Samsung has officially confirmed that the Galaxy Z Fold7 will not support the S Pen, marking a major shift in the foldable’s design philosophy. The company found S Pen usage “extremely low” among Fold users and prioritized a thinner, lighter device instead. The result? At 8.9mm folded and 215g, the Fold7 is Samsung’s thinnest, lightest foldable yet. This puts Samsung neck-and-neck with the OPPO Find N5’s 8.93mm folded thickness and within striking distance of the Honor Magic V5’s 8.8mm record. How does this thickness achievement change the foldable landscape? Samsung has created a device that measures nearly half as thin as the original Galaxy Fold while maintaining durability standards.

Designer: Samsung

The Galaxy Z Fold7 measures 4.2mm when unfolded, which translates to approximately 8.9mm when folded (accounting for the protective gap between displays). Samsung didn’t quite claim the thickness crown, but they’ve essentially matched the competition while maintaining the familiar feel of a traditional smartphone. After spending a couple of hours with the Galaxy Z Fold7, this represents more than incremental improvement. Samsung has created one of the thinnest mainstream foldable phones while keeping it accessible to users who want a device that feels like the S25 Ultra when closed. The Z Fold7 achieves Samsung’s goal of making foldables feel like regular phones while competing at the highest level.

Key Changes:

• S Pen support removed for the first time since Fold3
• 8.9mm folded thickness (vs. 12.1mm on Fold6)
• 215g weight (down from 239g)
• 8-inch main display, 6.5-inch cover screen
• 200MP camera, Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, up to 16GB RAM

Design Engineering That Actually Works

The cover screen expanded to 6.5 inches with a 21:9 aspect ratio, making it easier to hold and type on than ever before. The main screen grew to 8 inches, making it the most expansive display on a Galaxy smartphone. Testing every Z Fold generation reveals that the cramped typing experience on previous cover screens always killed daily usability. The Z Fold7 eliminates that completely. The cover screen now feels like a complete smartphone experience instead of a notification preview.

Compared to the Galaxy Z Fold6, Samsung shaved off 3.2mm when folded and reduced weight by 24 grams. During brief testing with the device, focusing on using only the cover screen for basic tasks revealed it never felt limiting. The proportions work for one-handed use, typing feels natural, and apps display properly. This is the first time you could see using a Z Fold as your primary device without constantly unfolding it for basic tasks.

Samsung’s Armor Flexion hinge represents a fundamental rethinking of foldable design. The water-dropping geometry with multi-rail structure disperses stress across multiple points. This creates more internal space, allowing the display to fold with a gentler curvature. The crease reduction is the most noticeable improvement in initial testing. Previous Z Fold devices had creases that felt intrusive and distracting. The Z Fold7’s crease integrates naturally into the user experience.

When folded, Samsung states it measures almost as thin as the S25 Ultra (8.2mm), putting Samsung in elite company with the thinnest foldables available. The hinge mechanism provides confident tactile feedback during folding operations. Samsung engineered a hinge that disappears when closed while maintaining structural integrity. The device feels solid throughout the folding motion. Samsung has joined the elite thickness club while maintaining mainstream appeal. The gap between the thinnest foldables is now measured in fractions of millimeters rather than full millimeters. This achievement proves Samsung can compete on engineering while keeping foldables accessible to mainstream users rather than just tech enthusiasts.

Samsung made deliberate material decisions that enhance the user experience. Gorilla Glass Victus on the cover screen provides familiar tactile feedback. Advanced armored aluminum forms the frame, creating structural rigidity while reducing weight. The main display incorporates a titanium layer for protection, with ultra-thin glass that feels like typing on a solid surface.

The weight hits you first. At 215 grams, this weighs less than many traditional smartphones while giving you an 8-inch display. Within minutes of holding it, the difference from previous Z Fold models is immediately apparent. This doesn’t feel like two phones stuck together anymore. It feels like a single device that happens to unfold.

The 8-Inch Display Experience and Notable Changes

The display expansion from 7.6 to 8 inches creates genuine productivity space. This additional screen real estate transforms multitasking from a gimmick into a necessity. During testing, running three apps simultaneously without feeling cramped becomes natural. Email, calendar, and messaging apps work together naturally with breathing room.

Samsung launched the Z Fold7 with One UI 8 built on Android 16, making it the first Samsung device to ship with Android 16. Galaxy AI integration transforms the large screen into a productivity powerhouse. Gemini optimization includes floating windows and adjustable layouts with conversation continuity between displays. The AI Result view offers multiple layout options that show promise. Drag-and-drop functionality between apps makes content creation intuitive.

Samsung made two significant changes to the inner display that will affect different users differently. The inner selfie camera is no longer under the display. Samsung replaced the under-display camera with a traditional 10-megapixel punch-hole camera that offers higher quality and a wider field of view. This makes group selfies much more practical on the large screen, letting you fit more friends and family into the frame. However, this means there’s now a visible camera cutout on the main display, which some users preferred to avoid. The visible camera cutout on the main display represents a step backward for users who preferred the seamless under-display camera, even if it means better selfie quality.

Why Samsung Killed S Pen Support

Most significantly for productivity users, Samsung has officially confirmed the removal of S Pen support from the Z Fold7. According to Samsung, “S Pen usage on the fold was extremely low, and the things that users value more were the size and weight of this device.” By removing the digitizer layer, Samsung increased the ultra-thin glass layer thickness for better durability while reducing device weight. This eliminates a key differentiator for users who relied on pen input for productivity tasks, but it directly contributed to the device’s impressive thinness and weight reduction.

The decision affects productivity users who rely on stylus functionality for note-taking and precise input. Samsung prioritized mainstream appeal over power user features, supported by user research indicating preferences for size and weight over stylus functionality. This trade-off directly enabled the thickness achievement while improving structural integrity. The removal of S Pen support will disappoint users who relied on stylus functionality for productivity tasks, though Samsung’s data suggests this affects a small percentage of users. These changes show Samsung prioritizing mainstream appeal over power user features, supported by user research indicating preferences for size and weight over stylus functionality.

Camera Performance That Delivers

The 200-megapixel main camera brings Ultra-series performance to the foldable form factor. Samsung engineered a slimmer actuator, making it 18% thinner to fit within the device profile. This eliminates the camera compromise that plagued previous foldables. The ultra-wide camera now supports autofocus for detailed macro photography. The 3x telephoto lens benefits from Pro Visual Engine enhancements.

