Australian architect Mark Jeavons worked with interior design practice Ohlo Studio to restore Tomich House, a heritage-listed 1970s house in City Beach, Perth.Originally designed by brutalist Bulgarian architect Iwan Iwanoff in 1971, the home features a landscaped garden and sculptural curved walls built from white-painted concrete blocks.Tomich House had recently been acquired by new owners, who tasked Jeavons and Ohlo Studio with returning it to its original state as far as possible following a series of extensions and changes made since its completion.Mark Jeavons and Ohlo Studio have restored Tomich House in Perth"Over the years, the house underwent several additions and alterations, including a significant three-level extension in 1986 that deviated from Iwanoff's original vision," Jeavons told Dezeen."Our design approach focused on carefully replanning the awkward, organic floor plan to create clear visual connections through the house and reconnect it to the surrounding landscape," he added.The ground floor of Tomich House has been opened up to provide a better relationship between the living and dining area and the outdoors, with two large granite columns removed to create a visual link from the front door to the back garden.It features walls built from white-painted concrete blocksOn the first floor, two previously compartmentalised bedrooms at the centre of the plan have been converted into a skylit study and landing, connecting to the bedrooms around the perimeter and a separate studio apartment to the west."One of the opportunities we embraced was opening the house up to its natural environment by reestablishing or creating new visual and physical connections to the rear garden and outdoor spaces, which had been lost due to previous renovations," said Jeavons.Two large granite columns were removed to open up the ground floor"The house was designed with a strong sense of geometry, with arced walls radiating out from the core, creating a unique floor plan," Jeavons added."One of the key changes made was reworking the layout to restore this original flow, while also making the house more functional for modern living," he added.Read: LLDS Architects tops self-designed home in Melbourne with curved plywood roofBespoke desks and cabinets were created to make some of the more awkward areas of Iwanoff's "organic" floor plan more usable.To the east, the home's spiral staircase has been updated with plate steel, while bathrooms housed within a circular area to the west have been refurbished with small Japanese tile work on the walls and floors.Ohlo Studio led the interior designOhlo Studio led on the interior design for the refurbishment, which rather than being a "faithful restoration" looked to offer a modern take on the materials and finishes that would have featured in the original home.The white-painted blockwork and piers have been exposed throughout, complemented by dark wood in the living areas and open metal balustrades.The interior is intended as a modern take on the original design"Because so much had been changed from the original design over the years, I visited a number of houses that had been built in the same period to get a sense of what might have been," said Ohlo Studio founder Jen Lowe."The aim was never to undertake a complete and faithful restoration but we did recognise that there should be a link between now and then across scale, material sensibility, detail and the poetry of light in his buildings," she added.Dark wood is used throughoutOther recent home renovations in Australia include Gardener's House, a suburban residence in Melbourne overhauled by Splinter Society to maximise its connection to the garden and Zuzana & Nicholas's conversion of a Brisbane cottage into its own home and studio.The photography is byJack Lovel.The post Mark Jeavons and Ohlo Studio restore 1970s home in Australia appeared first on Dezeen.

Wood is the dominant material throughout Karaka Tower, a vertical house extension in Wellington, New Zealand, designed by local studio Arete Architects to evoke a treehouse.Located on a densely vegetated and sloped site, the tower-like structure comprises an art studio and bedroom, which connects to the main house via a polycarbonate corridor.Arete Architects has created a towering house extension in New ZealandKaraka Tower sits on the nine-square-metre platform of an old shed that had fallen into disrepair.Its towering form was dictated by this small footprint and the owner's spatial needs, which required Arete Architects to develop a stacked arrangement for the extension.The extension is intended to evoke a "childhood treehouse""The biggest driver for our design solution was the site," studio founder Sam Brown told Dezeen."The house is perched on a heavily vegetated 45-degree slope so bare, flat land was hard to come by. There was a small patio space with the client's existing dilapidated art studio sitting on the hill above that we earmarked for demolition and then used that bare land for development."Its compact footprint was determined by an old shedAccording to Brown, the standalone tower design also evolved from feasibility studies that uncovered an extension directly to the main house, a small structure from the 1970s, was not structurally possible."Early in the project we undertook feasibility studies, to look at additional floors on top of the existing home, or a small extension out the front of the ground floor, however these studies uncovered the inappropriateness of the existing home to support additional structure, especially given Wellington's earthquake-prone nature," said Brown.It connects to the main 1970s house by a polycarbonate corridorOutside, Karaka Tower is defined by its stringybark eucalyptus cladding, chosen for its hardwearing properties. It has been left untreated to encourage it to grey over time and blend in with the surrounding tree trunks.The tower is connected to the house by a compact corridor built with a combination of cypress wood and polycarbonate, designed to evoke the feeling of a treehouse built from "found materials".The structure was prefabricated from cypress woodThe main structure is also made from cypress wood in the form of prefabricated modules, which were craned into the site by helicopter.Modular construction was required due to the site being steep, accessible only by