Col&McArthur has built a reputation on turning historical moments into wearable artifacts, and their latest piece, the Normandie 1944, might be their most literal interpretation of that concept yet. This is a watch that contains actual sand from the Normandy beaches, a dial cut from a real WWII-era American M1 helmet, and a strap fashioned from vintage M-1928 haversack fabric. The Belgian watchmaker has always leaned into the commemorative angle hard, from lunar meteorites in their Apollo tribute to Leonardo’s mirror-world timekeeping, but the D-Day piece feels different in its directness. There’s no gimmick here, no counterclockwise movement or spaceflight package, just raw material history pressed into a 43mm case.

What strikes me immediately is how balanced the design actually is given how loaded the subject matter could be. Military watches often veer into either sterile field watch territory or overwrought tactical cosplay, but the Normandie 1944 occupies a strange middle ground. The dial is split nearly in half, one side showing the etched Operation Neptune map on aged helmet steel, the other filled with that dark Normandy sand visible through a sapphire window. It’s a bold compositional choice that could easily read as gimmicky, but the execution has enough gravitas to pull it off. The sand capsule sits at 9 o’clock, roughly where you’d expect a small seconds subdial on a traditional three-hander, which makes the asymmetry feel intentional rather than forced. The golden thread running diagonally across the dial represents the “line of fire” between sea and shore, a visual metaphor that’s surprisingly effective when you catch it in the right light.

Designer: Col&McArthur

Click Here to Buy Now: $399 $699 ($300 off). Hurry, only 7/30 left! Raised over $38,000 raised.

The use of actual M1 helmet steel for the dial feels quite unique, not just for historic accuracy, but also from a material-design perspective. Steel helmets from that era were typically made from Hadfield manganese steel, which is tough but not particularly refined by modern watchmaking standards. Col&McArthur had to work with what amounts to scrap metal with historical significance, which means variations in patina, surface texture, and color from watch to watch. Each dial will be genuinely unique, something the brand is leaning into rather than trying to standardize. The engraved map of Operation Neptune, complete with the names of Allied ships like the USS Texas, HMS Glasgow, and HMS Hawkins, adds functional detail without cluttering the composition. These aren’t random naval vessels either, they were the actual ships positioned off Omaha and Gold beaches providing fire support during the landings.

The parachute-shaped seconds hand honoring the 6th Airborne Division’s midnight jump is the kind of nerdy detail that watch enthusiasts will appreciate for its specificity. It references the historic drop that began just after midnight on June 6, 1944, when thousands of paratroopers descended behind enemy lines to secure key positions. While the watch ships with a canvas strap included, an optional Paratrooper Backpack Strap takes the aforementioned historical connection further, using fabric from actual M-1928 haversacks carried by soldiers during the war. Col&McArthur has treated and reinforced the vintage material to make it wearable for daily use, which is the right call when you’re dealing with 80-year-old canvas. The strap is available as a $149 add-on, which gives buyers the flexibility to go full historical authenticity or opt for something more contemporary like the black stainless steel bracelet or titanium Grade 5 option. I’d probably rotate between them depending on occasion, keeping the haversack strap for moments when the symbolism matters most.

The caseback engravings listing the five D-Day beaches (Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, Sword) alongside Eisenhower’s words feel appropriate rather than maudlin. Commemorative watches live or die on whether they treat their subject matter with respect or exploit it, and this leans heavily toward the former. The 80th anniversary of the end of WWII in 2025 has predictably spawned a wave of tribute pieces from various brands, but most opt for symbolic gestures like historically inspired color schemes or period-correct typography. Col&McArthur went the opposite direction by embedding literal pieces of the event into the watch itself, which is either deeply meaningful or slightly macabre depending on your perspective.

The watch comes in a Miyota automatic movement, but can easily be upgraded to an automatic Sellita SW200-1 with a 41-hour reserve, and limited to 1,944 units (just as a hat-tip to history). The 43mm case size is smart, hitting that sweet spot between vintage proportions and modern wearability. Water resistance specs rates at 10atm, which means you can literally storm the beaches wearing the watch! Was that design choice intentional? Knowing Col&McArthur, it probably was!

The real appeal of the Normandie 1944 is how it succeeds as both a historical artifact and a functional timepiece. This is a watch that invites conversation, which means wearing it becomes an opportunity to share what that dark capsule at 9 o’clock actually contains and why it matters. Col&McArthur has created something that’s undeniably unique and thoughtfully executed, walking the line between memorial and daily wearer with more confidence than most commemorative pieces manage. For collectors, veterans, or history enthusiasts looking for something that carries genuine weight beyond another reissue or homage watch, the Normandie 1944 deserves serious attention.

Click Here to Buy Now: $399 $699 ($300 off). Hurry, only 7/30 left! Raised over $38,000 raised.

The post Col&McArthur’s D-Day Tribute Watch Contains Actual Sand From Normandy’s Beaches first appeared on Yanko Design.

