In my last Fast Company column, I shared my reasons for manufacturing my electric trucks in the U.S. I’m not alone. While near-shoring to North America has been underway for several years, the current tariff shifts and shipping complexities make U.S. manufacturing a higher priority still. However, there were 292,825 factories in the U.S. as of 2021. Of those, 846 employ 1,000 people or more. Some of these are my engineering firm’s clients, giving us a front row seat to the complexity of retrofitting an existing factory to full U.S. manufacturing. While building a new factory is expensive and lengthy, these companies’ tasks are more difficult still. There are good reasons for making the shift as quickly as possible. Moving to most or fully U.S. manufacturing brings higher visibility, faster response time, and higher resilience to supply chain disruption, as well as greater protection from tariff shifts and geopolitical change. But if you’re early in the process, here’s my advice for your transition: Determine a priority ranking for the refining and raw materials you shift to in-country and North American sourcing. Give highest ranking to categories including defense, high value items (such as steel, aluminum, and rare minerals, etc.), and consumer safety items (such as pharmaceutical components, etc.). Be more strategic in the offshore suppliers you continue using for non-advanced manufacturing by prioritizing closer and more geographic-friendly locations for production and shipment such as Mexico and Argentina. Utilize government-backed capital, where possible, for extracting/mining minerals and metals such as lithium, red mud, magnesium, etc. Beyond the high-ranking product categories, move to domestic suppliers for primary materials such as steel, aluminum, cement, and plastics. Likewise, reduce offshoring of technical staff as well as raw materials, where possible. Use all means possible to become power independent through solar production, micro-grids, and nuclear power production. Consider creating a 4-year completion bonus for military vets. Hire vets wherever possible, as they make great workers and entrepreneurs. Likewise, we can press for future policy changes that best support Made in America manufacturing, as follows: Encourage ship building in the U.S., as well as creating new means of automated freight transit. Work towards transformation plans for government-funded R&D to include more attractive loans, rebates, and grants, as well as programs for tax-free status for intellectual property during commercialization, to incent and support organizations making the shift. Consider energy rebates to U.S. manufacturers and distributors to make American manufacturing more cost-effective and viable.   Create policies to include the cost of offshore staff in tariff calculations. Expand trade relationships with Caribbean nations for products such as sugar, avocados, bananas, etc. Avoid or even ban foreign ownership of the food supply chain. Create fair competition for government contracting. Make health supplements and homeopathic medicines tax deductible, to promote a healthy workforce. While it may not be readily evident, these policy changes are related to successful reshoring. In all, we need larger scale, lower costs, and more automated and simplified mechanisms for product manufacturing. These issues, in my experience, are as equally important as the raw materials we require. We need increased support for niche manufacturing. In my opinion, we also need deregulation, and increased access to land (particularly in the west; the federal government owns great quantities of the available land, which is choking available supply). I believe we need better education, self-reliance, health, and incentive structures to get the capital, entrepreneurs, and workers for Made in America manufacturing. Who’s with me? Matthew Chang is the founding partner of Chang Robotics.

If you’ve ever wondered whether the food on your plate could shape your brain’s future, the science is starting to say: yes, it might. While healthy eating has long been linked to better brain health, new research is getting more specific about which diets help, and when you should start following them.At this year’s annual Nutrition conference in Orlando, Florida, researchers presented findings that add weight to the growing link between diet and dementia. According to a news release, study author Song-Yi Park of the University of Hawaii at Manoa said, “Our study findings confirm that healthy dietary patterns in mid to late life and their improvement over time may prevent Alzheimer’s and related dementias. This suggests that it is never too late to adopt a healthy diet to prevent dementia.”The research focused on nearly 93,000 U.S. adults from the long-running Multiethnic Cohort Study. Participants were between 45 years and 75 years old when they entered the study in the 1990s. Over time, more than 21,000 developed Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias — but those who closely followed a specific eating plan, the MIND diet, were significantly less likely to be among them.Combining the Mediterranean Diet and DASH DietThe MIND diet (short for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay) blends the best elements of two established eating plans: the Mediterranean diet and the DASH diet.The Mediterranean diet is inspired by the traditional cuisines of countries like Greece, Italy, and Spain. It focuses on plant-based foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains), healthy fats like olive oil, and moderate amounts of fish, poultry, and dairy, with red meat eaten sparingly. It’s been linked to a lower risk of heart disease and is also environmentally friendly.The DASH diet, originally designed to lower blood pressure, shares many similarities but puts extra emphasis on limiting sodium and increasing intake of nutrients like potassium, magnesium, and calcium. It includes low-fat dairy and lean protein sources and doesn’t rely on any hard-to-find foods.The MIND diet specifically promotes brain-healthy foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, and olive oil, combining benefits of both approaches with a focus on protecting cognitive health.Read More: Is the Mediterranean Diet Healthy?The MIND Diet Over TimeAccording to Park and her team, people who scored highest in MIND diet adherence at the study’s start had a 9 percent lower risk of developing dementia. That number was even higher with around 13 percent for African American, Latino, and White participants. Looking at those who improved their adherence to the MIND diet over time, showed a 25 percent reduction in dementia risk compared to those whose dietary habits declined, which was consistent no matter the age or racial background.“We found that the protective relationship between a healthy diet and dementia was more pronounced among African Americans, Latinos, and Whites, while it was not as apparent among Asian Americans and showed a weaker trend in Native Hawaiians,” Park said in the press release. “A tailored approach may be needed when evaluating different subpopulations’ diet quality.”Interestingly, Asian Americans also tend to have lower dementia rates overall, which researchers believe could mean other cultural eating patterns might offer similar protection than the MIND diet for that group.The Best Time to Start Is NowOne of the most encouraging findings was that starting late still helped. Participants who began following the MIND diet more closely over a 10-year period, regardless of how old they were when they began, saw benefits. This suggests that even if you didn’t grow up eating brain-boosting foods, it’s not too late to change course.It’s worth noting that the study is observational, so, by itself, it can’t prove this specific diet causes better brain health. Study author Park notes that the next step is conducting interventional studies to verify these promising results.Still, the evidence is mounting. Whether you're 45 or 75, choosing greens over greasy snacks could make a real difference when it comes to aging with or without dementia.This article is not offering medical advice and should be used for informational purposes only.Article SourcesOur writers at Discovermagazine.com use peer-reviewed studies and high-quality sources for our articles, and our editors review for scientific accuracy and editorial standards. Review the sources used below for this article:National Institute of Aging. What Do We Know About Diet and Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease?Harvard Health Publishing. A practical guide to the Mediterranean dietNational Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Following the DASH Eating PlanHaving worked as a biomedical research assistant in labs across three countries, Jenny excels at translating complex scientific concepts – ranging from medical breakthroughs and pharmacological discoveries to the latest in nutrition – into engaging, accessible content. Her interests extend to topics such as human evolution, psychology, and quirky animal stories. When she’s not immersed in a popular science book, you’ll find her catching waves or cruising around Vancouver Island on her longboard.

