This anthropomorphic clay tablet was likely used in an ancient ritual by the Jmon culture in Japan.

I wanted to experiment with a low-effort reels-style video. Had a lot of fun making it! The result sorta looks photorealistic, but I am not really sure. Do you have any ideas on how can it be better? Highly optimised scene, rendered in about ~2 hours on a gaming laptop, rtx 2060 submitted by /u/rawrcewas [link] [comments]

Competitive gaming is not limited to just esports tournaments. For decades, some of the most intense PVP action happened at local arcades. Fighting games are also popular in homes, but only fight sticks provide a truly authentic experience. Leverless fight sticks have emerged as the best controllers for dominating Street Fighter and Tekken. The Turtle Beach Victrix Pro KO uses buttons instead of a joystick for more precise attacks.

We may earn a commission from links on this page.Though I am a dedicated daily Dunkin' Donuts consumer, that doesn't mean I don't make coffee at home. I'm a little coffee freak: I'll buy pre-made caffeine confections and brew my own on the same day. Nothing can stop my caffeine habit, not even financial barriers. When I want to caffeinate at home, I use a Nespresso machine, which is more expensive to buy upfront than some other coffeemakersbut the initial investment isn't the only chunk of change associated with using it. Here's what ongoing Nespresso ownership looks like from a financial standpoint, and how that compares to a regular ol' coffee pot. The upfront cost of a Nespresso machineFirst of all, there are a lot of different devices that fit under the category of "Nespresso machine." I personally own the Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine by De'Longhi (with milk frother), which I like for its small footprint and sleek look. Nespresso Vertuo Next Coffee and Espresso Machine, Dark Grey $144.99 at Amazon $219.00 Save $74.01 Shop Now Shop Now $144.99 at Amazon $219.00 Save $74.01 The brand has a variety of machines available beyond that one. All of the devices use disposable pods to brew cups of espresso or coffee, but each is a little differentand some can cost as much as $700. For the average consumer, like me, the smaller, less expensive ones are fine, but even saying "less expensive" here is purely relative, since $144 is nothing to scoff at when a standard coffee machine can be had for around $25. Machine cost: Starting at $144The best coffee options for the NespressoI prefer the taste and smoothness of my Nespresso to other brewing methods, but I know a lot of that depends on the quality of the coffee I'm putting into it, not necessarily the machine. I've found that it's more economical to source my pods directly from the brand rather than ordering them on Amazon or picking them up at Target. Depending on where you live, there may even be a Nespresso store near youin which case I recommend a visit; the employees tend to be extremely educated in all things coffee and can make recommendations to help you find your own perfect brew (that's how I wound up favoring the peanut and roasted sesame flavor). Plus you can sample everything, and even enjoy a cup at the in-store coffee counter. Signing up and getting a membership can be useful, as you'll regularly qualify for discounts and perks, and you'll earn points that can be traded for things like special mugs. Of course, you can always just order or buy pods from your usual retailers. While a sleeve of 10 pods through Nespresso typically costs between $9 and $15 before any discounts, the prices on Amazonboth for Nespresso-branded ones and other collaborations, like Starbucksare comparable. You can also get $16 refillable pods that can be used up to 100 times, though that doesn't include the cost of the beans you'll put in them.I like shopping directly through Nespresso not only for the membership rewards, but because there's such a variety of flavors and styles available, but I know the same is true across the wider world of coffee. I have a Trade Coffee subscription, for instance, that provides me with a new bag of exotic or rare coffee every few weeks, so I know how many varieties and blends are out there. You can easily make a fabulous brew in a standard coffee pot if you take the time to seek out blends and beans that are better than your average Folgers. For reference, you can buy enough Folgers coffee grounds to brew 240 cups of coffee for under $13. My favorite blend I've received from Trade, the Famlia Peixoto, is $15.75 per bag and makes 20 cups. Obviously, both of those options are more economical than the 10 cups you get for around $14 from Nespresso, so factor in that extra expense if you're considering this machine. Pods cost: Starting at 90 cents to $1.50 eachCleaning the Nespresso can also cost youFinally, while you can clean and descale your Nespresso machine using vinegar (and I have even outlined the process for you), Nespresso recommends against doing so in favor of using their own products for cleaning. If you end up going the recommend route, you'll pay $12.99 to get two descaling packs. After using my machine for a year, I've stuck with the vinegar method, but I do think I'll use the recommended cleaner soon. It's better to be safe than sorry, and I've noticed some weird tastes in my coffee lately, so it looks like I'll be adding another $13 to my list of expenses. Cost of cleaning: $13 for two descaling packsMust-have Nespresso machine accessories Just like when I got my Peloton, I didn't stop to think about which accessories I might end up needing for a Nespresso machine, but since I made such a significant initial investment in both cases, I wanted to make sure I had all the add-ons to help me get the most out of it. If you're like me, that's more money you'll have to spend.My favorite enhancement has definitely been my pod organizer. I