The price of ether smashed through its 2021 record on Friday after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell hinted at upcoming rate cuts.

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About the EventHello everyone! After a short break we are back with a new challenge for you to participate in! We're a bit late this month so feel free to start with today's prompt or catch up with the previous days! Whichever way you prefer Fly high with us in this month's challenge: Smaugust! Dragons can come in all kinds of shapes and forms and we hope that our list of prompts will help you to explore the vast spectrum of dragonhood! Participate by using #smaugust2025 in your Cara posts and let us see what you come up with We are excited to see everything from the mighty, roaring beasts that are taller than a city, and the smallest baby dragons that have freshly hatched! We wish everyone a pleasant month and happy creating Remember to stay hydrated How to join Smaugust on Cara1. Participate by posting new work youve made by following the Smaugust list 2. Mention #smaugust2025 in the description when posting! Cara Theme ListWe encourage everyone to take this chance to explore new ideas, experiment with the nature of your art and take a chance at growing your art skills within our budding theme. Most of all, we are excited to see everyone having fun while creating and nurturing each other's works in the community with discussions and conversations. Have fun! - The Cara Teamcara.app | twitter | instagram | buy cara a coffee

New Breakdown Showcases Digital Doubles, FX, Environments and Complex Compositing WorkPRAGUE, Czech Republic VES Award-winning studioPFXhas released the official VFX breakdown forLocked, a claustrophobic thriller starringAnthony HopkinsandBill Skarsgrd.The newly released video showcases how PFX teams across three countries delivered the project in just four monthscovering everything from digital doubles and CG environments to complex green screen and glass compositing.Watch the full VFX breakdown here:Massive Undertaking: 750 VFX ShotsIn total, we worked on around 750 shots, which came out to about 45.75 minutesroughly half of all the shots in the film, saysTomas Srovnal, VFX Producer and Partner at PFX. Altogether, 60 artists worked on the film, along with 3 supervisors, 4 team leads, 3 coordinators, and 3 production staff.Produced byHighland Film Groupand executive producerPetr Jkl,Lockedpresented unique challenges as the story unfolds entirely inside a high-tech SUV, where a young carjacker becomes trapped and tormented by a remote antagonist.For directorDavid Yarovesky(Nightbooks, Brightburn), the goal was to maintain intensity and visual engagement despite the single-location setup.Shooting Inside the Car with Maximum FlexibilityTo achieve dynamic camera movement inside a tight space, the SUV was built as amodular, fully disassemblable set, allowing multiple RED cameras to move freely around the actors.This flexibility came with major VFX demands: nearly every interior shot required compositing to replace green screens, merge takes, or remove crew and equipment reflections from glass surfaces.Using3DEqualizerfor full 3D camera and object tracking, PFX recreated the car interiors and exteriors withLiDAR scans, digital doubles, and procedural environments in Houdini.Maintaining realistic reflections, consistent lighting, and seamless backgrounds were key challenges throughout production.A Multi-Studio Pipeline Across EuropePFX completed the project using their proprietary production toolCrossbow, which enabled collaboration across studios inPrague, Bratislava, and Warsaw. Crossbow allowed complex shots to be split into smaller tasks, tracked in real-time, and efficiently managed across teams.Over the four-month timeline, PFX delivered:750 VFX shotsacross the runtimeFull CG environments based on360 plates and LiDAR dataDigital doublesfor actors and vehiclesComplexrain, lighting FX, broken glass, and bullet hit compositingExtensivereflection cleanupand artificial reflection generationDigital enhancements forfire, gunplay, and near-crash scenesLocked Finds Global SuccessLockedhas quickly found an international audience, recently becoming the#1 global streaming movie on Hulu, underscoring its popularity and the impact of PFXs work on the films visual storytelling.About PFXPFXis a full-service post-production studio with over 350 artists operating across theCzech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Germany, Austria, and Italy. For more than a decade, the studio has provided world-class services in film, TV, animation, and commercials.PFX also assists productions with tax incentives in its operating regions, enhancing project viability. The studios credits includeNapoleon,Stranger Things, andThe Last Whale Singer, as well as commercials forIntel, Pepsi, and Red Bull F1.The post PFX Unveils VFX Breakdown for Anthony Hopkins ThrillerLocked appeared first on Vfxexpress.