Video recording defaults to 10-bit HDR, providing four times wider color range. In brief camera testing, the system performs like what you’d expect from a $2,000 smartphone. The Pro Visual Engine gets a next-generation upgrade with advanced noise analysis. The system distinguishes between moving and static objects for cleaner low-light footage. Samsung made the camera system a selling point rather than an afterthought.

Extended testing of the Z Fold7’s camera system over the coming weeks will include a dedicated deep dive session focused specifically on camera performance. Expect a detailed follow-up article that explores the 200-megapixel sensor’s capabilities, Pro Visual Engine improvements, and how the camera system performs across different shooting scenarios. The initial impressions are promising, but the real test will be how it handles various lighting conditions and use cases.

Most significantly for selfie users, Samsung replaced the under-display camera with a traditional 10-megapixel punch-hole camera. This change offers higher quality and a wider field of view, making group selfies more practical on the large screen. The trade-off is a visible camera cutout on the main display, but the improved results justify this decision for most users.

Performance and Battery Life

The customized Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor keeps multitasking smooth across both displays. Enhanced CPU, GPU, and NPU performance handles demanding tasks without thermal throttling. The 4400 mAh battery powers both screens with improved efficiency despite the larger 8-inch display. Samsung’s ecosystem integration extends capabilities through DeX mode, Galaxy Buds connectivity, and Galaxy Watch integration.

The device launches with One UI 8 built on Android 16, making it the first Samsung device to ship with Android 16. Galaxy AI integration transforms the large screen into a productivity powerhouse. Gemini optimization includes floating windows and adjustable layouts with conversation continuity between displays.

Pricing and Specifications

Samsung positioned the Z Fold7 at $1,999.99 with three storage configurations: 256GB and 512GB models include 12GB RAM, while the 1TB model upgrades to 16GB RAM. The device comes in Blue Shadow, Jet Black, and Silver Shadow, with an exclusive Mint color available on Samsung.com. Seven generations of OS updates ensure the device remains current through 2032. The pricing reflects Samsung’s positioning as a premium productivity device.

The camera module integrates cleanly into the rear panel without disrupting the design flow. Samsung eliminated visual clutter throughout the device. The Z Fold7 feels cohesive rather than assembled from competing priorities. Samsung has created a device that measures nearly half as thin as the original Galaxy Fold while maintaining durability standards. The device is included in Samsung’s Self Repair Program, showing confidence in build quality.

After a couple of hours with the Z Fold7, extended testing becomes the next priority. The initial impressions suggest Samsung has addressed most major criticisms of foldable technology: weight, thickness, camera quality, software optimization, and durability. This feels like the phone Samsung should have made from the beginning in terms of form factor and build quality. The Z Fold7 proves that foldable technology has finally reached maturity while competing at the highest level on thickness. The compromises that remain are design choices rather than technical limitations, backed by user research and data. Extended daily use will reveal how these initial impressions hold up, particularly for users who relied on the removed features.

FAQ: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7

Q: Does the Galaxy Z Fold7 support the S Pen?
A: No, Samsung has officially removed S Pen support to make the device thinner and more durable.

Q: How thin is the Z Fold7 compared to competitors?
A: At 8.9mm folded, it’s nearly as thin as the Honor Magic V5 (8.8mm) and OPPO Find N5 (8.93mm).

Q: What are the RAM and storage options?
A: 12GB RAM for 256GB/512GB models, 16GB RAM for 1TB model.

Q: What’s new about the camera?
A: 200MP main camera, improved ultra-wide with autofocus, and a punch-hole selfie camera replaces the under-display version.

Q: When can I buy the Galaxy Z Fold7?
A: Samsung has announced pricing at $1,999.99, with availability details to be confirmed.

The Z Fold7 represents Samsung’s entry into the elite thickness club while maintaining mainstream appeal. The trade-offs Samsung made, removing the digitizer layer for S Pen support, directly enabled this thickness achievement while improving durability. The device feels like the phone Samsung should have made from the beginning in terms of form factor and build quality.

The post Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 Hands-on: S Pen Support Dropped, Samsung’s Thinnest Foldable Yet first appeared on Yanko Design.

The podium at Silverstone has witnessed countless iconic moments over Formula 1’s 75-year history, but Sunday’s British Grand Prix delivered something entirely unprecedented. As Lando Norris hoisted his winner’s trophy above his head, the familiar weight of silverware had been replaced by 2,717 meticulously arranged LEGO bricks forming a perfect replica of the legendary RAC Trophy. The Danish toy giant had pulled off what might be the most audacious trophy design in motorsport history, transforming childhood nostalgia into championship hardware that somehow managed to honor tradition while completely reimagining it.

This wasn’t some corporate stunt masquerading as innovation. LEGO designer Samuel Liltorp Johnson, a lifelong F1 fanatic, had spent months perfecting a design that could survive the chaos of champagne-soaked celebrations while maintaining the gravitas befitting motorsport’s most prestigious silverware. The result stands as a masterclass in functional design that happens to be built from toys.

Designer: LEGO

The engineering challenge here was genuinely fascinating. Creating a 59-centimeter trophy that weighs over 2 kilograms using nothing but standard LEGO elements requires serious structural thinking. Johnson and his seven-person build team invested 210 hours into ensuring these trophies could withstand the inevitable post-race mayhem without crumbling into expensive plastic confetti. Every brick came from LEGO’s regular catalog, meaning theoretically any dedicated fan could recreate Norris’s trophy at home, though good luck sourcing 2,717 gold-colored pieces without bankrupting yourself. The technical specifications read like a love letter to both precision engineering and childhood wonder: each trophy incorporates a miniature F1 car mounted on the front face, crowned with a golden brick that serves as both aesthetic flourish and structural keystone.