A California-based company called Magrathea just turned on a new electrolyzer that can make magnesium metal from seawater. The technology has the potential to produce the material, which is used in vehicles and defense applications, with net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions. Magnesium is an incredibly light metal, and it’s used for parts in cars and planes, as well as in aluminum alloys like those in vehicles. The metal is also used in defense and industrial applications, including the production processes for steel and titanium. Today, China dominates production of magnesium, and the most common method generates a lot of the emissions that cause climate change. If Magrathea can scale up its process, it could help provide an alternative source of the metal and clean up industries that rely on it, including automotive manufacturing. The star of Magrathea’s process is an electrolyzer, a device that uses electricity to split a material into its constituent elements. Using an electrolyzer in magnesium production isn’t new, but Magrathea’s approach represents an update. “We really modernized it and brought it into the 21st century,” says Alex Grant, Magrathea’s cofounder and CEO. The whole process starts with salty water. There are small amounts of magnesium in seawater, as well as in salt lakes and groundwater. (In seawater, the concentration is about 1,300 parts per million, so magnesium makes up about 0.1% of seawater by weight.) If you take that seawater or brine and clean it up, concentrate it, and dry it out, you get a solid magnesium chloride salt. Magrathea takes that salt (which it currently buys from Cargill) and puts it into the electrolyzer. The device reaches temperatures of about 700 °C (almost 1,300 °F) and runs electricity through the molten salt to split the magnesium from the chlorine, forming magnesium metal. Typically, running an electrolyzer in this process would require a steady source of electricity. The temperature is generally kept just high enough to maintain the salt in a molten state. Allowing it to cool down too much would allow it to solidify, messing up the process and potentially damaging the equipment. Heating it up more than necessary would just waste energy.  Magrathea’s approach builds in flexibility. Basically, the company runs its electrolyzer about 100 °C higher than is necessary to keep the molten salt a liquid. It then uses the extra heat in inventive ways, including to dry out the magnesium salt that eventually goes into the reactor. This preparation can be done intermittently, so the company can take in electricity when it’s cheaper or when more renewables are available, cutting costs and emissions. In addition, the process will make a co-product, called magnesium oxide, that can be used to trap carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, helping to cancel out the remaining carbon pollution. The result could be a production process with net-zero emissions, according to an independent life cycle assessment completed in January. While it likely won’t reach this bar at first, the potential is there for a much more climate-friendly process than what’s used in the industry today, Grant says. Breaking into magnesium production won’t be simple, says Simon Jowitt, director of the Nevada Bureau of Mines and of the Center for Research in Economic Geology at the University of Nevada, Reno. China produces roughly 95% of the global supply as of 2024, according to data from the US Geological Survey. This dominant position means companies there can flood the market with cheap metal, making it difficult for others to compete. “The economics of all this is uncertain,” Jowitt says. The US has some trade protections in place, including an anti-dumping duty, but newer players with alternative processes can still face obstacles. US Magnesium, a company based in Utah, was the only company making magnesium in the US in recent years, but it shut down production in 2022 after equipment failures and a history of environmental concerns.  Magrathea plans to start building a demonstration plant in Utah in late 2025 or early 2026, which will have a capacity of roughly 1,000 tons per year and should be running in 2027. In February the company announced that it signed an agreement with a major automaker, though it declined to share its name on the record. The automaker pre-purchased material from the demonstration plant and will incorporate it into existing products. After the demonstration plant is running, the next step would be to build a commercial plant with a larger capacity of around 50,000 tons annually.

This is today’s edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what’s going on in the world of technology. OpenAI: The power and the pride OpenAI’s release of ChatGPT 3.5 set in motion an AI arms race that has changed the world. How that turns out for humanity is something we are still reckoning with and may be for quite some time. But a pair of recent books both attempt to get their arms around it.In Empire of AI: Dreams and Nightmares in Sam Altman’s OpenAI, Karen Hao tells the story of the company’s rise to power and its far-reaching impact all over the world. Meanwhile, The Optimist: Sam Altman, OpenAI, and the Race to Invent the Future, by the Wall Street Journal’s Keach Hagey, homes in more on Altman’s personal life, from his childhood through the present day, in order to tell the story of OpenAI.  Both paint complex pictures and show Altman in particular as a brilliantly effective yet deeply flawed creature of Silicon Valley—someone capable of always getting what he wants, but often by manipulating others. Read the full review.—Mat Honan This startup wants to make more climate-friendly metal in the US The news: A California-based company called Magrathea just turned on a new electrolyzer that can make magnesium metal from seawater. The technology has the potential to produce the material, which is used in vehicles and defense applications, with net-zero greenhouse-gas emissions. Why it matters: Today, China dominates production of magnesium, and the most common method generates a lot of the emissions that cause climate change. If Magrathea can scale up its process, it could help provide an alternative source of the metal and clean up industries that rely on it, including automotive manufacturing. Read the full story. —Casey Crownhart A new sodium metal fuel cell could help clean up transportation A new type of fuel cell that runs on sodium metal could one day help clean up sectors where it’s difficult to replace fossil fuels, like rail, regional aviation, and short-distance shipping. The device represents a departure from technologies like lithium-based batteries and is more similar conceptually to hydrogen fuel cell systems. The sodium-air fuel cell has a higher energy density than lithium-ion batteries and doesn’t require the super-cold temperatures or high pressures that hydrogen does, making it potentially more practical for transport. Read the full story. —Casey Crownhart The must-reads I’ve combed the internet to find you today’s most fun/important/scary/fascinating stories about technology. 1 The US state department is considering vetting foreign students’ social mediaAfter ordering US embassies to suspend international students’ visa appointments. (Politico)+ Applicants’ posts, shares and comments could be assessed. (The Guardian)+ The Trump administration also wants to cut off Harvard’s funding. (NYT $) 2 SpaceX’s rocket exploded during its test flight It’s the third consecutive explosion the company has suffered this year. (CNBC)+ It was the first significant attempt to reuse Starship hardware. (Space)+ Elon Musk is fairly confident the problem with the engine bay has been resolved. (Ars Technica)3 The age of AI layoffs is hereAnd it’s taking place in conference rooms, not on factory floors. (Quartz)+ People are worried that AI will take everyone’s jobs. We’ve been here before. (MIT Technology Review)4 Thousands of IVF embryos in Gaza were destroyed by Israeli strikesAn attack destroyed the fertility clinic where they were housed. (BBC)+ Inside the strange limbo facing millions of IVF embryos. (MIT Technology Review) 5 China’s overall greenhouse gas emissions have fallen for the first timeEven as energy demand has risen. (Vox)+ China’s complicated role in climate change. (MIT Technology Review) 6 The sun is damaging Starlink’s satellitesIts eruptions are reducing the satellite’s lifespans. (New Scientist $)+ Apple’s satellite connectivity dreams are being thwarted by Musk. (The Information $) 7 European companies are struggling to do business in ChinaEven the ones that have operated there for decades. (NYT $)+ The country’s economic slowdown is making things tough. (Bloomberg $) 8 US hospitals are embracing helpful robotsThey’re delivering medications and supplies so nurses don’t have to. (FT $)+ Will we ever trust robots? (MIT Technology Review) 9 Meet the people who write the text messages on your favorite show They try to make messages as realistic, and intriguing, as possible. (The Guardian) 10 Robot dogs are delivering parcels in AustinWell, over 100 yard distances at least. (TechCrunch) Quote of the day “I wouldn’t say there’s hope. I wouldn’t bet on that.” —Michael Roll, a partner at law firm Roll & Harris, explains to Wired why businesses shouldn’t get their hopes up over obtaining refunds for Donald Trump’s tariff price hikes. One more thing Is the digital dollar dead?In 2020, digital currencies were one of the hottest topics in town. China was well on its way to launching its own central bank digital currency, or CBDC, and many other countries launched CBDC research projects, including the US.How things change. The digital dollar—even though it doesn’t exist—has now become political red meat, as some politicians label it a dystopian tool for surveillance. So is the dream of the digital dollar dead? Read the full story. —Mike Orcutt We can still have nice things A place for comfort, fun and distraction to brighten up your day. (Got any ideas? Drop me a line or skeet ’em at me.) + Recently returned from vacation? Here’s how to cope with coming back to reality.+ Reconnecting with friends is one of life’s great joys.+ A new Parisian cocktail bar has done away with ice entirely in a bid to be more sustainable.+ Why being bored is good for you—no, really.

