Modular design has always promised endless possibilities, but rarely do we see someone take that promise and run with it quite this boldly. A creative designer recently decided that the Framework 12 laptop needed something extra, something that would transform it from a standard convertible into a handheld gaming powerhouse. The solution? Custom 3D-printed rails that let Nintendo Joy-Cons snap directly onto the laptop’s sides.

The result is both ingenious and slightly ridiculous, which makes it absolutely perfect for the maker community. This isn’t just another tech hack, it’s a statement about what happens when modular hardware meets unbridled creativity. The designer even shared the STL files for free, turning their weekend project into a blueprint for anyone with access to a 3D printer.

Designer: Sskki

The Mod At A Glance

What makes this mod particularly clever is how it embraces the Framework’s core philosophy rather than fighting against it. The custom rails slide seamlessly into the laptop’s expansion slots, the same system designed for USB ports and SD card readers. It’s modularity taken to its logical extreme, proving that the Framework’s expansion card system has potential far beyond what its creators originally envisioned.

The execution is surprisingly polished too. The 3D-printed rails don’t look like aftermarket add-ons, they integrate so naturally with the laptop’s design that you might mistake them for official accessories. The Joy-Cons attach with satisfying clicks, and the whole setup maintains the Framework’s clean, professional aesthetic while adding that unmistakable gaming flair.

Reality Check

But let’s be honest about what this mod actually delivers. The Framework 12 weighs 1.3 kilograms and spans 287 millimeters wide, making it roughly three times heavier and significantly bulkier than any traditional handheld gaming device. Your arms will definitely feel the workout after extended gaming sessions, and forget about slipping this into your jacket pocket.

The Joy-Cons connect via Bluetooth rather than the direct electrical connection they enjoy with the Nintendo Switch. This introduces potential input lag and means you’ll need to remember to charge the controllers separately. More frustrating still, the custom rails occupy the laptop’s precious expansion slots, blocking access to other ports while the controllers are attached.

There’s also the practical reality that once those rails are installed, your laptop transforms from a sleek professional machine into something that screams “I take my gaming very seriously.” Good luck explaining that setup during your next video conference call, especially when you realize you can’t access your USB ports without removing the controllers first.

Framework Joystick Module (Designer: Wiktor_Tomanek)

PSP Joystick Expansion Card (Designer: Nils_Schulte)

Quick Answers

Can you use Nintendo Joy-Cons on a PC?

Yes, Joy-Cons can pair with most modern laptops via Bluetooth, though they lack the seamless integration they have with the Switch.

What makes the Framework 12 special?

Its modular expansion card system allows for easy upgrades, repairs, and creative modifications like this Joy-Con adapter.

How does 3D printing enable hardware mods?

3D printing allows makers to create custom expansion cards and accessories, unlocking new possibilities for modular laptop design.

The Bigger Picture

Yet none of these limitations diminish what this project represents. It’s a proof of concept that demonstrates the creative potential lurking within truly modular hardware. The designer didn’t set out to create the perfect handheld gaming device, they wanted to explore what was possible when you stop thinking about laptops as fixed-function machines.

This mod succeeds because it makes us reimagine what personal computing devices could become. In a landscape dominated by sealed, non-repairable gadgets, projects like this remind us that the most interesting innovations often emerge from users themselves. The Framework 12 Joy-Con mod might be more novelty than necessity, but it represents the kind of experimental thinking that pushes boundaries and inspires others to see familiar technology through fresh eyes.

The post How a Modular Laptop Became a Handheld Gaming PC With Joy-Cons first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]> 563907 https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/07/08/refresh-your-life-waterdrop-filter-prime-day-sale-for-families-offices-and-rvs/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=refresh-your-life-waterdrop-filter-prime-day-sale-for-families-offices-and-rvs Wed, 09 Jul 2025 01:45:34 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=561999

Refresh Your Life: Waterdrop Filter Prime Day Sale for Families, Offices, and RVs

Clean water has become something of a luxury these days, with tap water quality varying wildly from city to city. Municipal treatment plants do their...

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Clean water has become something of a luxury these days, with tap water quality varying wildly from city to city. Municipal treatment plants do their best, but aging infrastructure and environmental contaminants still find their way into our glasses. Your family deserves better than crossing your fingers every time someone reaches for the faucet.