got the rotating pod tree for $16.99, but you can also get pull-out drawers that stack underneath the machine itself for around $35. In retrospect, I wish I'd gotten the drawer instead of the rotating tree, since it would add a few inches to the height of my machine and make it easier for me to brew directly into my tall to-go mugs, but hindsight is 20/20. EVERIE glass Nespresso pod drawer $34.95 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $34.95 at Amazon I also got "The Sphere," which is just a little metal ball with prongs that you store in the freezer and set on top of your cup while you're brewing. It cost me a little over $13 and I got it thinking it would cool my drinks to iced coffee temperature without watering them down, but so far I haven't been able to make it work that way; it just lowers the temperature a little, not a lot. What it does do well is remove some bitterness from the brew, which is key for me as someone who uses each pod twice to save some moneythe second brew of a pod always gets a little nasty, and this ball helps with that, though I can't explain the science behind it. Bottom lineThough it costs more than an old school coffeemaker, both on initial investment and over time, I still recommend the Nespresso, and I'm glad I have one. It's easier to use and I like the flavor of my coffee. As long as you're comfortable paying a premium for the convenience, I think you'll be pleased too.

Samsung's 32-inch Smart Monitor M8 (M80D, 2024 refresh) can act not only as a monitor with a webcam, but a smart TV as well thanks to the built-in speakers and support for cloud gaming and streaming platforms. It normally costs $700, but it's back down near an all-time low of $400 at Amazon, netting you a savings of $300 or 43 percent. The refreshed Smart Monitor M8 has the same features as past models, but can now do even more things with the need for a computer or console including video calls via the detachable webcam and streaming content from providers like Netflix and Prime Video. Theres even a tool that lets you quickly send images and text from other Samsung devices, like Galaxy smartphones and Book laptops, to the monitor. It also integrates with Galaxy Buds to offer a surround sound-like experience with minimal latency. It offers UHD (3,840 x 2,160) resolution at up to 60Hz, along with HDR10+. With a VA panel, it's decently bright at 400 nits, offers a 4-millisecond response time and displays up to a billion colors, with 99 percent sRGB coverage. Input-wise, you get USB-C and Micro HDMI 2.0 inputs, along with a USB-C charging interface. Finally, it has a a detachable SlimFit Cam for video calls, making it a solid choice for work or light content creation. That's just the half of it, though. It's a WiFi-capable smart TV that supports Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ and Apple TV, as well as cloud gaming platforms. It comes with built-in dual 5W speakers and a home hub that allows you to use it to control SmartThings-compatible IoT devices like lights and thermostats. It even has built-in support for Microsoft 365, so you can edit documents or browse the web without having to connect it to a computer. Other features include the ability to change the angle and position with the high-adjustable stand, along with a game bar that makes it easy to switch between cloud services. Normally it sells for $700, making the $400 sale price a particularly good deal so it's best to act fast while it's in stock. Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/deals/samsungs-2024-smart-m8-monitor-is-on-sale-for-just-399-130009470.html?src=rss

If youre experiencing false malware alerts on Docker Desktop, consider installing a patch to regain access.

If youre a chicken-and-cheese taquito lover, youll want to check your freezer to make sure you dont have one specific product in it right now. Thats because tens of thousands of pounds of a frozen chicken-and-cheese taquito product are being recalled after the product was found to be contaminated with metal fragments. Heres what you need to know about the recall.What is being recalled?The recall is being initiated for a Casa Mamita Chicken & Cheese Taquitos product made by California-based Bestway Sandwiches Inc. The recall involves the 20-ounce carton packages of the product with the Best Buy dates 07/03/25 and 09/25/25 printed on the bottom panel, according to a recall notice posted on the USDAs Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) website.The products were originally produced on July 3, 2024, and September 25, 2024 and bear the establishment number EST. P-40327 on the carton package.In total, approximately 24,870 pounds of the product are being recalled.An image of the Casa Mamita Chicken & Cheese Taquitos packaging can be found here.Why is the chicken and cheese taquito product being recalled?The recall is being made voluntarily by Bestway Sandwiches Inc. and was initiated after the company received reports of foreign material inside the chicken and cheese taquitos. Specifically, the foreign material is metal fragments, according to the recall notice. It is unknown where the metal fragments originate from.Where were the recalled products sold?The recalled products were shipped to select Aldi grocery stores across the country, according to the recall notice.Given that they were produced last year and have a long storage life, there are concerns that consumers could still have the products in their freezers.Has anyone been injured by the metal fragments?Unfortunately, yes. according to the recall notice, one consumer reported a dental injury from the recalled product.What should I do if I have the recalled product?Check your freezer for the recalled product. If you have it, do not consume it. Either throw the product away or return it to the place of purchase for a refund.