A BMW paddleboard was absolutely not on my 2025 bingo card, yet here we are. The German automaker, apparently tired of limiting its electrification ambitions to asphalt, has partnered with Estonian watersports company SipaBoards to launch the BMW x SipaBoards e-SUP, an electric stand-up paddleboard that costs €3,990 (about $4,650) and comes with all the premium trappings you’d expect from a brand that charges extra for heated seats. The board was just unveiled at BMW Welt in Munich alongside the new iX3, because apparently nothing says “electric vehicle future” quite like a floating recreation device with a waterjet motor.

This might seem like a bizarre tangent for a car company, but BMW has always been obsessed with what it calls “sheer driving pleasure,” and I suppose when you run out of road, you start eyeing the water. The e-SUP features a 300-watt integrated motor that uses silent waterjet technology, which SipaBoards claims is 15% more powerful than previous versions while being quieter than anything else in the category. The board ships with two 90Wh battery modules good for 3.5 hours of assisted paddling, with larger 180Wh modules coming in 2026 that will double runtime to around 7 hours. You control the motor via a paddle-mounted remote that’s styled after BMW’s Neue Klasse design language, letting you throttle up without fumbling around or losing your balance.

Designers: BMW & Sipaboards

The e-SUP self-inflates, eliminating the tedious pump ritual that makes inflatable SUPs such a pain to deploy. Once inflated, the board measures in at a touring-friendly length (looks like their 12-foot model based on the “120” marking visible in the photos), with that signature pointed nose and enough deck space for gear mounting via the modular SipaMount system. That modularity matters because it means you can retrofit accessories and future upgrades without replacing the entire board, which is exactly the kind of longevity thinking that makes expensive gear purchases easier to justify. The design itself leans heavily into geometric patterns and muted blues and greys, with angular lines that echo the faceted, almost origami-like surfaces BMW has been experimenting with on concept vehicles.

Even though it does sound absurd on paper, the e-SUP really does align with BMW’s core identity. The German marque has always marketed itself around precision engineering, driver assist technology, and a certain aspirational lifestyle appeal. An app-connected paddleboard with route planning, performance tracking, and electric assist fits that template surprisingly well. You get the same obsessive attention to user experience: intuitive controls, connectivity features, modular upgradeability, and that unmistakable premium aesthetic. The safety angle is real too. Every year, paddleboarders get swept out by currents or wind, and having an electric motor as backup could genuinely prevent rescues or worse. It’s the same philosophy behind stability control in cars, just applied to a completely different environment.

The $4,650 pricing will make purists scoff, and they have a point. You can get a solid non-electric inflatable SUP for a quarter of the cost, and serious paddlers might balk at the weight penalty of integrated motors and batteries. But BMW has never competed on value. They compete on aspiration, refinement, and that intangible sense that you’re using something designed with obsessive care. The e-SUP succeeds at projecting that, from the premium carry bag to the sleek industrial design. Whether it finds an audience beyond BMW superfans and gadget-obsessed water sports enthusiasts remains to be seen, but as a first foray into electric watercraft, it’s competent, surprisingly coherent, and way more thought-through than I expected when I first heard “BMW paddleboard.” Sometimes brand extensions are desperate cash grabs. This one actually makes a weird kind of sense.

The post The BMW Electric Paddleboard Costs $4,650 and Has More Tech Than Your First Car first appeared on Yanko Design.

Billy Hietanen or @nudemodular has quickly carved out a niche for himself in the world of contemporary furniture design, thanks to his playful approach to modularity and a steadfast commitment to minimalism. Rooted in Melbourne and inspired by Scandinavian sensibilities, his wooden furniture is as functional as it is visually refined. Each piece is built from high-quality plywood and designed for effortless assembly—no screws required—inviting users to mix, match, and reconfigure components like building blocks.

This philosophy of adaptability means the furniture grows with you, easily evolving to meet changing needs or tastes. With a focus on personalized finishes and intuitive construction, his furniture feels as much like a creative toolkit as it does a refined addition to the home. Here, we have curated a collection of five unique and impressive wooden designs by Billy Hietanen – each furniture piece is simple, versatile, and yet blessed with enduring appeal.

1. Cube Concept

The Cube Concept is all about modular freedom and hands-on creativity. Each face clicks together with sleek locking clips, letting you build, stack, or remix cubes for side tables, shelves, or seating—whatever your space craves. Each section can be used to create multiple combinations of seating arrangements, so the possibilities feel endless. It’s Billy Hietanen’s answer to furniture that’s never static—think bold, geometric vibes designed to adapt as your style shifts.

The cube concept offers an open invitation to experiment. Those simple corner and straight clips are an open call to play—move, swap, or add on as your mood changes, and we can’t wait to see how he modifies it further. It’s a system made for modern living, where every piece is a blank canvas for your personality and a perfect representation of the quintessential ever-evolving, interactive ‘nude modular’ energy.

