Interior design in 2025 will honour the century-old principles of art deco, favouring statement objects made to last in a departure from the neutral minimalism that characterised last year, designers tell Dezeen.As the new year gets underway, Dezeen spoke to interior designers about their trend predictions for 2025. The creatives were united in acknowledging the ever-growing urgency of sustainability, but without compromising on much-needed escapism in myriad forms."Last year, we saw a lot of organic architecture and humble interiors," reflected DorotheMeilichzon, who was crowned interior designer of the year at November's Dezeen Awards."Maybe now it's time to move in the opposite direction while reusing elements from the past," said the French designer.Dorothe Meilichzon is known for eclectic spaces including the Montesol Experimental in Ibiza. Photo by Karel Balas"Reality is super tough all around the world," she added. "We might need to go back to dreaming! I am wondering if we will be back to grandiose and bigger-than-reality. A bit out of scale, revisited baroque old-school interiors twisted."Smita Thomas, founder of Bengaluru studio Multitude of Sins, agreed."The era of monotone, single-colour, single-material spaces is fading into oblivion," she told Dezeen. "This shift will emerge from a collective yearning for authenticity and connection in a world that feels increasingly fragmented."That sentiment was echoed byJulien Sebban, founder of Paris studio Uchronia and the 2023 winner of the Dezeen Award for emerging interior designer."While 2024 has been about minimalism and earthy tones, 2025 will take a bolder step towards experimentation and self-expression," he said. "The focus will shift from simply functional and neutral to more dynamic, emotionally engaging designs.""Mavericks will emerge"Retreating from minimalism will not be as simple as coating everything in bold colours and textures, said Thomas.Rather, she acknowledged a collective desire to add personality and meaning to interior spaces after a sustained trend for beige and often bland homes."We'll move beyond simply making a splash," speculated the designer. "It'll be about depth and nuance. We'll see a surge of creativity that breaks free from convention.""I believe we're on the cusp of a seismic shift in design, where more trailblazers and mavericks will emerge, creating space for liberated and authentic work," she added.London restaurant Kioku highlights Pirajean Lees's "appreciation for craft". Photo by Polly TootalExecuting statement interiors does not necessarily mean more is more, acknowledged James Lees, co-founder of London studio Pirajean Lees."We're embracing a lifestyle of less, where every piece we own carries meaning and fosters an emotional connection," he suggested."There's a renewed appreciation for craft celebrating the handmade and finding beauty in the natural imperfections of materials and objects," added Lees."The spotlight is on quality materials, rich textures and expert craftsmanship," added fellow co-founder Clmence Pirajean.Recovery from marble "overdose"This year marks 100 years since art deco short for arts dcoratifs emerged at the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts, held in Paris in 1925.The centenary not lost on interior designers, some of whom believe that it offers a chance to revisit the style's core values."At a time when sustainability is essential, the art-deco style attracts with its focus on high-quality materials and objects designed to last," said Paris collaborators Samantha Hauvette and Lucas Madani."Unlike ephemeral trends, art deco favours well-constructed furniture and robust materials in line with today's desire to reduce rapid consumption and favour pieces that will stand the test of time," they added.Samantha Hauvette and Lucas Madani, designers of this Paris apartment, predict a return to the art-deco style. Photo by Franois Coquerel"Some trends are in danger of disappearing rapidly because of the speed with which social networks spread fashions, and the responsiveness of manufacturers to produce cheap copies," continued Hauvette and Madani."This phenomenon creates a saturation point that makes certain pieces, initially highly prized, almost boring."The designers cited beige boucle round-shaped furniture, ceramic or plaster-clad lighting and the "indiscriminate use of marble" as tired and overexploited."These trends were initially appreciated for their originality. But their massive popularity, fuelled by excessive production, quickly