Prime Day presents the perfect opportunity to transform your household’s water quality without breaking the bank. Waterdrop’s impressive lineup of filtration systems tackles everything from daily hydration needs to specialized applications like car washing. These aren’t just filters; they’re comprehensive solutions designed to fit seamlessly into modern lifestyles while delivering consistently pure, great-tasting water.

Designer: Waterdrop Filter

Waterdrop G3P800 RO System – The Powerhouse Under-Sink Solution

The G3P800 represents serious filtration technology packed into a sleek under-sink package. This powerhouse churns out 800 gallons of purified water daily, making it perfect for busy households that go through water like there’s no tomorrow. The 10-stage precision filtration system tackles everything from chlorine and heavy metals to those sneaky PFAS compounds everyone’s worried about lately.

Installation couldn’t be more straightforward, and the tankless design means you’ll actually have storage space under your sink for once. The smart faucet displays real-time water quality readings, so you’ll know exactly what you’re drinking. Plus, that impressive 3:1 pure-to-drain ratio means you’re not wasting water while getting the cleanest possible result from every drop.

Click Here to Buy Now: $699 $999 ($300 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Waterdrop A2 Instant Hot & Cold Water RO System – Countertop Convenience

Renters and office workers, this one’s calling your name. The A2 transforms any countertop into a water station that would make fancy coffee shops jealous. No plumbing modifications needed; just plug it in and start enjoying purified water at six different temperature settings. Whether you’re brewing morning tea, mixing baby formula, or thirsting for a refreshing cool drink after a workout, the precise temperature control takes the guesswork out of water preparation.

The 5-stage RO filtration works overtime to remove contaminants while the sleek design actually improves your kitchen’s aesthetic appeal. That smart touch screen isn’t just for show; it monitors water quality and filter life so you’ll never be caught off guard. Perfect for small spaces where every square inch counts, yet powerful enough to handle your entire household’s hydration needs.

Click Here to Buy Now: $379 $499 ($120 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Waterdrop King Tank Series – The Gravity-Fed Champion

Adventure seekers and emergency preparedness enthusiasts will appreciate the King Tank’s rugged simplicity. This 2.25-gallon stainless steel system operates purely on gravity, meaning no electricity bills or water pressure worries. The outdoor-ready design features a non-skid base that stays put whether you’re camping in the mountains or dealing with power outages at home.

Each filter pair delivers an astounding 6,000 gallons of clean water, equivalent to eliminating 53,000 plastic bottles from your lifestyle. The instant access design means clean water flows whenever you need it, and the generous capacity handles group camping trips or large family gatherings with ease. Built like a tank but refined enough for indoor use, it bridges the gap between rugged functionality and everyday convenience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $177.63 $299 ($121.37 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Waterdrop Glass Water Filter Pitcher – Premium Aesthetics

Sometimes the simplest solutions make the biggest impact. This glass pitcher ditches plastic completely, offering a chemical-free way to store and serve filtered water. The lead-free glass construction looks elegant on any table while the 5-stage filtration quietly removes chlorine, sediment, and other common tap water nasties. Each filter lasts 100 gallons, providing two months of consistently clean water.

The trapdoor design makes refilling effortless, while the scratch-resistant glass maintains its pristine appearance through countless daily uses. Budget-conscious households love the combination of premium materials and affordable ongoing costs. Whether you’re hosting dinner parties or just want better-tasting water for daily cooking, this pitcher delivers both style and substance without compromise.

Click Here to Buy Now: $49.99 $59.99 ($10 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

Waterdrop Car Wash System – Spot-Free Outdoor Excellence

Car enthusiasts know the frustration of water spots ruining an otherwise perfect wash job. This specialized system uses premium resin filtration to eliminate the minerals that cause those annoying spots and streaks. The 10-micron filtration transforms ordinary tap water into deionized water that rinses completely clean, leaving your vehicle’s finish flawless every time.

Installation takes minutes with any standard garden hose, and the system works with your existing washing equipment. No more expensive trips to a professional car wash or spending hours trying to buff out water spots. The cost-effective design pays for itself quickly while giving you the satisfaction of achieving professional results in your own driveway.