What makes this collaboration genuinely brilliant is how it respects the RAC Trophy’s 75-year legacy while injecting playful irreverence into F1’s often stuffy traditions. The original RAC Trophy carries the engraved names of every British Grand Prix winner since 1950, from Giuseppe Farina to Lewis Hamilton, making it arguably F1’s equivalent to the Stanley Cup in terms of historical significance. Johnson’s LEGO interpretation captures every curve and proportion of that iconic silhouette, proving that homage doesn’t require slavish imitation. The second and third-place trophies feature red and blue detailing respectively, while the constructor’s trophy sports dark blue and gold accents, creating a cohesive family of awards that photograph beautifully under Silverstone’s podium lights.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect for both brands involved. F1’s ongoing mission to attract younger audiences aligns seamlessly with LEGO’s recent push into adult-focused collectibles, evidenced by their increasingly sophisticated Architecture and Creator Expert lines. This partnership builds on LEGO’s earlier F1 initiatives, including the driveable brick cars that caused such a sensation at Miami earlier this season. For a sport sometimes criticized for being too corporate and sanitized, handing drivers toys as trophies represents a refreshing embrace of pure joy. Watching Norris, Oscar Piastri, and Nico Hulkenberg genuinely delighting in their brick-built hardware reminded everyone why we fell in love with both F1 and LEGO in the first place.

The post LEGO and F1 Unite for a Groundbreaking 2,717-brick British GP Trophy Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

I love my Apple Watch, but for the love of everything holy, I hate that I need a specialized charger for it. What’s the point of a power bank or a wireless charger if I now need one with a special charging zone for the Apple Watch JUST because the damned thing has a proprietary dock design? It’s probably the one frustrating thing about the Apple Watch, after the Watch’s underwhelming 2-day battery life… but it seems like the latest iPhone may fix that. Rumors and leaks are suggesting that not only will the iPhone 17 series get bumped up to Qi2.2 charging, it will also get a highly sought-after Reverse Wireless Charging feature (like the one on Samsung’s Galaxy phones). This means that you can potentially place your Apple Watch or even your AirPods on the back of your latest iPhone, just to have it charge normally. No cable, no dock, nothing.

What’s particularly exciting is how these advancements could fundamentally alter our relationship with power management. The days of carrying multiple chargers and cables might soon be behind us. Instead, the iPhone 17 Pro will become a power hub for your Apple ecosystem, addressing one of the most persistent pain points in modern tech: keeping everything charged without turning your bag into a cable management nightmare. At this point, I might just excuse Apple for flopping on the AirPower Mat if my iPhone itself can become a wireless charger!

The star of the show is undoubtedly the new reverse wireless charging capability. Your iPhone 17 Pro will function as a portable charging pad for accessories like AirPods and Apple Watch. This feature has existed on Android devices for years, but Apple’s implementation appears more refined, with stronger magnetic alignment and more efficient power transfer. Imagine being at dinner when your Apple Watch battery indicator turns red. Simply place it on the back of your iPhone, and you’ll have enough juice to get through the evening. The feature leverages the existing MagSafe system for precise alignment, ensuring optimal charging efficiency rather than the hit-or-miss experience seen on competing devices. The power transfer is reportedly limited to 5W for accessories, which is adequate for emergency charging situations without excessively draining your phone’s battery. It’s also heavily speculated that the Pro models will exclusively get the Reverse Wireless Charging feature… not the base models.

On the receiving end, the iPhone 17 lineup will support wireless charging speeds of up to 50W through the new Qi2.2 standard. This represents a massive leap from the current 15W limitation and approaches the speeds typically associated with wired charging. A full charge could take just over an hour wirelessly, compared to the 2+ hours required by current models. Apple has reportedly redesigned the internal coil structure and improved heat dissipation to handle the increased power without thermal throttling. The charging speed increase addresses one of the most significant criticisms of wireless charging: that it’s too slow to be practical for daily use.

The new charging capabilities complement the iPhone 17’s refreshed design language. The lineup introduces the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air (just 5.5mm thick and weighing 145g) alongside the standard, Pro, and Pro Max variants. The Air model features a 6.6-inch display but comes with a smaller 2800mAh battery, making the improved charging speeds particularly valuable for extending its usability throughout the day. Meanwhile, the Pro Max variant boasts a 4700mAh battery, the largest ever in an iPhone, paired with the new A19 Pro chip and vapor chamber cooling system for sustained performance.

Color options are expanding too, with the base models receiving fresh purple and green finishes, while the Pro models will feature a sophisticated sky-blue option inspired by the M4 MacBook Air. The Pro models are shifting from titanium to aluminum frames, resulting in lighter devices without compromising durability. All models will feature 120Hz ProMotion displays, ensuring smooth visuals whether you’re gaming or simply scrolling through social media.

The iPhone 17 lineup is expected to debut in September 2025, with pricing likely to remain consistent with current models despite the significant technological advancements. These charging improvements, combined with the design refinements and performance upgrades, position the iPhone 17 as a compelling upgrade even for those who typically sit out a generation or two.

The post The iPhone 17 Pro will wirelessly charge your Apple Watch and AirPods, according to news leaks first appeared on Yanko Design.

What happens when British engineering meets Slovenian exhaust technology? The answer roars from the quad tailpipes of Bentley’s latest Continental GT, GT Convertible, and Flying Spur models. Bentley has partnered with Akrapovič to deliver a titanium sports exhaust system that changes these grand tourers into acoustic powerhouses. The collaboration produces more than noise; it creates a 22-pound weight reduction while amplifying the visceral connection between driver and machine. This system marks a significant shift for Bentley, moving beyond traditional comfort toward performance-focused engineering. The exhaust represents the brand’s focus on satisfying enthusiasts who demand refinement and raw automotive emotion. Available across all fourth-generation models with hybrid powertrains, this upgrade bridges the gap between Bentley’s heritage and its electrified future.

Designers: Bentley + Akrapovič

Visual Drama Meets Engineering Excellence

The Akrapovič system changes Bentley’s V8 powerplants through precision acoustic engineering. Valve-actuated bypasses open in Sport mode, unleashing a full-throated rasp under acceleration and distinctive burbles during deceleration. The exhaust note progresses through the rev range, starting with commanding low-frequency growls and building to high-pitched intensity at redline.

The titanium construction serves multiple purposes beyond weight savings. Akrapovič manufactures complex components at their in-house titanium foundry, ensuring consistent quality and heat resistance. The matte titanium finish receives sandblasting and protective coating for durability and scratch resistance. Each quad tailpipe bears Bentley and Akrapovič branding, creating a visual statement that matches the auditory experience. Performance gains extend beyond sound enhancement, with reduced weight improving vehicle dynamics in Sport mode where every pound matters.

