One of my goals this 2025 is to read more books. Since I read all over my apartment, it would be nice to have a light source that can go with me whether I’m in my living room, work space, or bedroom. Right now, I rely on my regular fluorescent light everywhere else and a small lamp set up on my bedside table. But a lamp I can bring with me anywhere would be more convenient if I wanted to read in the dark.

Designers: Shelley Simpson and Zachary Hanna for Mud Australia

The Pop Lamp is a portable and rechargeable LED lamp that is completely wireless and can be placed anywhere you would need a light source. It is made from just one piece of handmade porcelain and inside that minimalist body, there is a concealed internal dimmable LED light source. The lamp can last up to 6 hours without charging if used at 100% brightness and up to 96 hours on the lowest brightness.

The lamp has a cylindrical body with a slight protruding shade. The metal plate on top is where you have your touch controls. One tap will turn the lamp on while pressing and holding will turn it off. You can swipe your finger onto the plate to adjust the dimness and brightness of the lamp.

The Pop Lamp is available in six colors which are the signature of Mud Australia: Blossom, Duck Egg, Dust, Orange, Red, and Slate. Each piece, measuring at 13 x 8 x 24.5 cm is handmade in their studio in Sidney and is carbon neutral. It can be used anywhere indoors and should not be left “unsupervised” outdoors or in wet areas.

The post Pop Lamp is a portable and rechargeable light source for your space first appeared on Yanko Design.

France-based Lou Tiny House recently designed a house of wheels for a client, Stephanie. The client wanted a home on wheels, tucked away in an idyllic location with views of the Pyrenees mountains and green pastures. She wanted a simple and cozy dwelling that would allow her to sustain a closer connection to the outdoors and nature. They created a tiny home for her that would help her lead a minimal and sustainable lifestyle. The home is a true tiny home in every essence, with simple luxuries, and an exterior that seamlessly merges with its natural surroundings.

Designer: Lou Tiny House

The house has a pretty traditional configuration with no indoor/outdoor spaces. The home is compact yet cozy, with natural light streaming in. It features one bedroom in the loft section and doesn’t have a formal living room. It includes a large bistro window that allows service from the snack bar area. The dining area is spacious and serves as a modern and sophisticated element. The custom-built snack bar is also equipped with multiple open shelves for storage. Seating is offered by a simple bench with built-in storage, while the kitchen countertop extension functions as a small snack bar.

The kitchen is quite simple and holds small appliances like a mini fridge. The furnishings in the kitchen are minimal, so the home doesn’t feel cramped or cluttered. A fixed ladder offers access to the loft floor, and this is space-efficient. It doesn’t occupy much space and leaves space for a kitchen countertop. The loft bedroom is kept private on account of a full-width safety wall. There is a separate section with a metal rod for hanging clothes, as well as a storage section with long shelves.

The tiny home also includes a small entrance section with hallway furniture. A built-in open cabinet is included in this furniture, while a sliding white door leads to the bathroom. The bathroom is equipped with a custom-made vanity and small rustic shelves. A composting toilet has been added to it. Stephanie’s tiny home has been specially designed for her, and it is ideal for a single owner wishing to live a minimalist lifestyle.

The post This Tiny Home Is A Dreamy Haven For A Single Owner Seeking A Minimalist Lifestyle first appeared on Yanko Design.

In the darkness of the night away from distracting city lights, the moon shines as the brightest object in the heavens. You might think it’s giving off its own light, but it is simply reflecting the harsh and blinding light of the sun, diffusing it into something gentler and more calming. Thus, the moon has become a source of inspiration not only in literature but also in design.

Although it looks nothing like the moon, except perhaps when viewed top-down, this lamp design concept similarly takes a page out of Mother Nature’s book. Rather than use a shade to diffuse the lamp’s bright light, it uses that same principle of indirect lighting using nothing more than its own structure to bounce the light again and again to create a more serene atmosphere that’s perfect for your bedroom.

Designer: Danil Repko

There are many ways to weaken the strength of light, and most lamps use the common method of wrapping some material around the light source, either to let only a small portion of the light shine through or direct the light in a specific direction only. Another strategy is to have the light shine away from the viewer and only let the reflected light out, pretty much like how the moon is reflecting the sun’s light.

Appropriately named “Lunar,” this lamp design concept uses that same principle by having two circular plates recreate the interaction between the sun and moon. The top plate houses the light source and shines it downward while the bottom plate reflects it back again and again until only some of that light escapes the small gap between these plates. It creates an interesting play of light that generates a somber atmosphere that is a better fit on a bedside table or side table than a working desk.

While the indirect lighting already makes the concept interesting, it’s the minimalist and modern aesthetic of the lamp that adds to its visual appeal. The form is composed of just a large cylinder that holds up the circular plates, adding no other embellishments or decorations to its pristine design. The lamp subtly and gently attracts your attention before fading into the background, blending with the rest of your room’s decor.

The choice of materials for the lamp also plays a role not just in the lamp’s aesthetics but also in the kind of light it gives off. Stainless steel plates will create somewhat sharper reflections, while wood gives off warmer tones. The simple composition of shapes also offers the opportunity to 3D print the design, which could also use different kinds of materials, including metal or recycled plastic.