What we like

• Each cube section can be combined or rearranged for countless seating and storage configurations.
• The simple locking system encourages creativity, making it fun to experiment and personalize your layout.

What we dislike

• The concept is still in development, and as the design evolves, some features or attachment methods may change.

2. Butterfly Stool/Chair

The Butterfly Stool/Chair is a rather popular and iconic piece in Billy’s modular collection. It’s crafted from hot-pressed, 6-axis CNC-machined Euro birch plywood and finished with clear Osmo oil. The design features a 3D-printed PLA chair adapter, enhancing its playful versatility. Its form is inspired by a butterfly’s wings, with gently curving lines that give it a light, sculptural presence.

This stool is all about flexibility and simplicity. It’s constructed from just a few universal components, allowing users to reconfigure, stack, and personalize each piece to suit their needs, echoing Billy’s “Lego-like” philosophy for furniture. Stackability makes it a space-saving solution, while the exposed structural elements celebrate a Finnish-inspired, minimalist ethos. The Butterfly Stool/Chair is available in multiple finishes, made to order, and intended as a functional, elegant addition to any modern home.

What we like

• Features a highly versatile and modular form that can be easily reconfigured, stacked, or used in various combinations.
• The minimalist and sculptural aesthetic with a modern look that suits many interiors.

What we dislike

• Limited comfort for prolonged sitting.

3. Magnetic Everychair Prototype

The Magnetic Everychair brings next-level flexibility to furniture design. The rather unique-looking chair doesn’t seem to possess any legs, and in fact features two massive magnets on its back. These strong magnets allow the chair to be attached to any surface, offering a portable and adaptable seating arrangement no matter where you are. It’s a statement in mobility and modularity—ready to transform at a moment’s notice to suit your needs.

You can move it around on a whim, making it perfect for anyone who loves to refresh their space or needs adaptable seating for modern living. With exposed structural lines and a crisp, Scandinavian-inspired profile, the Magnetic Everychair looks sharp in any setting. It’s a true expression of Nude Modular’s interactive ethos—a seat that’s as fun to use as it is to look at, and always ready for change.

What we like

• The magnetic back allows the chair to attach to various surfaces and be moved or repositioned with ease, perfect for dynamic spaces.
• Its legless form and exposed structure give it a bold, modern look that stands out in any interior.

What we dislike

• The chair’s functionality depends on finding suitable metal surfaces for attachment.
• The lack of legs and traditional support might not suit everyone, especially for longer sitting sessions or users seeking classic ergonomics.

4. Chaos Stool/Chess Table

The Chaos Stool/Chess Table is a clever dual-purpose piece crafted from clear-lacquered Euro birch plywood. Its standout feature is a machined top with a recessed chessboard pattern, which can be flipped over to reveal a smooth, flat surface. This allows the piece to function as both a compact side table and a casual chessboard, making it ideal for small spaces or anyone who appreciates multifunctional design.

With dimensions of 500mm in height and 370mm in both width and length, the Chaos Stool/Chess Table maintains a minimalist, geometric look that’s easy to pair with other modular pieces. The flip-top feature means you can instantly switch from game mode to everyday utility, reflecting Billy’s playful, flexible approach to furniture. It’s a practical, space-saving solution for modern living, where adaptability and creativity are always in demand.

What we like

• Acts as both a stool/side table and a chess table, offering dual functionality.
• The flip-top design lets you easily switch between a game surface and a smooth table, adding versatility and convenience.

What we dislike

• While ideal for smaller spaces, its modest dimensions may limit use as a primary table or for group chess sessions.

5. Screw-less Record Stand

The screwless record stand is a DIY-friendly furniture design that can be assembled entirely without screws. Instead of a ready-made product, Billy offers detailed manufacturing drawings, including PDF, STEP, and DXF files, allowing makers or enthusiasts to fabricate and build the stand themselves. This approach fits perfectly with his ethos of modularity and hands-on creativity, giving users the freedom to personalize or adapt the design as needed.

The manufacturing package provides all the technical details required for CNC fabrication or manual production, making it accessible for woodworkers and design hobbyists. The stand is designed to securely hold vinyl records in a minimalist, functional display, with an emphasis on clean lines and efficient assembly. This product appeals to those who want a custom, tool-free storage solution for their records and enjoy the process of building their furniture.

What we like

• The screwless design allows for quick, straightforward setup without the need for hardware or special tools.
• With detailed plans provided, users can personalize materials, finishes, and dimensions to match their style or space.

What we dislike

• Requires access to CNC equipment or woodworking skills, which may limit its appeal to non-makers.
• Since it’s a digital plan, users are responsible for troubleshooting and material sourcing on their own.

The post Top 5 Modular Wooden Furniture Designs For Customizable Living & Trendy Interiors first appeared on Yanko Design.

