Since he opened it in 2003, Ren Redzepis Copenhagen restaurant, Noma, repeatedly earned a spot on the list of the Worlds 50 Best Restaurants. Then, in January, he decided to close the doors of the three-Michelin-starred enterprise. Now hes trying to redefine the very concept of a fine dining restaurant, and reach more foodies through his new show, Omnivore, which debuted July 19 on Apple TV+.Omnivore, which he describes as a mix of Anthony Bourdains Parts Unknown and Planet Earth, tells the story of common ingredients like corn and tuna, placing them in a historical, cultural, and environmental context across 16 countries.Once Noma closes at the end of this year, Redzepi will be taking his restaurantwhere a meal typically costs around $500on the road as part of a pop-up series he calls Noma 3.0. Starting in Tokyo, Noma 3.0 will be selling more accessibly priced goods and condiments that the team has created in their labs (think mushroom garum, or vinegar made from crushed wild rose petals, starting at $25).Redzepi joined Fast Company associate editor Yasmin Gagne on the Most Innovative Companies podcast. He discussed redefining fine dining, taking inspiration from Bourdain, and how he feels when foodies film him at work.Youve described Omnivore as a mix between Parts Unknown and Planet Earth. How did you come up with the concept for the show?When Noma was getting known around the world, I was actually being offered TV jobs probably once a month. One of them I remember was called Fire and Ice. The idea was that I had to go out and cook with celebrities in cold areas in Scandinavia, and use fire to do it. That never became anything. My favorite childhood TV hero was David Attenborough. I would dream away as a child watching him lift a tiny leaf [to look at] a beetle under it. Fast-forward 10 years, I meet Matt Goulding, whos the cocreator of Omnivore. He used to produce Anthony Bourdains show and worked with him for a long time. Anyone whos doing food TV stands on Anthony Bourdains shoulders. I wanted that commitment to quality and to interesting stories, but at the same time, Im not the main protagonist. Im not a host, but rather a guide.A lot of Omnivore is focused on sustainability, and its something that youve championed at Noma. How did you build that into the narrative?There are plenty of shows and there is plenty of information out there that tells you what not to do. That sort of almost shames you. We knew from the get-go, thats not how we want to approach things. Its not us telling anyone what to do. Its inspiring people to actually look at the world differently after theyve seen this show.Its unrealistic to tell people Next week all of you stop everything that you hold dear because youve been doing [things] wrong. I think actually it pushes people into the opposite way of thinking. I eat meat and we also eat meat at the restaurant as a team, but 50% of days are actually meatless. Researching and doing the show kind of further enhanced that notion that if we plan it well and we cook well for ourselves, we can actually eat vegetables that taste as good as a roast chicken. But once in a while to get roast chicken is also magnificent.Omnivore is debuting as Noma is closing. What does the next phase of the restaurant look like?Weve been open for just about 21 years. We have experienced incredible success. It was clear that the way were operating, the level of attention we have to everyday production as a restaurant was not sustainable. We are changing as a team. Were growing up; everyone around us is having kids. We need to grow as an organization. I could see that if we were doing restaurant work and opening every night, wed probably slowly burn ourselves out, and the creativity would spill out. And what I actually like about my work is the creation of things. So weve envisioned this new plan where restaurant work in the future is where we have funits going to be like our hobby. But of course, that meant we would lose our revenue. So building that new financial platform is at the center of Noma 3.0, so that we can be creatively free.How are you going to make money now?We have a fermentation lab, and we have hundreds of items that I feel like weve invented. So we thought, lets see if we can bring that into peoples homes. We started Noma Projects, and there are now more than 50 different products, from umami paste to oils and all sorts of things that can help you cook better. Were hoping that will be the foundation of the platform. In the future, well also collaborate with other food startups, or with universities to actually participate in food in a bigger way than just serving 40 to 50 people a night. So there might be other business ventures coming beyond just our own product lines.Do you think its possible to run a sustainable fine dining restaurant and turn a profit?I shouldnt say it isnt. Its very difficult. Maybe theres someone out there doing it. I think well be able to do it. If our plan works, then were going to be able to have one of the strongest, most resilient organizations with a financial platform that is rock solid, and were going to be able to have an organization that can just thrive. Thats the goal.Ive got to ask you about your favorite food-related TV shows and movies. Beyond Parts Unknown, who or what has inspired you?Im not sure anyone here in America knows Keith Floyd. He was a crazy Englishman who used to drink wine and travel the world. He always had the right comment full of knowledge. He spoke in a slightly sarcastic but friendly way. Incredible television. In terms of movies, there are so many. I like Tampopo, Big Night . . .What did you think of The Menu?I havent watched it. Everyone asks me, so Ive decided Im never going to watch it because as soon as it came up, wed have guests at the restaurant saying, Oh, did you watch The Menu? They say that its because it was supposedly inspired by all these Scandinavian restaurants. Also, so often