The post Mushroom-like lamp uses indirect lighting like the moon to create a softer glow first appeared on Yanko Design.

The arrival of the Raspberry Pi really revolutionized not just the computer education market that it targeted but also hobbyists, makers, and all sorts of creators. It offered a computer that, while not as powerful as the weakest laptop in the market, could handle a variety of applications, from programming to word processing to smart home automation. Best of all, it was affordable at only $50 on average.

While the RPi, as it is lovingly called, is now used to power no small number of DIY projects that need a discrete but capable computer, its true calling is still providing that computing power for students, home users, and everyone in between. That’s the calling that Raspberry Pi’s new dynamic duo is answering, providing a simple and minimalist desktop computer at a fraction of the price.

Designer: Raspberry Pi Foundation

The Raspberry Pi is a single-board computer or SBC that shatters misconceptions of what computers look like. Rather than a towering desktop or a slim laptop, you get a credit card-sized electronics board with ports rising from its top. It is definitely a complete computer, but one that needs a keyboard, a display, and a power supply to use like a normal computer.

The Raspberry Pi 500 carries on the new tradition of providing a ready-to-use solution for people who just want a usable Linux computer without having to worry about cases or cables to connect peripherals. It’s part of a rare breed of computers that are hiding inside a keyboard, which is fortunately the right amount of space required by the Raspberry Pi. Although the layout of ports on the back of the keyboard is different, it has the exact number of them, including the 40-pin GPIO connector for experiments and fun.

Of course, you can’t really use a computer these days without some sort of display, so Raspberry Pi launched its own 15.6-inch Monitor for that very purpose. Designed to work with any Raspberry Pi model, in fact, any HDMI device, it fits the use case of the RPi 500 perfectly. Together, you practically have a space-saving computer that only needs a 5V power supply to work. Yes, you’ll need a mouse, too, but Raspberry Pi also sells one, fortunately.

Admittedly, this “Raspberry Pi Desktop” won’t win awards in terms of power, and not everyone will be comfortable using Linux as their operating system. That said, the combo does provide unique value for Linux and power users who want a low-profile, low-power, but still capable desktop computer for their daily needs. Plus, it’s the Raspberry Pi, so you can connect a whole host of other devices, sensors, and DIY components to take it beyond its advertised purposes.

The post Raspberry Pi 500 and Pi Monitor offer a minimalist, low-power, but useful desktop first appeared on Yanko Design.

In an age where simplicity and functionality reign supreme, minimalist design has become more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle choice that influences everything from home decor to personal accessories. We have curated ten innovative products that embody the essence of minimalism, each offering unique solutions that enhance daily living while maintaining a sleek, uncluttered aesthetic.

From elegant lighting and versatile drinkware to eco-friendly writing tools and portable tech accessories, these products demonstrate how minimalism can transform ordinary tasks into extraordinary experiences. These unique and minimal designs showcase how less truly can enhance functionality and beauty in our everyday lives.

1. Battery Free Aroma Diffuser

Touted as one of the most minimal techs by Mr. Whose the Boss, the Battery-free Aroma Diffuser tops this list, and we will share with you exactly why. Relaxing and unwinding, mostly after a long day, is a process. Designed to work with a single candle, this minimal aroma diffuser uses physics to spread your favorite aroma while the visual appeal of a candle amplifies the ambiance of your space.

If you want to look at the mechanism, the heat from the candle is carefully shielded and used to generate enough electricity to rotate the single-bladed fan. Overheating an aroma oil disrupts the environment you are trying to create and this tech monitors just that, but with a candle instead of a jumble of buttons to confuse you.

Click Here to Buy Now: $249

Why is it noteworthy?

A relaxing and unwinding ritual works better when cables do not surround us – this is something I truly believe in and is the reason why this Battery-free Aroma Diffuser fits perfectly in this list. The design is truly battery-free – it is powered by the might of that single candle, lighting which is a therapeutic process by itself.

The design itself emphasizes minimalism with its transparent glass body complimented by a black metal frame – a throwback to great quality yet aesthetic results in a simple form. Every element of this design is calculated to deliver the best output every step of the way and the result is an integral addition to your de-stressing ritual.

What we like

• Powered by a candle – keeping the design truly battery and cables-free.
• The use of a candle in the process amplifies the de-stressing ritual as candles are a frequent tool used for meditation.

What we dislike

• Given the lack of buttons or electric controls, it may be difficult to fine-tune the aroma being dispersed.
• We wish there was an all-white version to provide options to buyers who have a different aesthetic.

2. Pocket Everlasting All-Metal Pencil

Called the Pocket Everlasting All-Metal Pencil, this writing tool eliminates the need for sharpening. It is made entirely from metal and features a core made of graphite and alloy particles. It leaves marks without wearing down. It has a compact size, which allows it to fit perfectly in your pocket, making it ideal for spontaneous creativity.

