Manila has always had a complicated relationship with water. The city sprawls across a delta, floods seasonally, and yet somehow keeps expanding outward rather than dealing with its fundamental infrastructure problems. So naturally, instead of fixing the drainage systems or improving the existing urban fabric, someone decided the solution was to build artificial islands and stack them with luxury towers. Enter City of Pearl, a massive mixed-use project that just picked up a Golden A’ Design Award in Urban Planning and Urban Design back in 2018, which puts it in some genuinely elite company globally.

HPA Architects Engineers and Development Consultants designed this beast, and from what I can gather, they’re going full Dubai playbook here. Think integrated commercial zones, high-end hospitality venues, and residential towers all crammed onto reclaimed land in Manila Bay. The project aims to create what the design community loves calling a “live-work-play” environment, which usually means expensive apartments near expensive restaurants where expensive people can avoid interacting with the rest of the city. But credit where it’s due, the design execution looks genuinely thoughtful, at least on paper.

Designer: Hpa Architects Engineers and Development Consultants

The project focuses on the live-work-play integration that everyone talks about but few actually execute well. HPA’s design prioritizes walkability and 24/7 activation, which sounds obvious until you visit most mixed-use developments that turn into ghost towns after 6pm. The residential towers aren’t cordoned off from the commercial zones. Green spaces thread through the entire development instead of being relegated to sad corner plazas. The hospitality components, which include upscale hotels and dining, sit at strategic points to keep foot traffic flowing throughout the day. This creates natural collision points where residents, workers, and tourists intersect, which is exactly what makes urban environments feel alive rather than sterile.

HPA integrated pedestrian-focused infrastructure and public transit connectivity from the ground up, reducing car dependency in a region where traffic congestion rivals Los Angeles on a bad day. The green space allocation exceeds typical Manila developments by a significant margin, though exact percentages weren’t disclosed in the award documentation. These aren’t token gestures. Dense urban environments need breathing room, and the architects understood that luxury buyers in 2018 and beyond expect environmental consideration baked into the design philosophy, not bolted on as an afterthought.

Mixed-use waterfront developments are everywhere now, from Singapore’s Marina Bay to Mumbai’s reclamation projects. What separates the memorable from the forgettable is whether architects can create genuine public space, real connectivity with existing urban fabric, and buildings that age gracefully instead of looking dated in fifteen years. The A’ Design Award recognition suggests HPA understood the assignment, but awards measure potential while reality measures delivery. Manila will get the City of Pearl it builds, not the one that won the prize. The renderings look spectacular, naturally. They always do.

The post Manila gets its own Palm Jumeirah-style Artificial Islands With Luxury Housing first appeared on Yanko Design.

Timepieces have evolved far beyond their basic function of telling time, with many designers seeking to create objects that transform our relationship with temporal experience. The challenge lies in creating clocks that feel both functional and artistic, offering something more meaningful than just digits on a screen. Modern interiors increasingly demand objects that serve as conversation pieces while maintaining their essential utility.

The Crydal Scroll Clock stands out by reimagining time as a flowing, kinetic experience rather than static numbers. This handcrafted, limited-edition timepiece transforms the act of checking time into something almost meditative, using 2,704 individually controlled RGB LEDs to create the impression that time itself is scrolling endlessly forward through space.

Designer: Daniël van der Liet

The materials immediately signal that this isn’t your typical desk clock. Raw steel and concrete form the foundation, with visible rust patina and weathered surfaces that give each piece the appearance of a recovered artifact from some distant future. The concrete base feels substantial and permanent, while exposed bolts and hand-finished details reinforce the sense of industrial craftsmanship and authenticity.

The dual cylindrical displays steal the show with their mesmerizing light animations. Each scroll contains hundreds of RGB LEDs arranged in a dense matrix that creates flowing patterns of time. Instead of traditional hands or static digits, hours and minutes appear as glowing numerals that move continuously across the surface, fading and shifting in an endless loop that makes time feel alive.

Of course, the atmospheric capabilities extend the clock’s role beyond simple timekeeping. The LEDs can shift through different color moods and ambient patterns, allowing the Scroll Clock to function as a sophisticated light sculpture. You can watch the colors fade from warm orange to cool blue, creating dynamic lighting that responds to different times of day or personal preferences.

The user interaction feels deliberately analog despite the advanced LED technology. Tactile toggle switches control power and modes, while the fabric-wrapped power cord adds a human touch to the industrial aesthetic. These details create a bridge between the raw, mechanical base and the ethereal, flowing display above, making the entire object feel both grounded and transcendent.

That said, the real appeal lies in how the Scroll Clock changes your perception of time itself. Instead of glancing at numbers and moving on, you find yourself watching the gentle flow of light, appreciating the continuous nature of temporal progression. The clock becomes a meditation on time’s passage rather than just a tool for measuring it.

The limited production numbers and handcrafted construction make each Scroll Clock genuinely unique. Built in the Netherlands in extremely small editions, these pieces blur the line between horology, design object, and futuristic artwork. You get something that feels both collectible and functional, destined to become a focal point in any space.