when there is something food related, they always make a little fun of it, which is kind of annoying as a food person. We are struggling hard enough, now you got to make a movie making fun of everything?Do you think making fun of foodies is fair game?I feel that Im very young, but I still remember the first time I went to a table and someone filmed me as I was explaining the dish. I remember going back into the kitchen and feeling so violated. This person is filming me without my consent. Today, most of the time I will be explaining to a table and people will be filming and not really watching me. Theyll just be watching their screen.You made a cameo appearance on The Bear this season. What did you think of the show?I havent watched the full show. I only watched some episodes. We know the people from The Bear, and I actually think theyre doing something for the industry. Theyre giving some opportunity and some attention to the industry. But in terms of watching it as an industry person myself, its a little too stressful for me. Imagine coming home from work and then watching it and feeling like youre at work again, but its always the worst day ever at work. In reality, kitchens are not that crazy.Do you like having a fine dining experience yourself?I love to eat and I love food and I love to cook and I do fine dining experiences, but to me this idea of fine dining versus, lets say, a brassy food or a hot dog cart, is a false dichotomy, because if you are a hot dog cart owner and you are wanting to do the best that you can, it takes the same level of commitment. Maybe five times a year Id do a meal that is a theatrical production. Most of the time I try to go to mom-and-pop shops or family-owned restaurants where they really take care and they serve you every day. Thats most of the restaurant industry.

Dezeen Showroom: steel and aluminium are among the metals used in the design of these eight furnishings and products that are listed on Dezeen Showroom.Metal furniture entered the mainstream of interior design in the middle of the 20th century, before which it was broadly confined to use for creating garden furniture and commercial kitchens, as well as various industrial applications.By the year 2000, metal furniture and accessories were a mainstay in interiors, thanks to their shiny futuristic and industrial aesthetics, as well as their durability and ease of cleaning.Metal can be rendered in a variety of ways, including galvanisation where steel is covered in a zinc coating and powder-coating, which allows the metal to take on a block colour.Read on to discover a selection of metallic products for living spaces, bathrooms, dining areas and gardens, including seating, lighting, accessories and storage.Unit storage system by TiptoeFrench furniture brandTiptoe has created a shelving system supported by a steel frame that can be reconfigured to serve a range of purposes.The Unit storage system's metal components come in black or off-white and its shelves and storage elements come in contrasting wooden finishes.Find out more about Unit Living Objects stool by VormenBelgian design studioVormen used steel in the design of this four-legged stackable stool named Living Objects.It is available in three colourways or a galvanised finish, and can be used inside or outside.Find out more about Living Objects Vineyard collection by Ramn Esteve for VondomAluminium was used for the frames and legs of each piece in this outdoor furniture series designed by Spanish brandVondom in collaboration with architect Ramn Esteve.The metal elements present in the Vineyard collection create an industrial feel, which is softened and contrasted by seats, tabletops, backs and armrests all made from teak wood.Find out more about Vineyard Peel lighting series by Sissel Warringa for FrandsenDanish brandFrandsen used curled-up sheets of steel to create the body and shade of each lamp in its Peel lighting series.The range contains table, wall and pendant fixtures all characterised by their silver-grey, metallic compositions, which marry elegance and function.Find out more about Peel Cesto chair by Pablo Regao for ArtuMetal is a versatile choice for outdoor furniture due to its durability and weather resistance Spanish designer Pablo Regao used it to create a playful seat for PolishfurniturecompanyArtu.The Cesto chair is made up of metal bars and slats, which combine to form a four-legged chair with a basket-like seat that cradles the user.Find out more about Cesto Origata collection by Nao Tamura for PorroItalian furniture brandPorro teamed up with New York-based Japanese designerNao Tamura to create a console table and bench made from bent sheets of aluminium.The Origata collection is informed by the way kimonos are made an efficient process that create very minimal amounts of wasted material.Find out more about Origata Dune light by MossSlivers of aluminium curl around warm, glowing lightbulbs in this modular statement light created by German brandMoss.The Dune light is named after the undulating forms of sand dunes and creates shadows and reflections thanks to its satin-finished aluminium fins, which are either anodised or polished.Find out more about Dune Dots towel rail by Ludovica Serafini and Roberto Palomba for TubesDesign brand Tubes used partially recycled CNC-cut aluminium to create its distinctive Dots towel rail.The circular fittings contain a heating element that are safe for installation in bathrooms and wetrooms and are designed to warms towels and bathrobes.Find out more about Dots Dezeen ShowroomDezeen Showroom offers an affordable space for brands to launch new products and showcase their designers and projects to Dezeen's huge global audience. For more details email showroom@dezeen.com.Dezeen Showroom is an example of partnership content on Dezeen. Find out more about partnership content here.The post Eight items made from metal that combine utility and refinement appeared first on Dezeen.