Click Here to Buy Now: $271.99 $339.99 ($68 off). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours!

This Prime Day opportunity won’t last forever, and neither will these incredible savings on water filtration systems that could transform your family’s health and daily routine. Whether you’re protecting your household from contaminants, seeking convenience for your busy lifestyle, or preparing for outdoor adventures, Waterdrop’s comprehensive lineup delivers solutions that work as hard as you do.

The post Refresh Your Life: Waterdrop Filter Prime Day Sale for Families, Offices, and RVs first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]> 561999 https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/07/08/what-if-your-handbag-was-also-a-hi-fi-wireless-speaker/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=what-if-your-handbag-was-also-a-hi-fi-wireless-speaker Wed, 09 Jul 2025 00:30:56 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=564291

What If Your Handbag Was Also A Hi-Fi Wireless Speaker?

No matter how much you talk about wearable tech it is never enough. Fashion and technology are walking hand-in-hand at various platforms reinventing the wheel...

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No matter how much you talk about wearable tech it is never enough. Fashion and technology are walking hand-in-hand at various platforms reinventing the wheel of how and what we wear. In that league, Nik Bentel Studio, which has been pushing the boundaries of product design and fashion to exemplary levels has come up with a 4-channel mixer and speaker that women can carry like a bag.

What? A sound system that doubles as a bag? Boombox, are you listening? This uncanny bag + speaker + mixer doesn’t have your heavy, box-like aesthetic; instead, it takes on a chic appearance – sort of like EDC for women. It is inspired by Nik Bentel’s own Tati Bag, which has a nice leather sheen and top flap, which pulls up from the body of the bag to reveal the interior section. The Tati Fête Bag: Speaker + Mixer shares the same appearance, but with a transparent body revealing its electronic guts, yet being aptly functional.

Designer: Nik Bentel Studio

This unconventional speaker-mixer hybrid continues on Bentel’s exploration of unusual yet functional. It may not thrive on the bulky aesthetic of the boombox, but it does wear the same usability fabric, where you can carry quality music along, playing in the hand instead of above the shoulder, right behind your ear.

The speaker bag is designed to be your personal sound system but will be available in limited quantity. The onboard mixer features a functional 4-channel audio mixer and would set you back $400. It is available in two: black and white color options. Each of these speaker bags is made by hand in the designer’s New York studio through precision-machined translucent acrylic, which showcases the circuitry and hardware inside, and delivers a nice retro-modern appeal.

Instead of the original inspiration’s leather top flap, this 8″ x 12″ x 1–2″ bag features a magnetic closure and is powered by DC 5V. Equipped with a 4-channel mixer, the built-in speaker is compatible with CD players, phones, and amplifiers, and includes both 3.5 mm and 6.3 mm stereo jack plugs. It connects wirelessly via Bluetooth and supports a stereo/mono switch for added mixing flexibility. Designed to be carried as handbag, this mixer combines functionality and fashion, making it both a statement piece and a tribute to music culture. For a music lover, it’s a stylish way to show their passion.

A cool aspect of this speaker bag is a built-in LED display that shows decibel levels in real time. The adjustable display is made of a 16-bit two-color LED matrix and is nicely positioned to create a fun visual flair. The controls on the speaker bag are simple, you have a main volume knob and four-channel knobs for each option.

The post What If Your Handbag Was Also A Hi-Fi Wireless Speaker? first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]> 564291 https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/07/08/akasos-199-360-camera-directly-challenges-insta360-and-dji-osmos-duopoly/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=akasos-199-360-camera-directly-challenges-insta360-and-dji-osmos-duopoly Tue, 08 Jul 2025 20:00:15 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=564273

Akaso’s $199 360° Camera directly challenges Insta360 and DJI Osmo’s duopoly

When it comes to expanding product portfolios, companies typically play it safe by iterating on their existing lineups. AKASO, however, seems determined to color outside...

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When it comes to expanding product portfolios, companies typically play it safe by iterating on their existing lineups. AKASO, however, seems determined to color outside the lines. After making waves with their Seemor night vision goggles that delivered full-color visibility in pitch darkness (a remarkable feat of engineering that caught my attention last year), the company is now pivoting into entirely new territory with their first 360-degree action camera.