foot and heavily vegetated. It also ensured a quick construction time and minimal disruption to the plot, which shares its access point with 12 other homes.The wooden structure is left exposed inside"The decision to prepare the site and the helicopter to lift all the models into place in one day meant that the impact on the neighbours and the surrounding context was minimal," said Brown."The helicopter lift concept was ultimately a huge success with the site going from a prepared foundation to watertight dwelling in around 24 hours."Read: William Samuels creates relocatable home as "radical departure" from standard houseInside, Karaka Tower comprises a ground-level bedroom with a bed on a mezzanine platform.Above is the studio, which is lined with large sliding windows overlooking Te Whanganui-a-Tara, otherwise known as Wellington Harbour.The top floor contains an art studioThe interiors are dominated by pine and cypress, waxed with beeswax sourced on-site and intended to "feel as though they have been carved from within the tree".Though all the fixings are hidden, the cypress framework is left exposed to further the feeling of Karaka Tower being a treehouse crafted by hand.It has views over Wellington Harbour"When you are within the tower you feel like you are in a childhood treehouse, overlooking the land below," said Brown."We wanted to mimic this nostalgic feeling with the exposed framing and warm honest tones as if the tower had been built up in the trees."Pine is teamed with the exposed cypress structureCompleting Karaka Tower is a roof garden, lined with weed matting to facilitate the growth of small plants and designed to be "the only flat piece of ground on the whole site"."In early concept sketches we whimsically showed a horse grazing on the roof which one of the daughters took to mean she was getting a horse for Christmas, lesson learnt!" Brown said.The extension is complete with a roof terraceKaraka Tower is among the projects vying for House renovation of the year in the Dezeen Awards, for which the five-strong shortlist also includes Shadow House by Grotto Studio.Other homes on Dezeen intended to evoke treehouses include a house by Malan Vorster that offers views of the Cape Town forest and the South Yarra House extension in Melbourne by AM Architecture.The photography is by Thomas Seear Budd.The post Towering house extension in New Zealand mimics "childhood treehouse" appeared first on Dezeen.

When it comes to a true flying carI don't mean just a VTOL vehicle, I mean something that can both drive and flywe've seen a lot of wild forms over the years.The AeroMobil 4.0 The Xpeng AeroHT The Alef Model A The LuftCar The GAC GoveNotably, one that actually flew was the KleinVision Aircar, which had folding wings: Another vehicle that successfully flew last year was the Samson Sky Switchblade. However, Samson Sky reckons that in order to make the design production-ready, both the wings and the massive rear stabilizer, which contains the propellers, must be folded into the body for driving mode. So their latest design envisions this arrangement:I hate to be skeptical, but gosh that looks like a lot of moving parts! I wonder what the maintenance will look like.

You remember when people were complaining that their robot vacuum would drive itself off the stairs, or notoriously spread pet fecal matter around the house because the vacuums were just not equipped enough to deal with these scenarios? Or the vacuums being so thick they would just dodge sofas instead of going underneath them? Thats what we in the tech realm refer to as first-generation woes. With newer generations, products get better at solving problems that first-gen versions never anticipated. Roborocks Qrevo Slim aims to usher in this new generation of robot vacuuming with both better design as well as state-of-the-art tech.The Qrevo Slim, as its name suggests, measures just over 8cm or 3 inches tall, allowing it to cruise underneath sofas without worrying about headroom. The slim design is also backed by Roborocks most advanced 3D mapping and navigation system. Dubbed the StarSight Autonomous System, this tech is so good, Roborock claims its better at navigating than the LDS seen on most vacuums today.Designer: Roborock TeamClick Here to Buy Now: $999.99 $1399.99 ($400 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!Ultra-Thin Design: Accessing Every Nook and CrannyAt just 8.2cm or 3.2 inches tall, the Qrevo Slim has the kind of vertical clearance that most robot vacuums wish they had. Slim enough to easily slip under beds, couches, and other low-clearance furniture, the robot vacuum covers more ground than your traditional vac, reaching tight spots that often go ignored.Notably, the Qrevo Slims upper profile is super-slick, eschewing that bump youll find on most robot vacuums where most of the LiDAR and imaging tech is located. This slim upper surface means the vacuum has lesser problems packing into tighter spaces to clean everything from pet hair, food crumbs, dust, or any dirt that could be languishing under your furniture for months.StarSight Autonomous System: The Star of the ShowRoborocks StarSight Autonomous System is perhaps its most significant achievement, using not one but 2 LiDAR sensors to power its navigation and obstacle-avoidance capabilities. This advanced system leverages two 3D Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensors to capture more than 1 million 3D points per second. Unlike traditional Laser Distance Sensors (LDS) seen on most current vacuum cleaners, which measure only 2D linear distances (like how close or far objects are), StarSights 3D mapping senses depth and height, giving the vacuum full automotive-grade spatial awareness.With a whopping 38,400 Hz sampling rate and 21,600 sensor points, StarSight processes information at 21 times the speed of LDS. This faster, more detailed mapping allows the Qrevo Slim to detect as many as 73 types of obstacles, from toys to cables, adapting instantly without doing that awkward bump and turn that other vacuum cleaners do. This means the vacuum has a better sense of its surroundings (even when people are walking around) so it cleverly avoids obstacles instead of waiting till the last minute to bump into them.Qrevo Slim: Better Navigation than Some Autonomous CarsThe Roborock Qrevo Slims navigation features