The Crydal Scroll Clock invites you to experience time as both practical information and poetic expression. This approach transforms a fundamental human need into an opportunity for wonder, proving that even the most basic functions can become sources of beauty and contemplation.

The post Crydal Scroll Clock Reimagines Time as Flowing Light Art first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept rethinks the wristwatch by integrating the case and movement into a single unit. The watch measures just 2.0 mm thick. Rather than luxury jewelry masquerading as horology, Piaget built an engineering manifesto written in M64BC cobalt alloy and sapphire crystal.

Designer: Piaget

Piaget’s latest release demonstrates that ultra-thin timepieces can maintain their function without compromising form. The company’s approach shows how extreme constraints can drive superior engineering solutions.

Case as Calibre

Traditional watchmaking separates case from movement like floors in a building. The movement sits inside protective walls, the dial covers everything up, and each component occupies its own vertical space. Piaget filed five patents to eliminate this architecture entirely.

The caseback becomes the main plate. Bridges transform into both structural elements and dial features. Gears integrate directly with visual components so the face reads like an architectural model where every visible element serves a mechanical purpose.

This integration allowed Piaget to achieve exactly 2.00 mm from crystal to caseback. The sapphire crystal measures approximately 0.2 mm thick. Individual wheel components were manufactured down to approximately 0.12 mm thickness. These represent fundamental rethinking of mechanical watch construction rather than incremental improvements.

The Manufacture 970P-UC movement powers the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon, running at 28,800 vibrations per hour and requiring hand winding. Every component was redesigned to exist in essentially two dimensions while maintaining three-dimensional functionality. The visible tourbillon rotates through the dial opening, turning mechanical necessity into visual theater.

Piaget’s Ultra-Thin Heritage

The Altiplano Ultimate Concept continues Piaget’s six-decade pursuit of impossibly thin mechanical movements. The company introduced the 2mm-thick 9P in 1957, followed by the automatic 12P in 1960, and the 1200P series that pushed boundaries further. Each generation established new benchmarks for thinness without compromising reliability.

This legacy positions the AUC not as an isolated achievement but as the latest chapter in systematic engineering development. Piaget’s approach treats ultra-thin construction as core competency rather than one-off experimentation. The company’s movement archives contain solutions that current competitors are only beginning to attempt.

Microscopic Tolerances, Major Consequences

Building a tourbillon in a 2mm case creates problems that don’t exist in normal watchmaking. Shock resistance becomes critical when there’s almost no vertical space for impact absorption. Temperature expansion coefficients matter more when components live micrometers apart.

Piaget redesigned the keyless works so the flat recessed crown drives a worm-gear on the same plane as the gear train. The solution saves vertical space and protects the stem in daily wear. Traditional winding trains couldn’t fit, so Piaget engineered new gear ratios and lever systems.

The M64BC cobalt alloy case material provides exceptional rigidity at extreme thinness levels that would compromise traditional gold construction. The material choice affects both engineering capabilities and visual character, delivering the structural integrity necessary for 2mm total thickness.

Power reserve settles at approximately 35 to 40 hours despite the space constraints. That’s sufficient for weekend wear patterns while proving the movement maintains real-world functionality. Component finishing remains exceptional despite the size limitations. Polished bevels catch light on the bridges. Micro-perlage texturing appears where visible. Mirror-polished chatons reflect light from the gear wheels.

Engineering Firsts in the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon

• Case as mainplate integration – Eliminates traditional case/movement separation
• 0.12mm wheel components – Thinnest gear wheels in mechanical watchmaking
• 0.2mm sapphire crystal – Ultra-thin crystal maintaining clarity and protection
• Worm-gear crown system – Redesigned winding geometry for 2mm profile
• M64BC cobalt alloy case – Material choice optimized for extreme thinness

Wearability & Reliability

The ultra-thin profile creates unique wearing characteristics that distinguish the Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon from conventional timepieces. The 2mm thickness means the watch virtually disappears under clothing while the 41.5mm diameter provides sufficient visual presence. Piaget redesigned the entire strap assembly to complement the case thinness.

The strap assembly was thinned dramatically, with documented prototypes using a Kevlar-reinforced layup around ~1.1 mm to keep comfort without bulk. The ultra-thin pin buckle maintains the watch’s impossibly thin profile throughout the entire wearing experience.

According to Piaget, the integrated architecture was made reliable for daily wear and reduces traditional weak points between case and movement. The company claims the watch handles daily activities without the fragility concerns typical of ultra-thin pieces. The case-as-movement design reportedly distributes stress more evenly within the integrated structure.

The New Khaki Editions

The 2025 variations include khaki green treatments that lean into military-inspired aesthetics while maintaining identical internal specifications. These boutique pieces require custom ordering through Piaget’s network, emphasizing their limited availability and exclusivity.

The 2025 Khaki Green duo pairs the AUC Tourbillon in cobalt with the Altiplano 910P in yellow gold. This clarifies why collectors are seeing multiple green variations across Piaget’s ultra-thin lineup this season.