The pencil embraces minimalism, it reduces waste and serves as a trusty tool for writing and sketching. It features a sleek and durable design while functioning as a sustainable alternative to traditional pencils. It merges functionality with simplicity, making it a perfect choice for those who value efficiency and environmental consciousness.

Click Here to Buy Now: $19.95

Why is it noteworthy?

This innovative all-new metal never requires sharpening. This not only reduces waste but also ensures that you always have a reliable writing instrument at hand. The pencil’s design, which combines graphite and alloy particles, provides a smooth writing experience without the hassle of dull points.

Its compact size and durable construction make it a versatile tool for artists, writers, and professionals alike. It serves as a minimal product that provides a practical and eco-friendly solution to reducing clutter and promoting sustainability.

What we like

• No need for sharpening, offering a perpetual writing experience.
• Compact and durable, ideal for on-the-go use.

What we dislike

• Limited to graphite-like markings, not suitable for all writing preferences.
• The initial cost may be higher compared to traditional pencils.

3. Japanese Lantern Candle

Called the Japanese Lantern Candle, this lovely product will add a touch of traditional elegance to your modern home. It features a minimal design inspired by classic “chouchin” lanterns. The candle holder provides a gentle glow that will center the mind and spirit. It is handmade by craftsmen in Kurashiki, Japan, featuring a patented technology that prevents the outer wax from melting.

The candle not only elevates the ambiance of any room but also creates an atmosphere of mindfulness and relaxation. It successfully merges traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality, showcasing how thoughtful minimalism can enrich our homes with warmth and tranquility.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Japanese Lantern Candle features a handmade construction that offers quality and authenticity. The patented technology ensures a safe and clean burn. The design is ideal for adding elegance and sophistication to your home while allowing you to relax and unwind after a long day at work.

By merging functionality with artistry, the Japanese Lantern Candle serves as a prime specimen of how minimalism can enhance our living spaces by building a serene and inviting atmosphere. It offers a calming and aesthetically pleasing lighting solution.

What we like

• Offers a gentle, relaxing glow that enhances ambiance.
• Patented technology ensures a clean and safe burn.

What we dislike

• Limited to candlelight, may not provide sufficient illumination for all needs.
• Requires careful handling to maintain the integrity of the candle and holder.

4. Painless Key Ring

Named the Painless Key Ring, this product transforms the way you manage your keys. It is minimal and highly functional and draws inspiration from aerospace technology. The ring eliminates the hurdles associated with traditional key rings. It features a spring mechanism that lets you easily add and remove keys without damaging nails or deforming the ring.

It features a sleek and lightweight construction and is available in silver and black. The keyring is blessed with a modern aesthetic that will complement different styles. It simplifies the process of organizing rings, thereby reducing stress, and improving daily convenience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Painless Key Ring can convert a boring everyday task into a seamless experience. It features a unique wave coil design, which serves as a stress-free solution, merging durability with a lightweight form. The design is minimal which makes it visually pleasing, and functional.

The use of aerospace-inspired technology ensures that the key ring is both robust and efficient, while its availability in two color options allows for personalization. The minimal design helps improve the utility and user experience, making it a must-have in your home.

What we like

• Innovative design allows for easy key management.
• Lightweight and durable, perfect for everyday use.

What we dislike

• Limited color options may not suit everyone’s taste.
• The wave spring mechanism might require adjustment for thicker keys.

5. FocusPoint Card Holder

Dubbed the FocusPoint Card Holder, this minimal desk accessory will improve productivity by ensuring your priorities are in sight and within reach. It is made from durable zinc alloy, and functions as a sleek card holder that merges elegance with functionality, offering a stylish abode for your essentials and to-do lists.

The cardholder includes an integrated tray that holds small items, ensuring a clutter-free workspace. The holder helps to simplify the way we organize tasks, promoting focus and efficiency through its minimal form. It is equipped with a compact design which allows sit to fit seamlessly with any desk setup.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The unique cardholder can transform a workspace by keeping important tasks physically visible, enhancing focus and productivity. Its minimalist design not only adds a modern touch to any desk but also provides practical benefits by reducing digital distractions.

The inclusion of high-quality To-Do List cards ensures that your priorities are always front and center, while the integrated tray offers additional storage for small essentials. This cardholder exemplifies how minimalism can enhance organization and efficiency, making it a valuable tool for professionals.

What we like

• Keeps tasks visible, enhancing focus and productivity.
• Compact design with integrated tray for additional storage.

What we dislike

• Limited to physical cards, which may not suit digital-only users.
• Zinc alloy construction, while durable, may not appeal to all aesthetic preferences.

6. Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers

Called Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers, these speakers provide a minimal solution for enhancing smartphone audio without the need for electricity or power. It is built from vibration-resistant Duralumin, and the speakers use the golden ratio to amplify sound naturally. They feature a portable design which allows them to be used anywhere.

The speakers are excellent for music lovers who want simplicity and convenience in their audio products. The speakers eliminate the need for batteries or electricity. They adopt minimalist principles, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing the user experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $179.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Battery-Free Amplifying iSpeakers serve as a sustainable and convenient solution to elevate smartphone audio. They deliver optimal sound quality, while the battery-free design reduces environmental impact. They showcase how a minimal product can improve functionality and user experience.