The global race for better batteries has never been more intense. Electric vehicles, drones, and next-generationaircraftall depend on high-performance energy storageyet the traditional approach to battery R&D is struggling to keep pace with demand.Innovation and investment alonewontsolve theproblem,unlesswe compress the timeline. Speed is now the defining barrier between potential and impact.Even asAIspeedsup materials discovery, battery lifetime still dictates success: each charge-discharge cycle lasts about six hours, so proving out 500 cycles can take up to eight months, turning lifetime testing into the key bottleneck for promising chemistries.Thatschanging. Physics-informedAIis redefining battery development. National labs like NRELhave shownhow neural networks can diagnose battery health 1,000 times faster than conventional models, bringing real-time insight into degradation and performance.The Real Cost of Traditional TestingBattery development has always been a waiting game. Considerthe mathematics: testing at a standard C/3 rate allows for just two complete cycles per day.Multiply thatacross different chemistries, protocols, and form factors, andyourelooking at years of validation beforea single productreaches market.Thisisntjust inefficientitsbecoming unsustainable. While battery researchers methodically work through their testing cycles, the market landscape shifts beneath them. New competitorsemerge, customer requirements evolve, and breakthrough technologies risk becoming obsolete beforetheyreevenvalidated.The industryneeds a fundamental shift in how it approaches innovation.Why ConventionalAIIsntthe AnswerMany companies have turned to traditional machine learning, hoping to accelerate their development cycles. But conventionalAItools face critical limitations in battery applications:Data scarcity:Unlikeconsumer tech, battery research generatesrelatively small, messy datasets that resist standard ML approaches.Black box problem:Correlation-based models mightidentifypatterns, but theycantexplain why those patterns exist, which is a nonstarter in a field governed by strict electrochemical and thermodynamic principles.Regulatory challenges:Engineers and regulatorsneed to understandnot just what anAIpredicts, but why it makes those predictions.Enter Physics-InformedAIPhysics-informedAIrepresentsa fundamental departure from conventional approaches. Instead of learning patterns from data alone, these models embed physical laws directly into their architecture. The result isAIthatdoesntjust recognize correlationsitcorrelates withthe underlying physics.This approach transforms how we think about battery development. Rather than waiting months for empirical validation, physics-informed models can simulate real battery behavior with remarkable accuracy. They account for aging, degradation, thermal stress, and mechanical factorsall grounded inestablishedscientific principles.At Factorial,weveachieved something that seemed impossible just years ago: predicting cycle life outcomes afterjust 12 weeks of early testing, compared to the 36 months typicallyrequired.Software-Driven BreakthroughsThe impact extends beyond faster testing. Using our newly launchedGammatron platforma proprietary physics-informedAIsystemwe recentlyoptimizedafast-chargingprotocol without altering any physical components. The result: a twofold improvement in cycle life, achieved entirely through software.Gammatron, developed to simulate and predict battery behavior with high accuracy, has transformed our approach todevelopment with Stellantis. By forecasting long-term performance from just two weeks of early data, the platform helped accelerate validation timelines and informed protocol adjustments that significantly extended battery lifespan, without changing chemistry or hardware.Werenot the only ones seeing thislevelof transformation. At The Battery Show Europe, Monolith CEO Richard Ahlfeldsharedthat his company, working withCellforceGroup, is usingAIto reduce battery materials testing requirements by up to 70%, whilemaintainingor even improving discovery rates. Thesearenttheoretical savings. Monolith reports 2040% reductions in testing across active partner projects today, accelerating products to market by months.Thisrepresentsa new paradigm in battery developmentone where software innovations can drive hardware-level gains. As our models continuously learn from new lab data, they evolve in real time, accelerating innovation throughout the entire product lifecycle. This combination ofAIand lab data enables a feedbackloop thatisntseen in traditionalAImodels.Transforming Industry StandardsPhysics-informedAIenables capabilities that were previously impossible:Precision matching:Align specific chemistries with target applications based on predictive performance modeling rather than trial and error.Virtual prototyping:Simulate performance outcomes before investing in physical prototypes, dramatically reducing development costs and timelines.Intelligent optimization:Fine-tune charging protocols foroptimalspeed and safety without extensive physical testing.Predictivemonitoring:Identifypotential failure modes early in the development cycle, reducing both risk and cost.Perhaps mostimportantly, these tools support continuous learning throughout the product lifecycle. As new materials, processes, and data become available, the models evolve, enabling rapid adaptation across diverse battery platforms and applications.The Simulation-First FutureWerewitnessingthe emergence of a new development paradigmdigitalcell design. Tomorrows battery breakthroughs will begin not in physical labs, but in sophisticated simulations that combine domainexpertise, experimental validation, and intelligentAImodeling.This shift from hardware-first to data-first innovation will separate industry leaders from followers. Companies that can seamlessly integrate these capabilities will unlock longer range, faster charging, and greater resilience, solving what are fundamentally systems challenges rather than just materials challenges.The tools exist today. The questionisntwhether this transformation will happen, but how quickly companies will adapt toleveragethese capabilities.