Among the key elements that interior designers focus on is form, featuring visible contours, geometry, proportions, scale, and more. Hence, the concept of form in interior design transcends mere decoration, involving thoughtful consideration and design details to craft a distinct aesthetic and functional experience. When designing your home or any interior, it is essential to attain the right form for achieving a harmonious aesthetic.Designer: Studia 54What is the role of Form in interior design?Form pertains to the tangible shape and structure of objects within a space that forms the basics of any interior design. It forms the outline for three-dimensional objects within a space. One or more shapes can be combined to create unique forms which can further be enhanced with colors, patterns, and textures.Image courtesy of: Rosslyn Tebbutt Form in interior design serves multiple essential functions. Intentional use of form creates visual interest, adding variety with unique shapes, bold textures, and eye-catching silhouettes. It also directs traffic flow by guiding movement and defining functional zones. Forms influence mood, with soft, curved shapes providing a soothing atmosphere and angular forms conveying energy. Beyond aesthetics, form impacts functionality by considering ergonomics and spatial requirements. Additionally, forms provide spatial definition, giving structure and boundaries to a space through creative elements like ceiling ridges, floor patterns, and wall contours.What are the different types of forms?Designer: RSAA StudioThe form, or spatial outline represents the shapes of three-dimensional objects in a room. It is not possible to create the design without knowing the form which includes various dimensions such as the length, breadth, height, mass, and volume which are crucial measurements for design and planning.Additionally, the consideration of form extends to the interplay of light and shadow, as manifested in different shades and surface variations on objects. Forms can exist independently or result from the -combination of two or more shapes which can be enhanced by adding texture or color.The different types of forms include Organic FormsDesigner: Tenon ArchitectureOrganic forms are distinguished by gentle, flowing lines while their shapes are irregular and distinctive, often derived from the varied lines and shapes observed in nature. Geometric or Inorganic FormsDesigner: MasquepacioGeometric or Inorganic forms are non-living forms that relate to artificial, geometric shapes and forms. Common geometric forms include squares, rectangles, triangles, ovals, arches, points, and straight lines. Open FormsDesigner: Go HommeThese forms are the visible shapes or outlines that can be observed with the naked eye. Closed FormsDesigner: Ashley TorresThese forms are self-contained and remain invisible to the naked eye such as a closed cabinet.The form of a space should suit its function; for instance, a dining room benefits from an organic form for conversation and intimacy, while a kitchen benefits from a geometric form for efficiency. When selecting furniture, consider the form as organic forms are inviting, and geometric forms are sleek. Integrating natural forms adds interest and a spaces form influences mood, with an organic form creating a relaxed atmosphere.Some examples of the form in interior design include the contours and profiles of furniture, the dimensions of windows, mirrors, rug shapes, and wall decor, as well as the curves, edges, and measurements of flooring and tilework, including display accessories such as sculptures.Designer: El Quipo CreativoWhat are Abstract Forms?Abstract art is gaining popularity among artists and behind the abstract art lies a theoretical cluster of ideas aimed at creating pure sublime art, beautiful and intended to evoke aesthetically pleasing effects.How to achieve good form in interior design?Designer: Peter Ippolito and Gunter FleitzTo achieve a well-crafted form, a combination of seven elements of design with the seven principles of design can create an ideally perfect design.What are the principles of form in interior design?In the process of designing with form, interior designers depend on a set of fundamental principles that serve as a foundation for making considerate decisions regarding the shapes in