They function as portable and eco-friendly alternatives to traditional speakers. The speakers merge innovation with simplicity, providing a practical and stylish solution for music lovers seeking to enjoy their tunes anytime, anywhere.

What we like

• Battery-free design offers sustainable and convenient audio amplification.
• Made from durable Duralumin, ensuring longevity and quality.

What we dislike

• Limited to smartphone audio, not suitable for all devices.
• May not provide the same sound quality as powered speakers.

7. Fire Capsule Oil Lamp

Say hello to the Fire Capsule Oil Lamp – this unique product embodies minimal elegance while converting any space into a peaceful oasis with its gentle flow. Eri Tsuonoda designed the artfully crafted lamp and it showcases a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. It not only enriches your environment with soothing illumination but also supports mindful living by encouraging a clutter-free ambiance.

It boasts a minimalist design that draws inspiration from traditional tea canisters, making it an elegant addition to your living space. It features a lightweight construction and a cylindrical form, which makes it a minimal and ideal companion for modern living. It elevates your daily rituals with elegance and tranquility.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Fire Capsule Oil Lamp can seamlessly integrate with different settings, providing aesthetic appeal and functional benefits. It features a precision-engineered lid which maintains the glass chimney’s clarity while creating an incredible lighting experience. It has an 80ml capacity, which can offer 16 hours of continuous light, perfect for gatherings with friends.

The design isn’t simply visually pleasing but also functional, as it provides clean and safe illumination with paraffin oil. It has a lightweight and portable nature, making it a versatile accessory, allowing you to use it both indoors and outdoors. The lamp showcases how simplicity can enhance our lives by creating a calming atmosphere that encourages relaxation and mindfulness.

What we like

• Long-lasting glow with up to 16 hours of continuous light.
• Features an aroma plate for scent infusion which enhances ambiance.

What we dislike

• Requires paraffin oil, which may not be readily available everywhere.
• The glass chimney, while elegant, may be fragile and requires careful handling.

8. AromaCraft Clothes Brush

The AromaCraft Clothes Brush converts garment care into something relaxing and worthwhile. It features a minimal design and offers luxurious fragrant care. It merges traditional craftsmanship with modern functionality and features an innovative aromatic paper insert that supports customizable fragrances.

The clothes brush transforms a routine task into a meditative ritual. It not only elevates the appearance of your wardrobe but also encourages mindfulness and relaxation. It adds fragrance to garment care and showcases how minimalism can elevate everyday experiences and rituals.

Click Here to Buy Now: $149.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The AromaCraft Clothes Brush provides a unique approach to garment care. It combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with modern innovation. It is equipped with hand-planted bristles and an aromatic paper insert which create a luxurious experience while refreshing and renewing your clothes.

The use of natural materials, such as walnut wood and white boar bristles, ensures durability and gentle care, while the customizable fragrance adds a personal touch.  By transforming a routine task into a ritual, the AromaCraft enriches our daily lives with elegance and tranquility.

What we like

• Customizable fragrance enhances the garment care experience.
• The durable, handcrafted design ensures longevity and gentle care.

What we dislike

• Requires essential oils for fragrance, which may not be readily available.
• May not be suitable for all fabric types, requiring careful use.

9. Pop-up Book Vase Edition 4

Say hello to the Pop-Up Book Vase Edition 4. This unique product provides a playful take on floral arrangements. It features a minimal and creative design, transforming from a book into a 3D vase cutout. It offers a fresh and sophisticated display for your flowers. It is built from natural pulp with a water-resistant coating, merging sustainability with artistry.

The book vase’s minimal and aesthetic design elevates the presentation of the flowers while also encouraging exploration and creativity. It delivers multiple vase designs in one book, cutting down the need for multiple products, and showcasing that less is more.

Click Here to Buy Now: $39.00

Why is it noteworthy?

This vase provides an innovative approach to floral arrangements, offering a dynamic and interactive display that captivates and inspires. Its ability to transform from a book into a vase provides a unique and engaging experience, while the use of natural materials ensures sustainability.

The Pop-Up Book Vase’s minimalist design not only saves space but also encourages creativity by offering different vase designs and perspectives. By combining functionality with artistry, this vase makes a charming addition to your living space.

What we like

• Offers multiple vase designs in one product, promoting creativity.
• Made from sustainable materials, supporting eco-friendly practices.

What we dislike

• Limited to lightweight floral arrangements, not suitable for all types of flowers.
• Requires careful handling to maintain the integrity of the paper structure.

10. Upside-Downside Cup

The Upside Downside Cup features a minimal 2-in-1 design which redefines ordinary drinkware. It packs versatility and elegance in one form and is built from durable Tritan copolyester. The cup can be utilized as a pair of tumblers, drinkware with a lid, or a container for snacks. It features a clear and glass-like appearance that is quite classy.