rival those of some autonomous cars, adapting smartly to varied home environments. Its SmartPlan creates detailed 3D maps, allowing it to navigate room layouts precisely, minimizing time and maximizing coverage. With DirTect, the Qrevo Slim automatically detects and boosts suction in high-traffic, dirt-prone areas, delivering targeted cleaning where its needed mostlike entryways or kitchens where dirt tends to collect.For pet lovers, robot vacuum can be used as a pet monitor too. The Pet Snaps feature can be toggled to have the Qrevo Slim go check in on your pet around the house. Once it locates the pet, you can capture snapshots of your furry friend. This feature kicks in during the Qrevo Slims cleaning cycle, although it only works with one pet at a given time.Powerful 11,000 Pa Max Suction: A Cleaning PowerhouseThe Roborock Qrevo Slim offers an impressive 11,000 Pa of suction power, making it one of the most powerful robot vacuums on the market. This high suction strength effortlessly picks up fine dust, pet hair, and larger debris, ensuring a deep clean across all floor types. Whether tackling everyday messes or stubborn dirt, this level of suction provides the thorough cleaning performance needed for busy households.Supporting this power, the Qrevo Slim is equipped with floor and carpet detection along with the Carpet Boost+ system. When moving onto carpets, it automatically increases suction for a deeper clean, lifting dust and dirt embedded in carpet fibers. This intelligent adjustment means each surface gets the right level of attention, maintaining efficiency on hard floors while delivering extra power where its most needed.DuoRoller Riser Brush and Dual Spinning Mops: Clean and AdaptThe DuoRoller Riser Brush is designed with counter-rotating, all-rubber brushes that capture everything from pet hair to fine dust without tangling. These dual brushes work together to lift debris effectively, providing full coverage across both hard floors and carpets. When transitioning between surfaces, the brushes auto-lift, ensuring optimal performance without scratching or over-brushing on sensitive flooring.Complementing the brush system, the Qrevo Slims dual spinning mops offer thorough mopping action for hard floors. These mops apply steady, even pressure for a polished finish, removing sticky messes and light stains in one pass. Like the DuoRoller, the mops lift automatically when the vacuum moves onto carpets, keeping the damp mop surface from ever wetting your carpet.FlexiArm Side Brush and Mop: Clean in Every CornerThe FlexiArm side brush and mop system is the Qrevo Slims answer to ensuring that dust gets swept from corners not pushed into them. The FlexiArm brushes reach along the edges and around furniture legs, directing dirt toward the main suction. The mops, meanwhile, apply steady pressure for a polished finish for comprehensive coverage.This focus on edge-to-edge cleaning eliminates the need for touch-ups in hard-to-reach areas, enhancing the vacuums efficiency and reducing your manual cleaning time. No more wiping down corners after your vacuum conveniently leaves a trail of dust along the edge of each floor.Multifunctional Dock 3.0: Your All-in-One Cleaning HubWhen the Qrevo Slim needs to recharge or self-clean, it makes its way to its Multifunctional Dock. This advanced docking station is equipped with 8-in-1 maintenance functions that automate essential cleaning tasks. With features like hot water mop washing, warm air drying, auto dust emptying, and tank refilling, the dock keeps the vacuum ready for action while minimizing manual upkeep. The automated mop washing and drying system, in particular, ensures that the mops remain sanitary and effective for every cleaning session, removing residue buildup that can impact performance.The docks intelligent dirt detection feature can sense when dust and debris accumulate, automatically emptying the vacuum to keep suction at its peak. Whether for daily cleaning or extensive deep cleans, the Multifunctional Dock 3.0 provides a seamless, self-maintaining system that truly supports a set it and forget it lifestyle.Intuitive Control Through the Roborock App and Built-in Voice AssistantRoborock makes controlling the Qrevo Slim a breeze with its user-friendly app and built-in voice assistant. The Roborock app allows users to customize cleaning schedules, set no-go zones, and adjust suction powerall from the convenience of their smartphone. With real-time updates, you can monitor the vacuums progress, check battery levels, or even pause and resume cleaning on the go. The apps video monitoring feature also lets pet owners keep an eye on furry friends while the Qrevo Slim cleans, snapping photos or videos during its rounds.For hands-free convenience, the Qrevo Slim integrates with voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri, enabling commands like Start cleaning, Return to dock, or Clean the living room. These voice commands make it easy to control the vacuum without lifting a finger. Whether youre adjusting settings through the app or issuing quick voice commands, Roborocks intuitive interface ensures you have full control of your cleaning routine with minimal effort.Our Verdict: The Perfect Next-Gen Robot Vacuum with Zero FlawsRoborocks Qrevo Slim redefines what a robot vacuum can accomplish. With industry-first StarSight advanced navigation technology, 11,000 Pa suction, and an ultra-slim build, it combines intelligence with impressive power to reach even the most challenging spots in your home. Its a cleaning companion that makes cleanliness simple, stylish, and secure.Ultimately, your smart home appliances should be smart enough that they NEVER need monitoring. The Qrevo Slim proves that by being advanced enough to map and navigate your home better than some self-driving cars, while automatically fine-tuning its cleaning based on floors, rugs, and corners. The Multifunctional Dock 3.0 means the robot vacuum will even automatically charge and clean itself, leaving only one task for you admiring your spotless floors, along with the occasional pet photo the Qrevo Slim clicks for you!Click Here to Buy Now: $999.99 $1399.99 ($400 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!The post Roborock Qrevo Slim: The Ultra-Thin Vacuum with Automotive-Grade Navigation Tech first appeared on Yanko Design.