The khaki green version transforms how the micro-architecture reads visually. Sunlight skims the satin-brushed surface, catching bevels on the bridges so the tourbillon cage pops from an almost planar field. The green finish increases perceived depth without adding actual thickness, creating visual layering that shouldn’t exist at this scale.

Gold accents on select components make the tourbillon cage appear more dimensional during different lighting conditions. The contrast helps separate mechanical foreground from background elements in what should be impossible visual depth. Both variants demonstrate how surface treatment affects perception of engineering complexity.

Piaget offers additional customization options on boutique orders including engraving, alternative strap materials, and color variations beyond the standard treatments. This level of personalization extends the exclusivity factor while accommodating individual preferences within the technical constraints.

Technical Specifications

• Model: Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon
• Movement: Piaget 970P-UC, hand-wound, 4 Hz, approx. 35-40 h power reserve
• Case: M64BC cobalt alloy, 41.5 mm diameter, 2.00 mm total thickness
• Crystal: Sapphire approx. 0.2 mm
• Water resistance: 20 m
• Architecture: Caseback as mainplate. Wheels down to ~0.12 mm. Flat recessed crown with worm-gear winding
• Availability: Boutique only. Pricing on request.

Piaget achieved the first beat on February 7, 2017, revealed the concept in 2018, and began commercial deliveries by 2020. Every measurement required patent-worthy engineering solutions to achieve.

Engineering Philosophy

The Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon proves that extreme constraints drive superior engineering solutions. Piaget couldn’t rely on traditional approaches, so they invented new methodologies. The company claims the result works better as a daily timepiece than most conventional ultra-thin watches.

According to Piaget, the watch keeps accurate time, winds smoothly through the redesigned crown system, and handles normal daily activities without fragility concerns. The case-as-movement architecture was made reliable for daily wear and reduces traditional weak points between components.

The company emphasizes that this demonstrates luxury engineering serving practical purposes. Rather than a museum piece designed for headlines, Piaget created a functioning timepiece. It’s a functioning mechanical watch that happens to establish new standards for what’s possible in 2mm of vertical space.

Availability and Pricing

The Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept Tourbillon transforms necessity into beauty and demonstrates how engineering solutions emerge from impossible constraints. Piaget holds the record claim for a tourbillon wristwatch at 2.0 mm on the AUC Tourbillon.

The timepiece requires custom ordering through Piaget boutiques with pricing available upon request. Delivery timeframes vary based on configuration and availability, with most orders requiring several months due to manufacturing complexity.

The post Piaget Altiplano Ultimate Concept: How Piaget Made a Tourbillon Disappear first appeared on Yanko Design.

I previously mentioned that sometimes I would love to have a Rimowa bag that I could carry everywhere I go instead of just when at the airport. They granted my wish with The Original Backpack but I had the feeling that they had more in the bag, so to speak. Now we might be seeing a lot of those grooved aluminum bags out in the wild with their latest every day bag release.

The German brand has entered the leather‑handbag market with the Groove Collection, its first full‑leather line. The four‑piece range includes a shopper, a hobo, and two cross‑body styles, each priced between $1,200 and $2,150 . Inspired by the iconic grooves of Rimowa’s luggage, the bags feature sleek handles, metallic palladium hardware, and a gender‑neutral silhouette that blends travel utility with everyday style.

Designer: Rimowa

Crafted in Italy from soft Florentine calf leather, the Groove pieces feel supple yet durable, promising a lightweight experience without sacrificing the brand’s hallmark robustness . The leather is paired with signature Rimowa hardware that mirrors the polished aluminium of its suitcases, creating a visual link between the new accessories and the company’s heritage.

The collection’s design language emphasizes mobility. Adjustable straps and a classic suitcase‑inspired handle allow each bag to be worn as a cross‑body, shoulder bag, or handheld tote, catering to commuters, travelers, and fashion‑forward shoppers alike . Functional details such as hidden back pockets, zipped closures, and gusset‑style openings add practical organization while maintaining a clean aesthetic.

Rimowa’s move into leather accessories signals a strategic expansion beyond luggage into daily‑life products. Since its 2016 acquisition by LVMH, the brand has collaborated with designers like Virgil Abloh and Rick Owens, gradually positioning itself as a luxury lifestyle label . The Groove Collection marks the latest step in that evolution, allowing Rimowa to compete directly with established luxury handbag houses such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel.

Beyond aesthetics, the Groove Collection underscores Rimowa’s commitment to craftsmanship. Each bag is handcrafted in Italy, a detail that reinforces the brand’s focus on quality and heritage . The use of calf leather, known for its fine grain and durability, aligns with the company’s reputation for producing products built to last.

For consumers seeking a blend of travel‑ready functionality and high‑fashion elegance, the Groove Collection offers a compelling option. Its design pays homage to Rimowa’s iconic grooves while introducing a fresh, tactile material that resonates with modern lifestyles. As the brand continues to broaden its portfolio, the Groove line positions Rimowa as a versatile player in the luxury accessories market, inviting a new generation of customers to experience the brand’s signature blend of form, function, and forward‑thinking design.