The Upside Downside Cup adopts minimalist principles, thereby reducing clutter, and improving convenience in your home. It is available in two sizes and colors and can be utilized for various needs and styles. It will not only enhance your drinking experience but also create a clutter-free lifestyle.

Click Here to Buy Now: $29.00

Why is it noteworthy?

The Upside Downside Cup adopts an innovative approach to multifunctional design. It serves as a versatile solution for modern living and can convert a tumbler into a lidded drinkware or snack container. Since it is made from Tritan copolyester, it is durable and shatterproof.

This drinkware’s minimalist design not only saves space but also reduces the need for multiple products, aligning with sustainable living practices. It serves as a versatile and sophisticated solution that can enhance functionality and style in our daily lives through minimalism.

What we like

• Versatile design offers multiple functions in one product.
• Durable and shatterproof, suitable for various settings.

What we dislike

• Limited color options may not suit everyone’s preferences.
• Tritan copolyester, while durable, may not offer the same feel as glass.

The post 10 Best Minimalist Designs Of November 2024 first appeared on Yanko Design.

Seats like chairs and benches have designs that immediately convey images of stability and reliability, often expressed in shapes that look solid, balanced, and strong. Looks can be deceiving, as they say, and it is often the materials and structures that give a chair those properties. A chair might look like a balloon that can pop any minute but is actually made of powder-coated metal instead.

This collection of backless benches and stools also gives that impression, appearing as thin, soft sheets of metal rolled like sheets of paper. Of course, they’re actually usable seating furniture despite their fragile appearances, giving any room a distinctive visual that develops a unique character over time.

Designer: Arabella Maza and Stephen Maginn (Archive For Space)

Paper is one of the most bendable and fragile solid materials that everyone is familiar with. Ancient papyrus scrolls are known to be brittle even when they were in use, and toilet paper is easily torn or even dissolved when wet. It’s definitely not something you’d want to sit on, yet rolls of paper are exactly the inspiration behind this collection of thin metal seats, teasing the mind whether to believe their eyes or their brains instead.

Named after the aluminum material used to construct these simple yet elegant forms, the “Alu” collection looks like scrolls unraveling and frozen in time. The two remaining rolled ends function as the solid feet that support the structure, while the wavy curves above welcome the bodies of people sitting on them. Given their extra-thin profile, one might be a bit reluctant to surrender themselves to the allure of the benches, yet that is also part of the charm and call to adventure that these unique seats give.

You can’t go more minimalist than a single sheet of metal bent, curved, and rolled to shape. There are no backrests, no armrests, no decorations – just a single unbroken surface with no other details to be seen. Its beauty comes from the gentle curves of the form itself, letting the mind wander and fill in the blanks to their own satisfaction.

At the same time, the Alu collection exudes a brutalist quality, both for the unfinished versions and even for brushed aluminum. These surfaces will develop their own unique patina over the course of their use, from the wear and tear of the environment to the natural oils from people’s hands and bodies. Unique not only in its design but also in its long-term narrative, the Alu benches and stools demonstrate how much you can pull out from a single sheet of material.

The post Scroll-like seats combine minimalism and brutalism in a mind-bending design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphones are no longer just technological devices we use to communicate or connect to the Internet. They have become lifestyle choices and fashion statements, reflections of our own personalities. It’s no wonder that there’s a wide variety of smartphone cases that cover different styles, interests, and themes, but a phone that arrives with natural beauty is still a cut above the rest.

No matter how thin or light a protective case may be, it still adds something to the phone, something that could be unnecessary if the phone’s design itself is a sight to behold. The nubia Z70 Ultra promises to deliver a smartphone that looks sleek and sophisticated without cutting corners when it comes to performance, so we take it out for a spin to check for ourselves if it can deliver.

Designer: nubia

Aesthetics

There’s still an ongoing debate on whether curved or flat edges are more “modern” but there’s definitely something fresh about the recent wave of designs that espouse flatness. This kind of aesthetic better fits the minimalism trend that continues to pervade the design world, striving to convey elegance and beauty without embellishments. It espouses clean lines and surfaces, prioritizing essential forms and functions over extravagant features both visual and technical.

The nubia Z70 Ultra tries to embody this design direction, presenting a clean and premium aesthetic that will suit almost anyone’s taste. The flat sides, flat back, and flat display give it a modern and minimalist look devoid of extraneous details. Aside from the camera island, which we’ll get to later, there isn’t a visual element out of place. Even branding is kept to a bare minimum and only in one area.

The color options for the nubia Z70 Ultra also speak to this character of elegance. Gold and black are as premium as you can get without being flashy or dull. And then there’s the Starry Night edition, inspired by the iconic van Gogh painting of the same name. Although it does run in the opposite direction of minimalism, this artful design paints the Z70 Ultra as a canvas for creativity and inspiration.

Most of the time, a smartphone’s screen only comes to play only when actually using the device, but the nubia Z70 Ultra elevates it to the level of a centerpiece. The edge-to-edge display, thanks to the brand’s 7th-generation under-display camera (UDC), is just stunning, even when there’s nothing captivating being shown. It perfectly completes the formula of a clean and modern design, pushing bezels and cutouts out of the way.