led to an aesthetic 'overdose'," said Hauvette and Madani."Art deco's elegance, timeless quality and symbolism of resilience make it a style that responds to today's aspirations and challenges.""Localisation should become more pronounced"Unsurprisingly, designers were concerned about sustainability. Tokyo creative Keiji Ashizawa called for the localisation of interior design to minimise the international transportation of materials."This is an essential trend that is sustainable and necessary to preserve local culture, creating individuality in each place," said Ashizawa, known for using Japanese wood and other high-quality natural materials."Localisation should become more pronounced with each passing year," he added. "I think designers will be required to develop materials and participate in production."Renowned for projects championing efficient insulation, Barcelona studio Takk envisaged moving away from a typical residential model based on closed rooms accessed through "endless corridors"."Spaces nested within each other instead of placed along corridors allow us, in addition to reinventing privacy, to control the climate of each room, saving energy," said studio co-founders Mireia Luzrraga and Alejandro Muio.Takk experiments with improving insulation, as seen in this Barcelona home. Photo byJos HeviaThe designers cited local wood, cork, cotton and wool as sustainable materials that provide warmth to domestic spaces."We are increasingly going to move towards more generous spaces without so many dividing walls, where even spaces traditionally designed for individual use such as bathrooms will become spaces that can be used in company, as is the case with kitchens," they continued."Multi-functional spaces remain a priority [for 2025], with designs that seamlessly adapt from home to workspace or transition effortlessly from day to night," agreed UK-based designer Tola Ojuolape.Read: Maximalism to make way for "quiet refinement" in 2024 say interior designersOjuolape echoed the desire for a "remixed maximalism" that moves away from neutral boucle and soft textures. The designer also put her faith in "the power of colour" and refined and sleek materials, including stainless steel."These trends reflect a rising desire for greater individuality and spaces that combine comfort with inspiration and distinctiveness," suggested Ojuolape."The focus on grounded richer colours and hybrid functionality highlights evolving lifestyles and a deeper connection to personal expression."Designer of this Montreal office Mnard Dworkind studio strives to stay away from trends. Photo by Alex LesageIn 2025, the very concept of design trends is also being questioned.Hong Kong designer Andr Fu, for example, suggested they are becoming less relevant."The world of interiors is no longer trend-driven and the underlying value of design lies in its ability to provide a point of difference and a way to express the familiar with a fresh perspective," he reflected."Visual stories that are culturally rooted should prevail.""We strive to not follow trends easier said than done and create work that is a bit more timeless and follows our personal design language," echoed David Dworkind, co-founder of Montreal studio Mnard Dworkind. "So I try to not have an ear to the beat of what's trending."The main image is by David Mitchell and shows the art deco-informed Smith & Mills restaurant by Woods Bagot, inside New York City's Rockefeller Center.Dezeen In DepthIf you enjoy reading Dezeen's interviews, opinions and features,subscribe to Dezeen In Depth. Sent on the last Friday of each month, this newsletter provides a single place to read about the design and architecture stories behind the headlines.The post "Yearning for authenticity" central to bolder interior design in 2025 appeared first on Dezeen.

In the early- to mid-20th century, when smoking was popular, there was a type of cigarette dispenser that you'd leave on the table if you were hosting a party. It elevated the act of offering cigarettes into a little piece of theater:As you can see by the design, you had to laboriously load the thing. I never did learn what the thing was called; some have suggested "cigarette elevator," which doesn't yield good results from search engines. In any case, a Thai product brand called Qualy Design has adapted the cigarette thingy into something more wholesome, for kids: Admittedly less dramatic. It's called the Dinsor, and it's easier to load than the cigarette thing; there are no dedicated sleeves.