The post Rimowa brings luxury leather handbags with Groove Collection first appeared on Yanko Design.

No, Balenciaga didn’t suddenly release TWS earbuds, but if they did, you’d hope they look exactly this good. The brand has, for a while now, leaned into a sort of ‘ugly-is-edgy’ playbook, where a certain deliberate awkwardness is the main event. That’s why these renders from PDF Haus feel like such a breath of fresh air. They propose a version of Balenciaga that’s still provocative and forward-thinking, but one that achieves its impact through stunning sculptural design rather than just shock value.

These aren’t real products, mind you, although if they were, they would probably be announced during Paris Fashion Week alongside some deconstructed blazers and $2,000 grocery bags just for the shock value. The design captures something about the Balenciaga 2019 DNA: sculptural, slightly impractical, and engineered to make you question whether you’re looking at audio equipment or a piece of wearable art that happens to play music.

Designers: Hyoyeong Kim & PDF Haus

What makes this concept particularly compelling is how it sidesteps the usual tech industry playbook entirely. Instead of chasing specs or promising revolutionary sound quality, this imaginary product leans hard into the idea that your earbuds should be as much about signaling taste as they are about delivering your podcast feed. It’s a philosophy that luxury brands have been dancing around for years, with varying degrees of success and confusion.

The case itself channels serious Jawbone energy, back when that company was making Bluetooth speakers that looked like they belonged in a contemporary art museum rather than your gym bag. Remember those? They had this amazing knack for making tech feel like luxury accessories, with textured surfaces and organic shapes that made you want to leave them sitting on your coffee table instead of hiding them in a drawer. These Balenciaga renders capture that same vibe, but cranked up to eleven with that distinctive ribbed exterior that practically screams “I cost more than your rent.”

Pop open the elongated tube and you’re greeted with a layout that’s clearly inspired by Nothing’s Ear Stick, with two earbuds nestled in individual compartments like precious artifacts. The purple interior lighting adds theater to the whole experience, because apparently even your charging case needs mood lighting now. It’s the kind of detail that serves no functional purpose whatsoever but absolutely nails the luxury positioning, which is exactly the point.

Balenciaga’s actual track record with product diversification reads like a masterclass in controlled chaos. They’ll drop a $1,800 trash bag one season, partner with Crocs the next, then randomly collaborate with hardware crypto wallet makers because why not. The strategy seems less about coherent brand expansion and more about maintaining constant cultural conversation, which honestly works better than most traditional product roadmaps. Their collaborations often feel like art projects first and commercial ventures second, creating desire through scarcity and controversy rather than utility.

This is where these conceptual earbuds hit different. They’re not trying to compete with Sony or Apple on technical merit because that’s not the game luxury fashion plays. When you’re shopping at this level, you’re not comparing frequency response charts or battery life specs. You’re buying into a narrative, a lifestyle signal, an aesthetic choice that says something about how you want to be perceived. The fact that they might also deliver decent audio is almost beside the point.

The genius of this concept lies in understanding that luxury tech doesn’t need to make logical sense. It just needs to make emotional sense to the right audience. These earbuds would probably cost three times what they should, offer half the battery life of mainstream alternatives, and sell out immediately anyway. Because sometimes the most irrational purchase decisions create the most satisfaction, especially when you’re the only person in your circle walking around with what essentially amounts to functional jewelry that also happens to connect to your phone.

Whether Balenciaga will ever actually make earbuds remains to be seen, but concepts like this prove there’s definitely an appetite for tech that prioritizes design language over everything else. In a world where most consumer electronics look increasingly similar, maybe what we need is more products that dare to be beautiful first and practical second.

The post Balenciaga Sculptural Earbuds Concept Blurs the Line Between High-Fashion and Tech first appeared on Yanko Design.

The ritual of handwriting holds a special place in our increasingly digital world, offering a tactile satisfaction that keyboards and touchscreens simply can’t match. Yet most digital writing solutions feel like compromises, forcing you to choose between the pleasure of pen on paper and the convenience of searchable, shareable notes. Montblanc’s Digital Paper device, developed in partnership with AKQA, approaches this challenge from an entirely different angle.

Where typical e-ink tablets prioritize functionality over form, Montblanc has created something that feels like a natural extension of their legendary notebooks and pens. The device wraps its slim profile in soft black leather, complete with a magnetic closure that echoes the satisfying snap of a premium journal. The subtle Montblanc branding and refined finish make it clear this isn’t just another tech gadget; it’s a carefully crafted writing instrument that happens to be digital.

Designer: Montblanc, AKQA

The included stylus draws direct inspiration from the iconic Meisterstück pen, offering the familiar weight and balance that Montblanc users expect. This attention to the physical writing experience sets it apart from the utilitarian styluses that come with most e-ink devices. The pressure sensitivity and palm rejection work seamlessly, but more importantly, the pen feels like something you’d want to hold during long writing sessions.