The system responds to engine load with precision. This delivers immediate auditory feedback that connects drivers to their vehicle’s performance envelope. Sound engineers spent months tuning the response characteristics.

Distinctive Design Language

The quad tailpipes showcase Akrapovič’s signature design philosophy through their angular, geometric form. Each titanium outlet features sharp-edged rectangular openings that contrast with Bentley’s traditional circular pipes. The matte finish creates subtle light play across the surface, while embossed branding on each pipe establishes immediate visual identity.

Carbon fiber surrounds frame the titanium outlets, integrating with Bentley’s rear diffuser design. The dark carbon weave provides textural contrast against the metallic titanium surfaces. This combination creates depth and visual interest that transforms the rear aesthetic from understated to assertive.

The angular pipe geometry reflects modern automotive design trends while maintaining functional efficiency. Sharp edges and precise cuts demonstrate manufacturing precision that matches the acoustic engineering quality. These design elements work together to create an unmistakable performance signature.

Universal Compatibility Across Hybrid Lineup

Bentley designed this exhaust system for comprehensive compatibility across their current range.

The Akrapovič system fits all Continental GT, GT Convertible, and Flying Spur models equipped with High Performance Hybrid or Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrains. This universal approach ensures no Bentley owner faces exclusion from the upgrade opportunity. Installation options provide flexibility for different ownership scenarios.

New vehicle buyers can specify the Akrapovič exhaust as a factory option during commissioning. Existing owners can retrofit the system through Bentley’s authorized dealer network. This dual approach accommodates new purchases and existing vehicle upgrades. The system’s compatibility with hybrid powertrains addresses modern automotive realities. As manufacturers transition toward electrification, maintaining emotional connection through sound becomes increasingly important.

The Akrapovič exhaust ensures Bentley’s hybrid models retain the acoustic drama that defines high-performance vehicles. Akrapovič brings decades of motorsport experience to this partnership. Their expertise in titanium fabrication and exhaust tuning translates directly to road car applications.

The company’s reputation spans Formula 1, MotoGP, and automotive applications. This provides credibility that matches Bentley’s positioning. The collaboration extends beyond simple component supply, with Akrapovič engineers working directly with Bentley’s development team to create system-specific tuning.

Market positioning reflects the brands’ status. The Akrapovič name carries significant weight among performance enthusiasts, while Bentley’s credentials attract discerning buyers.

Performance Meets Aesthetics

This exhaust system arrives as Bentley navigates the transition toward electrification. The company’s Beyond100 strategy commits to full electrification by 2030, making current internal combustion offerings increasingly precious. The Akrapovič partnership ensures these final V8 models deliver maximum emotional impact before electric powertrains take over. Weight reduction becomes more critical as vehicles incorporate hybrid components.

The 22-pound savings from titanium construction partially offsets battery weight. This maintains the dynamic balance that defines Bentley’s driving character. The timing coincides with increased consumer interest in automotive personalization.

Buyers seek unique expressions of taste and performance priorities. The Akrapovič exhaust provides a meaningful upgrade that changes the driving experience without compromising Bentley’s fundamental character. Sound engineering takes on new importance as electric vehicles proliferate. The Akrapovič system preserves the emotional connection that defines internal combustion performance.

The visual transformation proves equally compelling, with the angular titanium outlets and carbon fiber surrounds creating an assertive rear presence that announces performance capability before the engine starts.

The post Bentley Unleashes Akrapovič Titanium Exhaust for Continental GT and Flying Spur first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Fujifilm X-E5 is the newest camera in their classic rangefinder-style series, inspired by the popular X100VI but with the ability to change lenses. This is the first X-E camera to feature built-in image stabilization and a premium aluminum body, making it perfect for photographers who love the vintage look but want more lens options. What makes this camera special is its customizable film simulation dial that lets you save your own photo styles for instant access. Whether you’re shooting street photography, travel content, or lifestyle portraits, the X-E5 lightweightness fits easily into your everyday bag, delivering professional-quality results that stand out on social media.

Designer: Fujifilm

With over 40 X Mount optics available, users can adapt the camera to various creative needs while maintaining a compact form factor and classic design appeal. The X-E5 weighs 445 grams including battery and memory card, representing minimal weight gain despite adding in-body image stabilization compared to the X-E4.

The camera features the first customizable Film Simulation dial in X Series history. The dial provides quick access to Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes while offering three additional positions (FS1, FS2, FS3) for storing custom recipes. Users can create and save personalized settings for immediate recall during shooting sessions.

Machined Aluminum Construction and Design Details

The camera’s top plate uses machined aluminum construction, a first for the X-E series. The distinct tapered design on the rear enhances metallic texture while improving dial operability. Sharp, flat edges combine with curved surfaces to deliver smooth metallic texture and high rigidity.

Design refinements include a flush-mounted viewfinder and diopter adjustment control. The offset electronic viewfinder echoes classic rangefinder styling, while a Bluetooth connectivity button positioned on the base mimics a film rewind button. These details bridge digital functionality with analog aesthetics.

Knurling at the lens mount base provides secure grip during lens changes. The manual focus ring includes high-frequency position detection for precise manual focus with minimal rotation angle. A fixed spacer between manual focus and aperture rings enables easier adjustment while composing through the viewfinder.

Refinement appears in every aspect of X-E5’s design. The viewfinder and diopter adjustment control fit flush with the body. By refining vertical and horizontal elements, the design preserves the essence of a traditional camera while exuding sophisticated presence. The combination of machined aluminum construction with classic rangefinder proportions creates a camera that feels substantial yet remains highly portable.

40.2MP Sensor and Processing Engine

The X-E5 houses a back-illuminated 40.2-megapixel X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor paired with the X-Processor 5 imaging engine. Updated image processing algorithms deliver high resolution while maintaining high signal-to-noise ratio. The improved pixel structure records light more efficiently, unlocking ISO 125 as native sensitivity rather than extended option.

The electronic shutter capability reaches a maximum speed of 1/180,000 second for precise exposure control. The higher resolution sensor enables a two-step digital teleconverter, cropping the sensor to provide 1.4x or 2.0x zoom with minimal quality loss.

AI-based subject detection uses deep learning technology to recognize animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, trains, insects, and drones. The latest AF predictive algorithm delivers high tracking performance for moving subjects and high precision AF in low-contrast lighting conditions.