It’s a shame that the AirPods only come in white. Or that drones only come in white or black. Or that the GoPro is only ever in black. We’re surrounded by color but somehow consumer tech giants only want to play it safe. Sure, releasing colored variants of GoPros means that people will select more of one color than another, causing logistical and supply issues that can only be solved by tonnes of market and trend research efforts… but hear me out. If we have colored smartphones, we can have colored gimbals, TWS earbuds, and mics. Røde is working on the latter, with its newly announced color-edition Wireless Micro professional-grade mic.

Røde’s color-edition mics mark a pretty unique shift in consumer tech, because these mics, worn by content creators, are truly a part of their outfit at this point. Having mics that are boring and black just doesn’t make emotional sense. It’s also why a lot of creators bejewel their mics, or attach them to random objects just to make them more unique and attention-grabbing.

Designer: Røde

“These vibrant new colors mark yet another milestone in the evolution of the world’s best-in-class microphone,” says Damien Wilson, CEO of Røde. “The Wireless Micro has always been about making professional audio accessible, and now creators can showcase both their signature sound and style with the same award-winning system. A wave of color is about to wash over the world of content creation – and Røde is at the crest.”

The Wireless Micro comes in 3 new colors, adding to the existing Black and White variants. This new announcement brings more vibrant colors like Red, Orange, and Blue to the mix, giving the mic a funky appeal, sort of the way KitchenAid and Vespa would bring character to their designs through splashes of colors. Feature for feature, however, these colored variants are absolutely identical to their achromatic counterparts. They come with USB-C connectivity for the receiver, an impressive 21 hour battery life, and built-in Røde features like the patent-pending acoustic chamber design and the GainAssist feature that helps capture clearly and at a consistent volume.

Røde’s tiniest mic, this particular gadget also scored the “Best Microphone of 2025” recommendation from Rolling Stone magazine and is even available in the lightning-port variant for older iPhone users. The mics can further be controlled via Røde’s free iOS or Android app, and for people looking to hook this to their DSLRs or video cameras, Røde also makes a camera receiver that the Wireless Micro can be plugged into.

The Wireless Micro’s available on Amazon for a reduced price of $97, although listings for the colored variants haven’t hit the store yet. Given that Røde just announced these colorways yesterday, we can probably expect online retailers to carry the new colored versions shortly. That being said, this is also an invitation to other companies like DJI, Hollyland, Sennheiser, and the likes to consider turning their tech into true fashion wearables. Watches have dazzling, fashionable straps, Meta partners with fashion brands like Ray-Ban and Oakley for their smart eyewear. The least we can do is ask our action cams, wireless mics, and other vlogging equipment to not be ‘boring’.

The post Why Do Only Smartphones Come In Colors? Røde Announces Colored Wireless Mics first appeared on Yanko Design.

The future of computing increasingly demands input devices that work seamlessly in mobile, public, and wearable contexts where traditional mice become impractical or socially awkward. As we move toward augmented reality, smart glasses, and always-connected devices, the need for subtle, continuous interaction grows more pressing. Current solutions often require bulky hardware, frequent charging, or obvious gestures that draw unwanted attention.

The picoRing mouse research project tackles these challenges by reimagining the computer mouse as a ring-based, ultra-low-power wearable device. This experimental system consists of a tiny ring housing a trackball and a companion wristband that receives input data, creating a setup that enables discreet computer control in situations where conventional input methods would be impossible or inappropriate.

Designers: Yifan Li, Masaaki Fukumoto, Mohamed Kari, Shigemi Ishida, Akihito Noda, Tomoyuki Yokota, Takao Someya, Yoshihiro Kawahara, Ryo Takahashi (University of Tokyo)

The core technology relies on inductive coupling between coils embedded in both the ring and wristband. When you move the trackball with your finger, the input gets encoded as frequency-modulated signals and transmitted wirelessly to the wristband with minimal power consumption. The wristband then decodes these frequency peaks back into mouse movements and sends them to your connected device.

The user experience prioritizes subtlety and continuous availability. You can control a cursor, navigate interfaces, or interact with applications using tiny finger movements that are virtually invisible to others around you. The system is designed for environments like airplanes, trains, meetings, or crowded public spaces where pulling out a laptop mouse would be awkward or impossible.

Of course, the practical applications extend beyond just solving social awkwardness. The picoRing mouse could serve as an input device for presentations, allowing speakers to control slides while moving freely. It might also benefit users with mobility challenges who find traditional mice difficult to operate, or serve as a companion for future AR glasses and wearable computing devices.

The ultra-low power design enables all-day wearability without the charging anxiety that plagues most wearable devices. The research demonstrates that meaningful interaction doesn’t require high-power processors or large batteries when the communication method is optimized for efficiency rather than complexity.

That said, this remains a research prototype with significant limitations. The input precision and speed likely can’t match traditional mice for complex tasks, gaming, or detailed work. The learning curve for adapting to ring-based input could be substantial, and compatibility with existing devices and operating systems would require additional development before any commercial viability.

The research status means we’re looking at early-stage exploration rather than a polished product ready for everyday use. The focus is on proving concepts and testing boundaries rather than delivering a consumer-ready experience. Current limitations around input complexity, device integration, and user adaptation would need substantial refinement before practical deployment.