Small pocket-sized flashlights are a dime a dozen these days, especially in the era of EDCs or Everyday Carry bags. Many of these come in rugged designs with bright LED functionality, and most of them utilize rechargeable batteries for convenience. Of course, that implies having some sort of charger always at hand, which requires carrying yet another separate device in your kit.This EDC tool, however, takes a cue from the now ubiquitous wireless earbuds design, providing a carrying case for the LED flashlight that also serves as its charger. Even better, you can actually use the flashlight while its still in its case, removing the need to fiddle with two separate devices when youre in a hurry.Designer: OlightOn its own, the Olight Baton 4 LED flashlight looks pretty ordinary. It has a small cylindrical body typical of tiny flashlights, though it boasts a brightness of 1,300 lumens and a throw distance of 170 meters. It has small LED indicators for its brightness level and remaining battery charge, but thats pretty much it for the flashlight itself.The real killer feature of the Baton 4 Premium Edition, however, is its 5,000 mAh charging case. It has a flip-top design that makes it easy to open and close with one hand. You can easily slip in any compatible Olight flashlight for charging, but theres a special function when used with the Baton 4 or Baton 3 flashlights. You can simply flip open the cover and press the side button to turn on the flashlight while its still in the case, so you dont have to lose time pulling it out and putting it back in again.The case itself has dual charging functionality. It can charge the flashlight inside or charge a phone like a power bank. This means you dont really need to carry a separate charger for the flashlight and your phone, as the case can do both. It might sound like a small convenience, but for people who always find themselves outdoors in the dark, intentionally or otherwise, it can be a critical space-saving feature that helps make room for more things inside their EDC bags.The post EDC flashlight and charging case makes sure you wont be in the dark for long first appeared on Yanko Design.

Everything old is new again is an adage that we will probably never escape. How we listen to music continually evolves but it seems that we still have a certain fondness for the old way like vinyls, CDs, and yes, even cassette tapes. Streaming music on our mobile devices is the most convenient but theres a certain nostalgia attached to vintage that we enjoy. And of course, the music quality is way different to the compressed ones we have now. Designer Name: Love HultenThis designer is obviously of the generation that still enjoyed listening to music on cassette tapes since the main component of this device is his old Sony Walkman WM-EX655. And he still has a collection of cassette tapes so we know hes a serious collector. What he developed is something straight out of a 60s science fiction movie. But instead of using it to conduct experiments, you use it as it was originally intended: to play sweet, sweet music. What he came up with is a cassette player and storage unit for the colorful cassette tape cases. Theres also built-in dual circular speakers, keyboard switches and buttons with various functions like play, stop, forward, rewind, etc. Theres also an audio waveform meter to go along with the beat of the music and even a tape slot to put in the case of the album youre currently playing. The cabinet looking device blends design and technology to give you a truly retro piece of equipment that still performs its original function. Its of course a device that he made for himself since he has been collecting and keeping cassette tapes. But unlike vinyls and CDs that you can still buy from a lot of places, I dont know that many stores that still sell cassettes. So the possibility of having a commercial version of this is very slim. The post Old walkman becomes cassette player and storage unit first appeared on Yanko Design.