This strategic expansion feels particularly intriguing because AKASO isn’t simply following trends but applying their technological expertise across different visual capture domains. The Seemor goggles demonstrated AKASO’s proficiency with AI image processing, dual-sensor systems, and making complex optics accessible to everyday users. Now they’re bringing that same DNA to the 360-degree camera space with a $199 price tag that absolutely shatters the market’s status quo, potentially upending the Insta360 and DJI hegemony that has dominated the landscape for years.

Designer: Akaso

The new AKASO 360 comes equipped with dual 1/2-inch 48MP CMOS sensors capable of recording 5.7K spherical video at 30fps. For context, that resolution sits comfortably in the sweet spot between consumer and prosumer needs, offering enough pixel density for impressive playback while keeping file sizes manageable. The camera weighs in at a pocket-friendly 180g, substantially lighter than their 500g Seemor night vision system, making it practical for extended handheld use or mounting on helmets, bikes, or drones.

AKASO has wisely incorporated AI tracking into the 360 camera, allowing it to automatically follow subjects within the frame regardless of direction. This feature proves particularly valuable in 360 capture since reframing during post-production becomes significantly easier when the software has already identified and tracked the main subject. The camera also includes 360-degree horizon lock stabilization, ensuring level footage regardless of how wildly the camera might rotate during action sequences. Both features leverage machine learning algorithms similar to those developed for the Seemor’s low-light image processing.

Battery performance reveals practical engineering decisions that align with real-world usage. While the Seemor night vision goggles shipped with two 3,250mAh batteries providing up to 8 hours of operation, the 360 camera opts for a single 1,350mAh battery delivering approximately 60 minutes of 5.7K recording. This prioritizes portability over marathon sessions, acknowledging that most 360 content creators capture shorter clips rather than continuous footage.

The design itself borrows heavily from Insta360’s successful formula, with dual lenses positioned on the upper section and a 2.29-inch touchscreen below. The similarity raises questions about differentiation in a competitive market, but AKASO’s history suggests their advantage will come through pricing and feature accessibility rather than revolutionary form factors. The weatherproof construction indicates outdoor durability, though specific environmental ratings haven’t been detailed.

For creators looking to enter spherical video without emptying their wallets, AKASO’s disruptive pricing strategy transforms the conversation entirely. At $199, the AKASO 360 costs less than half of its mainstream competitors while offering comparable core specifications. If they can maintain the impressive quality demonstrated in their Seemor night vision technology at this aggressive price point, Insta360 and DJI face a serious threat from a company previously known for budget action cameras. The 360-degree camera market has suddenly become a battlefield where the underdog has armed itself with a price advantage that established players cannot easily counter.

The post Akaso’s $199 360° Camera directly challenges Insta360 and DJI Osmo’s duopoly first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]> 564273 https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/07/08/nothing-phone-3-review-a-flagship-that-redefines-smartphone-design/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=nothing-phone-3-review-a-flagship-that-redefines-smartphone-design Tue, 08 Jul 2025 13:00:43 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=564162

Nothing Phone (3) Review: A Flagship That Redefines Smartphone Design

Smartphones are becoming more elegant, but it seems that “premium phone design” has started to gravitate towards extreme minimalism. It’s perhaps a response to old,...

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PROS:

• Distinctive geometric design gives modern art vibes


• New Glyph Matrix shows plenty of potential


• Impressive performance across the board


• Larger battery with support for wired and wireless charging

CONS:

• Quirky design is an acquired taste


• Significantly higher price tag

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS

ERGONOMICS

PERFORMANCE

SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY

VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Nothing Phone (3) proves that flagship smartphones can have genuine personality while delivering sustainable innovation and playful functionality.

Smartphones are becoming more elegant, but it seems that “premium phone design” has started to gravitate towards extreme minimalism. It’s perhaps a response to old, technology-centric designs, but it also shies away from other design languages that could make our devices feel more personal and expressive. The result is a sea of glass rectangles that prioritize sleekness over soul, leaving users with powerful tools that somehow feel emotionally distant.