Here's what we looked at this week:The new, disruptive Antigravity A1 is a drone for non-drone people. These ATMs give receipts you can use as rolling papers.Sharpie expands their range of colors yet again with their acrylic Creative Markers line.Examples of good and bad UX in improvised signage in movie theaters.A look at NBA locker room design.A great UX detail on Yamazaki Home's Floating Spoon.The Cornervery: A 90-degree stapler for creating economical packaging.Examples of good/bad execution of a UX improvement for flashlights.With his no-foam O2 Lounge Chair for Hay, industrial designer Jonas Forman explains his material-driven approach to design.Ford's retro Bronco Roadster concept is an exercise in restraint.Studio Drift and Drone Stories use drones to visually complete damaged or unfinished architecture.Heymat's designey doormats, borne from an industrial laundry in Norway.The Eames Lounge Chair originally came with an exploded view drawing, lettered by nun and art educator Corita Kent.Eskimo's Cliff series of stone radiators provide heat with a stylishly monolithic look.Remedial design: Baseus' power strip for underpowered Chinese kitchens.Teenage Engineering's free mini-computer case, "engineered down to a cost of zero."A clever design solution for a bathroom with a large window, and no room for a mirror.Industrial design case study: Sunflower, by Shift Studio, is a designey concrete firepit with improved manufacturability.

Welcome to a world where pet essentials are as beautiful as they are functional. Modern pet lovers want more than just the basics. They seek accessories and furnishings that blend seamlessly with their own sense of style and elevate every corner of their home.This carefully curated roundup features ten stunning accessories and goods for dogs and cats. Each piece stands out for its sculptural form, thoughtful details, and premium materials. From a striking bed that acts as a centerpiece to playful toys and smart home upgrades, these products show that luxury and comfort can exist side by side. Get ready to discover how design can transform your pets everyday life into something truly special.1. Covo Dog BedThe MiaCaras Covo Dog Basket brings sculptural elegance to any home. Its bent plywood ring creates a cozy, protected nest, while the minimalist lines and neutral palette blend seamlessly with modern interiors. This bed is more than a pet accessoryit is a true design object that quietly commands attention.Every detail is considered, from the plush, removable cushion to the elevated structure that gives pets a sense of security. The Covo Bed is perfect for those who curate their spaces with intention and want their pets comfort to feel as refined as their own.What we likeArchitectural, gallery-worthy shapeRemovable and washable cushionWhat we dislikeNot suitable for very large petsLimited cushion color options2. Precision Crafted Pet BowlThis bowl transforms daily routines into a design experience. Its smooth, weighty construction feels substantial, and the clean, geometric profile elevates the look of any feeding area. The understated design is inspired by contemporary tableware, so you never need to hide it away.Stability helps prevent spills, and the finish resists scratches and stains. It is a practical choice that does not compromise on aesthetics. For those who believe every detail matters, this bowl is a satisfying upgrade.Click Here to Buy Now: $349.00What we likeMinimalist design suits modern dcorDurable, substantial materialsWhat we dislikeNot always dishwasher safeLimited size range3. Triangle Pet ToySecond Whites Triangle Pet Toy brings a fresh perspective to pet play with its geometric, nature-inspired form. Each piece combines triangular and circular shapes, crafted from soft, pet-safe materials that invite gentle chewing and tactile exploration. The modular design lets you rearrange the petals, keeping pets curious and playtime visually engaging.With its pastel colors and smooth surfaces, the Petal Toy adds a calming, stylish touch to any modern interior. Its sculptural presence blends seamlessly into home decor, making it more than just a pet accessory. While the Petal Toy excels in design and interactive appeal, it may not be suitable for aggressive chewers and benefits from occasional reassembly to keep its shape.What we likeVisually striking design complements modern decorModular structure encourages interactive, customizable playWhat we dislikeNot recommended for heavy chewersBest suited for indoor use to preserve appearance4. Pet RandoseruThis Japanese leather dog backpack is inspired by the randoseru, the iconic Japanese schoolbag known for its structured silhouette and cultural significance. The design brings a playful nod to tradition, transforming your dogs