The sensor’s back-illuminated design improves light-gathering efficiency compared to traditional front-illuminated sensors. This architecture places the photodiodes closer to the surface, reducing light loss and improving performance at higher ISO settings.

Subject detection settings require specific configurations: Bird mode detects insects, while Airplane mode recognizes drones. The system analyzes subject movement patterns and predicts trajectory for improved tracking accuracy during continuous autofocus operation.

Seven-Stop In-Body Image Stabilization

The X-E5 becomes the first X-E model to include in-body image stabilization, offering up to 7.0 stops of correction at the center and 6.0 stops at the periphery. The system incorporates a new IBIS algorithm and upgraded gyro sensor to boost camera shake suppression across five axes (yaw, pitch, roll correction).

This IBIS implementation adds minimal weight and size compared to the X-E4, maintaining the compact form factor while enabling handheld shooting in challenging lighting conditions. The stabilization system works with the camera’s weather-resistant design, which handles dust, moisture, and temperatures down to -10°C (14°F).

Enhanced Electronic Viewfinder Capabilities

The offset electronic viewfinder offers multiple viewing modes that replicate optical viewfinder functionality. Classic Display mode positions all viewfinder information at the bottom of the screen with a metering gauge on the right side, mimicking an analog film SLR layout.

Three Surround View modes allow selection of black, semi-transparent, or line outline showing the image’s aspect ratio and areas outside the frame. This helps anticipate subjects moving into frame. Users can switch between these options using the Control Lever on the camera’s front.

The Control Lever provides additional customizable functions including aspect ratio changes and digital teleconverter magnification adjustment. This enables exceptional operability and versatility during one-handed operation.

Classic Display mode represents a significant departure from typical EVF layouts. Information placement at the bottom mimics traditional film camera viewfinders, creating familiar shooting experience for photographers transitioning from analog systems.

Surround View functionality extends beyond simple framing aids. The semi-transparent mode allows photographers to see approaching subjects before they enter the frame, while line outline mode provides precise composition guidance without visual distraction.

The Control Lever’s positioning on the front panel enables thumb operation without removing the eye from the viewfinder. This ergonomic consideration maintains shooting flow while providing quick access to frequently adjusted settings.

Video Recording and Monitor Design

Video recording reaches 6.2K resolution at 29.97fps with up to 200 Mbps bitrate. The camera includes tracking AF function during video recording for smooth footage. The 3.0-inch two-way tilting touchscreen LCD monitor features approximately 1.04 million dots resolution.

The rear monitor tilts upward and forward up to 180 degrees, accommodating compositions from high to low angles plus selfie positioning. This flexibility supports various shooting scenarios while maintaining the camera’s compact profile.

6.2K recording provides substantial resolution for post-production cropping and stabilization. The high bitrate ensures minimal compression artifacts during detailed scenes with complex textures or rapid movement.

New XF23mmF2.8 R WR Pancake Lens

The X-E5 pairs with the newly announced XF23mmF2.8 R WR pancake lens, available in kit form or separately. The lens provides 35mm equivalent focal length and weighs 90 grams (3.17 ounces) with 23mm overall length, matching the XF27mmF2.8 R WR dimensions.

Optical construction includes 8 elements in 6 groups with two aspherical elements to minimize aberrations from center to periphery. The lens features an 11-blade aperture diaphragm for smooth, circular bokeh, particularly effective at wider apertures of F2.8 and F4.

Close focusing distance reaches 20cm (7.9 inches) from the sensor, enabling frame-filling images of smaller subjects. The lens uses full-group focusing system to suppress aberration variation across focus positions, maintaining high image quality at close range.

A DC coreless motor provides rapid autofocus with minimal movement requirements. The lens includes 9 sealing points for dust and moisture resistance to -10°C (14°F). Weather sealing allows safe operation in light rain, cold, and dusty environments when paired with compatible camera bodies.

The 23mm focal length fills a gap in Fujifilm’s pancake lens lineup. While the XF27mmF2.8 R WR provides 41mm equivalent coverage, the XF23mmF2.8 R WR offers wider 35mm equivalent perspective for environmental portraits and street photography.

Fujifilm’s latest lens development techniques enabled the compact design. By increasing the number of metal components and making parts thinner while maintaining durability, engineers achieved the same 23mm length as the XF27mmF2.8 R WR despite different optical requirements.

The 11-blade aperture represents a significant upgrade over typical 7 or 9-blade designs. More blades create rounder aperture opening at all f-stops, producing smoother bokeh transitions and more circular highlight rendering.

Full-group focusing moves all lens elements together during focus operation. This design maintains consistent optical performance across the focusing range, preventing the aberration shifts common in designs that move only specific element groups.

Connectivity and Storage Options

Connectivity includes Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, HDMI Type D, 3.5mm microphone input, remote release capability, and hot shoe mounting. Storage supports SD cards up to 2GB, SDHC up to 32GB, and SDXC cards up to 2TB, plus SSD support up to 2TB.

The camera supports UHS-I, UHS-II, and Video Speed Class V90 for high-speed data transfer during video recording and burst photography. Exposure modes include Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority, and Manual (PASM) with exposure compensation from -5.0EV to +5.0EV in 1/3EV steps.

SSD support represents an advanced storage option for professional video work. External SSDs connected via USB-C provide faster write speeds and larger capacity than traditional SD cards, enabling extended 6.2K recording sessions without interruption.

Video Speed Class V90 ensures minimum sustained write speeds of 90 MB/s, crucial for high-bitrate 6.2K recording. This specification prevents dropped frames during intensive recording scenarios with complex scene content.

The post Fujifilm X-E5 Adds 7-Stop In-Body Image Stabilization to Rangefinder Series first appeared on Yanko Design.

Photography has remained fundamentally horizontal for over a century. Fujifilm’s latest creation shatters this convention with stunning simplicity. The new X half premium compact digital camera transforms how we capture images by embracing vertical orientation as its foundational design principle. This revolutionary approach acknowledges our smartphone-shaped world while delivering an experience distinctly separate from mobile photography. The camera challenges our assumptions about what photography tools should look like and how they should function. Its design speaks to a generation that consumes images vertically but craves tactile experiences beyond touchscreens.

Designer: Fujifilm

Design Origin & Philosophy

The X half emerged from Fujifilm’s experimental design workshops, where creative freedom flourishes without immediate commercial pressure. These sessions allow designers to explore concepts that challenge conventional thinking about cameras.