Design studio Uchronia has overhauled womenswear boutique Koibird in London's Marylebone, introducing a gradient colour scheme and details including a giant planet sculpture and a floor made from painted lava stone.Uchronia designed the store, as well as its in-house nutrition bar Koi 11, with the aim of giving the interior an "eclectic" feel.Hand-painted lava stone tiles cover the floor at Koibird in Marylebone"The concept for the Koibird renovation was to create an immersive and dynamic space that blends fashion, wellness and food into a seamless sensory experience," Uchrinia founder Julien Sebban told Dezeen."Our goal was to design a destination that embodies Koibird's eclectic identity, merging discovery and innovation in every element."Uchronia also designed Koibird's Koi 11 nutrition barTo do so, Uchronia used a bright palette of graduated colours, with green blending into pink and purple in the store's main room, which also features psychedelic green-and-purple flooring tiles made from hand-painted lava stone."The colour palette was inspired by Koibird's iconic brand hues and a desire to create an atmospheric gradient that would guide customers through different sensory zones," Sebban explained."We incorporated a spectrum from deep purples to vibrant greens on the walls, evoking a playful yet sophisticated ambience that mirrors the store's multifaceted offerings."A shimmering silver room is hidden in the backThe refurbishment also features a hidden back room, which Uchronia clad in shimmering silver tiles. Other playful details in the store include a shelf shaped like the letter K and amorphous furniture in silver and pink."Silver was chosen as a key accent because of its reflective, futuristic quality and its symbolic resonance with Koibird's otherworldly aesthetic," Sebban said.Read: Uchronia designs Cafe Shin to be "halfway between Paris and Seoul""The metallic sheen adds a sense of discovery and surprise, especially in the central silver planet and the hidden silver-tiled room, both of which create captivating focal points," he added."Silver represents transformation, serving as a visual metaphor for the evolution and versatility that defines Koibird's identity."The giant planet sculpture is an eye-catching centrepieceUchronia created two eye-catching silver sculptures for the store a spaceship in the window and a large planet on the main floor designed as "a nod to cosmic exploration"."The silver planet, which serves as a centrepiece for the store, was meticulously designed to be both sculptural and functional," Sebban said."Our goal was to create a central feature that would feel like a work of art a nod to cosmic exploration while seamlessly integrating the clothing display."Uchronia added amorphous furnitureThe studio hopes that the redesign will create an immersive feel and draw customers into the brand's world."By fusing contemporary design with artisanal craftsmanship, we sought to create an inspiring environment where visitors feel transported into the whimsical yet luxurious world of Koibird," Sebban concluded."The result is a hybrid universe where form, function and aesthetic pleasure intersect, reinforcing Koibird's bold, statement-making identity."Uchronia, which was named emerging interior design studio of the year at the 2023 Dezeen Awards, recently designed Cafe Shin in Paris to be "halfway between Paris and Seoul".The photography is by Flix Dol Maillot.The post Uchronia gives London's Koibird store a colourful psychedelic revamp appeared first on Dezeen.