In a world that glorifies hustle culture and instant gratification, its easy to feel like life is slipping through our fingers. We rush from one task to the next, barely pausing to catch our breathlet alone appreciate the beauty around us. But what if true fulfillment isnt found in doing more, but in doing less, with greater intention?Slow living invites us to rethink our relationship with time, space, and possessions. Its about curating a life that aligns with our valueswhere every object serves a purpose, every routine becomes a ritual, and every moment is an opportunity to be present. Research shows that intentional living can reduce stress, enhance well-being, and even boost creativity by giving our minds the space they need to wander and reflect.This carefully curated selection of slow living essentials will help you foster a sense of calm, mindfulness, and appreciation for the small, meaningful moments that often go unnoticed. Whether its through thoughtful design, sustainable materials, or the simple joy of tactile experiences, these products will inspire you to embrace a more considered and fulfilling way of living.1. Miniature Bonfire Wood Diffuser SetWhy is it noteworthy?This charming diffuser set captures the rustic essence of a campfire, offering a sensory escape to the mountains and forests right from your home. Its beautifully crafted miniature firewood and stainless steel construction combine function with aesthetics, making it a conversation-worthy addition to any space.How it enhances slow living:By filling your space with the calming scent of Mt. Hakusan, it encourages you to pause, breathe deeply, and embrace a sense of tranquility. Whether youre using it as a diffuser or a pocket stove, it turns everyday moments into a mindful retreat.Click Here to Buy Now: $99What we like:Doubles as a pocket stove with included trivets.Authentic firewood bundled with a rustic knot.Stainless steel construction ensures long-lasting durability.What we dislike:Requires careful supervision when in use.2. Portable Fire Pit StandWhy is it noteworthy?This thoughtfully designed fire pit stand brings the joy of outdoor cooking to any adventure, offering a compact and stylish solution for creating a cozy bonfire. With its puzzle-like assembly and industrial-inspired cutouts, it combines form and function effortlessly, ensuring durability without compromising on aesthetics.How it enhances slow living:By simplifying outdoor cooking and gathering around a fire, it encourages meaningful momentswhether youre enjoying solo reflection under the stars or sharing stories with loved ones. Its warp-resistant black steel plate guarantees longevity, allowing you to slow down and savor every experience.Click Here to Buy Now: $119What we like:Easy to assemble, clean, and transport.Removable trivet supports multiple cooking methods.Durable heat-resistant black steel construction.What we dislike:Takes time to cool down after use.3. Anywhere-Use LampWhy is it noteworthy?Designed to adapt to your lifestyle, this sleek and portable lamp offers effortless lighting wherever you need it. With a mushroom-inspired silhouette and intuitive touch control, it blends minimalism with functionality. The new Industrial edition adds a rugged charm with its scratch-detailed metal base, celebrating the beauty of imperfection while providing a warm and inviting glow.How it enhances slow living:By offering soft, customizable lighting with a tactile experience, it encourages you to slow down and create a cozy ambiance that complements your mood. Whether its for quiet moments of reading or enhancing an evening gathering, its portable design makes every space feel intentional and inviting.Click Here to Buy Now: $149What we like:Four adjustable brightness levels for various settings.Portable and modular design for on-the-go use.Industrial edition features a unique, character-rich finish.What we dislike:Requires four AA batteries for operation.4. Statement Floral Bud VaseWhy is it noteworthy?This elegantly understated bud vase reimagines floral display by focusing attention on the natural beauty of a single bloom and its stem. Crafted from metal with a minimalist design, it seamlessly blends into its surroundings, allowing flowers to take center stage. With its weighted base and delicate proportions, it transforms any plate or bowl into a sophisticated Ikebana-inspired arrangement.How it enhances slow living:Encouraging a mindful approach to floral arrangement, it invites you to appreciate the quiet elegance of nature. Whether placed in a tranquil corner or as a table centerpiece, it fosters a deeper connection with your environment and the fleeting beauty of each bloom.Click Here to Buy Now: $39What we like:Thoughtfully weighted design for stability.Versatile adapter for different stem sizes.Available in timeless Silver and elegant Pink Gold finishes.What we dislike:Limited to displaying single stems.5. Stacking Sake DrinkwareWhy is it noteworthy?Crafted from authentic tin, this exquisite drinkware set elevates the art of sake drinking by enhancing its flavor and smoothness. Inspired by traditional Japanese rice cakes, its thoughtfully designed stackable form offers both aesthetic charm and functional elegance. The sandblasted matte finish provides a satisfying tactile experience, making every sip a sensory delight.How it enhances slow living:By transforming sake drinking into a mindful ritual, this set encourages you to slow down and appreciate the cultural heritage and craftsmanship behind each cup. Whether enjoyed in solitude or shared with a friend, it fosters a deeper connection to tradition and the present moment.Click Here to Buy Now: $299What we like:Enhances the taste and texture of sake.Versatile stacking design for solo or shared experiences.Rust-resistant and easy to maintain.What we dislike:Requires gentle handling to maintain its finish.6. Earth-friendly TumblerWhy is it noteworthy?This tumbler blends sustainability with contemporary design, offering an eco-conscious alternative without