Nothing is shaking things up again with the Phone (3), going way past its “transparent design” identity. It turns the back of the phone into something playful and dynamic, suggesting movement and life through its revolutionary Glyph Matrix and geometric architecture. But is the new Phone (3) and its design yet another gimmick or is there a deeper meaning inside? We take it for a spin to find out.

Designer: Nothing

Aesthetics

The Nothing Phone (3) presents a unique, distinctive but admittedly polarizing design that looks a bit cluttered and unbalanced at first glance. The camera arrangement appears scattered, with two lenses housed in square blocks while a third sits in a diagonally slotted oval, creating an abstract composition that challenges conventional smartphone aesthetics. This intentional asymmetry makes use of geometric shapes to create a pattern that looks almost like a piece of modernist art.

The geometric flair extends throughout the device’s three-column grid design, where discs, curves, and lines interact to create visual rhythm and structure. The transparent back panel celebrates this asymmetry with confidence, showcasing internal components while maintaining the signature Nothing DNA that made the brand instantly recognizable. The interplay between soft curves and disciplined geometric forms creates a design language that feels both playful and sophisticated.

The new Glyph Matrix takes the Glyph Interface to a new level, evolving from simple light strips to a bespoke disc of LEDs with more useful and even playful expressions. This circular display, composed of 489 individually addressable micro-LEDs, transforms the back of the phone into a dynamic canvas that can communicate information, display animations, and even serve as a mirror for selfies. Unlike the old design that focuses on illumination, the Matrix animates, infusing the design with a pulsing sense of presence and purpose.

The materials themselves tell a story of sustainability and premium craftsmanship. The recycled aluminum mid-frame provides structural integrity while reducing environmental impact, and the transparent back panel reveals carefully arranged internal components that become part of the aesthetic experience. The red recording light, reminiscent of classic camcorders, adds a nostalgic touch that connects modern smartphone photography to its analog roots.

Ergonomics

The Nothing Phone (3) carries a little more weight and thickness at 218g and 8.99mm, making it noticeably heftier than its predecessors and many contemporary flagships. However, the device remains well-balanced, making it comfortable to hold during extended use sessions. The additional bulk comes primarily from the larger 5,150mAh silicon-carbon battery, a worthwhile trade-off for all-day power that eliminates the anxiety of constant charging.

The flat edges give it a good grip, while the included soft transparent case adds confidence when handling the device without obscuring the distinctive back design. The premium materials, including recycled aluminum for the mid-frame and buttons, contribute to the substantial feel without compromising on sustainability. The tactile experience feels deliberate and reassuring, suggesting a device built to last rather than one designed for planned obsolescence.

Despite its increased dimensions, the Phone (3) maintains excellent weight distribution that prevents fatigue during extended use. The curved edges where the back meets the frame provide comfortable contact points for fingers, while the flat sides offer secure grip surfaces. This balance between substance and comfort reflects Nothing’s understanding that a phone needs to feel good in hand, not just look good on a table.

Performance

The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 delivers flagship performance at a more affordable price point, offering acceptable performance overall, especially with 16GB RAM and 512GB fixed storage configurations. The processor handles demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and AI processing with confidence, representing a meaningful 36% boost in CPU performance and 88% improvement in graphics compared to the Nothing Phone (2). This power enables smooth multitasking and responsive AI interactions throughout Nothing OS.

The beautiful, sharp, and bright screen showcases content with impressive clarity, featuring 120Hz refresh rates for games and videos, plus 1000Hz touch sampling rate for exceptional responsiveness. The thin 1.87mm symmetrical bezel on all sides creates a refined frame that maximizes screen real estate while maintaining visual balance. Peak brightness reaches 4,500 nits for HDR content, ensuring visibility even in challenging lighting conditions, while the 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio delivers deep blacks and vibrant colors.

The impressive quad 50MP camera setup represents a rare feature even on more expensive flagships, with three 50MP cameras on the back and one 50MP shooter on the front. The system includes a 50MP main sensor with OIS and a large 1/1.3-inch sensor that captures 44% more light than the Phone (2), enabling superior low-light performance. The 50MP 114-degree ultra-wide camera provides expansive landscape capabilities, while the 50MP periscope telephoto offers 3x optical zoom and 6x lossless in-sensor zoom for versatile shooting scenarios.