The high-resolution E Ink display delivers the paper-like appearance that makes digital writing comfortable for extended periods. Unlike the stark interfaces of reMarkable, BOOX, or Bigme devices, Montblanc has prioritized simplicity and elegance over feature density. The screen focuses entirely on the writing experience, with minimal distractions and a clean, uncluttered interface that lets your thoughts flow naturally from pen to page.

Handwriting recognition converts your notes to searchable text, while PDF annotation capabilities handle document markup with precision. Wi-Fi connectivity syncs everything to Montblanc’s companion app, where you can organize, search, and share your work across devices. The cloud integration feels thoughtful and secure, with password protection and encryption options that respect the private nature of handwritten notes.

Battery life extends for days or weeks thanks to the E Ink technology, eliminating the constant charging anxiety that plagues most digital devices. The minimalist approach means fewer menus to navigate and fewer settings to configure, letting you focus on the actual act of writing. This simplicity becomes a luxury in itself, especially when compared to the feature-heavy interfaces of other digital notebooks.

Montblanc Digital Paper occupies a unique position by treating digital writing as a luxury experience worthy of the same attention to detail as their physical pens and notebooks. While other e-ink devices compete on features and price, Montblanc has created something that appeals to users who value craftsmanship, materials, and the emotional connection to their writing tools.

The Digital Paper transforms how luxury consumers think about digital note-taking, moving beyond the utilitarian approach of most e-ink tablets. Montblanc has crafted something that feels as personal and meaningful as their traditional writing instruments, appealing to users who refuse to compromise on materials, craftsmanship, or the emotional connection to their daily tools.

The post Montblanc Digital Paper Elevates E-Ink Notebooks with Luxury Craftsmanship first appeared on Yanko Design.

Bell & Ross has a deep-rooted fascination for distinct square case watches designed for aviators. These are inspired by aircraft instrument panels and have been highly regarded in the BR 01 and, of course, the BR 03 models. Now, the French-Swiss watchmaker is growing its commitment to the design legacy with the launch of two new watches: the BR-X3 Black Titanium and Blue Steel.

Landing with the same circle within a square aesthetic, the BR-X3 does add a sophisticated and contemporary touch to the otherwise iconic design. What has changed: the case shape perfected for years now comes in titanium and steel versions, which are outrightly unlike and will appeal to a different set of people. This we say not just because of the choice of materials, but the distinct color choices on offer as well.

Designer: Bell & Ross

The style and substance

BR-X3 Black Titanium, as the name would suggest, features a microblasted titanium case. The case is paired with a matte black dial, which complements the similarly colored sandwich construction that resides between two plates forming the case. The BR-X3 Blue Steel, on the other hand, comprises a stainless steel case housing with a blue dial that has a polished finish and a sunburst flair.

Both the variants feature a 41mm case, which is ideal for the square cases that generally wear large. Coming back to the sandwiched construction, the watches have two main plates; one forming the top casing, while the other forms part of the caseback. Between the two plates – held together firmly by four screws each – is the watch-color complementing layer, which adds style and depth to the otherwise straightforward design.

The power and pricing

The dial on either of the BR-X3 Black Titanium and Blue Steel, is not very complicated. You may expect a chronograph and a skeletonized dial, but it is pretty simple and to the point. You get an analog power reserve at 9 o’clock and an altimeter-like date counter at 3. Hours, minutes and seconds are the other elements on the dial, irrespective of your color choice. Of course, the large crown – also sandwiched between the two plates – with ‘&’ logo is pleasing, what you cannot help but notice is a black or blue (depending on the watch color) rim just below the round bezel.

The BR-X3 is powered by an in-house BR-CAL.323 mechanical movement. Developed in collaboration with Kenissi, it is a COSC-certified movement with a very promising 70 hours of power reserve. The caseback of the watch is also as interesting as the dial or case. The see-through caseback reveals a working open-worked rotor, which is visually appealing. The watch is 100m water resistant, and comes paired to a black rubber strap matching the watch color. The BR-X3 starts at $8,300.

The post Bell & Ross BR-X3 Black Titanium and Blue Steel watches make rollicking debut first appeared on Yanko Design.

The limited edition Honor Magic V Flip 2 Jimmy Choo Edition is the second generation of Honor’s clamshell foldable and the brand’s second collaboration with luxury fashion icon Jimmy Choo. Like the first edition, this version features a signature blend of fashion and technology, this time with a new color scheme and refined detailing. Once again, the spotlight is on Jimmy Choo Yeang Keat OBE, the designer whose name is synonymous with luxury and statement pieces. Just like a signature pair of Jimmy Choo heels, this phone leans into sparkle and presence. Its shimmering back panel, custom-designed case, and exclusive user interface give it a distinctly high-fashion character.

But there is more here than just looks. The Magic V Flip 2 is equipped with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, a 200MP main camera, a 6.82-inch foldable display, a 4-inch cover screen, a 5,500 mAh battery, 50W wireless charging, and IP58 and IP59 ratings. Instead of just dressing up the hardware, Honor has given Magic V Flip 2 a distinct personality, pairing style with real flagship substance. How do these design and hardware choices hold up in practice? Let’s take a closer look at the Magic V Flip 2 Limited Edition.