When organizing and setting up your home, smart home appliances are essential. If youre a tech-savvy homeowner seeking convenience, efficiency, and a touch of modern elegance in your home, then you need to collect a few worthy smart appliances. From intelligent control panels to portable smart assistants, we have curated a collection of nifty devices that will seamlessly integrate with your home, while providing advanced functionalities.These smart home appliances represent the pinnacle of modern technology, offering tech-savvy homeowners an array of options to enhance their living spaces. Whether youre seeking elegant design, intuitive control, or comprehensive management, these devices provide innovative solutions to meet your needs. Pick the one that perfectly caters to your techy requirements!1. The FrameSay hello to the Frame a sophisticated smart device that merges cutting-edge tech with a stunning design. The appliance measures 13.3 inches, and it functions as a full-screen touch system, serving as the central hub for all your IoT devices. The smart device is wrapped in Kvadrat fabric and features a lovely color palette.The Frame is more than just a functional and nifty smart appliance, it also serves as a statement piece that elevates the aesthetic and appeal of any living space. It seamlessly merges with your home, and your decor style, ensuring it doesnt stand out like a boxy eye-sore.Why is it noteworthy?What makes the Frame Wall Pad unique is that it seamlessly merges with any sophisticated living space. It provides a level of control and convenience that redefines home automation. With one single touch, users can manage and control their entire homes IoT equipment, including the security systems and front door panels.The Frame is a wonderful combination of functionality and elegant design, making it a great purchase for homeowners and tech lovers who value both style and technology. The minimal but luxurious color palette and attention to detail set the device apart.What we likeThe Kvadrat fabric and color palette add a touch of sophisticationAllows you to manage all IoT devices from a single interface.What we dislikeWe are unsure of the fabric options being provided.It will require some professional installation for optimal integration.2. Anona Aurora Security CameraThe Anona Aurora Security System was created with a clear focus on utility and independence. It delivers 4K resolution, a long-lasting battery, always-on recording, and smart AI detection. These handy features make it a true security asset for your home. It is an excellent option for those who are fed up with subscription fees and complicated installations. Most cameras on the market max out at 1080p, but the Anona Aurora provides an impressive 4K HDR resolution, providing a clear and clean view of your surroundings.It delivers eight megapixels, ensuring you capture significant details like license plates and distant movements with up to 8x zoom. It also works wonderfully in low-light conditions with color night vision. It uses a starlight sensor, an F1.2 aperture, and a 10-LED spotlight to ensure the color and detail remain intact even in the dark.You could also pair up the Anona Aurora Security Camera with the Anona Holo Smart Lock which is designed to merge with your existing door setup and provides multiple access methods, including fingerprint recognition, smartphone control, and even voice activation via Google Assistant or Alexa.Click Here for Black Friday Sale: Aurora Security Camera| Holo Smart Lock.Use coupon code ydesignanona at checkout. Hurry, exclusive early Black Friday Deal ends soon!Why is it noteworthy?It is equipped with a worthy 10,000mAh battery, which can deliver up to 180 days of power on a single charge. This makes it a better choice than the popular Google Nest Cam which lasts an average of 1.5 to 3 months. The Anona Aurora can be paired up with Anonas 4.8W solar panel, allowing it to function as a self-sustaining security unitThe solar panel will harness renewable energy, hence reducing the cameras dependency on power outlets, and making it a viable option for those looking for low-maintenance, long-term installation options. It is also equipped with on-device AI, which can easily distinguish between people, pets, cars, and packages without any kind of monthly subscription fees or cloud dependency!What we likeEquipped with a two-way audio, a 10 LED spotlight, and a siren.Pocket-friendly price tag.What we dislike:If the security system does not integrate with the existing smart home ecosystems, it could be an issue for some users.3. Zoey Smart Home AssistantSay hello to the Zoey Smart Home Assistant a revolutionary device that is redefining the concept of home automation. This device merges functionality with portability and aesthetic appeal. It provides the flexibility of wireless use and adapts to your dynamic and fluid lifestyle. It features a sleek and minimalist form built with premium materials.The assistant will seamlessly merge with your home decor, feeling like a natural component of your home. It focuses on user interaction and engagement, ensuring it becomes a part of your everyday life. Zoey can detach from its dock, converting it into a portable assistant that can be carried around in the home.Why is it noteworthy?Zoeys portability helps it stand out in a crowded market of smart home assistants. The assistant can move with its users, instead of being tied to a single location. Zoey is also equipped with a bunch of cool features such as advanced voice recognition capabilities, enabling effortless interaction through simple voice commands.This feature allows you to control Zoey in an intuitive and user-friendly manner, making it easy even for not-so-tech-savvy individuals. Zoey can connect with different smart home systems, allowing it to control lighting, temperature, and security settings, providing comprehensive home management at your fingertips.What we likeDelivers rich sound quality for an immersive listening experience.Easy to interact with via voice commands.What we dislikeIt has limited surface compatibility and only sticks to metal surfaces.4. Nothing Robot Vacuum (1)Dubbed the Nothing Robot Vacuum (1), this conceptual smart cleaning device is a far cry from the traditional robot vacuums on the market. It features a unique design and innovative features. The vacuum is inspired by the design language of Nothings tech products, and it features a transparent D-shaped outer shell, offering a visually appealing