Macro

Results are satisfying across various shooting scenarios, with the TrueLens Engine 4 providing natural-looking highlights and rich shadow detail through advanced AI processing. The system processes photos 125% faster than the Phone (2), enabling real-time scene segmentation and improved HDR capture. The 4K Ultra XDR video recording at 60fps across all lenses ensures professional-quality footage with exceptional dynamic range and color accuracy.

Ultrawide

1x

3x

6x

60x

However, the real star of the show is the Glyph Matrix, which transforms how users interact with their device. This disc offers far more uses than just notifications, serving as a dot matrix mirror for selfies using rear cameras, digital clock, battery indicator, stopwatch, and host for “Glyph Toys” that provide small fun games and utilities. Custom icons and avatars appear when receiving calls from contacts, personalizing each interaction in ways that feel genuinely useful rather than gimmicky.

The Glyph Button adds interactivity, allowing users to cycle through tools and widgets with a tap, hold to play games or toys, and check caller ID without flipping the phone. The integration with Nothing OS feels seamless, with the Matrix serving as an extension of the user interface rather than a separate feature. More capabilities are coming, with an SDK available for the community to create their own applications, potentially spawning a marketplace ecosystem that could revolutionize how we think about smartphone customization.

The Essential Space integration showcases how the Glyph Matrix can reduce screen dependency by providing quick access to captured content, voice notes, and AI-generated summaries. The Flip to Record feature uses the Matrix to display recording status, enabling hands-free meeting transcription while maintaining privacy through on-device processing. These features demonstrate Nothing’s commitment to creating technology that serves users rather than demanding their constant attention.

Sustainability

Nothing is again leading the pack when it comes to sustainability and a commitment to future-proofing their products. The Nothing Phone (3) incorporates 100% recycled aluminum for the mid-frame, buttons, and SIM tray, while using 100% recycled tin on nine circuit boards and 100% recycled copper foil on the main board. The packaging is 100% plastic-free and made from 30% recycled fiber, demonstrating comprehensive environmental consideration throughout the product lifecycle.

The IP68 rating ensures durability against environmental challenges, while some parts are made from recycled materials without compromising build quality. The device undergoes 68 quality control protocols and over 95,000 tests, including extreme temperature fluctuations, water immersion, and drop tests from various angles. Though the device isn’t easily repairable, Nothing commits to five years of major OS updates and seven years of security patches, extending the device’s useful life well beyond typical smartphone cycles.

The company’s transparency about its environmental impact, including detailed breakdowns of recycled materials and manufacturing processes, sets a positive example for the industry. The commitment to long-term software support means users can confidently invest in the device knowing it will remain secure and functional for years to come, reducing the pressure to upgrade frequently.

Value

The Nothing Phone (3) reaches “normal” flagship levels, starting at $799 for 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, climbing to $899 for 16GB RAM and 512GB storage. This represents a significant increase over its predecessors, positioning the device firmly in premium territory alongside established flagship competitors. The pricing reflects the inclusion of flagship-grade components, advanced camera systems, and the innovative Glyph Matrix technology that no other manufacturer offers.

The device is memorable, distinctive, but also divisive, with its value proposition really depending on how much you’re investing in the Nothing ecosystem. The Glyph Matrix alone justifies much of the premium, offering functionality that no other smartphone can match while potentially reducing screen time through more mindful interaction patterns. For users seeking a device that breaks from conventional smartphone design while delivering solid performance, the pricing becomes more reasonable when considered against the unique experience it provides.

The combination of premium materials, advanced features, and long-term software support creates a compelling value proposition for those who prioritize design innovation and sustainable technology choices. The Phone (3) offers an experience that extends beyond typical smartphone functionality into the realm of personal expression and mindful technology use, making it particularly appealing to creative professionals and design-conscious consumers.

Verdict

The Nothing Phone (3) succeeds in its ambitious goal of changing your relationship with your phone, transforming it from a technology-centric gadget into a device that adds genuine value to your life through thoughtful design and innovative features. The Glyph Matrix represents a breakthrough in smartphone interaction, offering a more mindful way to stay connected without falling into the endless scroll trap that dominates modern digital life.