PROS: Discreet, elegant, and unobtrusive design that doesn't scream "tech" Lightweight and comfortable premium frame Focuses on essential experiences without the unnecessary cruft Impressive transcription and teleprompter features Long battery life and effortless charging case design CONS: No speakers for calls or audio feedback (especially during navigation) Temple tips touch controls can be a bit cumbersome A bit expensive RATINGS: AESTHETICSERGONOMICSPERFORMANCESUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITYVALUE FOR MONEYEDITOR'S QUOTE:With a simple design and useful features, the Even Realities G1 smart glasses prove that you don't need all the bells and whistles to provide an experience. Every day, we’re flooded with more information than our already overworked minds can handle. Our smartphones and computers put all this information at our fingertips, connecting us to the rest of the world while ironically disconnecting us from the people around us. Smart glasses and XR headsets promise to bring all this information right in front of us, bridging the gap that divides physical and virtual realities. And yet at the same time, they erect a wall that separates us from the here and now. It’s against this backdrop that Even Realities chose to take a bold step in the opposite direction. In both form and function, the Even Realities G1 smart glasses cut down on the cruft and promise a distilled experience that focuses only on what you really need to get through a busy day. More importantly, it delivers it in a minimalist design that doesn’t get in your way. Or at least that’s the spiel. Just in time for the upcoming Father’s Day celebration, we got to test what the Even Realities G1 has to offer, especially to some of the busiest people in our families: the dads juggling work responsibilities while trying to stay present for their loved ones. Designer: Even Realities Click Here to Buy Now: $599. Exclusive Father’s Day Special – Get 50% Off the G1 Clip + Clip Pouch! Hurry, offer ends June 15, 2025. Aesthetics You probably wouldn’t even be able to tell the Even Realities G1 is wearable tech if you meet someone on the street wearing a pair. Sure, they might look like slightly retro Pantos, but they’re a far cry from even the slimmest XR glasses from the likes of Xreal or Viture. You can clearly see the eyes of the person wearing them, and the tech is practically invisible, which is exactly the point. The design of the Even Realities G1 is on the plain and minimal side, a stark contrast to the majority of smart glasses and XR/AR headsets currently in the market, even those claiming to be fashionable and stylish. Sure, it’s not going to compete with high-end luxury spectacles, but they’re not entirely off the mark either. Unless you look really closely, you might simply presume them to be a pair of thick-framed glasses. The form of the glasses might be simple, but their construction is anything but. The frame is made from magnesium alloy with a coating that’s fused with sandstone, while the temples use a titanium alloy on the outer sides and soft silicone on the inner surfaces. The mixture of quality materials not only gives the Even Realities G1 a premium character but also a lightweight form that’s only ever so slightly heavier than your run-of-the-mill prescription eyeglasses. While the G1 most looks like normal eyewear, the temple tips are dead giveaways that things are not what they seem. The blocky, paddle-shaped tips that house batteries and electronics are definitely larger than what you’d find on most glasses. They’re not obnoxiously big, but they do tend to stick out a bit, and they’re hard to “unsee” once you’ve noticed their presence. Despite looking quite aesthetic, the Even Realities G1 isn’t pretending to be some posh fashion accessory. After all, the circular G1A and rectangular G1B options hardly cover all possible eyewear designs, and the limited color selection won’t suit everyone’s tastes. Rather than something you flaunt or call attention to, these smart glasses are designed to be an “everyday wear” and disappear into the background, making tech invisible without making it unusable, perfect for the dad who wants to stay connected without looking like he’s wearing a gadget at the family barbecue. Ergonomics If you’ve ever tried any of those hi-tech wearables promising the next wave of computing, then you’d probably know that you’d never wear any of those glasses or visors for more than just an hour or two every day. They may have impressive technologies and apps, but they become practically useless once you take them off, especially when you have to step out into the real world. In contrast, the Even Realities G1 is something you’d be able to wear for hours on end, indoors or outdoors. Made from lightweight materials with a construction that even throws away screws to reduce the heft, it’s almost mind-blowing to think that the glasses houses any electronics at all. This level of comfort is honestly the G1’s most important asset, because it allows people to experience its smart features far longer than any Quest or Viture. When it comes to eyewear, however, prescription lenses have always been a sore point for many consumers, and this is no exception. Because it integrates waveguide optics into the lens, you’ll have to pay extra to have customized prescription lenses when you buy an Even Realities G1. It can be a bit nerve-wracking to ensure you get all the measurements and figures right, especially since you can’t return or exchange glasses with customized lenses. While the G1 eyeglasses are definitely comfortable to wear, the same can’t exactly be said when it comes to manually interacting with them. While most smart glasses and headsets have controls near your temples, the G1’s touch-sensitive areas are at the temple tips, which would be sitting behind your ears when you’re wearing the glasses. They might feel awkward to reach, and those with long hairstyles might find it difficult to use. Fortunately, you will rarely touch those tips except to activate some functions, but it can still be an unsatisfactory experience when you do. Performance The Even Realities G1 takes a brilliantly focused approach to smart eyewear, prioritizing elegant design and practical functionality over unnecessary tech bloat. The 640×200 green monochrome display may seem modest, but it’s deliberate choice that enables the G1 to maintain a sleek, stylish profile. The absence of cameras and speakers isn’t a limitation but a thoughtful design decision that enhances both wearability and privacy, allowing users to seamlessly integrate this technology into their daily lives without social awkwardness. The magic of the G1 lies in its delivery of information directly to your field of vision in a way that not only delights but also transforms how you interact with digital content. The core Even Realities G1 experience revolves around bringing only critical information to your attention and keeping distractions away, all without disconnecting you from reality and the people around you. Its text-centric interface, displayed by two micro-LED displays, one on each lens, ensures that information is distilled down to its most essential. And there’s no denying the retro charm of a green dot-matrix screen in front of your eyes, even if the color won’t work well against light or bright objects. The Even Realities G1 experience starts with the dashboard, which you can summon just by tilting your head up a bit, an angle that you can set on the companion mobile app. One side shows the date and time, temperature, number of notifications, and your next appointment. The other side can be configured to show one of your saved quick notes, news, stocks, or even your current location. None of these items are interactive, and you’ll have to dive into the mobile app to actually get any further information. With Father’s Day approaching, it’s worth noting how the G1’s floating heads-up display, visible only to the wearer, helps dads stay effortlessly connected, organized, and present. The QuickNote and Calendar features are particularly valuable for fathers juggling work and family responsibilities, allowing them to process their to-do lists perfectly on schedule without missing a beat of family time. Spending quality time with your child then suddenly remembering you need to buy batteries on your next errand run? No more frantically scampering for pen and paper or even your phone; just tap and speak. Of course, the smart glasses really shine when it comes to the, well, smart functionality, most of which unsurprisingly revolve around words, both spoken and displayed. Transcription, which is used when making Quick Notes, records your voice and saves it alongside the transcribed text. Fathers who find themselves in never-ending meetings no longer need to worry about missing a beat. Not only do they get to keep notes, but they also receive a summary and recap thanks to the G1’s AI capabilities, a game-changer for busy dads who need to process information efficiently. Translation can make international trips quite fun, at least for some interactions, as you’ll be able to see actual translated captions floating in the air like subtitles on a video. Dads who give a lot of talks, business presentations, interviews, or broadcast