As anticipated, Apple is pitching to students and parents by showcasing how Macs can ease the academic grind with a new "Mac to School" ad campaign.All three ads put students in "spooky" situations, such as transferring large files between computers, not being near your phone, and needing to snag key points from nigh-unmanageable notes. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work by uploading projects to Architizer and sign up for our inspirational newsletters. As global concerns about water scarcity and climate resilience intensify, the need for sustainable living practices has become more urgent than ever. Today, from residential buildings to museums, circular water systems are emerging as an important innovation, offering a blueprint for more responsible resource management. These systems prioritize reuse, recycling and conservation of water, transforming how buildings interact with their surroundings. Instead of depending only on external water supplies, circular strategies harness rainwater, treat greywater and integrate natural filtration methods to create closed-loop systems that drastically reduce consumption and waste. Beyond environmental benefits, circular water practices also enhance community resilience, providing greater independence in the face of growing climate instability. Architects and designers worldwide are increasingly incorporating these solutions into residential projects. From rainwater harvesting and advanced filtration to water-sensitive landscaping and integrated green infrastructure, today’s sustainable homes are setting new standards for how we live with water. Upper House By KOICHI TAKADA ARCHITECTS, South Brisbane, Australia Popular Choice Winner, Residential, Multi-Housing Unit, 12th Annual A+Awards Designed by Koichi Takada and his team, the Upper House in South Brisbane, Australia, features a multi-residential design including 188 apartments spread across 33 stories. Its striking architecture draws influence from the indigenous Moreton Bay Fig tree, signaling a transformative shift in multi-residential design. This development blends a connection to nature with high-quality design, resident wellbeing and environmental sustainability. Energy-efficient systems, alongside using recycled and renewable materials, minimize ecological impacts while enhancing positive environmental effects. Furthermore, the building has been designed to cut water usage by 20%, and Upper House pledges to use 100% renewable energy for its electricity needs. The facility includes 194 bicycle spaces for residents and 48 for visitors and electric vehicle charging ports for 60 parking spots. Dove By AGATHOM, Toronto, Canada Popular Choice Winner, Private House (M 2000 – 4000 sq ft), 12th Annual A+Awards Dove contains a series of interconnected pavilions, each space is independently linked by various paths. Constructed using a combination of wood and concrete, the building is designed for optimal performance: it utilizes ground-source heating and cooling, produces electrical power through a large solar photovoltaic array, and sources water from an on-site well. The thermal design of the building envelope has been meticulously crafted to exceed the standards established by the building code. Loma Sagrada House By Salagnac Arquitectos, Nosara, Costa Rica Jury Winner, Private House, 12th Annual A+Awards Loma Sagrada House evolved from environmentally damaged land into a regenerative project. Unlike typical harmful constructions, it improved the land and preserved soil integrity with minimal earth movement, promoting quick natural regeneration. The project features eco-friendly structures, with the main building on the southern hillside, protected from strong winds. This eco-friendly approach enhances human health by minimizing electromagnetic radiation and ensuring comfort. Innovations include natural ventilation, solar protection, advanced shielding wiring, flicker-free lighting, water reuse, solar energy systems, safe water purification and a chemical-free pool. Four Houses Pilares By grupoarquitectura, Valle de Bravo, Mexico Four Houses Pilares is a four-house complex featuring its own common amenities. The structure blends with its surroundings, and the houses are metallic, with floors made of beams and wooden panels that were left apparent. The interior floors and terraces are made of a grey stone from India called Caledonia. Additionally, wastewater is recycled and treated, lighting is automated for efficiency, and the windows feature state-of-the-art glass to conserve temperature and insulate against noise. FRAGMENT Karlin By Trigema, Prague, Czechia Fragment collaborates with Trigema development, Qarta architecture studio, and artist David Černý. According to its designers, this construction results from a harmonious blend of architecture, art and residential development. The building offers 140 fully furnished studio apartments. Additionally, Fragment is a contemporary energy-efficient structure utilizing advanced technologies. Its apartments feature geothermal heat pumps for heating and cooling and incorporate green roofs and rainwater retention systems. All apartments feature the Smart Home Loxone system, through which you can control your home through a single panel and app. Lambkill Ridge By Peter Braithwaite Studio, Terence Bay, Canada Designed as a getaway for a family of four, the architecture features two nearly identical volumes mirrored along a long, narrow boardwalk that connects the access road to the winding nature trails beyond. Elevated above the forest floor, the design aims to immerse the user in nature, offering stunning views of the barren lands and ocean from its loft spaces while promoting ecological vitality. The long ascent via the two-tiered stairwell and boardwalk reveals a subtly framed trailhead between the two darkened volumes. Created with a focus on being mostly off-grid, notable characteristics consist of a window engineered to optimize both thermal heat gain and passive ventilation for temperature regulation throughout the entire year, a toilet that burns waste, and a system for collecting and filtering rainwater. Royal II By William Kaven Architecture, Portland, Oregon Royal II is a residential project in Portland, designed with a simple material palette of dark steel, concrete, glass and custom bronze-black cladding that grounds the house within the surrounding treescape. At the same time, an encircling green roof further blurs the distinction between architecture and forest. Royal II’s main level features a large, cantilevered living room with oak floors, kitchen and dining areas with built-in custom cabinetry and the primary bedroom suite, which opens onto a private sun deck. The home’s daylight basement, partially embedded in the steep slope, is flooded with light from the skylight and east-facing windows. Off the den, a large ground-level terrace abuts a filtration planter that forms part of the concrete retaining wall and contributes to the home’s water reuse system. White Rock By Omar Gandhi Architects, Wolfville, Canada The private residential project, designed in 2023, near Gaspereau River Valley stands on Mi’Kmaq territory, rich in significance for the Acadian community that named the river after the gaspereau fish. White Rock serves as an escape. Approaching the cabin, its silhouette appears both imposing and delicately placed atop a rocky ridge with a simple design. The landscape design is raw, preserving a light footprint within the woodland setting. Rainwater is collected and stored for irrigation, while the existing trees offer shade from the intense sun during the brief, warm summer months. Architects: Want to have your project featured? Showcase your work by uploading projects to Architizer and sign up for our inspirational newsletters. The post Closing the Loop: 8 Sustainable Residential Buildings with Circular Water Systems appeared first on Journal.

With DOOM: The Dark Ages and Elden Ring Nightreign out this month, titles like MercurySteam’s Blades of Fire may find themselves uncomfortably sandwiched. However, those who know about the hack-and-slash title and remain skeptical can soon experience a free demo per the developer on BlueSky. “Soon” is the operative word as a release date hasn’t been announced, but it will arrive sometime before the game’s launch on May 22nd. The amount of content also remains unknown, though it should be sizable given the 60 to 80 hours of gameplay in the full release. Blades of Fire is coming to Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC. Set in a fantasy realm where Queen Nerea wreaks havoc with her soldiers, players control Aran, who wields a mystic forge hammer. Crafting his own steel weapons, he battles the queen’s forces and other monsters like Trolls. While the combat relies on using the right weapon type, parrying, and more, the blacksmithing is equally important, with players tempering a weapon in multiple ways. Head here for more details. You can also check out our feature for everything about Blades of Fire. 🔥 We know what you want and we're making it happen. 🎮 We've forged a demo!⚔️ Coming soon to Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, ahead of our official launch on May 22nd. #ForgeYourLegend #BladesofFire— Blades of Fire (@bladesoffire.bsky.social) 2025-05-12T15:10:19.448Z