The geometric design language, sustainable materials, and community-driven customization options create a device that feels personal and expressive rather than generic and disposable. While the design may polarize some users, it successfully challenges the minimalist orthodoxy that has dominated premium smartphone design, offering a refreshing alternative that prioritizes personality over conformity. The Nothing Phone (3) demonstrates that premium doesn’t have to mean boring, and that innovation can coexist with sustainability.

Through its combination of flagship performance, innovative interface design, and strong sustainability commitments, the Nothing Phone (3) demonstrates that smartphones can be both powerful tools and meaningful companions. It invites users to engage with technology more intentionally, using design as a bridge between digital functionality and human expression. The device encourages a more conscious relationship with technology, where the phone becomes a creative partner rather than a source of distraction.

The post Nothing Phone (3) Review: A Flagship That Redefines Smartphone Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

]]> 564162 https://www.yankodesign.com/2025/07/08/5-best-retro-inspired-gadgets-to-add-vintage-charm-to-your-modern-life-in-july-2025/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=5-best-retro-inspired-gadgets-to-add-vintage-charm-to-your-modern-life-in-july-2025 Tue, 08 Jul 2025 11:40:32 +0000 https://www.yankodesign.com/?p=563905

5 Best Retro-Inspired Gadgets To Add Vintage Charm To Your Modern Life In July 2025

The most fascinating technology today isn’t chasing tomorrow’s trends—it’s mining yesterday’s design wisdom with modern precision. We’re living through an amazing moment where cutting-edge gadgets...

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The most fascinating technology today isn’t chasing tomorrow’s trends—it’s mining yesterday’s design wisdom with modern precision. We’re living through an amazing moment where cutting-edge gadgets embrace pixelated displays, transparent housings, and tactile interfaces that feel borrowed from decades past. These are more than nostalgic novelties; they are thoughtful reimaginings that prove the best innovation often comes from looking backward while moving forward.

From smartwatches that channel ’80s digital timepieces to cameras hidden inside beloved virtual pets, today’s retro-inspired gadgets transform mundane tech interactions into moments of genuine delight. They reject the sleek uniformity dominating most consumer electronics in favor of personality, texture, and visual storytelling that makes technology feel more human. The five gadgets featured here represent this perfect marriage of nostalgia and innovation. Dive in and have a look!

1. Retro-Future Wrist Tech

The Retro-Future Wrist Tech concept abandons conventional smartwatch design with its deliberately rugged, industrial aesthetic that feels more like a piece of functional equipment than a fashion accessory. The pixelated display font evokes early digital watches, while the plastic bezel and visible fasteners embrace the kind of purposeful engineering that made ’80s Casio watches legendary among tech enthusiasts.

This smartwatch reframes wearable technology through a nostalgic lens, diverging sharply from today’s polished, edge-to-edge displays in favor of tactile authenticity and functional restraint. The monochrome screen and oversized pixel typography deliver both clarity and charm, reminiscent of Game Boy interfaces or retro computing systems that prioritized readability over visual sophistication. Adding this timepiece to your daily routine brings an instant dose of retro-futuristic character that stands apart in a sea of generic smartwatches.

What we like

• A unique aesthetic that sets you apart from mainstream smartwatch users.
• Durable design built for everyday wear and outdoor activities.

What we dislike

• Limited availability as a concept design rather than a mass-produced product.
• Monochrome displays may lack the versatility of full-color screens.

2. Transparent Sony Walkman Concept

The transparent Sony Walkman concept merges Blade Runner aesthetics with classic cassette nostalgia, creating a device that feels both retro and futuristic through its crystal-clear housing that reveals every internal component. The visible mechanical elements and gear systems remind you of luxury watch movements, where the engineering becomes the primary visual attraction rather than something hidden away.

The pixel-perfect UI elements visible through the transparent housing suggest computational intelligence, while the tactile control buttons along the top edge deliberately echo ’80s Sony recorders. Integrating this transparent Walkman into your daily routine elevates music listening from a mundane activity to a visual experience that offers exceptional form and function. The see-through design transforms the device into a piece of kinetic art, where watching the mechanical components work becomes as engaging as listening to your favorite albums.