videos will definitely love the Teleprompter feature, which can advance the script just based on the words you’re speaking. No more worrying about missing important points during that big presentation, leaving more mental bandwidth for what really matters. It’s also perfect for a captivating Career Day show that will do your kid proud. The accuracy of Even Realities’ speech recognition and AI is fairly good, though there are times when it will require a bit of patience and understanding. There’s a noticeable delay when translating what people say in real time, for example, and it might miss words if the person is speaking too quickly. Navigation can be a hit or miss, depending on your location, and the visual direction prompts are not always reliable. The latter is also one of the cases where the absence of built-in speakers feels a bit more pronounced. There’s no audio feedback, which could be useful for guided turn-by-turn navigation. Even AI can hear you, but it can’t talk back to you. Everything will be delivered only through text you have to read, which might not always be possible in some cases. Admittedly, the addition of such hardware, no matter how small, will also add weight to the glasses, so Even Realities chose their battles wisely. The Even Realities G1 is advertised to last for 1.5 days, and it indeed lasts at least more than a day. The stylish wireless charging case, which has a built-in 2,000mAh battery, extends that uptime to five days. Charging the glasses is as simple as putting them inside the case, no need to align any contact points, as long as you remember to fold the left arm first before the right arm. Oddly enough, there’s no battery level indicator on the glasses, even in the dashboard HUD. Even Realities focused on making the G1 simple, both in design and in operation. Sometimes even to the point of oversimplification. To reduce complexity, for example, each side of the glasses connects to a smartphone separately via Bluetooth, which unfortunately increases the risk of the two sides being out of sync if one or the other connection drops. Turning the glasses into shades is a simple case of slapping on clip-on shades that are not only an additional expense but also something you could lose somewhere. Sustainability By cutting down on the volume of the product, Even Realities also helps cut down waste material, especially the use of plastics. The G1 utilizes more metals than plastic, not only delivering a premium design but also preferring more renewable materials. The company is particularly proud of its packaging as well, which uses 100% recyclable, eco-friendly cardboard. While magnesium and titanium alloys contribute to the durability of the product, the Even Realities G1 is not exactly what you might consider to be a weather-proof piece of wearable tech. It has no formal IP rating, and the glasses are only said to be resistant to splashes and light rain. It can accompany you on your runs, sure, but you’ll have to treat it with much care. Not that it will have much practical use during your workouts in the first place. Value Discreet, useful, and simple, the Even Realities G1 smart glasses proudly stand in opposition to the literal heavyweights of the smart eyewear market that are practically strapping a computer on your face. It offers an experience that focuses on the most important functions and information you’d want to have in front of your eyes and pushes unnecessary distractions out of your sight. Most importantly, however, it keeps the whole world clearly in view, allowing you to connect to your digital life without disconnecting you from the people around you. The Even Realities G1 would almost be perfect for this hyper-focused use case if not for its price tag. At $599, it’s easily one of the more expensive pairs of smart spectacles you’ll see on the market, and that’s only for the glasses themselves. For custom prescription lenses, you need to add another $150 on top, not to mention the $50 (normally $100) clip-on shades for those extra bright days. Given its limited functionality, the G1 definitely feels a bit overpriced. But when you consider how lightweight, distraction-free, and useful it can be, it comes off more as an investment for the future. For family and friends looking for a meaningful tech gift this Father’s Day, the G1 offers something truly unique: a way to stay on top of work responsibilities while remaining fully present for family moments. Whether capturing quick thoughts during a child’s soccer game or discreetly checking calendar reminders during family dinner, these glasses help dads maintain that delicate balance between connectivity and presence. Verdict It’s hard to escape the overabundance of information that we deal with every day, both from the world around us, as well as our own stash of notes and to-do lists. Unfortunately, the tools that we always have with us, our smartphones, computers, and smartwatches, are poor guardians against this flood. And now smart glasses are coming, promising access to all of that and threatening to further drown us with information we don’t really need. The Even Realities G1 is both a breath of fresh air and a bold statement against that trend. Not only is it lightweight and comfortable, but it even looks like normal glasses! Rather than throw everything and the kitchen sink into it, its design and functionality are completely intentional, focusing only on essential experiences and features to keep you productive. It’s not trying to turn you into Tony Stark, but it will help make you feel like a superhero as you breeze through your tasks while still being present to the people who really matter the most in your life. For the dad who wants to stay connected without being distracted, who needs to manage information without being overwhelmed by it, the Even Realities G1 might just be the perfect Father’s Day gift: a tool that helps him be both the professional he needs to be and the father he wants to be, all without missing a moment of what truly matters. Click Here to Buy Now: $599. Exclusive Father’s Day Special – Get 50% Off the G1 Clip + Clip Pouch! Hurry, offer ends June 15, 2025.The post Even Realities G1 Glasses Review: Smart, Subtle, and Perfect for Father’s Day first appeared on Yanko Design.

There are wireless earbuds in tons on the market – virtually leaving you frustrated which one fits your requirements the closest. The recent trend of see-through earbuds has caught up with the early adopters who love the visual intricacy of rejoicing the innards of their loved gadgets. Nothing sparked off this long-buried fad with their maiden earbuds that caught world’s attention. The Arctis GameBuds Glorange makes you fall in love while the Moondrop Pill tingles your compulsive instinct to make the purchase right away. Somewehre in between these two options sits the Moondrop’s another pair of earbuds that has gone under the radar but is no slouch by any stretch of imagination. Perfect for space phantasy enthusiasts, the pair has a retro-modern charm with the impressive specifications that will interest audiophiles. Designer: Moondrop Moondrop Ultrasonic is a pair of earbuds in contention for being one of the most balanced visual pleasers. It is a hybrid between a see-through look and the sci-fi aesthetic dominated pair of buds. The dual-driver hybrid TWS tuned by professional engineers has a combination of DD+BA drivers on each side to deliver high-quality sound. Add to the equation a FRA Lithium-Magnesium alloy balanced armature tweeter and your search for a natural sounding high frequency spectrum is a given. The 13mm sapphire diaphragm full-frequency dynamic driver promises a thump that rivals even the most sought-after over-ear headphones. These earbuds support LDAC lossless high-resolution audio ( 24-Bit/96kHz) and an advanced high-end Bluetooth SOC chipset that enables highly efficient performance with stable Bluetooth V5.3 connectivity. A low-latency rating of 55ms means the buds are ideal for the odd gaming session, playing highly competitive FPS titles. The Moondrop UltraSonic features wide-band Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) powered by advanced Single-Feedforward ANC technology. Leveraging a next-generation flagship SoC chipset and refined acoustic engineering, it delivers robust noise-cancellation performance. The transparency mode has also been enhanced, precisely tuned to better amplify human voices and ambient sounds. Additionally, the upgraded MitsuYuki voice prompts offer a more intuitive and seamless user experience for connectivity and operation. The earbuds are very comfortable to wear for long listening sessions and the passive noise isolation is also good. Battery life on the buds is also acceptable, with 6 hours on the buds and an additional 18 hours with the charging case. The only complaints being the plastic housing of the earbuds and case, and the average battery life, which might not be deal breakers for users. In more ways than not, the Ultrasonic earbuds are a worthy successor to the Space Travel buds. Carrying a price tag of $75 make them well worth the investment and a deal maker even with the little disadvantages. The post Retro Modern Moondrop Ultrasonic earbuds will be the perfect pair for a Mission to Mars first appeared on Yanko Design.