Designer: Honor

Aesthetics

The Honor Magic V Flip 2 is a phone that dares you to be noticed. The Jimmy Choo version, in particular, has a back panel featuring a smooth gradient that fades from deep blue to soft white, overlaid with a fine stardust-inspired shimmer that catches and reflects light with every movement. This sparkle creates a shifting pattern of reflections, giving the phone a dynamic, almost jewelry-like quality.

The camera system is arranged vertically in the top right corner of the cover display. On the opposite edge of the frame, the volume rocker and power button, which doubles as a fingerprint scanner,  are positioned in a standard configuration. A small LED flash is located in the upper right corner of the back panel. Because of this placement, it is not usable when the phone is propped open in an L-shape, which is something to keep in mind for low-light selfies.

The side frame is finished in a matte icy blue. A geometric pattern wraps around the hinge, accompanied by the signature of “Prof. Jimmy Choo Yeang Keat OBE.” The branding is prominent but still feels integrated into the overall look. The Honor logo, by contrast, is barely noticeable at first glance and blends seamlessly into the finish. It is a quiet detail that lets the design take center stage.

The included case continues the theme of sparkle but introduces its own variation. It mirrors the phone’s blue-to-white gradient, though the finish leans more toward a true glitter effect, with finer flecks that catch and reflect light as the case moves. The design is not just for show. Metal rings are built into the side of the bottom half of the case, allowing a strap or charm to be attached for added convenience or personalization. The upper right corner of the top half of the case is also slightly raised to provide extra protection for the camera module when the phone is set down on a surface.

If a sparkling clamshell flip phone is not your cup of tea, Honor also offers other finishes in the Magic V Flip 2 lineup. The purple and white variant features an elegant swirl pattern, while a solid grey option delivers a more understated, classic look. With these choices, the series caters to a wide range of personal styles, making it easy for anyone to find a version that suits their taste.

Ergonomics

The Magic V Flip 2 measures 67.1 x 75.6 x 6.9 mm when unfolded and 86.2 x 75.6 x 15.5 mm when folded. It weighs 204 grams. In the hand, it feels compact and solid when closed, but noticeably top-heavy when opened. The weight distribution is not perfectly balanced, which becomes more apparent during extended use.

The overall shape is boxy, with flat edges and a structured frame. While this adds to the visual identity, it can feel a bit rigid compared to more rounded designs. The hinge is sturdy and smooth, with just enough resistance to feel controlled and reliable.

The crease on the inner display is nearly invisible, both visually and to the touch. This helps the unfolded screen feel more like a standard slab phone. However, the bezel around the main display is slightly raised, and there were occasional moments when a finger would catch on the edge during swipes or gestures. It is a minor issue, but one that is noticeable in daily use.

When folded, the device is thick but still reasonably compact for a foldable. It does not disappear in the pocket, but its size is reasonable, especially considering the size of the main display and battery. The rounded corners also help reduce bulk in the hand and pocket.

Performance

Underneath its glamorous exterior, the Honor Magic V Flip 2 Jimmy Choo Edition packs a serious technological punch. It includes both a 4-inch cover display and a 6.82-inch main OLED display, each with a 120Hz refresh rate and LTPO support. Honor claims the inner display reaches a peak brightness of 5,000 nits, while the cover display tops out at 3,600 nits. Whether you are streaming videos, browsing social media, or editing photos, the visuals are consistently crisp. The high refresh rate keeps interactions smooth, making every swipe and scroll feel immediate and responsive.

Under the hood, the V Flip 2 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, paired with either 12GB or 16GB of RAM, and storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB. The Jimmy Choo edition comes exclusively in the 1TB configuration. There is no sense of lag or hesitation during use. You do not feel like you are sacrificing performance for the sake of the foldable form factor.

The Magic V Flip 2 runs on MagicOS 9 based on Android 15. The cover screen layout is divided into two sections. About two-thirds of the space is dedicated to running apps, while the remaining third is reserved for widgets. This layout keeps key information accessible while still allowing users to interact meaningfully with apps.

Popular apps like YouTube, Instagram, X, and Google Maps run directly on the external display. You can check directions, browse feeds, reply to messages, or control music without opening the phone. According to Honor, nearly 99 percent of apps are compatible with the cover screen in the Chinese market, though availability and behavior may vary by region.

The Magic V Flip 2 features a 200MP main camera with a 1/1.4-inch sensor, an f/1.9 aperture, and support for both optical and electronic image stabilization. It captures sharp and detailed images with a wide dynamic range in various lighting conditions. Colors are vivid by default, which might be too saturated for users who prefer a more natural rendering. To offer flexibility, Honor includes three color profiles: Natural, Vibrant, and Authentic.

The main camera supports up to 30x digital zoom. Image quality remains solid up to about 3x, but results at higher zoom levels depend on lighting. Beyond that point, you will start to notice more aggressive image processing, especially in textures and fine details. Even so, the photos remain usable for casual sharing.