compromising on style. Crafted from biodegradable resin sourced from paper and corn, it provides a tactile experience reminiscent of ceramic and wood, while its matte black finish adds a refined touch to everyday hydration. Each piece carries subtle variations, making every tumbler uniquely its own.How it enhances slow living:Encouraging mindful hydration, this tumbler invites you to savor every sip while staying connected to sustainable choices. Its biodegradable materials and durable design make it an ideal companion for slowing down and appreciating the balance between functionality and responsibility.Click Here to Buy Now: $25What we like:Made from biodegradable, eco-friendly materials.Heat-resistant and coated for water resistance.Unique texture with natural variations.What we dislike:Requires careful handling to maintain its finish.7. MagBoard ClipboardWhy is it noteworthy?This minimalist clipboard redefines note-taking with its innovative magnet and lever mechanism, offering unparalleled flexibility for organizing thoughts and sketches. Whether youre jotting down ideas on the go or refining your designs, the sleek hardcover ensures durability while providing a stable writing surface anywhere you need it.How it enhances slow living:By eliminating the constraints of traditional notebooks, it encourages a more intuitive and fluid approach to capturing ideas. The ability to rearrange pages effortlessly fosters a clutter-free, organized mindsetallowing you to focus on creativity without distractions.Click Here to Buy Now: $45What we like:Holds up to 30 sheets with a secure magnetic clip.Durable hardcover for writing on the go.Water-resistant and easy to clean.What we dislike:Requires loose sheets instead of bound pages.8. Jewel Vase Mirror StandWhy is it noteworthy?This beautifully designed mirror stand does more than reflect your imageit enhances the beauty of anything placed before it, from a delicate flower to your favorite accessories. With its striking polyhedron shape and multipurpose functionality, it serves as both a decorative accent and a practical addition to your space. Crafted from eco-friendly bioplastic infused with rice husks, it offers a sustainable and stylish way to elevate your surroundings.How it enhances slow living:Encouraging mindfulness in daily rituals, this mirror vase invites you to appreciate the simple act of arranging flowers or curating your favorite accessories. Its minimalist presence promotes a sense of calm and beauty, transforming ordinary moments into meaningful experiences.Click Here to Buy Now: $59What we like:Versatile design functions as both a mirror and a vase.Unique geometric form adds visual interest.Made from sustainable bioplastic material.What we dislike:Limited space for holding larger items.9. Scissors with BaseWhy is it noteworthy?These elegantly designed scissors redefine accessibility and style with their magnetic base, ensuring they are always within reach and upright when you need them. Crafted from high-quality Japanese stainless steel with a sleek Teflon coating, they offer a precise, effortless cutting experience while doubling as a stylish desk accessory. One of the finger rings even functions as a convenient box cutter, adding versatility to their sophisticated design.How it enhances slow living:By providing a dedicated home for your scissors, this set eliminates the frustration of misplaced tools, encouraging a more organized and intentional workspace. Its durable construction and thoughtful design turn everyday tasks into a satisfying, streamlined experience.Click Here to Buy Now: $49What we like:Magnetic base keeps scissors upright and accessible.Dual-purpose design with an integrated box cutter.Premium materials ensure longevity and precision.What we dislike:Heavier than standard scissors due to the sturdy build.10. Smart Tea PotWhy is it noteworthy?This next-generation teapot redefines the tea-drinking experience with cutting-edge technology that tailors each brew to your mood and environment. Featuring an app-connected brewing system and advanced sensors, it brings the precision of a professional tea master into your home, ensuring every cup is brewed to perfection. The patented rotary brewing system, inspired by Japanese techniques, enhances flavor complexity, transforming tea time into an artful ritual.How it enhances slow living:By personalizing every cup to your unique state of mind and surroundings, this smart teapot encourages you to slow down and savor the moment. Whether youre seeking relaxation or a boost of energy, it allows you to engage with the ritual of tea-making in a meaningful, sensory-driven way.Click Here to Buy Now: $349What we like:App-controlled brewing for precision and consistency.Advanced sensors tailor tea to your mood and physical state.Expansive tea database enhances exploration and discovery.What we dislike:Requires app connectivity for full functionality.Embracing slow living isnt about stepping away from modern lifeits about redefining how we engage with it. By surrounding ourselves with objects that inspire mindfulness and intention, we can create a sanctuary of calm within the chaos. Each carefully chosen piece serves as a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and reconnect with what truly matterswhether its savoring the ritual of preparing tea, appreciating the artistry of a well-crafted tool, or simply allowing yourself to enjoy the stillness of a beautifully arranged space.Slow living is a journey, not a destination. Its about cultivating a deeper appreciation for the present moment, one small choice at a time. Start by integrating thoughtful designs into your daily routineletting them guide you toward a more balanced, intentional way of life. Over time, these mindful moments will weave themselves into the fabric of your everyday, bringing a sense of fulfillment and harmony that resonates far beyond the physical objects themselves.The post 10 Best Minimalist Slow Living design gifts to enhance your daily life first appeared on Yanko Design.