You’ll notice how research like this pushes the boundaries of what input devices can be, exploring possibilities that commercial products might never attempt. The picoRing mouse invites us to reconsider our assumptions about how we interact with technology, suggesting that the future of human-computer interfaces might be far more subtle and integrated than we currently imagine.

The post picoRing Mouse Research Explores Ultra-Low-Power Wearable Input first appeared on Yanko Design.

The relentless glow of modern smartphones has become both a blessing and a curse, turning our pockets into portals of endless distraction. With every ping, pop-up, and notification, our eyes are glued to screens that leave us squinting, tired, and sometimes just plain overwhelmed. Blue light bombardment, endless scrolling sessions, and the constant pressure to stay connected have transformed what should be helpful tools into sources of digital fatigue and anxiety.

But what if your next phone or pocket device could help you break free from that exhausting cycle? A new wave of phone-sized gadgets is putting eye comfort, focus, and digital wellness front and center, challenging the idea that more features always mean better experiences. Here are five standout devices that completely rethink what it means to stay connected, productive, and truly present in our hyperconnected world.

TCL NXTPAPER 60 Ultra

The TCL NXTPAPER 60 Ultra looks like a modern Android phone from a distance, but its display is anything but ordinary once you pick it up. With a matte, paper-like finish and zero flicker technology, this phone is built specifically for people who want to read, write, and scroll without the usual eye strain that comes with traditional screens. A physical switch on the side lets you toggle between “paper” and “color” modes instantly, making it easy to dial down distractions when you need to focus.

Designer: TCL

Under the hood, the NXTPAPER 60 Ultra offers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, stylus support, and a generous 5,200mAh battery that easily keeps up with your day. It’s a full-featured smartphone with all the Android apps you’d expect, but the display technology makes it feel more like carrying around a sophisticated digital notebook than a typical glowing slab. The experience is surprisingly comfortable, even during marathon reading sessions.

What We Like

• Exceptionally comfortable for the eyes with zero flicker and ultra-low blue light
• Full Android experience with stylus support for note-taking and sketching
• Versatile display modes that adapt to your needs and environment

What We Dislike

• Large size pushes the limits of what feels truly “phone-sized” for some users
• Camera and AI features are underwhelming compared to flagship smartphones at similar prices

Mudita Kompakt

The Mudita Kompakt is a minimalist’s dream device, wrapped in a sturdy, pocketable shell that feels refreshingly different from today’s glass rectangles. Its monochrome E Ink display is incredibly gentle on the eyes, perfect for calls, texts, and the occasional note without any of the usual smartphone distractions that pull you into endless scrolling sessions. The phone is designed specifically for digital detox, with a strong focus on privacy, wellness, and intentional simplicity.

Designer: Mudita

With days-long battery life, IP54 dust and splash resistance, and thoughtful hardware touches like a real headphone jack and satisfyingly tactile buttons, the Kompakt feels like a modern classic. It’s not about cramming in apps or endless features that you’ll never use. Instead, it’s about reclaiming your attention and enjoying a quieter, more intentional relationship with technology that actually serves your needs rather than demanding constant engagement.

What We Like

• True E Ink screen provides exceptional eye comfort with no blue light or flicker
• Superb battery life measured in days, not hours
• Minimalist, distraction-free design that encourages mindful usage

What We Dislike

• No app store or third-party apps means limited functionality for some users
• Relatively bulky design for such a small screen compared to modern smartphones

Bigme HiBreak Pro Color

The Bigme HiBreak Pro Color represents a rare breed in the smartphone world: a true E Ink device with a color display and full 5G connectivity that doesn’t compromise on essential phone features. It runs Android 14, supports calls and texts like any regular phone, and even includes a stylus for note-taking or sketching when inspiration strikes. The Kaleido 3 color E Ink screen is remarkably easy on the eyes, especially for reading articles or messaging outdoors, where regular phones become unreadable mirrors.

Designer: Bigme

With Google Play support, generous storage options, and a battery built specifically for endurance rather than just getting through the day, the HiBreak Pro Color is perfect for anyone who wants the eye-friendly benefits of E Ink technology without giving up smartphone essentials. It’s designed as a productivity tool that doesn’t constantly tempt you with flashy animations or attention-grabbing notifications, letting you focus on what actually matters.

What We Like

• Full phone functionality combined with the comfort of color E Ink technology
• Excellent legibility in bright sunlight where regular phones struggle
• Stylus support and full app ecosystem for productivity and reading

What We Dislike

• Color E Ink is still noticeably muted compared to vibrant LCD or OLED displays
• Some ghosting and refresh lag, especially when navigating quickly through apps

reMarkable Paper Pro Move

The reMarkable Paper Pro Move takes the beloved reMarkable note-taking experience and shrinks it down into a genuinely pocket-sized package that goes anywhere you do. Its color E Ink display is specifically engineered for note-takers, readers, and anyone who craves a distraction-free digital space for capturing and developing ideas. Weighing just 235 grams and designed to slip effortlessly into your pocket, it’s built for people who think while they move.