The one area where nubia’s claim of a clean and elegant design sort of breaks down is with the cameras. It’s not unattractive, mind, but it’s going to be an acquired taste. Unlike conventional designs that tend to lump the cameras together, the nubia Z70 Ultra spread them apart. This makes the arrangement look more like a classic film camera, which is probably the intention, though it might also look messy to some people.

Ergonomics

With a thickness of 8.6mm and a weight of 228g, the nubia Z70 Ultra is by no means thin and light. Given the hardware it’s packing inside, especially the battery, that’s really no surprise. It does, however, have an impact on your comfort over long periods of time. That said, weight is evenly distributed and the full-width camera bump gives the index finger a natural resting spot. The flat sides also have chamfered edges so they don’t bite into your hand as much as you would think.

The scattered arrangement of the phone’s cameras is a bit deceptive. They’re still sitting on a large block that not only covers almost a third of the phone’s back. Despite that, the nubia Z70 Ultra will still wobble a wee bit when placed on a flat surface because the main camera juts out slightly from the rest of the camera island. Not exactly a deal breaker, especially since most smartphones today wobble that way, but still a bit disappointing given how large that rectangular bump is.

Performance

You’re probably familiar with sayings about how beauty can sometimes be skin-deep, but that’s thankfully not the case for premium smartphones. After all, they have to follow a standard set of components to remain competitive in the market. In that regard, the nubia Z70 Ultra doesn’t break from the mold, arriving as one of the earliest to use the shiny new Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. There are different memory configurations available, though the special Starry Night edition only comes with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

This combination basically means that the nubia Z70 Ultra is definitely no slouch, able to handle anything you throw at it with aplomb. It’s not a gaming smartphone with ridiculous cooling systems, but it definitely gets by with a little warmth in your hands. More importantly, the smartphone is well-prepared to handle a variety of AI-related tasks, from real-time call translation to live captioning to making sure selfies are up to snuff.

As mentioned earlier, the nubia Z70 Ultra’s large 6.85-inch AMOLED screen is one of its biggest selling points, though not just because of how bright and fast it is with a 144Hz refresh rate and 2000 nits of peak brightness. It even has one of the highest rated 2592Hz PWM (Pulse-Width Modulation) dimming advertised to be easier on the eyes. It’s real pull is its edge-to-edge design, made possible by nubia’s under-display camera technology.

You might have heard of, seen, or even used these invisible front-facing cameras, but they haven’t exactly been the popular design their proponents made them out to be years ago. One look at the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold’s pasty selfies shows why it’s a tricky thing to pull off. Fortunately, nubia never gave up on that technology and can now boast a 16MP front-facing camera that’s completely hidden from sight. And unless you really try to look for the lower resolution area above that camera hole, you won’t even notice it’s there.

Given how it features prominently on the back of the phone, the nubia Z70 Ultra’s cameras are definitely a major focus of the product, though not exactly its highlight. It does have a capable 50MP Sony IMX906 sensor, but its biggest feat is the 35mm variable aperture lens that can go from f/1.59 to f/4.0 in 9 steps. This biomimetic design tries to recreate the effect of our own eyes’ irises, adjusting how much light is taken in for more natural shots.

The other two cameras in the set are pretty impressive as well. There’s a 64MP periscope-style telephoto camera with a 70mm focal length, as well as a 50MP ultra-wide shooter with a 13mm equivalent lens. Given the high-quality hardware, it’s not surprising to see equally high-quality shots, filled with details even on an overcast day. Of course, there are also plenty of AI-powered features and enhancements, trying to make up for what small sensors and lenses are lacking.

Part of the nubia Z70 Ultra’s thickness and heft is due to the extra-large 6150 mAh battery inside, one of the biggest capacities in smartphone that’s a little below 7 inches. It supports fast 80W charging to compensate for the large battery size. Unfortunately, it seems that nubia still refuses to give its Ultra flagships wireless charging capabilities, which is a pretty puzzling choice in this day and age.

Sustainability

More elegant designs, premium materials, and powerful hardware often also incur greater material usage as well as waste. The use of virgin plastic, fresh metal, and new glass has a heavy impact on the environment, especially if you’re not taking steps to minimize energy and water consumption. Unfortunately, the nubia Z70 Ultra doesn’t stray from the norm, which leans more toward environment-unfriendly practices and materials.

Where it does shine, however, is its ability to stay with you a lot longer than most other premium flagships. In addition to an IP68 dust and water resistance rating that’s now standard on high-end phones, the nubia Z70 Ultra also boasts IP69 certification, which means it’s safeguarded against high-temperature, high-pressure water, typically sprayed at around 80°C (176°F) with a pressure of up to 100 bar. It’s not an earth-shattering perk, but it still helps protect the product from an untimely demise.

Value

There is clearly a rise in smartphone designs that try to appeal to consumers’ aesthetic tastes more than just technical needs. This industry, fortunately, doesn’t make you choose one or the other, especially on a tier where you’re paying a lot to get the best, both in terms of features as well as design. The nubia Z70 Ultra is definitely a part of that group, presenting a clean and modern design matched with impressive performance.