Style: Modern Romantic MinimalismColor Combination: soft cream, warm taupe, cognac brown, matte black with brass accentsWho is it for: Ideal for couples wanting luxurious comfort without traditional frills.Budget: $-$$Ethereal Elegance Bedroom Shopping ListBelow we present a curated list of products presented on the board:1. Comforter Bedding Set2. Textured Knit Throw Blanket3. Drancy Chevron Lumbar Pillow4. Plush Abstract Area Rug5. Rovaurx 9 Drawers Dresser6. HUIMO Bedroom Bench7. Spiral Floor Vase8. Fiddle Leaf Fig Artificial Tree9. Gold Task Table Lamp10. Bohemian Pendant Light11. Framed Wall Art12. Window Curtain Pair13. Canvas Wall Art14. One-Drawer Nightstand15. Metal Leaf Decorative Sculpture16. Dimmable Wall Sconce17. Peel and Stick WallpaperTips and suggestionsColors That Work Together: Light gray walls create an airy backdrop, while taupe textiles add warmth. Cognac leather accents provide rich contrast, complemented by black and brass lighting fixtures.Furniture Foundation: Vertical paneling in light gray adds subtle architecture without overwhelming. The abstract artwork in cream and taupe tones creates a soft focal point.Wall Details: Vertical paneling in light gray adds subtle architecture without overwhelming. The abstract artwork in cream and taupe tones creates a soft focal point.Bedding Design: Geometric patterns in soft neutrals create visual interest while maintaining serenity. Layered pillows and throws in varying textures add dimensional luxury.Textile Elements: Sheer cream curtains filter light beautifully, while the abstract area rug grounds the space with subtle pattern and warmth.The Final Note: This bedroom masterfully balances modern minimalism with romantic touches. The careful mix of textures from woven lighting to geometric bedding creates interest without busy-ness. Its proof that romantic design can be achieved without florals or frills.

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MacworldFans on both sides have long debated: Which came firstthe Samsung or the Apple? Although only one of the tech giants has been taken to court for copying the others iconic design, the two parties have been inspiring each other for years. Notably, Apple tends to be more subtle with its reproduction. Samsung, on the other hand, well just blatantly ripped off over a dozen Apple features and designs during its Galaxy S25 launch.Appropriated intelligenceIts no secret that Apple is lagging behind in the artificial intelligence race. While the latest Android phones are now equipped with advanced AI tools, the Apple Intelligence rollout has been drawn out, and its tools, comparatively, are somewhat basic. Nevertheless, the iPhones AI suite has clearly caught Samsungs attention.Apple Intelligence offers built-in ChatGPT integration with others, including Google Gemini, coming down the road. One of Samsungs marquee AI features is that its AI infrastructure is designed to accommodate third-party chatbots, starting with Google Gemini over its own Bixby AI assistant.The Galaxy S25 has borrowed more than a few Apple Intelligence features.Luke Baker / FoundryWhen you trigger Gemini, you get a text box featuring a colorful glowing borderjust like Siri. Samsung also showed off how the chatbot supports both text and voice input. Meanwhile, selecting text brings up a UI that is almost identical to Apples Writing Tools, letting users proofread the selection, turn it into a table, etc.Samsung then announced how its Phone app can now record, transcribe, and summarize calls, a perk familiar to iOS 18 users. Similarly, Galaxy S25 users will get to search for photos using natural language, summarize online articles, and turn photos into illustrations Image Playground style.Finally, the Galaxy S25 series will offer cross-app actions, letting AI agents search for and fetch information