look into something both nostalgic and fashion-forward. The proportions are thoughtfully scaled for pets, ensuring it sits comfortably and securely.Every stitch reflects careful craftsmanship, from the reinforced straps to the smooth, rounded edges. While the storage is modest, the visual impact is unforgettable. This is a piece for pet owners who want to share a story and make a statement with every stroll.What we likeUnique randoseru-inspired silhouetteHigh-quality leather and constructionWhat we dislikeBest for small to medium dogsRequires gentle cleaning to maintain finish5. PETKIT Breezy Dome 2 CarrierThe PETKIT Breezy Dome 2 Carrier is a futuristic travel solution for pets and their owners. Its rounded, translucent shell offers panoramic views and a sense of adventure, while the built-in fan and light ensure your pet stays comfortable and calm, even on longer journeys. The fan circulates fresh air, and the gentle light soothes anxious travelers, making this carrier ideal for city trips or weekend escapes.Inside, a plush pad and thoughtful ventilation create a cozy sanctuary on the move. The carrier is lightweight and easy to carry, with an ergonomic handle that feels good in your hand. This is a natural fit for those who value innovation and want their pet gear to feel as modern as the rest of their lifestyle.What we likeDistinctive, modern designExcellent ventilation and visibilityWhat we dislikeNot suitable for large petsInterior can be tricky to clean6. Helix Designer Cat FurnitureThe Helix from Furr & Co is a bold departure from conventional cat trees. Its spiral design and natural wood finish create a sculptural focal point that appeals to both cats and their owners. Each tier offers a new vantage point, encouraging climbing, lounging, and play.Unlike traditional cat furniture, the Helix is meant to be seen. It integrates seamlessly into contemporary spaces, proving that pet needs and great design are not mutually exclusive. This is furniture that enhances the room, not just the pets experience.What we likeSculptural, architectural formMultiple levels for activityWhat we dislikeRequires assemblyTakes up vertical space7. Canvas Wall ScratcherThe Maus Canvas Wall Scratcher is a fusion of artistry and function for both your cat and your home. This innovative product transforms your wall into a customizable cat-scratching masterpiece, with up to three vertically stacked boards that double as chic dcor and a climbing post. Each board, wrapped in durable rope, invites your cat to paint with their claws, turning daily scratching into a living artwork that evolves over time.With eight color options and endless combinations, the Canvas integrates beautifully into any interior. The intuitive mounting system allows for easy installation and quick rearrangement, so you can refresh your spaces look in seconds. Each board is double-sided for twice the lifespan, and the vertical stacking saves floor space while adding a bold, artistic flair to your wall.What we likeWide range of color optionsDouble-sided boards for extended useWhat we dislikeMay not appeal to cats who prefer horizontal scratchersRequires wall installation8. MiaCara Coda Cat ToyThe Coda Cat Toy by MiaCara is a rare example of a pet toy that appeals to both cats and design enthusiasts. Its mouse-inspired shape is crafted from natural cork and finished with a leather strap, offering tactile interest and visual charm. The lightweight construction makes it easy for cats to bat, chase, and carry.Small details, like the pearl accent on the tail, set this toy apart from ordinary options. It is a piece that looks as good on your living room floor as it does in your cats paws. The Coda is proof that playtime can be stylish.What we likeElegant, natural materialsVisually appealing designWhat we dislikeCork may wear down over timeNot suitable for aggressive chewers9. Staunton & Henry Self-Cleaning Pet Grooming BrushStaunton & Henrys Self-cleaning Pet Grooming Brush brings a touch of modernity to pet care. Its streamlined handle and matte finish feel comfortable and look great, while the self-cleaning feature makes maintenance simple. The bristles glide through fur, helping to reduce shedding and keep coats healthy.This brush is designed for both efficiency and aesthetics. It is easy to leave out on a countertop or shelf, blending in with other well-designed home tools. For pet owners who value both function and form, this brush is a welcome upgrade.What we likeSleek, modern appearanceSelf-cleaning mechanismWhat we dislikeNot ideal for very thick or curly coatsPlastic parts may wear over time10. Litter-Robot 4Whiskers Litter-Robot 4 is a standout in the world of pet tech, available in a crisp white or bold black finish. Its rounded exterior blends into modern