design, massing, and arrangements of elements.Designer: Steven Harris Architects HarmonyDesigner: Concrete CollectiveHarmony in design denotes a visual sense of cohesion and consistency among forms, promoting harmony over chaos. Techniques for achieving unified forms feature repeating design motifs and geometric shapes, maintaining even spacing and alignments between forms. BalanceDesigner: Shushana KhachatrianBalance strives to create visual equilibrium among forms in a composition, achievable through symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangements. Techniques for achieving balance in designs involve distributing weight and mass evenly, offsetting a large form with several smaller forms, utilizing color, texture, and height to counterbalance forms, and placing forms at intersecting angles to establish equilibrium. Accent FeatureDesigner: Gaetano PesceAccentuation directs focus toward significant forms through the creation of contrast, establishing a visual hierarchy. Techniques to highlight key forms involve incorporating distinctive shapes and proportions, integrating bold colors or materials, illuminating forms with strategic lighting, and elevating forms above the floor or ground plane.What are the elements of Form in Interior Design?While principles provide guidance for applying form, the elements constitute the specific components that interior designers manipulate to craft desired shapes and structures. The fundamental elements of form encompass line, shape, volume, texture, and color. LineDesigner: Vince & Co. InteriorsLines and edges define boundaries and contours, delineating form. Consider silhouettes and profiles of furnishings, borders between flooring materials, molding, and trim outlines, patterns created by lighting fixtures. ShapeDesigner: Melanie HuttonThe two-dimensional outline of forms generates geometric or organic shapes. Examples encompass circular, square, and rectangular furnishings, freeform partitions and wall dividers, oval and ring-shaped decor pieces, as well as sinuous S- and C-curve furniture. VolumeVolume refers to the 3D mass and space occupied by forms. Interior designers may manipulate cubic footage and dimensions of furnishings, cantilevers, platforms, staggered shelving, convex and concave shaping of lighting, walls, etc. TextureDesigner: ArtshocSurface characteristics such as smoothness, roughness, and patterns significantly influence form perception. Textures that impact form include wood grain, fabric weaves, concrete pores, distressed patinas, glossy polishes, as well as tufting, channeling, and fluting on furnishings. ColorDesigner: Rodolphe ParenteHue, saturation, and brightness play a role in shaping form relationships. Colors can either unite similar forms or distinguish contrasting ones, make forms recede or advance within a composition, and add visual weight and mass to lighter forms.Why should form follow function?A well-designed interior is functional, comfortable, usable, and practicalone that is inviting, cozy, and enjoyable. The interiors should provide a comfortable space where you eagerly anticipate relaxation at the end of a long day. Clutter-free SpaceDesigner: Daria ZinovatnayaInvest wisely in home decor, focusing on pieces that enhance usability, as excessive showpieces or rugs in the living room may lead to a crowded feel despite the instant enhancement of individual items. Good CirculationDesigner: Kerry HarrisIt ensures good circulation and free passage around the home, preventing the space from becoming cluttered to the extent that it obstructs movement, enhancing smooth navigation, and preventing injury. Timeless DesignDesigner: Foresight AssociatesWhile the aesthetics of a property may change over time, its functionality is less likely to change easily, therefore prioritizing functionality over accent pieces adds more value to your property.To conclude, Form stands as a fundamental element in interior design and it is intricately connected to the function of the room, requiring it to fulfil the intended purpose or function of the space.The post Elements of Interior Design: Form first appeared on Yanko Design.

The people want more Monster Hunter, and more Monster Hunter the people shall get.And who can blame them? Monster Hunter Wilds looks incredible.

The universe is giving me a sign.