appearance.The transparent nature of the design offers it a futuristic, and preserved in glass aesthetic, which makes it a real conversation starter for your home. It also features a Glyph Interface, which provides real-time feedback on the cleaning process. This interface functions as a visual progress bar, allowing you to track how much cleaning is left.Why is it noteworthy?The Glyph Interface adds a layer of interactivity that improves the users control over the cleaning process. This offers real-time updates, cutting out the guesswork often required with automated cleaning devices. This feature is great for homeowners who value transparency and efficiency in their smart home devices.The Nothing Robot Vacuum (1) offers the perfect approach to design and functionality. It serves as a statement of modernity and technological advancement. It is a great option for tech enthusiasts who want home appliances that push the boundaries of traditional and typical design.What we likeTransparent shell and LED indicators for a futuristic look.Glyph Interface offers real-time updates.What we dislikeSince it is a concept, we are unsure how well it will translate into a real product.5. Flic TwistDubbed the Flic Twist, this innovative smart home controller provides a tactile and intuitive way to manage all your smart home devices. It is a wireless dial, created for simplicity and versatility, allowing users to control lights, music, blinds, and more without having to use smartphone apps or voice commands.The Flic Twist features a minimalist design, making it a functional tool and elegant addition to your home. The Flic Twist is made up of four distinct actions push, double push, twist, and push & twisteach of which can be customized to perform different functions.Why is it noteworthy?The Flic Twist prioritizes tactile interaction, providing a refreshing alternative to voice and app-based controls that are currently dominating the smart home market. It provides users with a more hands-on method of managing their devices, offering a sense of physical engagement, which isnt available in digital interfaces.The device also allows users to set up custom actions that merge well with their daily routines. This makes the Flic Twist a flexible device that can handle a wide range of applications ranging from adjusting lighting and music to controlling blinds and other smart home devices. It features a user-friendly design that can be used by different family members.What we likeEasy to use with four customizable actions.Manage various smart home devices with a single dial.What we dislikeIt may not support all home devices.6. NEEODubbed the NEEO Smart Home Automation System, this innovative solution will simplify how you manage your smart home devices. It includes two components the brain and the remote. It provides a seamless way to control all your devices from one single place. This system is designed for user convenience, offering an intuitive interface that recognizes users, and provides personalized control options.NEEO focuses on easy usage and integration, allowing users of all tech proficiency levels to handle it. The brain functions as the central hub, it communicates with different smart devices, while the remote offers instant control with a touch. It provides remote management capabilities as well.Why is it noteworthy?NEEO can streamline smart home management, serving as a centralized solution, while eliminating the need for multiple apps and remotes. The user recognition features add a layer of personalization, ensuring each user has their own settings and devices. This is excellent for homes with multiple users, offering a tailored experience for everyone.The systems ease of setup is another key advantage, addressing one of the most common issues in smart home management. With a simple three-step process, users can quickly connect their devices and begin enjoying the benefits of home automation. This user-friendly approach makes NEEO an attractive option for tech-savvy homeowners looking to simplify their smart home systems.What we likeManages all devices from one system.Recognizes users for tailored device management.What we dislikeDoesnt include voice controls, which may be preferable for some users.7. Smart PadThis adorable design concept gives your impersonal tech products a makeover, by giving a smart display a comical and funny face. This makes the product seem friendly and approachable! Called the Smart Pad, this clever little product changes the core design of its smart display. It features a 4-inch screen which may be a bit too small, but which only shows the essentials, instead of flooding users with information.The smart display looks like an egg, bringing to mind visions of old, colorful iMacs or some vintage CRT TVs. The screen is positioned at a comfortable angle, and you dont need to employ any stands or external mechanisms. The Smart Pad aims to transform the way users interact with smart home technology by making it more approachable and engaging.Why is it noteworthy?The Smart Pad adopts a cartoon face, hence creating a more inviting and welcoming user experience. This design is great for tech-savvy homeowners who want products with a more personal touch. The pad also features a compact size, which is ideal for homes with space constraints. It also incorporates a minimal design, ensuring it will complement different decor styles.The Smart Pad is blessed with the ability to humanize technology, forming a more engaging user experience. It is the right choice for individuals who appreciate both functionality and personality in their home devices, with the ability to enhance home automation.What we likeFeatures an egg-shaped screen with a cartoon face that adds charm and personality.Small size fits seamlessly into any space.What we dislikeThe 4-inch display may restrict information visibility, as it has a limited screen size.8. Sonoff NSPanel Smart Scene Wall SwitchNamed the Sonoff NSPanel Smart Scene Wall Switch, this device is a comprehensive solution for home automation. It provides centralized control of different appliances and systems. It is equipped with an HMI (Human-Machine Interface) panel design, which offers a harmonious and seamless way to manage lights, temperature, and preset scenes from a single interface.The wall switch includes multiple control methods, including a touchscreen, dual-channel switch, voice commands, and a smart app. It is designed to make smart home management an intuitive and more accessible