The main sensor is paired with a 50MP ultra-wide camera with an f/2.0 aperture and a 120-degree field of view. It delivers good color consistency and captures wide shots effectively, though some softness and edge distortion can appear, particularly in low light or high-contrast scenes.

Video recording is also solid. The Magic V Flip 2 supports video at up to 4K resolution at 60 FPS using both the main and ultra-wide cameras. The front-facing camera supports 4K at 30 FPS. Footage looks sharp with good exposure in daylight. Audio performance is solid as well. The built-in microphone captures clear and natural sound, making it a reliable option for casual vlogging or video calls.

The battery is another standout feature of the Magic V Flip 2. It uses a 5,500 mAh silicon-carbon battery, which is currently the largest capacity available in a flip-style foldable. In real-world use, the phone easily lasts a full day, even with camera usage, multitasking, and high screen brightness. Battery anxiety is not an issue here.

Charging performance is equally impressive. The device supports 80W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. Whether you are plugged in or using a charging pad, top-ups are fast and convenient. The phone also supports 7.5W reverse charging, letting you power up smaller accessories like earbuds or another phone in a pinch.

Sustainability

Honor does not make any explicit claims about sustainability or environmentally conscious material choices in the Magic V Flip 2 Jimmy Choo Edition. There is no mention of recycled or sustainable materials. For users who prioritize eco-conscious design, this may feel like a missed opportunity.

That said, the inclusion of both IP58 and IP59 ratings is a positive step. These certifications mean the device is protected against dust and water. Greater durability helps extend the phone’s lifespan, which can reduce the likelihood of early replacement. While there is still room for improvement, this added resilience contributes to more responsible long-term use.

Value

The Honor Magic V Flip 2 lineup starts at CNY 5,999, which is about $825 USD, making it competitively priced among foldable phones in China. The Jimmy Choo Limited Edition takes things further, retailing at CNY 7,499 or approximately $1,030 USD. This premium reflects not just the hardware, but also the exclusivity of the collaboration, the unique finish, and the themed accessories and user interface.

For buyers in China, the higher price highlights the appeal of exclusivity and style. The Jimmy Choo Edition is for users who treat their smartphone as both a tech device and a personal fashion statement. Outside China, the phone is harder to obtain, and the process of importing brings added costs and complications. For collectors or anyone who wants a distinctive and luxurious design, it offers something special, though the value proposition depends on how much those extras matter to you.

Verdict

The Honor Magic V Flip 2 Jimmy Choo Edition is for those who want their phone to do more than just function. This is a device that turns heads and stands out in a crowd. It brings together high fashion and powerful hardware in a way that feels both playful and luxurious.

While the phone delivers strong performance and a unique design, it might not be for everyone. The weight distribution and boxy shape take some getting used to, and availability is limited outside China. The lack of sustainability features is also worth noting for eco-conscious buyers.

For users in China who want a phone that feels like a fashion accessory, this edition offers something rare. It is a bold choice for anyone who values individuality and enjoys the spotlight. For everyone else, the Magic V Flip 2 Jimmy Choo Edition is a beautiful example of what happens when technology meets high design.

The post Honor Magic V Flip 2 Review: A Foldable with Flair first appeared on Yanko Design.

Every year, the halls of IFA in Berlin are littered with products trying to solve the “black rectangle problem.” Tech companies, especially TV manufacturers, have been on a quest to make their dominant, screen-based products disappear into our living spaces. We have seen TVs that mimic paintings, speakers disguised as lamps, and projectors that promise cinematic experiences from a tiny box. These efforts are often clever, but they usually feel like acts of concealment rather than true integration. They try to hide the technology, apologizing for its very presence in our carefully curated homes, which always strikes me as a missed opportunity. A truly great design should not just hide; it should enhance its environment.

This year, a Danish newcomer, CANVAS HiFi, arrived with what might be the most assertive and elegant solution yet. In a striking collaboration with Samsung, CANVAS has introduced The HiFi Frame, a product that frames the television, quite literally, with high-fidelity audio and art. It wraps Samsung’s flagship TVs in a beautifully crafted enclosure that houses a powerful sound system, effectively transforming the entire setup into a single, cohesive piece of functional art. It presents the television and its audio not as something to be hidden, but as a deliberate centerpiece, a gallery piece for sound and image. It is an audacious move that shifts the conversation from concealment to celebration.

Designers: Carsten Beck and CANVAS HiFi

Tethering your wagon to Samsung’s flagship TV lineup is a smart, if focused, decision. This approach guarantees a level of picture quality that matches the audio ambition, creating a unified system for consumers who value both. The HiFi Frame is built to accommodate Samsung’s premium TVs from 55 to 85 inches, with a price tag that floats between €5,000 and €10,000 depending on the size and materials chosen. This is certainly not a casual purchase; it is a statement piece aimed at a market that prioritizes aesthetic cohesion and is willing to pay for it. The product’s flexibility, allowing it to adapt to various high-end Samsung models, also suggests that this is a long-term platform, not a one-off gimmick.