Alienware's new flagship gaming laptop - the Alienware Area-51 - was released earlier this year. It replaces the m-series laptop and bring to the table a host of upgrades including a sleeker redesign, current generation components, and better cooling potential. As part of the Dell Memorial Day Sale, several variants of both the Alienware 16 Area-51 and Alienware 18 Area-51 gaming laptops are on sale for the first time. They're all equipped with the latest Nvidia Blackwell GPUs, including the RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5080, and RTX 5090. Orders are expected to ship out in mid June.Featured in this articleNew ReleaseAlienware 18 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5080 Gaming Laptop (32GB/2TB)Alienware 18 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5090 Gaming Laptop (64GB/2TB)Alienware 16 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5070 Ti Gaming Laptop (32GB/2TB)New ReleaseAlienware 16 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5080 Gaming Laptop (32GB/1TB)New ReleaseAlienware 16 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5080 Gaming Laptop (64GB/2TB)Alienware 16 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5090 Gaming Laptop (64GB/2TB)Memorial Day Alienware 18 Area-51 DealsThe Alienware 18 Area-51 is a large laptop that serves more as a mobile desktop replacement than commuter's laptop that you tote around to work or class on a daily basis. It weighs nearly 10 pounds and measures 0.95 inches at its thinnest point. It also consumes a lot of power (a 360W power brick is included), which means you should keep it plugged into an outlet when you're using it. The larger form factor carries several advantages, like an expansive 18" display, a full-sized keyboard with discrete numpad and a bigger, more aggressive cooling system and can keep noise levels to a minimum, and space to accomodate an RJ45 ethernet port.Two models are currently on sale for Memorial Day. The $3,150 model is equipped with RTX 5080 mobile graphics and 32GB of memory. The $3,750 model is upgraded with RTX 5090 mobile graphics and 64GB of memory.New ReleaseAlienware 18 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5080 Gaming Laptop (32GB/2TB)Alienware 18 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5090 Gaming Laptop (64GB/2TB)Memorial Day Alienware 16 Area-51 DealsThe Alienware 16 might not be as imposing as the Alienware 18, but this is still a premium gaming laptop through and through with an emphasis on maximum power and cooling. It weighs in at 7.5 pounds and measures 0.85" thick at its thinnest point. Like the Alienware 18, it comes with a 360W power brick, and you're recommended to keep it plugged into an outlet when you're using it. Because of the smaller footprint, the Alienware 16 houses a 16" display, standard sized laptop keyboard (meaning no discrete numpad), and no ethernet jack. However, it can still be equipped with the same internal specs, like an Intel Core Ultra 9 HX processor and up to an Nvida RTX 5090 GPU, since it also boasts a rugged cooling system that can handle the hottest of components.Four models are currently on sale for Memorial Day. The $2,850 model is equipped with RTX 5070 Ti mobile graphics. The $2999.99 model and $3,150 model are equipped with an RTX 5080. The $3,650 model goes all out with an RTX 5090.Alienware 16 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5070 Ti Gaming Laptop (32GB/2TB)New ReleaseAlienware 16 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5080 Gaming Laptop (32GB/1TB)New ReleaseAlienware 16 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5080 Gaming Laptop (64GB/2TB)Alienware 16 Area-51 Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5090 Gaming Laptop (64GB/2TB)This CPU / GPU Combo Excels in Any GameThe Area-51 laptop is also equipped with a very powerful CPU as well. The Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX boasts a max turbo frequency of 5.4GHz with a whopping 24 cores and 40MB total L2 cache. According to Passmark, this is one of the fastest mobile processors on the market, going head to head with the AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX3D.According to Notebookcheck, the RTX 5070 Ti mobile GPU is "the true successor to the RTX 4070", with performance on par with the RTX 4080. The RTX 5070, unfortunately, lags far behind, with performance on par with the RTX 4070. It should run any game comfortable on the display's native 1920x1200 resolution.According to Tom's Hardware, the RTX 5080 mobile GPU is roughly 15%-20% more powerful than the RTX 4080 mobile GPU that it replaces. It also happens to be about 5% more powerful than the RTX 4090, which was the previous generation's flagship card. The RTX 5080 appears to be a better value than the much pricier RTX 5090 as well. It only lags by about 15% despite being nearly $1,000 cheaper. Since the Alienware Area-51 uses a QHD+ (2560x1600) instead of 4K display, this GPU should be able to run new and upcoming games at high framerates, quadruply so if DLSS 4 is supported.The Area-51: New Style, More Power, Better CoolingNew for 2025, the Alienware Area-51 gaming laptop features a magnesium alloy chassis with upgraded cooling to tackle the latest and greatest heat generating components. This includes more fans and bigger cutouts enabling greater airflow, more generous use of copper, and a new thermal interface material to better transfer heat away from the core components. Dell claims that the laptop can handle a higher power ceiling of up to 240W TDP without raising acoustics.Design-wise, the Area 51 accentuates its smooth contours, with rounded edges and soft corners replacing the squared off design you'd see in most other laptops. The hinges are also mostly internally positioned so that they're near invisible. As befits an Alienware laptop, there are ample customization options for RGB LED lighting. Connectivity-wise, you get three USB Type-A 3.2 15Gbps ports (one with PowerShare), two Thunderbolt / USB Type-C ports, an HDMI 2.1 port, and a card reader. The 16" model weighs in at 7.5 pounds and the 18" model weighs 9.6 pounds.More Alienware Memorial Day Gaming Laptop DealsNew for 2025Alienware Aurora 16 Intel Core Ultra 9 270H RTX 5070 (85W) Gaming Laptop (16GB/1TB)$1,949.99 at AlienwareNew for 2025Alienware Aurora 16X Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX RTX 5070 (115W) Gaming Laptop (32GB/2TB)$2,299.99 at AlienwareAlienware x16 R2 16" Intel Core Ultra 7 155H RTX 4060 Gaming Laptop (16GB/1TB)Alienware x16 R2 16" Intel Core Ultra 9 185H RTX 4070 Gaming Laptop (32GB/1TB)Alienware x16 R2 16" Intel Core Ultra 9 185H RTX 4090 Gaming Laptop (32GB/2TB)Why Should You Trust IGN's Deals Team?IGN's deals team has a combined 30+ years of experience finding the best discounts in gaming, tech, and just about every other category. We don't try to trick our readers into buying things they don't need at prices that aren't worth buying something at. Our ultimate goal is to surface the best possible deals from brands we trust and our editorial team has personal experience with. You can check out our deals standards here for more information on our process, or keep up with the latest deals we find on IGN's Deals account on Twitter.Eric Song is the IGN commerce manager in charge of finding the best gaming and tech deals every day. When Eric isn't hunting for deals for other people at work, he's hunting for deals for himself during his free time.