homes without drawing unwanted attention, and the automated cleaning system is a game-changer for busy cat owners. The device keeps litter fresh and reduces daily chores, letting you spend more time enjoying your pet.Smart sensors and app connectivity put control at your fingertips, offering peace of mind and convenience. The Litter-Robot 4 is more than a litter box; it is a thoughtful solution for cat owners who expect their home technology to be as refined as their dcor.What we likeAutomated cleaning for convenienceSmart features with app integrationWhat we dislikeHigh upfront costSome cats may need time to adjustSniffing Out the Best in Pet DesignThis collection celebrates the intersection of creativity, function, and visual delight in everyday objects. Each featured item brings a unique perspective, whether through innovative materials, clever engineering, or a fresh take on familiar forms. By focusing on thoughtful design, the roundup invites readers to see how even the simplest accessories can become conversation pieces and elevate daily routines.From playful pet toys to sculptural home accents, these selections highlight the value of intentional, well-crafted products. The roundup encourages a shift toward pieces that spark curiosity and bring joy, proving that good design is never just about looksits about enhancing life in subtle, meaningful ways. Whether youre seeking inspiration or searching for your next favorite find, this list offers something to engage both the eye and the imagination.The post 10 Modern Designer Pet Products That Elevate Your Home: Luxury Beds, Toys, and Accessories for Dogs & Cats first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Clay House, a project by Elemental Design, is where earthy tones take the reign. Natural textures bring a sense of calm, while organic shapes guide the design. Its a home that feels timeless and grounded, and a tour through it will show you how.The Clay House exterior features a soft beige stone facade and classic black-framed windows. Tall evergreens frame the entrance, while a wrought-iron gate and blooming archway add elegance. A small patio invites quiet moments outdoors.Stepping inside, we see the staircase area. Curved wrought-iron railings create a rhythm against the warm-toned plaster walls. At the base, raw stone steps meet smooth wood treads. Walking up, you will be greeted by a hallway display that pairs a travertine console with a tactile wall hanging.In the open-plan living and dining area, warm-toned walls set a cozy backdrop for the sculptural furniture. The curved cream sofa and textured armchair create a relaxed lounge, anchored by a unique wooden coffee table. In the dining space, a dark, organic-shaped table pairs with cushioned chairs, inviting long and leisurely meals. Natural light floods in through large windows, highlighting every detail.This bedroom is a sunny retreat with soft pastels. A sky-blue upholstered headboard pairs with golden-yellow pillows and a whimsical sun-shaped cushion. Floor-to-ceiling windows, dressed in airy sheers, flood the space with natural light. The warm wood floors are partially covered by a bold mustard-and-white patterned rug that adds energy to the room. A sculptural beige chair, paired with a small teal side table, makes for a cozy nook. Built-in wardrobes with curved details frame a fluted wood sideboard, topped with charming decor and artwork.The terracotta-toned headboard in this bedroom pairs beautifully with soft cream bedding. Natural light pours in through large windows framed by textured curtains, while greenery adds a refreshing touch. A sculptural pendant light and uniquely shaped mirror bring artistic flair.This playful kids bedroom blends comfort with creativity. The low platform bed, dressed in soft mustard and grey tones, sits against a wavy, striped headboard. Matte black wall sconces add a modern touch, while the adjoining nook with a built-in bench offers a cozy reading or play spot. A dedicated study area features curved shelving, pastel green accents, and a sleek desk setupperfect for homework or art projects.The bathrooms in the Clay House make a statement of their own! In this space, a custom wood vanity with carved accents is topped with marble, while the quirky mirror frame in blue adds character. The wall tiles blend warm wood tones with creamy white, broken by a bold horizontal blue stripe for visual interest. A glass-enclosed shower, matte black fixtures, and a compact round terrazzo table keep the space as functional as is stylish.This bathroom exudes spa-like serenity with its soothing green tiles. A freestanding tub sits beneath a round window, offering a peaceful soak with a view. The sleek glass shower, stone vanity, and warm wood accents create earthy charm.