During one particularly productive workshop, a designer named Bueno presented a fully realized mock-up addressing his personal frustration with film photography’s ongoing costs. As noted in Fujifilm’s development history, Bueno loved shooting film but found it financially challenging, which sparked his creative solution. This origin story reveals a fascinating inversion of traditional product development cycles.

Bueno’s concept arrived as a complete physical design with no internal components or technical specifications. The engineering team faced the unusual challenge of building technology to fit an established form rather than designing around predetermined components.

Senior leadership immediately recognized the concept’s potential, supporting this rare bottom-up development process that preserved the designer’s original vision. The concept brilliantly translates half-frame film photography into digital form.

Traditional half-frame cameras, popular for their economy and distinctive aesthetic, captured two vertical images on a single 35mm film frame. This digital interpretation maintains that vertical orientation while eliminating film costs entirely. Fujifilm went further by incorporating intentional constraints that shape the photographic experience.

Physical Design & Ergonomics

The camera lacks image stabilization and captures JPEGs exclusively without RAW capability. These aren’t technical limitations but deliberate design decisions that encourage a specific relationship with photography. Users focus on composition and timing rather than post-processing possibilities or technical perfection. The design philosophy prioritizes the act of seeing over technical manipulation, encouraging photographers to develop their eye rather than their editing skills.

The X half weighs a mere 240 grams (8.5 ounces), lighter than many smartphones despite its purposeful construction. Its compact dimensions (105.8mm x 64.3mm x 30.0mm) make it genuinely pocketable, fitting comfortably in standard jeans pockets without the awkward bulge larger cameras create.

Fujifilm selected a fixed 10.8mm F2.8 prime lens, equivalent to 32mm in traditional 35mm format. This focal length provides the perfect balance between environmental context and subject isolation. According to the product specifications, this specific field of view mirrors that of the beloved Fujifilm QuickSnap disposable cameras, creating an immediately familiar perspective that feels natural for everyday photography.

The most innovative physical element is undoubtedly the Frame Advance Lever. This mechanical component serves genuine functions beyond nostalgic decoration. Users physically advance the digital frame, combining two vertical images into diptychs or merging short video clips with still photographs. The tactile resistance of the lever makes each frame advance a deliberate act, reinforcing intentionality in image-making.

Interface & User Experience

Fujifilm reimagined the camera interface from first principles rather than adapting existing designs. The 2.4-inch touch screen provides intuitive control without overwhelming complexity. Traditional button arrays have been replaced with gesture controls that feel natural to digital natives while maintaining connections to analog processes.

The interface allows users to adjust the dividing line between frames. According to the technical documentation, photographers can select narrow, regular, or bold styles reminiscent of Instax prints, and even change the color between black and white. Switching between color and monochrome modes happens through simple, intuitive controls that don’t interrupt the photographic process.

The true interface innovation appears when connecting to smartphones. The camera simulates a film development process when transferring images. Users select which “roll” to import, initiating a development sequence that builds anticipation. The digital contact sheet displays edge codes that reference specific film simulations, such as “RTR” for retro filter.

This thoughtful replication of analog workflows transforms routine file transfer into a meaningful experience that enhances the photographer’s connection to their images. The menu system abandons conventional hierarchical organization for a more intuitive approach. Instead of burying options within nested submenus, the interface presents contextually relevant controls based on shooting mode and camera orientation.

This adaptive interface reduces the cognitive load on photographers, allowing them to focus on image-making rather than menu navigation. The system learns from user behavior, prioritizing frequently used settings for faster access.

Visual feedback appears through subtle animations that reference analog processes. When adjusting exposure compensation, a virtual needle moves across a scale reminiscent of light meters from manual cameras. These visual metaphors create intuitive understanding without requiring technical knowledge, making the camera accessible to photographers at all experience levels.

Image Quality & Creative Features

The X half’s output demonstrates its design philosophy most clearly. Fujifilm incorporated 13 Film Simulation modes based on their 90-year color science heritage. Each simulation offers unique characteristics that influence how photographers approach different subjects and lighting conditions.

The system goes further by incorporating three new creative filters inspired by film photography: Light Leak, which creates a slightly exposed look; Halation, a halo effect that appears around light sources; and Expired Film, which mimics the grainy look of older analog film. These elements come from an internal database of authentic film artifacts, applied without preview to reintroduce the element of surprise that made film photography exciting.

This unpredictability represents a deliberate design choice that restores the anticipation often missing from digital photography. Optional date stamping mimics the iconic corner-markings found on 1990s film cameras, enhancing the nostalgic experience for users familiar with physical prints.

The camera’s grain behavior connects to its advanced image processing engine, replicating organic and irregular patterns characteristic of traditional film. The vertical orientation influences composition in profound ways. By default, photographers naturally frame subjects differently when working in portrait format. This constraint encourages fresh perspectives on familiar subjects, breaking habitual compositional patterns that develop with horizontal framing.

Color science receives special attention through custom calibration for vertical subjects. The color rendering has been optimized for skin tones, architecture, and vertical landscapes, with subtle adjustments to saturation and contrast that complement vertically framed subjects.

Environmental Considerations

Fujifilm designed the X half with environmental impact in mind. The camera’s simplified internal architecture reduces component count compared to similar-sized digital cameras, minimizing resource consumption during manufacturing while extending potential service life through mechanical simplicity. The fixed lens eliminates the environmental impact of multiple lens production and transportation, reducing materials usage and packaging waste associated with interchangeable lens systems.

Most significantly, the X half’s design philosophy encourages users to value fewer, more meaningful images. This approach reduces the environmental impact of data storage and transfer while fostering a more sustainable relationship with photography itself. By emphasizing quality over quantity, the camera encourages a more mindful approach to image creation and consumption.

My Thoughts for Now

At $849.99 USD, the X half targets photography enthusiasts seeking something beyond conventional cameras. Fujifilm clearly understands this camera serves a specific market segment rather than competing directly with multi-purpose devices. The price reflects both unique design and premium materials while offering value beyond technical specifications.

The camera’s pocketable size encourages daily carry, resulting in more frequent use than larger systems that often remain at home. This regular engagement creates more photographic opportunities, enhancing practical value. The fixed lens and simplified controls eliminate ongoing accessory costs while encouraging mastery of a single focal length.