The catch, as always, is one of availability and reach. nubia is positioning the Z70 Ultra as a global smartphone, but there will be cases where getting your hands on one will still be difficult, like in the carrier-centric US. The sweet starting price of around $640 is quite tempting, though, so it definitely deserves consideration if you’re even in the market for a new phone this year.

Verdict

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but there are always times when the majority seem to agree on a particular standard. Minimalism, for example, is still the ruling aesthetic, and its influence is reaching the smartphone industry as well. From pleasing curves to simple lines, smartphones are shifting away from being a smorgasbord of features to works of art.

The nubia Z70 Ultra perfectly embodies that movement with its clean, modern, and sleek design. It is minimalism at its finest, putting focus on the essentials while displaying sophistication and class through the creative use of colors, materials, and finishes. And it’s quite a powerful device as well, making it a well-balanced option for people looking for an everyday companion that can keep up with their needs while also reflecting their aesthetic tastes.

The post nubia Z70 Ultra Review: Modern Elegance Comes to Smartphones first appeared on Yanko Design.

This year’s been exhausting, hasn’t it?! Especially the last few weeks have been emotionally and mentally draining, and it isn’t just the news, but more specifically, it’s the information overload we’ve been subjected to. Even for a device small enough to fit in our pockets, the smartphone is capable of creating a lot of ‘noise’ in the form of news, texts, calls, notifications, ads, and a lot of data clutter that can overwhelm our brains. This data clutter and relentless bombardment of information is what led to the creation of the Mudita Kompakt, a phone that prioritizes mindful living over doomscrolling.

Created by the minds behind CD Projekt (think The Witcher, Cyberpunk 2077), Mudita Kompakt reflects co-founder Michał Kiciński’s personal journey toward a more balanced life. After years in the gaming industry, where endless connection was the norm, he sought a solution to keep people both connected and grounded. That drive led to Mudita’s mission to design devices that encourage simplicity, privacy, and a conscious digital experience.

Designer: Mudita

Click Here to Buy Now: $316 $465 (32% off). Hurry, only 2/900 left! Raised over $336,000.

The Mudita Kompakt keeps things refreshingly simple. Its 4.3-inch E Ink display is easy on the eyes and demands very little power. That’s right—this phone’s battery can last up to six days, which, in today’s daily-charging world, feels almost revolutionary. Inside, it packs a quad-core MediaTek processor, 3GB of RAM, and 32GB of storage (expandable via memory card). Sure, these aren’t flagship specs, but that’s really not the point. It’s all about cutting the clutter and retaining only the things that ‘spark joy’ here. Mudita keeps it lean, pre-loading only the most basic apps like phone, SMS, a calculator, and a voice recorder—none of those attention-demanding apps or bloatware that love to ping you at all hours.

For a phone, the Mudita Kompakt offers dual-SIM capabilities, with 4G LTE compatibility. You can make and receive calls on either SIM and even make/receive VoLTE or Wi-Fi calls, offering connectivity without much of a compromise. Given its entire premise is to stay disconnected from the clutter of the internet, it clearly doesn’t come with 5G, but that’s more of a feature than a bug, truth be told. There’s even support for eSIMs, which is perfect for carriers that don’t traditionally offer SIM cards.

For a phone that strives to be different from the status quo, it still makes a conscious effort to retain features that are cutting-edge… only if they matter to Mudita’s overarching ethos. You may not have a flashy screen and 5G connectivity, but the Kompakt DOES come with a fingerprint sensor to unlock your phone, ensuring biometric-grade security feels reassuring. Surprisingly enough, the phone comes with NFC support too, allowing you to use existing NFC tags around the house, as well as ensuring future compatibility with NFC-ready apps that Mudita may introduce down the road.

What’s remarkable about the Kompakt is its genuine intent to keep users focused on the real world, not the screen. It features an Offline+ mode activated by a physical switch, cutting off cell networks, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, and even disabling the mics and camera for a true offline experience. Think of it as Airplane Mode on steroids, with no features that cause you to linger on your phone for too long. You can read existing messages (you won’t receive new ones), browse through your gallery, or listen to music without any distractions. All these actions have heavy intent behind them, so you’re less likely to end up in a doomscrolling spiral.

Tailored for E Ink®

On the design front, the Mudita Kompakt feels compact, sturdy, and unassuming. It boasts an IP54 rating, meaning it’s resistant to dust and splashes, so it can hold up to daily wear without needing a bulky case. While it does include a modest 8MP camera, this isn’t about capturing every detail of your day—just the moments you truly want to remember. Photos get displayed in greyscale on your E Ink display, adding a rather retro touch to your photography chops. And for the rare occasion you need to recharge, it’s conveniently equipped with wireless charging and a USB-C port, keeping up with modern conveniences.

The Kompakt’s software is built on a custom OS based on the Android Open Source Project. The twist? There’s no Google lurking in the background, collecting data. Mudita promises three years of software updates to keep things smooth, even though this isn’t the kind of phone that’ll be weighed down by big updates. That’s another angle to the Kompakt’s appeal: minimal fuss, minimal distraction, and maximum control over what you interact with.