What we like

• Stunning visual design that showcases internal mechanics as aesthetic features.
• Bridges analog and digital technologies in a meaningful way.

What we dislike

• Concept status means it’s not available for purchase.
• Transparent housing may be more fragile than traditional solid cases.

3. RetroWave 7-in-1 Radio

The RetroWave 7-in-1 Radio combines authentic Japanese design sensibilities with modern emergency preparedness, featuring a tactile tuning dial that recalls the golden age of radio broadcasting alongside contemporary features like Bluetooth connectivity and solar charging. This device proves that retro aesthetics and practical functionality can coexist, offering seven different functions within a single, beautifully designed package.

It offers a nostalgic exterior and also serves as a comprehensive emergency tool with a built-in flashlight, SOS alarm, hand-crank charging, and power bank capabilities that make it genuinely useful for both everyday listening and unexpected situations. The blend of AM, FM, and shortwave reception with modern streaming options creates a bridge between analog and digital audio experiences.

Click Here to Buy Now: $89.00

What we like

• Seven functions in one device provide excellent value and versatility.
• Emergency features make it genuinely useful for outdoor activities and power outages.

What we dislike

• Larger size compared to modern portable speakers may limit portability.
• Hand-crank charging requires physical effort during extended use.

4. TamagoniHAI

Called the TamagoniHAI, this product transforms the beloved ’90s virtual pet into a miniature camcorder, cleverly hiding modern recording technology within the iconic egg-shaped shell that defined a generation’s relationship with digital companions. Created by Hairo Satoh, this inventive mod captures the playful spirit of the original while serving an entirely different purpose than caring for pixelated creatures.

This adorable gadget embodies the kind of creative thinking that makes retro-tech feel fresh and relevant, combining the tactile satisfaction of physical buttons with the surprise of hidden functionality. The familiar form factor immediately triggers nostalgia, while the unexpected camera feature adds a layer of intrigue that makes every photo session feel like a secret mission.

What we like

• Combines nostalgia with practical functionality for unique photo opportunities.
• Its compact size makes it perfect for discreet photography or travel documentation.

What we dislike

• DIY nature means limited availability and potential technical challenges.
• Camera quality may not match dedicated photography equipment.

5. Moondrop Ultrasonic Earbuds

The Moondrop Ultrasonic earbuds achieve a perfect balance between transparency and sci-fi aesthetics, combining see-through housing with sophisticated dual-driver hybrid technology that delivers professional-quality sound. The visual design feels borrowed from futuristic films, while the technical specifications—including FRA Lithium-Magnesium alloy balanced armature tweeters and 13mm sapphire diaphragm drivers—promise audio performance that rivals premium over-ear headphones.

This hybrid TWS design showcases its internal components as design features rather than hiding them, creating earbuds that function as both high-performance audio equipment and conversation pieces. The combination of DD+BA drivers on each side, professionally tuned by engineers, ensures that the stunning aesthetics don’t compromise the primary function of delivering exceptional sound quality. These earbuds add a touch of retro-futuristic sophistication to your daily audio experience, making the simple act of listening to music feel more intentional and premium.

What we like

• Exceptional sound quality with professional-grade dual-driver configuration.
• Striking transparent design that showcases premium internal components.

What we dislike

• Higher price point compared to standard wireless earbuds.
• Transparent housing may show dirt or debris more easily than solid designs.

Conclusion

These five retro-inspired gadgets are a source of inspiration, as they showcase how great technology often comes from looking backward while moving forward. Each device takes familiar design languages from past decades and reinterprets them through contemporary capabilities, creating products that feel both nostalgic and innovative.

You could be drawn to the industrial aesthetics of the Retro-Future smartwatch, the playful creativity of the Tamagotchi camera, the transparent beauty of the Sony Walkman concept, the practical versatility of the RetroWave radio, or the sophisticated transparency of the Moondrop earbuds -all the gadgets offer ways to inject personality and history into your everyday tech interactions.

The post 5 Best Retro-Inspired Gadgets To Add Vintage Charm To Your Modern Life In July 2025 first appeared on Yanko Design.

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