OK, so its been a little more than two months since the last Dev Log, but this time, weve got a little more than just progress updates to share!Namaqualand is out!After more than a year in the making, were finally happy to share our latest asset collection!A rocky South African Desert, blooming with wildflowers and succulents.Ive written a more detailed blog post about the trip and the project as a whole as well, which you can read here: https://blog.polyhaven.com/namaqualand/Browse the assetsDownload the scene fileRead more about the projectQwantani HDRI TripAt the Southern point of the Sterkfontein Dam, just shy of the Drakensberg mountains, is a reasonably sized hilltop that sits a short 10-minute hike from a holiday resort I visited several years ago: Qwantani.Jarod and I revisited this location in August for a week with the sole purpose of capturing more HDRIs from the hilltop.The weather was mostly clear the whole week, which is not super exciting, but we did at least capture what we came for (including testing out our new astro lens).Were still working on stitching all the HDRIs, but youll see them released over the next few weeks.Into the Deep End of Game DesignDario, Rico, Greg, Jenelle, JamesIn a blog post I wrote earlier this year, I explained a bit about the idea of Poly Haven getting into game development. But in a nutshell:Were exploring the idea of making video games as a means to prove the usefulness of our assets to show that the assets we make can indeed be used for the purposes we intend them much like how the Blender Studio creates open movies to prove and improve Blender itself.At the same time, wed like to explore if we can use this as a potential method for funding the creation of our 3D assets. Funding a team that makes free content has always been one of our biggest challenges (I did a talk about it a few Blender Conferences ago), and were wondering if selling video games might be a good way to support this.So, starting in October, we jumped into the deep end of game design: a 5-week sprint to make a game, any game, and get a clearer picture of what this idea might look like (and how much were in over our heads).The game that we make this month will be shared exclusively on Patreon to give us some stakes and accountability. Since this is more of a learning experience than a real game project, we wont be publishing the game anywhere else.No one on the team has any experience making games. Working on assets for games, yes, but nothing remotely connected to the task of designing and implementing gameplay at all.We dont intend to become game designers ourselves. Poly Haven, at its core, will remain an asset platform. Rather, we want to be able to relate to and better work with designers and developers we hire or collaborate with in the future.The broad idea is this: Learn a bit about game development this year (through this 5-week sprint and a jam or two) so that next year we can hire some talent and try to make something worthwhilethat suits Poly Havens mission too.Other ProjectsThose are the three big ones, but to give you an update on the other things happening in the background:The moon scans are still in the works, weve made some progress but plan to tackle it fully after the game sprint.The fabric scans are almost there, were just waiting for a final few scans before we can set up the materials in Blender and upload them.My Blender patch for the asset drag&drop handler still hasnt been reviewed, however another similar patch landed which ads a handler for append/linking in general. This could feasibly be used instead for all the features of our add-on that were relying on my patch, so Ill be looking into it soon.Were still planning to recategorize all our models, but since this may have some unknown impact on users on our site and in our add-on, wed like to wait and figure out new categories for textures and HDRIs first too.

After ditching digital in protest, this is my new process for traditional pencil sketching.