Designer: reMarkable

With Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and eSIM connectivity for messaging and seamless cloud sync, the Paper Pro Move transcends the traditional boundaries of what a digital notebook can be. Its premium build quality, impressive battery life, and remarkably accurate handwriting-to-text conversion make it a favorite tool for those who want to focus on thinking and creating rather than constantly tapping and swiping through endless interfaces.

What We Like

• Outstanding writing and note-taking experience that feels remarkably close to real paper
• Color E Ink display perfect for highlighting and organizing visual information
• Extremely portable design that fits comfortably in most pockets

What We Dislike

• Not a full phone replacement since it lacks voice calling capabilities
• Limited app ecosystem compared to full Android or iOS devices

BOOX P6 Pro

The BOOX P6 Pro represents the next evolution of the phone-sized e-reader concept, offering both color and black-and-white E Ink display options in a form factor that truly feels pocketable. Running a full Android operating system, it supports messaging apps, reading platforms, and note-taking software, with stylus support for those moments when you need to jot down ideas or sketch out concepts on the fly.

Designer:
BOOX

With a hybrid SIM tray for connectivity, generous storage capacity, and a design that feels as comfortable and natural in your hand as holding a paperback book, the P6 Pro is built specifically for productivity on the go. It’s the ideal device for anyone who wants the flexibility and app ecosystem of Android without the constant glare, eye fatigue, and battery drain that come with regular smartphone screens.

What We Like

• Choice between color or black-and-white E Ink displays depending on your needs
• Full Android app support combined with stylus input for maximum versatility
• Truly pocketable and lightweight design that doesn’t feel cumbersome

What We Dislike

• Not a complete phone replacement since it lacks traditional voice calling features
• Still in early release stages with limited global availability and uncertain pricing

These five devices prove that staying connected doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your eyesight, attention span, or peace of mind. Whether you’re drawn to the versatility of the TCL NXTPAPER 60 Ultra, the intentional simplicity of the Mudita Kompakt, or the focused productivity of the reMarkable Paper Pro Move, each offers a refreshing alternative to the endless scroll of mainstream smartphones. The future of mobile devices might just be about doing less, but doing it better.

The post 5 Best Phone-Sized Devices for Digital Detox, Strain-Free Reading, and Focus first appeared on Yanko Design.

The digital overwhelm of modern smartphones has sparked a growing movement toward intentional tech use, with many people seeking ways to reduce screen time and app addiction without completely disconnecting from essential communication. The challenge lies in finding devices that offer just enough connectivity for modern life while encouraging more mindful, distraction-free habits. Most solutions force you to choose between staying connected and staying sane.

The HMD Touch 4G offers a thoughtful middle ground by reimagining what a phone can be when stripped of unnecessary complexity. This compact, Nokia-inspired feature phone provides essential modern connectivity through 4G data, video calling, and cloud apps, while maintaining the focused simplicity that made classic phones so appealing for actual communication rather than endless scrolling.

Designer: HMD

The design immediately evokes nostalgia with its candybar form factor and minimalist curves that feel borrowed from Nokia’s golden era of feature phones. The 3.2-inch color touchscreen provides enough space for basic tasks without overwhelming your attention, while the physical home button and dedicated quick call button on the top edge offer tactile satisfaction that touchscreen-only devices simply can’t match.

The feature set strikes a careful balance between connectivity and simplicity. You get 4G data for essential apps like YouTube, WhatsApp, and Google Maps, plus a front-facing camera for video calls when you need face-to-face communication. However, the device keeps things focused by avoiding the app ecosystem bloat that turns phones into attention-stealing black holes.

The digital detox appeal becomes clear when you consider what the Touch 4G doesn’t do. No social media feeds to endlessly scroll, no notification badges demanding constant attention, no games or productivity apps that blur the line between useful and addictive. Instead, you get the tools for genuine communication and navigation while maintaining the mental space that smartphones often steal.

Of course, the practical features support this lifestyle approach beautifully. The 2000mAh battery delivers up to seven days of standby time, eliminating the daily charging anxiety that plagues smartphone users. FM radio and MP3 playback with expandable storage provide entertainment that doesn’t require data or internet connectivity, perfect for offline moments or travel.

That said, the Touch 4G works best as either a primary phone for people committed to digital minimalism or as a secondary device for specific situations. Weekend getaways, outdoor adventures, or simply times when you want to be reachable without being overwhelmed all become more enjoyable with a device that prioritizes communication over consumption.

The limited market availability, currently focused on India, reflects HMD’s careful approach to launching products that serve specific regional needs and preferences. You can see how this kind of thoughtful device might find broader appeal as more people recognize the value of intentional technology choices.

The HMD Touch 4G demonstrates that stepping back from smartphone complexity doesn’t mean stepping back from modern life. You can stay connected to what matters while reclaiming the mental clarity and focus that constant connectivity often compromises, proving that sometimes less really can be more.