Of course, going minimalist does have its trade-offs. There’s no Google Play Store here, so you won’t find a wide selection of apps. Mudita provides basic offline maps, a music player, and a few utilities like a meditation timer, voice recorder, an e-reader, and even a chess app that promises you won’t find yourself getting bored. You can, however, sideload other Android apps, although compatibility isn’t guaranteed. For those of us used to feature-packed smartphones, adjusting to a stripped-down OS could be tricky. But that’s the appeal—it’s a purposeful move away from digital noise, offering just enough functionality to meet core needs without temptations. A true digital detox, if you will.

Another perk of the Kompakt is privacy. Since it doesn’t sync with most cloud services, your data stays on your device. Sure, it may feel a bit old-fashioned to manage contacts and files through Mudita’s desktop app, but for privacy-minded users, this setup grants peace of mind. It’s a minor detour to ditch the endless cloud syncs and data-hungry services tracking your every move. The Kompakt is available starting at $316 for early adopters, with a 14-day money-back guarantee just in case the Kompakt feels like too much of a culture shock. Mudita offers Global and North American versions of the Kompakt, so it’s compatible with networks worldwide. Just don’t expect it to work everywhere yet—currently, it’s only shipping to select countries in Europe, the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Oh, and just in case you were wondering… it has a 3.5mm audio jack!

Click Here to Buy Now: $316 $465 (32% off). Hurry, only 2/900 left! Raised over $336,000.

The post This Compact E Ink Phone Promises to Simplify Your Digital Life first appeared on Yanko Design.

Wind chimes have a rather understated charm. They can have a very calming effect on you, helping keep anxiety and stress away – but what if you’re in an enclosed area? You couldn’t possibly have a wind-chime in a room that doesn’t receive any wind, right? Well, the folks at Fujitsu may have developed the first wind chime to work without wind…

Meet the LIIN, an indoor wind chime that works autonomously by sensing outdoor wind. Designed to work in enclosed environments or in spaces with not much cross-ventilation, the LIIN’s chime works on cue as soon as you switch it on. In fact, think of it as the audio version of a sun-lamp. A sun-lamp mimics the sun in rooms without sunlight – similarly, the LIIN mimics the auditory effects of a breeze, even when there isn’t any.

Designer: Fujitsu Limited

The chime works in tandem with an outdoor sensor that detects wind speeds. Switch the chime on and an internal clapper swings gently, ringing against the outer glass bell cover, creating a graceful, pleasant sound. The entire device works on an automated pendulum motion, which goes fast or slow depending on the wind speeds outside. This means you could sit in a cushy air-conditioned office but still enjoy the musical effects of the outdoor breeze!

A winner of the Red Dot Award: Design Concept for the year 2024, the LIIN is Japanese minimalism at its finest. While most wind-chimes are inherently minimalist, this tabletop objet d’art really does have an understated charm. The wooden base sports a simple geometric form that shows off the wood grain wonderfully. Brass elements like the clapper and the switch/knob on front contrast wonderfully against the wood, and the glass bell gives the overall product a light, see-through aesthetic. I imagine the sound produced by the borosilicate glass is just as zen-inducing too!

The post This quaint Indoor Wind Chime automatically rings by sensing outdoor wind speeds first appeared on Yanko Design.

Space is always at a premium, whether it’s in the bedroom, the living room, or the kitchen. Maximizing space is a challenge, which is why multifunctional designs are in high demand. Furniture that can transform to do different things in different situations or appliances that can serve different needs help not only save space but sometimes even money in the long run.

Unfortunately, multifunctional designs also tend to be complex and confusing due to cramming many features into a single product or system. Of course, it’s always possible to create minimalist multifunctional designs with some careful thinking, and this concept for a smart cooker system puts that theory to the test.

Designer: BKID

Our kitchens are becoming smarter every year as refrigerators, ovens, and even hubs gain some intelligence and Internet connectivity. These large appliances are more or less permanently installed in place, so the space they take up is not really a problem. Stoves and cookware, however, are a different question, especially given how many pots and pans we tend to use.

The ODS Smart Cooker concept tries to reduce some of that wasted space by combining a few simple objects into one. The base of the system is an induction stove with a very minimalist aesthetic. A simple intuitive dial controls the temperature, while a touch-sensitive surface switches between different modes.

The more interesting part, however, is the pot itself. It looks very simple with a matching simple cover. That said, that cover also functions as a stovetop grille. When not needed, these two cookwares can occupy the same spot, saving space. You also don’t need a separate cover for the pot, but it also means that you can’t use the grille and the pot simultaneously when you also need to cover the pot.

The handles for the cooking vessel are rather strange but not accidental. The angle of handles for the cover/grille leaves a gap where you can easily wedge in your fingers to take the cover off. Alternatively, you can probably also squeeze two handles on the same side together to lift the opposite side slightly, allowing steam to escape without risking burning your hand.

The post Minimalist smart cooker concept belies its multifunctional nature first appeared on Yanko Design.