Investing postretirement can be much more complex than it was during your career. Youre going from the simple (but not easy) plan of throw all the money you can into your retirement account and invest for the long term to the much more complicated process called Um . . . I think were supposed to live on this nest egg somehow?The reason why postretirement investing can seem like an entirely different game is because your goals are now different. During your career, you focused on growing your nest egg through contributions and investment returns. While you may have worried about market volatility, you also knew your portfolio had time to bounce back.After retirement, however, your aim shifts from growth to protection, which can feel like a more complicated objective. The good news is that even though investing is different postretirement, the average retiree can master the new rules.Protect your principal and your buying powerThere are two specific hazards your money faces in retirement: loss of principal and loss of buying power. If you lose principal, you risk running out of money in retirement. But if your money loses buying power due to inflation, you risk running out of money in retirement.Unfortunately, the best way to protect your nest egg is to park it somewhere very low riskwhere it will lose buying power over time because of inflation.And of course, the best way to protect your moneys buying power is to invest it in higher-risk/higher-return assetsthe assets that are more likely to go for a dive at the wrong time and demolish your principal.So how exactly are you supposed to solve this catch-22?Make your portfolio into a time machineYour portfolio doesnt have to choose between the future and the present. You can manage the risk of losing principal and the risk of losing buying power with the right investment horizons.On the one hand, you want to invest like its 1999. No, that doesnt mean buying shares of pets.com. It means investing like you have decades ahead of youwhich you do! You can keep a portion of your portfolio invested in higher-risk/higher-return assets for the long term. This is the best way to fight inflation. You dont need to touch this money for many years, so you have time to ride out the volatility and take advantage of the long-term growth potential.On the other hand, you need to invest like the next market crash is just around the corner. No, you dont need to liquidate your investments and bury the cash in your backyard. But you should invest a portion of your money in lower-risk assets that will protect the principal over the next few years while offering some modest growth. This is the best way to ensure that money you need in the relatively near term will maintain its value.BudgetThe other aspect of protecting your principal is regular budgeting. Having a dynamic budget that you revisit on a regular basis will help prevent overspending, which can keep you from dipping into your principal.If the idea of budgeting makes you break out in hives, not to worry. No one is going to force you to generate spreadsheets or account for every coffee. Whats important about retirement budgeting is understanding your baseline expenses and planning for a retirement income that covers them. From there, you will want to periodically check your spending against your predicted expenses and your income and make adjustments when necessary.RebalanceRebalancing refers to the process of selling off high-performing assets to invest in lower-performing assets. It helps maintain the asset allocation you set up within your portfolio after it has drifted away from your targets.Regular rebalancing of your portfolio allows you to move high returns you have in more volatile assets to the principal-protection portion of your portfolio, which helps shore up your nest egg. In addition, rebalancing when your volatile assets are going gangbusters lets you increase your retirement income to account for inflation.Protect your nest eggInvesting doesnt stop just because youve left the 9-to-5 world behindalthough the goals have changed. Instead of investing primarily for long growth, which you did as a younger adult, postretirement investing is all about protecting your nest egg from the twin hazards of loss of principal and loss of buying power.Keeping your portfolio invested for both short- and long-term time horizons allows you to maintain the principal while also giving your money a chance to outpace inflation. Making and revising your budget regularly protects your money from overspending. And regularly rebalancing your portfolio helps protect your principal and gives you a method to increase your retirement income to account for inflation.If you take care of your money in retirement, it will take care of you.

Japanese architecture studio Kengo Kuma & Associates has designed a boat-informed structure for Qatar's national pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka.Driven by an appreciation of the strong coastal relations that benefit both Qatar and Japan, Kengo Kuma & Associates and Qatar Museums Authority took inspiration from the traditional Qatari dhow boat construction as well as Japanese wood joinery for the pavilion's design.Visualisations of the approximately 1,200-metre-square Qatar Pavilion reveal an intricate wooden structure adorned by a white, fabric veil that recalls a boat's sail.Kengo Kuma & Associates has unveiled a boat-inspired pavilion for Expo Osaka 2025At the centre of the the structure will be a rectilinear volume with facades composed of wooden panels of various lengths and widths.At the pavilion's front, a walkway will provide access to the space and be flanked by shallow water features that run alongside the pavilion.Pathways providing external circulation will wrap around the central volume and be partially sheltered by a secondary structure composed of large columns and an open roof connected by joinery.The pavilion's wooden structure will be cloaked by a white veilArched openings in the canopy will follow the spacing of the external columns to provide views out of the space.Inside, the pavilion will introduce visitors to the historic and contemporary significance of Qatar's coastal areas as well as highlight the country's progress towards achieving its National Vision 2030.Read: Thirteen national pavilions designed for Expo 2025 OsakaSet to take place from 13 April to 13 October next year, Expo 2025 Osaka has been masterplanned by Sou Fujimoto Architects and follows an overarching theme of Designing Future Society for Our Lives.The event will host a series of national pavilions encircled by a 60,000-square-metre wooden ring designed by the studio and informed bytraditional Japanese timber construction.Arched openings in the facade will provide views out of the spaceThe Qatar Pavilion is set to open in line with the Expo 2025 Osaka on April 13.Also for the Expo 2025 Osaka, Woo Architects has unveiled a demountable structure for the UK Pavilion and Trahan Architects has revealed the USA Pavilion which will include a suspended cube.We have highlighted 13 other national pavilions that have been unveiled ahead of the event.The visualisations are courtesy of Kengo Kuma & Associates.Expo 2025 Osaka will be on show from April to October 2025. SeeDezeen Events Guidefor more architecture and design events around the world.The post Kengo Kuma & Associates reveals design for Qatar Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka appeared first on Dezeen.