process. It features a design that is both functional and stylish, allowing it to complement any home environment.Why is it noteworthy?The Sonoff NSPanel Smart Scene Wall Switch is versatile, and equipped with comprehensive control capabilities. It merges multiple control methods into one single device, cutting down the need for multiple remotes or apps. This simplifies the user experience and offers an all-in-one approach that is appealing to modern homeowners.The NSPanels ability to activate preset scenes based on user preferences is another excellent feature. This functionality allows users to customize their home environment with ease. The remote access provided by the smart app ensures that users can manage their home automation systems from anywhere, adding an extra layer of convenience.What we likeCentralizes management of multiple devices and scenes.Equipped with touchscreen, voice, and app controls for flexibility.What we dislikeMay require time and effort to configure all devices.9. TOKIT Omni CookDubbed the TOKIT Omni Cook, this all-in-one kitchen appliance is the innovative kitchen assistant youve been searching for. It makes your meal prep process quick, and efficient, ensuring you dont spend hours cooking. The TOKIT Omni Cook is designed to bring some fun and playfulness to your cooking and meal prep experience.It is the versatile device youve been searching for. It merges state-of-the-art technology with user-friendly features to streamline your meal prep process. It will encourage even the most hesitant cooks to explore new recipes and techniques, opening up the culinary world for them.Why is it noteworthy?The TOKIT Omni Cook is equipped with an impressive array of features that will simplify the cooking process for you. It makes cooking accessible for both beginners and seasoned chefs. It automates the cooking to an impressive degree, so you can depend on the appliance to deal with complex cooking tasks with minimum intervention on your part.The appliance is equipped with a library of digital recipes, which guide you through the cooking process. This is a great feature for individuals who arent too confident in the kitchen and require clear instructions and visual aids to prepare their meals.What we likeFeatures an integrated 7-inch touchscreen display, which lets you customize and tweak your preferences.It will not occupy substantial space in your kitchen.What we dislikeIt has multiple culinary modes and functionalities, hence users may take some time to adjust to the appliance.10. Mr.AlfredMeet Mr.Alfred a smart home appliance that functions as a humidifier, dehumidifier, air purifier, and vacuum. It is blessed with a unique combination of retro aesthetics and cutting-edge technology. Mr.Alfred is on a mission to revolutionize the home appliance landscape, by serving as a comprehensive solution for healthy air management.It is more than just an appliance, Mr.Alfred is also a statement piece that will seamlessly integrate with your home decor. It resembles an elegant bar cart, equipped with gold rails that add a retro touch. A muted grey body adds to the rich yet subtle aesthetic. This appliance not only saves space but also merges multiple appliances into one.Why is it noteworthy?Mr. Alfred is designed for comprehensive air management. It will sense the air quality, and take targeted action to keep your home clean and healthy. This smart system combines the functionalities of an air purifier, humidifier, dehumidifier, and robot vacuum, ensuring comprehensive air management.The appliance also features a sleek form and includes six important parts the main body, a drone for space monitoring, a robot vacuum, an air purifier, a humidifier, and a dehumidifier. These components are designed to work together seamlessly. The air-management parts rest on the robot vacuum, making them portable, and ensuring they clean your home spectacularly.What we likeMerges elegant aesthetics and smart functionality.A multifunctional appliance that embodies four devices in one.What we dislikeIt is a concept, so we are unsure how well it would work as a tangible product.The post Top 10 Smart Home Appliances That Are Perfect For Tech-Savvy Homeowners first appeared on Yanko Design.

Its a tablet PC, a shower speaker, your cars infotainment system, and a portable dashboard for everything from music to video to phone calls. Meet the Nomad a tablet-speaker that isnt designed for productivity its designed for entertainment. With a powerful speaker system, a waterproof design, and mounts that let you place the Nomad anywhere, this device doubles as your shower speaker, your smart display, a Carplay/Android Auto-compatible infotainment system, a dedicated device for Netflix and Chill whether its in the bedroom, living room, or poolside, and even your perfect radio alternative when youre camping. For ages, tablets have grown thinner and their speakers weaker and smart speakers have remained tethered to their plug points. Nomad combines both in a durable, portable package so you can carry your entertainment with you, without compromising on literally anything.Designer: UpBeatClick Here to Buy Now: $249 $399 ($150 off) Hurry! Only 13 days left. Raised over $113,000The Nomad isnt a tablet. It isnt a speaker. It isnt a smart home hub like the Echo Show or the Pixel Tablet. Its a little of everything, combined into one product that offers zero compromises if you know what youre buying it for. Its designed purely for entertainment, which means that sleek, laptop-bag-friendly profile is a non-issue. The device is rugged, doesnt compromise on audio quality, and is made to be used everywhere, from in your shower to your car.With its waterproof build and four-speaker array, the Nomad was crafted with audio at its core. This device excels as a portable entertainment hub, with an audio quality that outshines any tablets built-in speaker systembe it the shower, the backseat of a car, or your outdoor adventures. The 4 front-facing speakers and 2 subwoofers on the side deliver rich, resonant sound (at up to 94 decibels) that rivals traditional portable speakers. Combined with a battery life of over 20 hours for music playback, the Nomad is set to keep the party going without frequent recharges.On the inside, the Nomad runs on Android, which means its ready for all your favorite streaming apps, plus it has a microSD slot for expanding storage and loading up on offline content. The 8-inch HD touchscreen has a striking brightness level of 1200 nits, 20% brighter