The X half represents a significant departure from conventional camera design by challenging horizontal orientation as the default. Its most profound impact lies in embracing constraints as creative catalysts. Early testing revealed that while professional photographers initially expressed frustration, those willing to adapt discovered these limitations fostered creativity rather than restricting it.

“X half is special because it rekindles our love for the compact camera and blends it with the modern sensibilities that make it easy to make a part of our everyday lives,” explains Victor Ha, vice president of Electronic Imaging and Optical Devices Divisions at Fujifilm North America Corporation.

The camera arrives as design trends increasingly embrace digital interpretations of analog experiences. From skeuomorphic interfaces to vinyl record resurgence, consumers seek tangible, imperfect experiences within our digital world. What makes the X half truly innovative lies in its intentional subtractions from photography. By removing RAW capture options, limiting post-processing flexibility, and challenging horizontal orientation, Fujifilm creates something paradoxically nostalgic yet forward-looking.

The FUJIFILM X half compact digital camera will be available in late June 2025 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of $849.99 USD and $998.99 CAD.

The post Fujifilm Reimagines Photography with X half Premium Compact Digital Camera first appeared on Yanko Design.

Technology evolves at a relentless pace. What was considered cutting-edge yesterday is now standard, requiring manufacturers to consistently innovate beyond basic specification upgrades. ASUS understands this challenge intimately, as evidenced by their latest product announcements at Computex 2025.

Designer: ASUS

The Taiwanese tech giant has refreshed virtually every segment of their portfolio with thoughtful design improvements, ergonomic considerations, and performance enhancements that address real user needs. Their approach isn’t about chasing benchmarks but creating devices that solve problems for specific user groups.

I have spent considerable time analyzing ASUS’s latest offerings in the creator, gaming, business, and education segments. What is particularly notable are the impressive specifications and how each product’s design and feature set align with its intended purpose.

Let’s explore how ASUS has crafted these machines to serve different user needs while maintaining their distinctive design language and commitment to innovation. ASUS continues to demonstrate its understanding of diverse user requirements, from the ultrathin ProArt P16 for creative professionals to military-grade TUF Gaming laptops for hardcore gamers.
The breadth of this lineup reveals ASUS’s comprehensive strategy to address virtually every computing need. Rather than focusing solely on flagship models, they’ve created a cohesive ecosystem where design philosophy and technological innovation flow across price points and use cases.

This approach ensures that whether you’re a content creator, gamer, business professional, or student, ASUS offers something tailored to your specific requirements without compromising quality or performance.

ProArt P16: Where Creativity Meets Computational Power

ASUS has long understood that creative professionals demand more than raw power. They need machines that blend performance with precision, portability with capability. The new ProArt P16 (H7606) is a great example of this idea.

The first thing you notice about the ProArt P16 is its remarkably thin profile. At just 0.59 inches thick and weighing only 4.08 pounds, ASUS has created a 16-inch powerhouse that defies conventional expectations for creator-focused laptops. This achievement becomes even more impressive when you consider the computational muscle packed inside.

Powered by AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor, the ProArt P16 represents the cutting edge of mobile computing. This chip delivers exceptional CPU performance for intensive creative workloads and incorporates advanced AI capabilities with up to 50 TOPS NPU performance. The practical implication? Significantly accelerated workflows for tasks like photo editing, video rendering, and 3D modeling.

ASUS pairs this processor with NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 5070 GPU, complete with NVIDIA Studio drivers optimized specifically for creative applications rather than gaming. This combination ensures that the ProArt P16 maintains smooth, responsive performance whether you’re editing 4K video, creating complex 3D assets, or working with multiple creative applications simultaneously.

The display technology deserves special attention. ASUS has implemented its Lumina OLED panel, capable of reaching 500 nits of brightness while covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color space. This isn’t just marketing speak. The Pantone Validation and various certifications from VESA and TÜV ensure that what you see on screen accurately represents your creative vision. For professionals whose livelihood depends on color accuracy, this level of precision is invaluable.

Memory and storage configurations push beyond typical limitations. With up to 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM soldered directly to the motherboard and 2TB of PCIe 4.0 SSD storage, the ProArt P16 provides both the memory capacity for complex projects and the storage speed necessary for working with large media files.

The ProArt P16 is distinguished from other high-performance laptops by its creator-focused features. The ASUS DialPad, integrated into the touchpad, provides intuitive control over creative applications, enabling precise adjustments without disrupting your workflow. This digital version of the physical ASUS Dial, found in their desktop creator products, offers similar functionality in a portable format.

Audio quality, often overlooked in professional machines, receives proper attention with a six-speaker system that delivers clear, accurate sound reproduction. This is particularly valuable for content creators working with audio or video who need to make critical listening decisions without always reaching for headphones.

ASUS has also considered the practical aspects of connectivity. The comprehensive I/O selection includes USB 4 Type-C, USB 3.2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Type-A ports, an audio jack, SD Express 7.0 card reader, and HDMI 2.1 FRL. This eliminates the need for dongles or adapters that plague many ultraportable machines.

The ProArt P16 also comes with value-added software benefits, including three-month subscriptions to Adobe Creative apps and six months of CapCut. These inclusions help users immediately leverage the hardware capabilities without additional immediate investment.

Perhaps most interesting is ASUS’s approach to AI integration. Beyond the hardware NPU capabilities, they’ve implemented practical AI tools like Story Cube, a one-stop AI media hub, and Muse Tree for creative AI assistance. These features transform AI from a buzzword into practical tools that enhance rather than replace creative workflows.

For professionals who frequently work in different environments, the ProArt P16’s combination of performance and portability creates new possibilities. The ability to handle demanding creative tasks without being tethered to a desk represents genuine freedom for photographers, videographers, designers, and other creative professionals who need computational power wherever inspiration strikes.

Key takeaways:

• Performance-tuned for creators with AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, RTX 5070 GPU, and up to 64GB LPDDR5X RAM, making it capable of handling 4K video editing, 3D modeling, and large media workflows.
• Lumina OLED display hits 500 nits brightness with 100% DCI-P3 coverage, Pantone Validation, and TÜV certifications, ensuring true-to-life color accuracy for professional-grade creative work.
• Creator-first tools like ASUS DialPad, a six-speaker audio system, and expansive I/O (USB 4, HDMI 2.1, SD Express) enable a desktop-class creative experience in a portable form.