The post HMD Touch 4G Brings Retro Simplicity to the Digital Detox Era first appeared on Yanko Design.

The e-reader world has been buzzing with speculation about a “BOOX Palma 3” for months, with leaks and teasers hinting at Onyx’s next move in the pocket-sized reading device market. The race to make e-readers more portable, colorful, and connected continues to heat up, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of what these devices can do while maintaining the battery life and readability that make E Ink special.

The recently shown BOOX P6 Pro in China appears to be Onyx’s answer to this challenge, though the name is likely a placeholder for the Chinese market rather than its eventual international branding. This phone-sized e-reader combines color E Ink technology with 5G data connectivity, creating a device that feels more like a connected tablet than a traditional e-reader while maintaining the portability that makes pocket reading so appealing.

Designer: BOOX (Weibo)

The 6-inch E Ink Kaleido 3 display immediately sets the P6 Pro apart from its monochrome siblings. You get 300 PPI for crisp text and 150 PPI for color content, making it suitable for everything from novels to comics to digital magazines. The frontlight system with adjustable color temperature ensures comfortable reading in any lighting condition, day or night.

The hardware specs reflect serious ambitions for such a compact device. The quad-core processor and around 8GB RAM should handle multitasking and note-taking apps smoothly, while 128GB storage with microSD expansion provides plenty of space for a substantial library. Android OS opens up access to various reading and productivity apps beyond the standard e-reader experience.

The 5G connectivity deserves special attention as a genuine differentiator. Unlike Wi-Fi-only devices, the P6 Pro can download books, sync notes, or access cloud libraries anywhere with cellular coverage. However, this isn’t a phone replacement, since the SIM support is data-only, like a tablet, so you can’t make calls or send SMS messages despite the phone-like form factor.

Of course, understanding where the P6 Pro fits among its competitors helps clarify its appeal. The BOOX Palma 2 offers the same RAM and storage plus waterproofing, but sticks to black-and-white E Ink and 4G connectivity. The Bigme HiBreak Pro Color matches the P6 Pro’s color capabilities and stylus support, plus voice features, but lacks 5G and feels less pocketable.

That said, the BOOX P6 Pro’s combination of color, compactness, and 5G creates a unique position in the market. You get the only pocket-sized color e-reader with next-generation cellular connectivity, making it ideal for commuters, travelers, or anyone who wants their reading device to stay connected without hunting for Wi-Fi networks.

The physical page-turn buttons and slim profile suggest this device is designed for one-handed reading, whether you’re standing on a train or lounging in a coffee shop. The color support makes it particularly appealing for comic readers, students with textbooks, or anyone who wants magazines and newspapers to look more like their print counterparts.

The BOOX P6 Pro represents what happens when e-reader makers stop treating connectivity as an afterthought. You can see how 5G might transform the reading experience, enabling instant access to new releases, real-time news, or cloud-based libraries that make your device feel limitless rather than constrained by local storage.

The post BOOX P6 Pro Brings Color E Ink and 5G Data to Pocket-Sized Reading first appeared on Yanko Design.

Athletes know that performance isn’t just about physical strength or stamina. Mental focus, resilience, and emotional control are just as critical when the pressure is on. Yet most wearables on the market still focus on heart rate, steps, or calories, leaving the brain’s role in training largely invisible. For anyone who’s ever lost focus at a crucial moment or wondered why a session just didn’t click, there’s finally a new tool that brings mental fitness into the spotlight.

What makes the Nuromova N1 AI Sports Headband so compelling is how it turns the abstract world of mental state into real-time, actionable data. Forget about your run-of-the-mill wrist-worn fitness tracker. This is a sleek, lightweight headband packed with pro-level EEG sensors and AI-powered analytics, designed to help athletes of all levels train smarter, recover faster, and understand themselves better.

Designer: Nuromova Technology Co., Limited

Click Here to Buy Now: $329 $599 (45% off). Hurry, only a few left!

The design is clearly built for movement. The N1 features a soft, adaptive fit that hugs your head without squeezing, thanks to a multi-layer construction. A breathable, sweat-wicking outer surface, a cushioned mid-layer, and a cool, non-slip skin layer keep everything in place even during intense workouts. The headband is lightweight and minimalist, so it feels like any other high-performance sports accessory, just smarter.

Comfort isn’t just a side note here. The headband’s modular quick-release design makes it easy to put on or take off, while the gel electrodes ensure high-quality signal capture without irritation. The magnetic charging dock and extended battery life mean you can train day after day without worrying about running out of juice mid-session.

Of course, the real magic happens once you start moving. The N1’s EEG sensors capture brain signals from the frontal cortex, analyzing focus, stress, fatigue, and emotional shifts in real time. The AI model, running on both the headband and in the cloud, delivers instant feedback. If your focus dips or stress spikes, you’ll feel a gentle vibration cue, letting you adjust before your performance suffers.