PROS: Distinctive, quirky design True fullscreen design with invisible under-display camera Unbeatable price tag for performance and battery size Outstanding camera outputCONS: Creamy selfies Bulky and hefty chassis No wireless chargingRATINGS:AESTHETICSERGONOMICSPERFORMANCESUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITYVALUE FOR MONEYEDITOR'S QUOTE:The nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version will delight smartphone shutterbugs with a powerful smartphone with a design that clearly marks its photography lineage.Its pretty obvious by now, but it probably still bears noting. Cameras have become one of the most important factors people consider when buying a smartphone. Even those who primarily use a phone for social media want great cameras that can show off their attempts at becoming Insta-famous. But more seasoned photographers look for things that go beyond things like AI retouching or dramatic filters, details that are often lost on most users. Back in late 2023, nubia launched the Z60 Ultra to scratch a very specific mobile photography itch, and less than a year later, it is launching a slightly beefed-up variant with an odd name, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version. Can this model, based on a late 2023 smartphone, keep up with the latest roster of flagships, or has it fallen by the wayside? We put this quirky-looking phone through the wringer to bring you that answer.Designer: nubiaAestheticsWeve seen plenty of phone designs over the years, and some have left us scratching our heads. Some have, in an effort to look distinctive and unique, adopted designs that leave a lasting impression in a rather unfavorable way. Fortunately, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version isnt of that variety, and while it might look odd when viewed from its back, it has enough playfulness, charm, and balance that actually makes the composition look interesting.The phone is a very blocky device that is almost like a throwback to the early days of the Sony Xperia. Flat edges and sharp corners are making a comeback anyway, so the nubia Z60 Ultra isnt exactly an outlier. It is, however, chunkier and boxier than todays phones, which does have usability consequences that well get to in a bit. It gives the phone a handsome and sharp appearance, but its also an acquired taste.The most notable aspect of its design, however, is the three cameras on its back. Where most manufacturers do their best to lump the cameras together, nubia actually gives each of them their own distinct design. The result? Its almost as if each of the three cameras represents a different professional camera design, from DSLRs to point-and-shoot cameras. Its like the whole ensemble, which takes up a good third of the phones back, is a wall that pays homage to the camera industrys greatest designs, perhaps also symbolizing its aspiration to be part of that set.The Leading Version comes in only two color options, each with its own distinct design. The Black model looks like it has a ribbed surface, but its purely an optical illusion. The back is still glass, just like on our Silver review unit which gives the impression of liquid silver rippling and swirling underneath. It effectively hides fingerprint smudges, though the smooth surface of the glass means very few leave their mark anyway.We usually leave notes about the display in the hardware section of our reviews, but this screen is different. With an under-display camera, it delivers a true edge-to-edge full-screen visual that blows the mind. The bezels are thin enough to be negligible and the area that hides the camera on its forehead is nowhere to be seen. Because of its very boxy and flat design, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Edition almost looks like a miniature flat-screen TV, and it definitely looks great at showing videos, pictures, and games.ErgonomicsThe nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Edition is a chunky box of metal and glass, and theres no getting around that fact. It does pack quite a lot of hardware, including one of the largest battery capacities for a smartphone, but that doesnt come without its costs. At 8.8mm thick and weighing 246g, it is definitely one of the heftiest and bulkiest handsets in recent years. To some extent, that might not be that big of an issue for its intended audience of mobile photographers who wont be holding the phone up in the same position for long periods of time, at least not without a tripod or a gimbal.It does have a few things that help improve its usability, though. The fingerprint scanner underneath the screen is placed a little bit higher where your thumb would naturally rest so you avoid having to readjust your grip and precariously hold it near the bottom edge. The power button and the action toggle also have textured surfaces that make them easier to feel and use without having to look at their location. All in all, the Z60 Ultra Leading Version isnt the most comfortable thing to hold for a long time, but its not without its merits as well.PerformanceThe phones odd name actually comes from the only real difference it has from the original nubia Z60 Ultra. Thats the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Leading Version, an overclocked variant of the flagship chip that everyone else is using. In a way, this is nubias response to Samsungs own for Galaxy variant, which makes the same proposition. In other words, it takes an already powerful