from multiple sources just like Siri App Intents. The approach similarly highlights the companys commitment to users privacy, offering a mode that limits cloud processing.Thats One familiar UIBeyond AI-centric perks, Samsung previewed One UI 7 during the Galaxy S25 keynote. Perhaps this OS versions signature feature is the Now Bar, which surfaces ongoing eventsor, one could say, Live Activities. Like its iOS counterpart, itll not-so-originally highlight real-time sports scores, timers, and other similar tasks.Samsung then proceeded to boast about the S25s camera features, which include a few tricks your iPhone learned months ago. Notably, Galaxy users will finally get to record log video and edit audio to focus on the speakers voice or their surroundings.The company even revealed its own take on Apples second-gen Photographic Styles, which lets our fellow green-bubbled folks apply advanced filters to their shots and control their tones.Thats not an iPhoneits the new Galaxy S25.Luke Baker / FoundryUniform designWhile the similarities between the two operating systems features may be more prominent, Apple-like hardware also made it to Samsungs party. The Galaxy S25 Ultra, like the iPhone 16 Pro, now offers flat edges and rounded corners. For those unfamiliar, the flagships Galaxy predecessors had sharp corners and a curved body. Samsung, like Apple, also continues to preserve titanium for its highest-end model, while the entry-level ones settle for aluminum.A slim iPhone 17 Air has been rumored for a September 2025 debut for some time. Samsung beat Apple to the punch, teasing a similar concept dubbed the Galaxy S25 Edge. Like the rumored iPhone 17 Air, the S25 Edge will miss out on certain premium components, like a triple camera system, in favor of a sleeker design that prioritizes aesthetics over performance.Samsung then showed media personnel its all-new, Qi2-compatible protective covers, which are quite literally identical to Apples transparent MagSafe cases. While the magnets shape and alignment are dictated by the wireless charging standard, Samsung couldve at least opted for an original color and design that better aligns with its Galaxy design language.Last but not least, journalists also got to check out Samsungs upcoming Project Moohan VR headset, which looks like a cheaper mockup of the Apple Vision Pro. If you accidentally put it on at some point in the future, youll also notice that its powered by Android VR, which has also borrowed elements from visionOSs glassy, translucent user interfacebut thats not Samsungs fault.Its not hard to see the Vision Pro influence on Samsungs new Project Moohan headset.SamsungGood artists copy, great artists stealMany Apple fans may be reading this and shaking their heads. But while Samsung might have gotten a good amount of inspiration from Apple and the iPhone, the S25s features arent straight copies. For example, the Photographic Styles clone lets users copy another images composition and create a filter based on its hues. Similarly, the audio studio in the video editor is more comprehensive, allowing users to amplify or mute more sound types. The Now Bar will offer a briefing feature that provides a personalized briefing of selected content that updates throughout the day. And so on.In the smartphone industry, competition revolves around the way handsets and features are perfected and presented. iOS and Android have matured to the point where they both can perform the same main tasks in a nearly identical way. So, whenever one of them innovates, the other tends to build upon that foundation when releasing its own variation on the same theme. As a result, both Apple and Samsung users continue to receive upgraded tools that elevate the mobile computing experience.But, come on, Samsung, maybe next time lets try to be a little more subtle.