Why revisit the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold in 2025? The answer lies in the rapid evolution of foldable computing. When Lenovo introduced its second-generation foldable PC last year, it represented the pinnacle of what was possible in this emerging category. The device combined a versatile 16.3-inch OLED display with robust engineering and the familiar Windows ecosystem. It set benchmarks for build quality, display technology, and adaptability that competitors would need to surpass. Designer: Lenovo Designer: Huawei Fast forward to today, and the landscape has shifted dramatically. Huawei has unveiled its MateBook Fold Ultimate Design, a device that challenges our understanding of what foldable laptops can achieve. With an 18-inch display that folds to a 13-inch form factor, a chassis measuring just 7.3mm when open, and a proprietary operating system built specifically for foldable hardware, Huawei has raised the stakes considerably. This comparison arrives at a pivotal moment for foldable computing. The category has matured beyond proof-of-concept to deliver genuinely useful productivity tools. Now that we have seen what Lenovo accomplished with the X1 Fold 2024, let us examine how Huawei’s MateBook Fold Ultimate Design responds and potentially redefines the future of portable computing. Design Philosophy and Physical Presence The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 2024 embodies the ThinkPad ethos of reliability and purposeful design. Its magnesium alloy frame and recycled PET woven fabric cover create a device that feels substantial and durable. The fold-flat hinge eliminates gaps when closed, protecting the display while maintaining a clean profile. At 8.6mm when open and 17.4mm when closed, the X1 Fold is not the thinnest laptop available, but its construction inspires confidence. The device weighs approximately 2.9 pounds without accessories, increasing to 4.3 pounds with the keyboard and stand attached. This weight reflects Lenovo’s prioritization of durability over absolute portability. Huawei takes a dramatically different approach with the MateBook Fold Ultimate Design. The device measures an astonishing 7.3mm when open and 14.9mm when closed, making it significantly thinner than the X1 Fold. At just 1.16kg (2.56 pounds) for the base unit and 1.45kg with the keyboard, the MateBook Fold is remarkably light for a device with an 18-inch display. This achievement comes from Huawei’s use of carbon fiber reinforcement and a zirconium-based liquid metal hinge. The 285mm “water-drop” hinge design provides smooth folding action and increased durability, with Huawei claiming a 400% improvement in hovering torque compared to conventional designs. The most significant physical difference between these devices becomes apparent in their approach to accessories. Lenovo requires a separate kickstand for desk use, adding bulk and complexity to the overall package. Huawei integrates a sturdy kickstand directly into the MateBook Fold, eliminating the need for additional accessories and streamlining the user experience. This built-in solution allows for more versatile positioning and reduces the number of components users need to manage. Both devices transform between multiple modes, but their physical dimensions create distinct experiences. When folded, the X1 Fold becomes a 12-inch laptop, which many users find cramped for serious multitasking. The MateBook Fold offers a more generous 13-inch workspace in laptop mode, providing additional screen real estate for productivity tasks. This difference may seem small on paper, but it significantly impacts the practical usability of these devices in their folded configurations. The materials chosen for each device reveal different priorities. Lenovo emphasizes sustainability with its recycled PET fabric cover and plastic-free packaging. This approach aligns with growing corporate environmental concerns and provides a tactile warmth that distinguishes the X1 Fold from typical metal-clad laptops. Huawei focuses on premium materials that enable extreme thinness, using advanced alloys and composites throughout the chassis. Both approaches result in distinctive aesthetics that will appeal to different user preferences. Display Technology and Visual Experience Display technology represents the heart of any foldable device, and both manufacturers have made significant investments in this critical component. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold features a 16.3-inch OLED panel with a resolution of 2560 x 2024 and a 4:3 aspect ratio. This display delivers 400 nits of brightness for standard content, increasing to 600 nits for HDR material. The panel supports DisplayHDR True Black 600 certification and Dolby Vision, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. An anti-smudge coating helps maintain visual clarity during extended use. Huawei pushes display technology further with the MateBook Fold Ultimate Design. Its 18-inch LTPO OLED screen boasts a resolution of 3296 x 2472, maintaining the same 4:3 aspect ratio as the Lenovo. However, the MateBook Fold achieves a peak brightness of 1600 nits, more than double that of the X1 Fold. The dual-layer LTPO technology reduces power consumption by 30% compared to standard OLED panels while supporting adaptive refresh rates from 1Hz to 120Hz. This combination of size, brightness, and efficiency creates a visual experience that surpasses the X1 Fold in nearly every measurable aspect. Both displays exhibit a visible crease at the fold, though the severity varies. Lenovo’s hinge design minimizes the crease when the device is fully open, but it becomes more noticeable at certain viewing angles. Huawei claims its water-drop hinge reduces crease visibility, though independent verification is limited. In practical use, both creases become less distracting over time as users adapt to the form factor. Color accuracy and visual impact favor the MateBook Fold, with its higher brightness and contrast ratio of 2,000,000:1 creating more vibrant images and videos. The X1 Fold delivers excellent color reproduction but cannot match the visual punch of Huawei’s display. For creative professionals and media consumers, this difference could be decisive when choosing between these devices. The touch response and pen input capabilities of both displays deserve consideration. Lenovo’s display works seamlessly with the Precision Pen, offering pressure sensitivity that makes note-taking and sketching feel natural. The anti-smudge coating balances fingerprint resistance with smooth touch response. Huawei provides similar functionality, though detailed specifications about pressure sensitivity levels and palm rejection capabilities are not yet widely available. Both devices support multi-touch gestures for navigation and manipulation of on-screen elements. The 4:3 aspect ratio on both devices proves ideal for productivity applications, providing more vertical space than typical 16:9 laptop displays. This ratio works particularly well for document editing, web browsing, and coding. When watching widescreen video content, both devices display black bars at the top and bottom, but the overall screen size still delivers an immersive viewing experience, especially on the larger MateBook Fold. Performance and Hardware Capabilities The performance profiles of these devices reflect their different design philosophies. Lenovo equips the ThinkPad X1 Fold with 12th Generation Intel processors, ranging from the Core i5-1230U to the Core i7-1260U vPro. These 10-core, 12-thread chips provide adequate performance for productivity tasks but represent previous-generation technology in 2025. The X1 Fold supports up to 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 1TB of PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. Intel Iris Xe integrated graphics handle visual processing, delivering sufficient power for office applications but struggling with demanding creative workloads. Huawei takes a different approach with its Kirin X90 ARM-based chipset. This custom silicon is specifically optimized for HarmonyOS and the foldable form factor. The MateBook Fold includes 32GB of RAM and offers storage options up to 2TB. While direct performance comparisons are difficult due to the different architectures, the Kirin X90 delivers responsive performance for HarmonyOS applications and benefits from tight hardware-software integration. Thermal management represents another point of divergence. Lenovo employs a fanless design in the X1 Fold, prioritizing silent operation over sustained performance. This approach leads to thermal throttling during extended workloads, limiting the device’s capabilities for processor-intensive tasks. Huawei incorporates a vapor chamber cooling system with diamond aluminum dual fans in the MateBook Fold, enabling 28W sustained performance without excessive heat or noise. This advanced cooling solution allows the MateBook Fold to maintain peak performance during demanding tasks, despite its thinner profile. Battery life reflects both hardware choices and software optimization. The X1 Fold includes a dual-battery design totaling 64Wh, delivering approximately 8 hours and 51 minutes in laptop mode and 7 hours and 27 minutes in tablet mode under real-world conditions. The MateBook Fold features a larger 74.69Wh battery, and its LTPO display technology reduces power consumption significantly. While independent verification of Huawei’s “all-day” battery claims is not yet available, the combination of a larger battery and more efficient display technology suggests the MateBook Fold should offer superior battery life in comparable usage scenarios. The storage subsystems in both devices utilize high-speed solid-state technology, but with different implementations. Lenovo’s PCIe Gen 4 SSD delivers sequential read speeds up to 5,000MB/s, providing quick access to large files and rapid application loading. Huawei has not published detailed storage performance metrics, but contemporary flagship devices typically feature similar high-performance storage solutions. Both devices offer sufficient storage capacity for professional workloads, with options ranging from 256GB to 2TB depending on configuration. Memory configurations play a crucial role in multitasking performance. Both devices offer 32GB in their top configurations, which provides ample headroom for demanding productivity workflows. Neither device allows for user-upgradable memory, as both use soldered RAM to maintain their slim profiles. This limitation means buyers must carefully consider their memory needs at purchase, as future upgrades are not possible. Operating Systems and Software Experience The most fundamental difference between these devices lies in their operating systems. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold runs Windows 11 Pro, providing access to the vast Windows software ecosystem and familiar productivity tools. Windows offers broad compatibility with business applications and enterprise management systems, making the X1 Fold a natural choice for corporate environments. However, Windows 11 still struggles with optimization for foldable form factors. Mode switching can be inconsistent, and the operating system sometimes fails to properly scale applications when transitioning between configurations. Huawei’s MateBook Fold runs HarmonyOS 5, a proprietary operating system designed specifically for the company’s ecosystem of devices. HarmonyOS offers several advantages for foldable hardware, including faster boot times, more efficient resource management, and seamless integration with other Huawei products. The operating system includes AI-powered features like document summarization, real-time translation, and context-aware suggestions through the Xiaoyi assistant. HarmonyOS also enables advanced multi-device collaboration, allowing users to transfer running apps between Huawei phones, tablets, and the MateBook Fold without interruption. The software ecosystem represents a significant consideration for potential buyers. Windows provides access to millions of applications, including industry-standard productivity, creative, and development tools. HarmonyOS currently offers over 1,000 optimized applications, with projections for 2,000+ by the end of 2025. While this number is growing rapidly, it remains a fraction of what Windows provides. Additionally, HarmonyOS and its app ecosystem are primarily focused on the Chinese market, limiting its appeal for international users. Security features differ between the platforms as well. Lenovo includes its ThinkShield security suite, Windows Hello facial recognition, and optional Computer Vision human-presence detection for privacy and security. Huawei implements its StarShield architecture, which provides security at the kernel level and throughout the operating system stack. Both approaches offer robust protection, but organizations with established Windows security protocols may prefer Lenovo’s more familiar implementation. The multitasking capabilities of each operating system deserve special attention for foldable devices. Windows 11 includes Snap Layouts and multiple virtual desktops, which work well on the X1 Fold’s large unfolded display. However, the interface can become cluttered in laptop mode due to the reduced screen size. HarmonyOS 5 features a multitasking system specifically designed for foldable displays, with intuitive gestures for splitting the screen, floating windows, and quick app switching. This optimization creates a more cohesive experience when transitioning between different device configurations. Software updates and long-term support policies differ significantly between these platforms. Windows 11 receives regular security updates and feature enhancements from Microsoft, with a well-established support lifecycle. HarmonyOS is newer, with less predictable update patterns, though Huawei has committed to regular improvements. For business users planning multi-year deployments, Windows offers more certainty regarding future compatibility and security maintenance. Keyboard, Input, and Accessory Integration The keyboard experience significantly impacts productivity on foldable devices, and both manufacturers take different approaches to this challenge. Lenovo offers the ThinkPad Bluetooth TrackPoint Keyboard Folio as an optional accessory. This keyboard maintains the classic ThinkPad feel with good key travel and includes the iconic red TrackPoint nub. However, the keyboard feels cramped compared to standard ThinkPad models, and the haptic touchpad is smaller than ideal for extended use. The keyboard attaches magnetically to the lower half of the folded display but adds 1.38 pounds to the overall weight. Huawei includes a 5mm wireless aluminum keyboard with the MateBook Fold. This ultra-thin keyboard offers 1.5mm of key travel and a responsive touchpad. Weighing just 0.64 pounds, it adds minimal bulk to the package while providing a comfortable typing experience. The keyboard connects wirelessly and can be positioned flexibly, allowing users to create a more ergonomic workspace than the fixed position of Lenovo’s solution. Stylus support is available on both devices, with Lenovo offering the Precision Pen for note-taking and drawing. The X1 Fold’s pen attaches magnetically to the display, ensuring it remains available when needed. Huawei provides similar stylus functionality, though detailed specifications for its pen accessory are limited in current documentation. The most significant accessory difference is the kickstand implementation. Lenovo requires a separate adjustable-angle kickstand for desk use, adding another component to manage and transport. Huawei integrates the kickstand directly into the MateBook Fold, providing immediate stability without additional accessories. This integrated approach streamlines the user experience and reduces setup time when transitioning between usage modes. Virtual keyboard implementations provide another input option when physical keyboards are impractical. Both devices can display touch keyboards on the lower portion of the folded screen, creating a laptop-like experience without additional hardware. Lenovo’s implementation relies on Windows 11’s touch keyboard, which offers reasonable accuracy but lacks haptic feedback. Huawei’s virtual keyboard is deeply integrated with HarmonyOS, providing customizable layouts and adaptive suggestions based on user behavior. Neither virtual keyboard fully replaces a physical keyboard for extended typing sessions, but both provide convenient input options for quick tasks. The accessory ecosystem extends beyond keyboards and styluses. Lenovo leverages the ThinkPad’s business heritage with a range of compatible docks, cases, and adapters designed for professional use. Huawei focuses on cross-device accessories that work across its product line, creating a cohesive ecosystem for users invested in multiple Huawei products. This difference reflects the broader positioning of each brand, with Lenovo targeting enterprise customers and Huawei pursuing ecosystem-driven consumer experiences. Connectivity and Expansion Options Connectivity options reflect the different priorities of these manufacturers. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port, providing versatile connectivity for peripherals and external displays. The device supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, with optional LTE/5G connectivity for truly mobile productivity. This cellular option represents a significant advantage for professionals who need reliable internet access regardless of Wi-Fi availability. The Huawei MateBook Fold offers two USB-C ports, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.2. The device does not include cellular connectivity options, limiting its independence from Wi-Fi networks. The reduced port selection compared to the X1 Fold may require additional adapters for users with multiple peripherals or specialized equipment. Audio capabilities favor the MateBook Fold, which includes six speakers compared to the X1 Fold’s three. Both devices feature four-array microphones for clear voice capture during video conferences. Camera quality is superior on the MateBook Fold, with an 8MP sensor versus the 5MP camera on the X1 Fold. These differences impact the multimedia experience, particularly for users who frequently participate in video calls or consume media content. External display support varies between the devices. Lenovo’s Thunderbolt 4 ports enable connection to multiple high-resolution monitors, supporting sophisticated desktop setups when needed. Huawei’s USB-C ports provide display output capabilities, but with potentially fewer options for multi-monitor configurations. For professionals who regularly connect to external displays, projectors, or specialized peripherals, these connectivity differences could significantly impact workflow efficiency. Wireless connectivity standards influence performance in different environments. The X1 Fold’s Wi-Fi 6E support provides access to the less congested 6GHz band, potentially delivering faster and more reliable connections in crowded wireless environments. The MateBook Fold’s Wi-Fi 6 implementation is still capable but lacks access to these additional frequency bands. For users in dense office environments or congested urban areas, this difference