Form follows function is a motto that every designer and design enthusiast holds close to their heart, encapsulating the essence of thoughtful and purposeful design. I have always been fascinated by the interplay between form and function in our everyday environments, observing how well-designed spaces can enhance our daily experiences. The modern workplace, with its constant evolution and dynamic nature, presents a unique canvas for innovation and creativity. As work environments continue to change in response to technological advancements and shifting work cultures, designers are challenged to create spaces that not only meet functional needs but also inspire and motivate.Office pods provide a quiet retreat within the bustling open plan workplace, fostering productivity and collaboration. Additionally, office pods have become increasingly popular since the advent of COVID-19, offering secluded workspaces and unprecedented privacy in commercial settings. In recent times, the rise of portable office pods has revolutionized both conventional offices and home office setups, offering compact workspaces with modern amenities tailored to individual needs.Trendy as it may be, not everyone is sold on the concept. There are definitely cases where the design might do more harm than good, whether its in terms of aesthetics or the effects on peoples productivity. Consider the following pros and cons of office pods to evaluate whether they are a beneficial addition to office settings.Pros of Office Pods:Office pods offer a range of benefits that make them an appealing addition to modern workspaces. One of their primary advantages is the enhanced privacy they provide, allowing employees to focus on tasks without the distractions typical of open-plan offices. This increased concentration can lead to improved productivity and job satisfaction.For a big office space, office pods are versatile, accommodating various needs from quiet individual work to small group meetings. Their compact design makes them a space-efficient solution, ideal for maximizing the use of available office space. Furthermore, many office pods incorporate soundproofing and ergonomic features, contributing to a healthier and more comfortable work environment.1. The Allure of PrivacyIn the bustling world of open-plan offices, the quest for privacy is often elusive. Office pods provide a much-needed retreat, carving out personal space amidst the chaos. They address the multifunctional needs of todays workplaces by balancing open collaboration with the necessity for enclosed privacy. The Iris pod, designed in collaboration with Deepak Chopra and Yves Behar, exemplifies this beautifully. Its nest-like interior, crafted from sustainable materials and equipped with sound and light technology, creates an oasis for meditation in the midst of a busy environment. This pod showcases how thoughtful design can cater to both the mind and the soul, providing a sanctuary that enhances well-being.Moreover, the privacy offered by office pods is not just about isolation but about creating a space that fosters introspection and creativity. In an era where constant connectivity can lead to burnout, these pods offer a respite that allows individuals to recharge and refocus. The ability to step away from the noise and distractions of an open office can significantly boost productivity and mental clarity. By integrating elements of tranquility into their design, office pods serve as a reminder that the work environment should support both professional and personal growth.2. Enhancing Focus and ProductivityThe need for focus in our work cannot be overstated. Open office layouts, while fostering communication, often compromise concentration. Office pods step in as productivity enhancers, shielding us from distractions. The Kameleon Office Booth by Askia Furniture is a prime example of how design can influence productivity. Inspired by the adaptive chameleon, its design integrates seamlessly into diverse office settings. With customizable panels and a sound-proof interior, it offers a flexible and functional workspace that is as versatile as it is visually appealing. This adaptability ensures that the pod can meet the specific needs of different users, enhancing its utility in any office environment.Furthermore, office pods like the Kameleon are designed to be dynamic, responding to the ever-changing demands of the modern workplace. Their modular nature allows for easy reconfiguration, making them ideal for businesses that require agility and responsiveness. By minimizing distractions and creating a dedicated space for focused work, these pods enable employees to perform at their best. The thoughtful integration of technology and ergonomic features further enhances the user experience, proving that well-considered design can have a profound impact on productivity and job satisfaction.3. Versatility in DesignWhat truly excites me about office pods is their versatility. They come in various sizes, accommodating both solitary work and small group collaborations. Microsofts Flowspace, for instance, combines the comforts of home with the efficiency of the office. Its sleek design, automated privacy panels, and integrated workspace elements make it a perfect fit for hybrid work environments. This innovative approach allows for a seamless transition between different modes of work, catering to the diverse needs of todays workforce. By offering a personalized workspace, Flowspace enables employees to tailor their environment to suit their preferences, enhancing both comfort and productivity.The versatility of office pods extends beyond their physical design to the way they can be used. Whether its a quiet space for individual work, a collaborative hub for team meetings, or a creative zone for brainstorming sessions, these pods can adapt to various functions. This flexibility makes them an invaluable asset in dynamic work environments where the nature of work can shift rapidly. By providing a range of options, office pods empower employees to choose the setting that best supports their tasks, fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability.4. Acoustic ExcellenceNoise is the nemesis of productivity, and office pods tackle this challenge head-on with superior acoustic design. Rooms Meeting Room, with its soundproof and air-ventilated structure, offers a private haven for business meetings. This prefabricated marvel integrates seamlessly into any office setting, proving that good design can indeed be both functional and unobtrusive. By significantly reducing ambient noise, these pods create