The acoustic engineering here is what separates this from a simple, overpriced soundbar bolted to a TV. CANVAS is making a bold claim, stating its system delivers the authority of a 12-inch subwoofer without the bulky, separate box. Inside the frame’s 24-liter cabinet, two 6.5-inch woofers and a pair of 5×8-inch passive radiators from the well-respected SB Acoustics handle the low end, while a Burr-Brown DAC manages the digital-to-analog conversion. The system also incorporates BACCH 3D sound processing, which aims for genuine spatial realism by canceling crosstalk between channels, a far more sophisticated approach than the typical simulated surround sound that bounces audio off your walls. It is a purist’s take on immersive audio.

What elevates the entire concept is the collaboration with Danish artist Carsten Beck. The front cover of the HiFi Frame, which conceals the speakers, is a physical piece of Beck’s geometric art, available in finishes like Kvadrat textiles and FSC-certified wood. This physical artwork is then mirrored digitally on the Samsung TV’s Art Mode when it is not in use, creating a fascinating dialogue between the analog texture of the frame and the digital light of the screen. It is this thoughtful layering of art, design, and technology that makes The HiFi Frame feel so complete. This is an integrated system designed from the ground up to be a single, curated expression for the modern home.

The post Canvas HiFi’s €10,000 Soundbar Makes the Samsung TV Frame Look Like Art at IFA 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sometimes a product crosses my feed that feels less like a piece of consumer technology and more like an artifact from a slightly wealthier, parallel universe. The Erzetich Charybdis Gold headphones are exactly that. At first glance, they look like something a pharaoh would wear while listening to lossless audio files of ancient hymns. This is pure, unapologetic extravagance, a statement piece that just happens to play music. Erzetich is making only 20 of these gold-plated behemoths, ensuring their status as an instant collector’s item for the kind of person who finds regular flagship audio gear a bit too pedestrian. This is the headphone equivalent of a diamond-encrusted supercar; its primary function is to exist beautifully and exclusively.

The gold finish is pure spectacle, a brilliant bit of theater for the audiophile world. The real substance, the engineering that justifies its existence beyond being a shiny object, is the technology humming beneath that gilded surface. Erzetich built its reputation on sonic performance, not just looks. The Charybdis Gold houses planar magnetic drivers, a term that makes audio nerds nod in serious approval while leaving everyone else looking for a dictionary. This technology is the engine, the very heart of why these headphones command such respect and a high price tag. It makes the gold plating a very expensive and very deliberate cherry on top of a seriously impressive cake.

Designer: Ezretich

This kind of driver operates on a completely different principle than the tiny cone speakers found in most consumer headphones. Instead of a piston-like cone pushing air, a planar magnetic driver uses an incredibly thin, almost weightless diaphragm etched with a conductive circuit, all suspended between an array of powerful magnets. When the audio signal hits, the entire diaphragm moves in unison, producing sound with astonishing speed and minimal distortion. The result is a level of clarity and detail that can feel revelatory, revealing layers and textures in familiar songs that were previously lost in the mix. It is a fundamentally more precise way to turn electricity into sound waves.

That brilliant gold exterior is applied over a serious foundation of CNC-milled aluminum. This material choice is all about acoustic engineering. Aluminum is dense and rigid, meaning the earcups themselves do not vibrate or resonate undesirably, which in turn keeps the sound pure and uncolored by the housing. This meticulous construction contributes to the headphones’ considerable weight, but it is a necessary trade-off for achieving sonic integrity. Erzetich balanced this heft with carefully considered ergonomics, ensuring that while you certainly feel the substance of the materials, the fit remains comfortable for dedicated listening sessions. The entire object feels less like an electronic device and more like a precision instrument.

All this engineering culminates in a sound that is both technically brilliant and genuinely engaging. The Charybdis is known for delivering a powerful, punchy bass response that many other planar headphones struggle to achieve, giving music a visceral sense of impact. They still maintain that wide, detailed soundstage and natural midrange that audiophiles expect from top-tier gear. To get this performance, however, you need serious power. With an impedance of 43 ohms, these headphones demand a dedicated, high-quality amplifier to truly sing; you cannot just plug them into your phone and expect magic. This is specialized equipment for a specialized listener, a final statement that combines bleeding-edge audio with uncompromising luxury.

Key Information: Erzetich Charybdis Gold Planar Magnetic Headphones

• Model name: Erzetich Charybdis Gold
• Limited edition: Only 20 sets produced
• Exterior: Gold-plated CNC-milled aluminum earcups
• Driver type: Planar magnetic
• Sound signature: Wide soundstage, detailed audio, punchy and controlled bass, natural midrange
• Impedance: 43 ohms
• Amp requirements: Requires a powerful, preferably balanced amplifier for optimal performance
• Comfort: Heavy but ergonomically designed with plush pads for extended listening
• Target audience: Audiophiles and collectors seeking high-end sound and luxury design
• Price range: Standard model around €3000 ($3497 USD); Gold edition expected to be higher

The post Are These Gold-Plated Headphones the Ultimate Flex or Just Unnecessary? first appeared on Yanko Design.