This is todays edition ofThe Download,our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of whats going on in the world of technology.OpenAI launches Operatoran agent that can use a computer for youWhats new: After weeks of buzz, OpenAI has released Operator, its first AI agent. Operator is a web app that can carry out simple online tasks in a browser, such as booking concert tickets or filling an online grocery order. The app is powered by a new model called Computer-Using AgentCUA for shortbuilt on top of OpenAIs multimodal large language model GPT-4o.Why it matters: OpenAI claims that Operator outperforms similar rival tools, including Anthropics Computer Use and Google DeepMinds Mariner. The fact that three of the worlds top AI firms have converged on the same vision of what agent-based models could be makes one thing clear. The battle for AI supremacy has a new frontierand its our computer screens. Read the full story.Will Douglas Heaven+ If youre interested in reading more about AI agents, check out this piece explaining why theyre AIs next big thing.Whats next for robotsJames ODonnellIn the many conversations Ive had about robots, Ive also found that most people tend to fall into three camps. Some are upbeat and vocally hopeful that a future is just around the corner in which machines can expertly handle much of what is currently done by humans, from cooking to surgery. Others are scared: of job losses, injuries, and whatever problems may come up as we try to live side by side.The final camp, which I think is the largest, is just unimpressed. Weve been sold lots of promises that robots will transform society ever since the first robotic arm was installed on an assembly line at a General Motors plant in New Jersey in 1961. Few of those promises have panned out so far.But this year, theres reason to think that even those staunchly in the bored camp will be intrigued by whats happening in the robot races. Heres a glimpse at what to keep an eye on this year. Read the full story.This piece is part of MIT Technology Reviews Whats Next series, looking across industries, trends, and technologies to give you a first look at the future. You can read the rest of them here.The must-readsIve combed the internet to find you todays most fun/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology.1 Facebook and Instagram blocked and hid abortion pill postsBut Meta denies its anything to do with its recent hate speech restriction U-turn. (NYT $)+ The companys widespread changes are making advertisers nervous. (Insider $)+ A contraceptive drug could act as an abortion pill substitute. (The Atlantic $)2 Donald Trumps staff are furious with Elon MuskHis decision to trash talk the Presidents new AI deal is ruffling aides feathers. (Politico)+ For once, Trump doesnt seem to want to wade in. (CNN)+ Stargates newest data center will be built in the small Texan city of Abilene. (Bloomberg $)3 Watch the Trump administration delete agency pages in real timeAn agency GitHub records the documents, handbooks and bots as theyre deleted or amended. (404 Media)4 Central Europes power grid is vulnerable to attackIts facilities unencrypted radio signals leave it wide open to malicious interference. (Ars Technica)+ The race to replace the powerful greenhouse gas that underpins the power grid. (MIT Technology Review)5 OpenAIs conversion to becoming a for-profit is under investigationCalifornias attorney general wants to know more about its asset transfer plans. (The Markup)+ One major obstacle is determining how much equity Microsoft would hold. (FT $)6 WeRide has its sights set on becoming a driverless power playerThe Chinese company has ambitious plans to expand all over the world. (WSJ $)+ Meanwhile, Tesla is issuing a safety update to 1.2 million cars in China. (Bloomberg $)+ How Wayves driverless cars will meet one of their biggest challenges yet. (MIT Technology Review)7 How fungi spores can help save endangered plantsBut its a delicate balancing act. (Knowable Magazine)+ Africa fights rising hunger by looking to foods of the past. (MIT Technology Review)8 The fight over our tech-addled attention spanIts not that we cant focusits what were focusing on. (New Yorker $)9 TikTok is still MIA from US app storesOpportunists are flogging iPhones with the pre-installed app for eye-watering prices. (Insider $)10 How random is Spotifys shuffle, really?And can algorithms be depended on to deal in true randomness? (FT $)Quote of the dayI cant imagine that I personally can make any difference in their wealth, power or influence. But I cant be a part of offering them my life and my joy to then turn it back around and make money off of me.Michael Raine, a 50-year old Facebook and Instagram user, explains to the Washington Post why he doesnt want to contribute to the sprawling wealth of Meta boss Mark Zuckerberg any more.The big storyHow to stop a state from sinkingApril 2024In a 10-month span between 2020 and 2021, southwest Louisiana saw five climate-related disasters, including two destructive hurricanes. As if that wasnt bad enough, more storms are coming, and many areas are not prepared.But some government officials and state engineers are hoping there is an alternative: elevation. The $6.8 billion Southwest Coastal Louisiana Project is betting that raising residences by a few feet will keep Louisianans in their communities.Ultimately, its something of a last-ditch effort to preserve this slice of coastline, even as some locals pick up and move inland and as formal plans for managed retreat become more popular in climate-vulnerable areas across the country and the rest of the world. Read the full story.Xander PetersWe can still have nice thingsA place for comfort, fun and distraction to brighten up your day. (Got any ideas? Drop me a line or skeet em at me.)+ How two enterprising actors staged a daring performance of Hamlet inside Grand Theft Auto + Warning: these movies are dangerous!+ Madonna released Material Girl 40 years ago this weekand changed the face of pop forever.+ And finally, what everyone has been dying to knowdo dogs really watch TV?