could affect day-to-day connectivity performance. Future expansion capabilities depend largely on the port selection and standards support. Thunderbolt 4 provides the X1 Fold with a forward-looking connectivity standard that supports a wide range of current and upcoming peripherals. The MateBook Fold’s standard USB-C implementation offers good compatibility but lacks some of the advanced features and bandwidth of Thunderbolt. This distinction may become more relevant as users add peripherals and accessories over the device’s lifespan. Price, Availability, and Value Proposition The value equation for these devices involves balancing innovation, performance, and accessibility. The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold starts at $2,499 for the base configuration with a Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. Fully equipped models with Core i7 processors, 32GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage approach $3,900. These prices typically do not include the keyboard and kickstand accessories, which add approximately $250-300 to the total cost. The Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design is priced between CNY 24,000 and 27,000 (approximately $3,300 to $3,700) depending on configuration. This pricing includes the wireless keyboard, making the total package cost comparable to a fully equipped X1 Fold with accessories. However, the MateBook Fold is currently available only in China, with no announced plans for international release. This limited availability significantly restricts its potential market impact outside of Asia. Global support and service represent another consideration. Lenovo maintains service centers worldwide, providing reliable support for business travelers and international organizations. Huawei’s support network is more limited outside of China, potentially creating challenges for users who experience hardware issues in regions without official service options. The target audience for each device influences its value proposition. The X1 Fold appeals to business professionals who prioritize Windows compatibility, global support, and integration with existing enterprise systems. Its ThinkPad branding carries significant weight in corporate environments, where reliability and security take precedence over cutting-edge specifications. The MateBook Fold targets technology enthusiasts and creative professionals who value display quality, design innovation, and ecosystem integration. Its limited availability and HarmonyOS platform make it less suitable for mainstream business adoption but potentially more appealing to users seeking the absolute latest in hardware engineering. Financing options and business leasing programs further differentiate these devices in the market. Lenovo offers established enterprise leasing programs that allow organizations to deploy the X1 Fold without significant upfront capital expenditure. These programs typically include service agreements and upgrade paths that align with corporate refresh cycles. Huawei’s business services are less developed outside of China, potentially limiting financing options for international customers interested in the MateBook Fold. Conclusion: The Future of Foldable Computing The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 2024 and Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design represent two distinct visions for the future of foldable computing. Lenovo prioritizes durability, Windows compatibility, and global accessibility, creating a device that fits seamlessly into existing business environments. Huawei pushes the boundaries of hardware engineering, delivering a thinner, lighter device with a larger display and custom operating system optimized for the foldable form factor. For business users who require Windows compatibility and global support, the X1 Fold remains the more practical choice despite its thicker profile and aging processors. Its proven durability and enterprise-friendly features make it a safer investment for organizations deploying foldable technology. The device excels in versatility, allowing users to switch between tablet, laptop, and desktop modes with minimal compromise. Creative professionals and early adopters who prioritize display quality and cutting-edge design may find the MateBook Fold more appealing, provided they can access it in their region and adapt to HarmonyOS. The larger, brighter display and thinner profile create a more futuristic experience, though the limited software ecosystem and regional availability present significant barriers to widespread adoption. Looking forward, both devices point toward necessary improvements in the next generation of foldable computers. Future models should incorporate the latest processors with AI acceleration, reduce weight without sacrificing durability, integrate kickstands directly into the chassis, and provide larger, more comfortable keyboards. Display technology should continue to advance, with higher refresh rates, improved crease durability, and enhanced power efficiency. Software must evolve to better support the unique capabilities of foldable hardware, with more intuitive mode switching and optimized multitasking. The competition between Lenovo and Huawei benefits consumers by accelerating innovation and highlighting different approaches to solving the challenges of foldable computing. As these technologies mature and prices eventually decrease, foldable devices will transition from executive status symbols to practical tools for a broader range of users. The X1 Fold and MateBook Fold represent important steps in this evolution, each contributing valuable lessons that will shape the next generation of flexible computing devices. The ideal foldable device would combine Huawei’s hardware innovations with Lenovo’s software compatibility and global support. It would feature the thinness and display quality of the MateBook Fold, the enterprise security and connectivity options of the X1 Fold, and an operating system that seamlessly adapts to different usage modes. While neither current device achieves this perfect balance, both demonstrate remarkable engineering achievements that push the boundaries of what portable computers can be. As we look to the future, the success of foldable computing will depend not just on hardware specifications but on the development of software experiences that truly leverage the unique capabilities of these flexible displays. The device that ultimately dominates this category will be the one that most effectively bridges the gap between technical innovation and practical utility, creating experiences that simply aren’t possible on conventional laptops or tablets. Both Lenovo and Huawei have taken significant steps toward this goal, and their ongoing competition promises to accelerate progress toward truly transformative foldable computers.The post Folding the Future: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold 2024 vs. Huawei MateBook Fold Ultimate Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Not often have I heard of a mouse overheating and blowing up in the hand. The little computing rodent is safe to deal with. Not surprisingly then, we are consciously okay handling them during those nerve-wrecking battles and work hours extending beyond dawn. But the same cannot be said for sticky, sweaty hands you’re left with on the plasticky mice. Notwithstanding, no one has thought of giving the mouse a fan, until now. Noctua, the famous Austrian computer hardware manufacturer, that has for years kept CPUs cool with its incredible fans, has teamed with Pulsar for a gaming mouse with a built-in fan. The beige and brown Noctua fans have been part of our lives, ever so quietly beefing up our devices’ performance. Now a small Noctua is finding its way into Pulsar’s flagship mouse. The idea of the fan inside a mouse is simple, to keep the hand dry; not that we thought the innards of the mouse required cooling. Designer: Noctua x Pulsar Showcased at the 2025 Computex in Taipei, Taiwan, the Pulsar x Noctua gaming mouse is based on the Pulsar Feinman F01, whose internals have been adjusted to integrate a 40 mm Noctua NF-A4x10 5-Volt PWM fan. The exterior of the mouse is an innovative magnesium alloy exoskeleton with cutouts to direct airflow to your palm, keeping it chill when the going gets tough. For the new collaboration, Pulsar has painted its flagship Feinmann mouse in Noctua colours, including a fan – which of course is in signature beige-brown outfit. The co-branded mouse is called the Pulsar x Feinman Noctua Edition and, despite the fan onboard, is said to have ultra-quiet operation. According to the available information, the fan inside of the mouse runs almost quietly with a noise level of 17.9dB. Since quietness and the idea to keep the sweating palm dry don’t make for a good gaming mouse, the Pulsar x Feinman Noctua borrows all its impeccable features from its predecessor. For a gamer’s benefit, the lightweight wireless mouse has a XS-1 sensor delivering an awesome 32,000 dpi. To ensure smooth gameplay, it offers 8 kHz polling rate, an acceleration of 50G, and a speed of 750 IPS, and comes with its own charging dock. There is no word on the exact weight of the mouse, or how much the fan eats up on the battery, but considering Feinmann F01 weighs only 46g, thanks to its magnesium housing, the fan-based mouse probably weighs just as much. Same is for the price, the F01 costs about $180 and the Pulsar x Feinman Noctua Edition is expected to cost $200, when it goes on sale in November 2025. The post Pulsar x Feinman Noctua mouse has a built-in fan to chill your sweaty palm first appeared on Yanko Design.