The companion app is as thoughtfully designed as the hardware. Syncing is instant and calibration-free, so you can get started right away. During training, you see live readouts of your mental state. After each session, you get a detailed breakdown of focus curves, fatigue spikes, and emotional trends. The app even lets you align video highlights with your brain data, making it easy to spot what triggered a lapse or a breakthrough.

What’s especially interesting is how the N1 adapts to different sports and routines. Whether you’re a tennis player, runner, archer, or team athlete, the headband tracks your mental performance across disciplines. Early users describe it as a thinking partner that helps them understand when to push, when to reset, and how to optimize every session, not just physically but mentally.

The technology under the hood is impressive, but it never feels intimidating. Deep learning models analyze your data and generate personalized suggestions, all while protecting your privacy through federated learning. The feedback is fast, under 200 milliseconds, so you’re always in sync with your own brain. The AI coach feature provides insights that feel genuinely helpful rather than overwhelming.

That said, the N1 isn’t just about numbers and graphs. It’s about changing the way athletes approach training and recovery. Instead of guessing at what’s happening inside your head, you get clear, science-backed insights that help you build mental toughness and resilience over time. The design is subtle enough for everyday wear but smart enough to make a real difference when it counts.

The multi-sport versatility makes this headband particularly appealing for athletes who cross-train or compete in multiple disciplines. The same device that helps a tennis player maintain focus during long rallies can help a runner push through mental barriers or assist an archer in achieving perfect concentration. This adaptability means your investment grows with your athletic interests.

The Nuromova N1 AI Sports Headband represents a new frontier in sports technology, where mental fitness becomes as measurable and trainable as physical performance. For athletes who understand that the mind runs the game, this headband offers a way to finally see, understand, and optimize the psychological side of peak performance. It’s the kind of innovation that makes you wonder how you ever trained without knowing what your brain was actually doing.

Click Here to Buy Now: $329 $599 (45% off). Hurry, only a few left!

The post World’s First AI Sports Headband Nuromova N1 Makes Mental Fitness Part of Your Game first appeared on Yanko Design.

Xiaomi keeps lifting pages from the Apple playbook, and frankly, I’m here for it. Their latest Sound 2 Max speaker dropped last week, and it’s perhaps the clearest distillation yet of the company’s design philosophy, channeling that peak Jony Ive era when Apple was still making products that looked like they belonged in MoMA. Remember when Ive was literally mirroring Dieter Rams’ work for Braun and nobody cared because the results were so damn good? Xiaomi’s doing the same thing here, and while western companies have mostly abandoned this aesthetic for fabric-wrapped nonsense and rounded plastic blobs, Xiaomi’s carrying the minimalist torch with zero apologies.

This thing is a statement piece in an era of forgettable speakers. The die-cast aluminum unibody, the perfect symmetry of those three circular drivers, the complete lack of unnecessary bullshit – it’s all there. Put it next to Rams’ Braun LE1 from 1960 and you’d swear they were related. Even the buttons on top are practically invisible. This is what happens when you follow Rams’ “less, but better” philosophy to its logical conclusion. No stupid fabric, no quirky colors, no meaningless design flourishes. Just pure function made beautiful.

Designer: Xiaomi

Inside that gorgeous shell sits actual serious hardware. Xiaomi packed in two 4-inch 30W woofers, a 4-inch 30W midrange driver, and a 1.5-inch 10W tweeter in an MTM layout. That’s 100 watts total with a frequency response from 47Hz to 22kHz and 101dB SPL. Translation? This thing will fill your living room with sound without breaking a sweat. I’d bet good money it sounds better at 60% volume than maxed out, like most well-engineered speakers.

On the connectivity front, you get Bluetooth 5.2, dual-band Wi-Fi 6, analog RCA, and USB-C. The big miss? No AirPlay or Google Cast. What the hell, Xiaomi? It’s 2025. But I’ll forgive that sin because this speaker costs $280 while looking better than B&O gear at three times the price. You can pair two for stereo or four for surround, though that gets expensive fast.

I love that they made the front panels swappable with magnetic wood, fabric, and metal options. Smart move. These speakers live in our homes, they’re furniture as much as tech, and Xiaomi gets that. The included metal stand and ambient light bar just seal the deal.

The voice assistant and smart home stuff is there if you want it. Super XiaoAi leverages AI for natural conversations, but unless you speak Mandarin, who cares? The Xiaomi Mesh 2.0 compatibility is more useful if you’ve bought into their ecosystem.

Will this make Apple fanboys switch teams? Absolutely not. But for design nerds who miss when tech products were allowed to look like actual designed objects instead of kindergarten crafts, the Sound 2 Max is the real deal. It’s a modern speaker that respects its design heritage while delivering killer specs. Minimalism isn’t dead after all. It just moved to Shenzhen.

The post Xiaomi Channels Dieter Rams, Proves They’re Still the Apple of the East first appeared on Yanko Design.