chipset and dials it up to 11, giving most tasks a boost, especially gaming.Its no wonder then that the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version would have some impressive numbers in benchmark tests, sometimes even scoring the highest. It can handle any task you through at it with aplomb, making short work of mobile games. That also means it wont even break a sweat when handling image and video processing in real-time. However, your hands might sweat a bit as the phone did get a little too warm with graphics-intensive tasks like gaming.One of the biggest reasons for the Z60 Ultras heft is also one of its biggest strengths, its 6,000 mAh battery. That is definitely one of the largest weve seen of late, discounting the 7-inch phablets of old. The long battery life will be critical for photographers who dont want to miss a moment just because their battery died. The 80W charging speed also means youll only be away from the action for as long as 40 or so minutes, presuming you didnt bring a power bank with you. Unfortunately, the phone doesnt have wireless charging capabilities, which should already be a staple for an ultra phone like this.Despite its Leading Version chip, the real centerpiece of the Z60 Ultra is its camera system, led by a 50MP Sony IMX906 1/1.56-inch sensor with OIS. That might not actually be that uncommon, but its most distinctive feature is the 35mm equivalent focal length. Its a rare trait in smartphone cameras but is one of the most favored in traditional photography. In a way, nubia is positioning the phone as a camera lovers choice, allowing budding photographers to level up their craft to more professional standards.It doesnt stop there either, because nubia pulls off something that still very few manufacturers dare to do: high-quality cameras all around. The ultra-wide shooter with an 18mm focal length carries a large 50MP 1/1.55-inch sensor with OIS, while the 80mm periscope telephoto gets an equally impressive 64MP sensor with 3.3x zoom, also with OIS. Yes, all three have optical image stabilization, and all three are capable of 4K video recording, though only the main camera can do 8K.Suffice it to say, the images and videos that these cameras deliver are clear, sharp, vibrant, and detailed, no matter the lighting situation. There are a few hiccups here and there, but the overall performance is quite impressive. Unfortunately, the same cant be said of the 12MP front-facing under-display camera, which unsurprisingly comes out with pasty and washed-out images. Despite the advancements nubia achieved in making the camera invisible, it still needs work on matching the quality of regular notch cameras.SustainabilityWhen talking about smartphone makers that have strong or concrete sustainability endeavors, nubia is often left unmentioned. Its not an old player in this market, nor is it a small one, so its rather disappointing not to see more action coming from it on this front. Even the use of sustainable materials for the back cover isnt one of its strong points, but were hoping the brand takes a turn for the better in the years ahead.The nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version is at least IP68-rated, which speaks well for its survivability and longevity. The same cant be said for nubias guaranteed software support, though, which is just three years. Thats just one year over the old two-year standard, one that is becoming a liability to the brand rather than an asset.ValueIf it wasnt clear yet, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version is a premium flagship with a processor that runs circles around its rivals and a camera system designed to appeal to photographers at heart. And yet for all that it offers, it only asks for $649 for 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. Yes, thats $50 more than the starting price for the non-Leading Z60 Ultra, and some might question if the souped-up Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is actually worth that much. In the grand scheme of things, however, its still a very accessible price tag, especially when it offers just as much or even more than $1,000 devices.Unfortunately, it wont be easy to get your hands on one, because nubias global distribution channels arent that many. And even if you manage to import one, you still have to worry about carrier network support. Theres also that nagging question about the $50 increase for a Leading Version chip, which, truth be told, isnt exactly a mind-blowing difference overall. That said, if youre a mobile photographer that has access to nubias products and have the extra $50 to spare, you should definitely have this in your crosshair.VerdictIts extremely tricky to balance power and design in smartphones because of the limited space youre allowed. You cant have a super-slim device and expect to have a large battery and powerful cameras at the same time. nubias solution is bold and creative: why bother with those limitations at all? Yes, the nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Edition is thick and heavy, but it still manages to balance performance and a distinctive design. Its a smartphone that is unabashedly walking in the footsteps of traditional cameras, and it definitely has the chops to prove it.The post nubia Z60 Ultra Leading Version Review: A True Camera in Your Pocket first appeared on Yanko Design.

Maybe next we'll get Prey in Quake?Achievement unlocked: Get all the big Bethesda franchises into the same headline.