than the iPad Pro which shines at 1000 nits, making it perfect for outdoor use. The display is responsive, has an anti-glare coating, and complements the overall build of the deviceits rugged yet refined, a rare find in tablets with a focus on durability.The stick-on Shower Mount lets you easily dock and use your Nomad while in the showerThe built-in speaker is supplemented by microphones too, which means the tablet lets you interact with voice assistants, leave voice notes, or even take phone calls. Thats where the powerful speakers come in handy, allowing you to talk without cupping your ear to hear what the other person is saying. If you want to have a private conversation, just connect Bluetooth earbuds, or better still, use the 3.5mm jack on the Nomad to hook up your wired headphones. The only thing missing is an on-board camera, which means no photographs or even video calls.Mounting options for the Nomad extend its functionality even further. It comes with a shower wall mount, which lets you easily slip the Nomad in while having a bath. The tablet is fully usable while bathing, so whether youre watching a TV show or hosting your own bathroom karaoke, the Nomad lets you stay in control, unlike your phone or your Bluetooth speaker, which wont go in the shower with you.Outside the shower, a built-in kickstand lets you prop the Nomad up wherever you are. If you want to tether the tablet to a tree or the back of your car-seat for in-car entertainment, the tablet comes with a strap-on mount too. An optional add-on cup-holder mount lets you bring the tablet to the front seat, substituting your in-car radio or music player. When all fails, a tripod mount on the bottom lets you screw a tripod in, allowing you to position your tablet practically anywhere. And since its fully waterproof, you dont have to worry about splashes or moisture damaging the device.For in-car use, youve got built-in Android Auto and CarPlay compatibility, a standout feature that elevates the Nomad from a mere tablet to a full-fledged navigation and media console for your car. CarPlay integration makes the device invaluable for on-the-go use, especially if you prefer your tech streamlined and multipurpose. Mount it on a dashboard, and you have an instant navigation system paired with immersive sound quality, all accessible through the Android interface that many users will find familiar and easy to navigate.Under the hood, the Snapdragon 662 processor keeps the Nomad humming along smoothly. Sure, its not the latest SoC on the market, but in a rugged device focused on reliability and battery efficiency, the Snapdragon 662 is a solid choice that provides a good balance of performance and energy efficiency. Youll find it more than capable for streaming, navigation, and even some light gaming if the mood strikes. Although the exact battery capacity isnt mentioned, the Nomad delivers 20 hours of audio on a full charge, and can be doubled thanks to an optional magnetic battery that snaps right on top, bringing its output to 40 hours of music, or 10 full hours of video. Both the tablet and the magnetic battery have USB-C charging, which means you can charge your Nomad anywhere.The basic bundle starts at $249, which includes the Nomad itself along with the shower mount. The $340 Ultimate Bundle gets you all the other accessories too, like the strap-on mount, the cup mount, and that snap-on magnetic battery. No matter which bundle you pick, the Nomad ships globally, starting February 2025.Click Here to Buy Now: $249 $399 ($150 off) Hurry! Only 13 days left. Raised over $113,000The post This Rugged Android Tablet with 4 Speakers Is Your New All-Terrain Waterproof Entertainment Hub first appeared on Yanko Design.

Apple would never but what if they did??This isnt the Apple AirPods Ultra, but it sure is parading around the internet as one. Discovered on Threads, these knockoff pair of AirPods Pro (probably available on Temu if you look hard enough) have a feature that even the originals dont. Visible the instant you unbox the earbuds, these knockoff AirPods Pro come with a touchscreen built into the case, letting you play/pause music, activate or deactivate features like ANC and Spatial Audio, and even mess with the earbuds equalizers. It isnt too different from a pair of JBL Tour PRO 3 earbuds we saw two years ago at CES, except these ones are modeled exactly on Apples AirPods Pro.Designer: Choice HYUNDAIIt isnt easy to tell what the brand or model of these earbuds is (although I suspect its the Choice HYUNDAI HY-Y11), but its certainly a Chinese manufacturer trying to emulate the Apple aesthetic. The case looks almost exactly like the AirPods Pro, albeit with a black touchscreen on the front. Youve got a USB-C at the bottom, and the interiors of the case look almost exactly like Apples own. The earbuds are a resounding copy too.Flip open the case and it automatically wakes up the touchscreen, showing your earbuds status. Take one earbud out and an animation on the screen shows which earbuds out of its case, providing a pretty nifty visual indication. The screen has touch-to-wake too, allowing you to do things like play/pause music, set a wallpaper on your AirPods case, and adjust features like ANC, EQ, and Spatial Audio.On the top, youve also got a status bar that tells you each earbuds battery level, case battery level, Bluetooth connectivity status, and the time. Pop the earbuds in and you can adjust your audio through the case itself without needing to take your phone out. Is it convenient? Sure. Is it necessary? I doubt.This device basically turns the AirPods Pro into an AirPods iPod mashup. Its cool, but highly unnecessary given that it doesnt achieve much since youre still taking a gadget out of your pocket to control playback. At that point, the gadget might as well be your phone. Adding a screen to the case also reduces its overall battery capacity, since the screen now chugs on the battery to remain operational.However, if the idea of an AirPods case with its dedicated screen appeals to you, the internet is probably littered with low-cost versions of this device that you could play with for fun. Dont expect stunning audio quality, ANC, or Spatial Audio from these shoddily-made knockoffs. Dont expect a warranty either, since this thing literally costs $7.50 on AliExpress.View on ThreadsThe post Fake AirPods Pro With A Built-In TouchScreen Feels an AirPods/iPod Frankensteins Monster first appeared on Yanko Design.

The new wave of handhelds is almost here.