an environment conducive to focused work and confidential discussions. This acoustic excellence is particularly valuable in open-plan offices where distractions are commonplace.The attention to acoustic detail in office pods highlights the importance of sound management in workplace design. By incorporating sound-dampening materials and innovative engineering, these pods offer a level of acoustic privacy that is hard to achieve in traditional office settings. This not only benefits individual users but also enhances the overall work environment by reducing noise pollution. As a result, office pods contribute to a more harmonious and productive workplace, where employees can concentrate without interruption and engage in meaningful interactions without the distraction of background noise.5. Sustainability and InnovationAs we strive towards a more sustainable future, the trend of constructing pods with eco-friendly materials is commendable. ROOMs personal home offices, made from recycled plastic bottles, are a brilliant example of how design can be both environmentally conscious and highly functional.This commitment to sustainability reflects a broader movement within the design community to prioritize eco-friendly practices. By reducing the carbon footprint of office pods, designers are contributing to a more sustainable future while also cutting costs for businesses.Innovation in sustainable design is not limited to materials; it extends to the very concept of how we use space. The Minka Solar Pod by Duffy London, an outdoor workspace powered entirely by solar energy, exemplifies this forward-thinking approach. By harnessing renewable energy, the Minka Solar Pod offers a viable alternative to traditional indoor workspaces, allowing employees to connect with nature while maintaining productivity. This innovative design challenges conventional notions of the workplace and opens up new possibilities for how and where we work.6. Ergonomic ComfortThe emphasis on ergonomic design in office pods is another aspect that I find particularly appealing. The Phone Booth Acoustic Pod by Room, with its recycled materials and sound-dampening features, offers a comfortable and peaceful workspace. This pod is a reminder that good design should prioritize the well-being of its users, enhancing comfort through thoughtful details like adjustable lighting and temperature control. By focusing on ergonomic principles, these pods ensure that users can work comfortably for extended periods, reducing the risk of strain and injury.Ergonomic design is not just about physical comfort; it also plays a crucial role in enhancing mental well-being. By creating a workspace that is tailored to the needs of the user, office pods help reduce stress and increase satisfaction. Features such as adjustable seating, optimal lighting, and climate control contribute to a more pleasant and productive work environment. This attention to detail demonstrates how design can support both physical and mental health, making office pods a valuable addition to any modern workspace.Cons of Office Pods:While office pods offer numerous benefits, they also come with certain drawbacks that can pose challenges for businesses. One significant concern is their high upfront cost, which can be prohibitive for companies with limited budgets. Also extended use of a pod by any member may cause isolation from the rest of the team, breaking the team spirit needed for improved communication and collaboration in teams.Another drawback of office pods is their limited capacity, which can restrict their utility in larger office settings. Given that it is a large structure, taking up space and availability of your floor, it is important to consider whether it blends with your current aesthetic seamlessly. Before integrating office pods into the design, its important to consider these drawbacks and we have dived deeper into some of these topics below.1. CostlyOne major drawback of office pods is their high upfront cost, making them a significant investment compared to traditional office furniture. This is especially challenging for offices with tight budgets, as ongoing maintenance and repairs can add to additional expenses over time.Office design trends, like a pendulum, shift over time. Cubicles were once criticized as impersonal, replaced by distracting open floor plans. However, amidst the bustling workplace, theres a need for moments of solace. Enter office pods, offering enclosed sanctuaries for brief respites. The Zen Pod, inspired by Japanese aesthetics, blends seamlessly into its surroundings while providing a tranquil retreat. Constructed with acoustic materials, it dampens noise by up to 31dB, enabling private conversations. Designed for stress-free installation, the Zen Pod serves as an essential safe space in any workplace, offering both calm and productivity in a compact design.2. Limited CapacityPods come with limited space and are only suitable for a single user or for smaller meetings or presentations, thus restricting the number of participants who can attend meetings within the pod office. One such example is the Mono study pod, designed by Philip Bogaerts and Ren Vullings for an office furniture brand, stands out as a foldable, sound-dampened workspace. Its flexibility allows for easy folding and storage, and it comes in single or double-sized options with a high back. Ideal for temporary or permanent use, the Mono pod can be linked together to create individual or unified settings, featuring variations like the Mono T version with a fold-out table and optional wheels for transportation.These advantages and disadvantages can surely help in determining if the office pod is the best option for you. Since pods are designed in isolation, it is important to make provisions for HVAC, electrical lines, and data cables, which may arise and cause delays in the implementation of the project. In a recent innovation, just see how office pods have evolved into inspiring workspaces.Forget waterfront offices; how about an office right on the water? Enclaves offers a unique blend of office space and a lazy river, ideal for remote work. Designed by Agnieszka Biaek, these tranquil floating pods provide stunning views and maximum privacy, accessible only by kayak. They feature soft, curved edges, a contemporary aesthetic, and are 3D-printed using waterproof and recycled materials. Enclaves are perfect for meetings, deep focus sessions, or simply enjoying the scenery away from home.The post Exploring the Benefits and Drawbacks of Office Pods in Todays Workplaces first appeared on Yanko Design.