TUF Gaming Series: Durability Without Compromise

ASUS TUF Gaming laptops have always occupied an interesting position in the market. They deliver gaming performance without unnecessary flash, focusing instead on reliability and practical design choices. The 2025 lineup continues this tradition while incorporating meaningful upgrades across the board.

The TUF Gaming series maintains its military-grade durability testing, ensuring these machines can withstand the rigors of daily use and transport. This isn’t just marketing hyperbole. The reinforced chassis, protected corners, and spill-resistant keyboards provide tangible benefits for gamers who treat their equipment as tools rather than precious artifacts.

For 2025, ASUS offers three distinct TUF Gaming models: the A16 and A18, powered by AMD processors, and the F16 running on Intel silicon. This variety allows gamers to choose based on their platform preference while maintaining consistent design language and build quality.

The TUF Gaming A16 represents the sweet spot in the lineup. Powered by AMD’s Ryzen 9 270 processor with 24MB cache and boost speeds up to 4.0GHz, it delivers exceptional multi-threaded performance for both gaming and content creation tasks. NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 5070 laptop GPU provides the graphical muscle for high-framerate gaming, even in demanding titles.

The A16’s display options are particularly noteworthy. The 16-inch panel comes in either FHD+ (1920 x 1200) with a 165Hz refresh rate or a higher-resolution option, depending on configuration. Both maintain 100% sRGB coverage, ensuring accurate colors for gaming and content consumption. The 16:10 aspect ratio provides additional vertical space compared to traditional 16:9 displays, benefiting productivity tasks without compromising the gaming experience.

Connectivity is comprehensive with USB 4 Type-C, multiple USB-A ports, HDMI, and a dedicated RJ45 Ethernet port for those who prioritize wired connections for competitive gaming. The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E ensures fast wireless connectivity when mobility takes precedence.

The TUF Gaming A18 scales up everything that works about the A16. The larger 18-inch display (2560 x 1600, 240Hz) provides an expansive canvas for immersive gaming. Despite the larger screen, ASUS has maintained reasonable portability, making the A18 viable for gamers who occasionally need to transport their system.

What’s particularly impressive about the A18 is how ASUS has leveraged the larger chassis for improved thermal performance. The additional space allows for a more robust cooling solution, maintaining lower temperatures and higher sustained performance during extended gaming sessions. This practical approach to thermal design demonstrates ASUS’s understanding that gaming laptops must perform consistently, not just in short benchmark runs.

The TUF Gaming F16 rounds out the lineup with Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX processor, offering a different performance profile compared to its AMD siblings. The Intel variant excels in single-threaded performance, benefiting games and applications that don’t fully leverage multiple cores. The inclusion of Thunderbolt connectivity on the F16 provides additional expansion options not available on the AMD models.

Across all TUF Gaming models, ASUS has implemented its improved cooling system with multiple fans and heat pipes or vapor chambers, depending on the model. This focus on thermal management ensures that the impressive specifications translate to real-world performance without throttling or excessive noise.

The FHD IR cameras with Windows Hello support across the lineup show attention to detail. They provide convenient biometric authentication while improving video call quality. This dual-purpose approach to components reflects ASUS’s practical design philosophy.

The TUF Gaming series strikes an effective balance for gamers who also create content. The high-performance processors and GPUs handle rendering and encoding tasks admirably, while the color-accurate displays ensure your creative work looks as intended. This versatility makes these machines particularly valuable for streamers and content creators who game.

Key takeaways:

• Rugged and reliable with military-grade durability, reinforced chassis, and spill-resistant keyboards built for long-term daily use and travel.
• Powerful internals vary across models, with AMD or Intel CPUs, RTX 5070 GPUs, and display options up to 240Hz, 2560×1600 resolution, ideal for high-FPS gaming and content creation.
• Thermal performance and connectivity are prioritized through larger cooling systems, USB 4, RJ45 Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and optional Thunderbolt on Intel models.

ExpertBook and ExpertCenter: Business Solutions with Purpose

ASUS approaches its business lineup with four clear pillars: AI integration, security, reliability, and customization. The ExpertBook series embodies these principles while addressing different segments of the business market.

The ExpertBook B1 is the entry point to ASUS’s business offerings. Don’t let the “entry-level” designation fool you. This machine delivers robust performance and practical features that matter in business environments. Military-grade durability testing ensures these devices withstand the rigors of daily business use, from commuting to conference rooms.

What immediately stands out about the B1 is its serviceability. With just four screws securing the bottom panel, IT departments can easily access internal components for maintenance or upgrades. This design choice acknowledges the reality that business devices often need to remain in service longer than consumer products, with potential component upgrades extending their useful life.

The spill-resistant keyboard provides practical protection against the inevitable coffee accidents that occur in office environments. The 180-degree hinge allows for flexible use cases, including flat positioning for collaborative viewing. These thoughtful design elements demonstrate ASUS’s understanding of how business users interact with their devices.

Performance specifications are appropriately business-focused. The Intel Core i7-1355U processor balances performance and efficiency, while support for up to 16GB of memory and 512GB of PCIe 4.0 storage ensures smooth multitasking and quick access to business documents. The comprehensive port selection, including USB-A ports on both sides and multiple USB-C connections, accommodates various peripherals without requiring adapters.

The ExpertBook B5 elevates the business experience with a more premium design and enhanced capabilities. Targeting mobile professionals and middle managers, the B5 prioritizes portability and premium materials while maintaining the durability standards expected from business devices.

The B5’s lighter chassis and high-resolution display options make it ideal for professionals who frequently work away from their desks. The enhanced display quality benefits both productivity tasks and client presentations, ensuring your work looks its best regardless of the environment.

Both ExpertBook models incorporate ASUS’s AI ExpertMeet technology, an on-device AI-powered meeting assistant. This practical application of artificial intelligence helps streamline video calls with real-time features like noise cancellation, automatic framing, and meeting transcription. Rather than implementing AI for marketing purposes, ASUS has focused on solving actual pain points experienced during remote collaboration.

Security receives appropriate emphasis across the ExpertBook lineup. The discrete Trusted Platform Module (TPM), BIOS rollback protection, and quick recovery features provide defense-in-depth against various threats. The five-year guarantee of BIOS and driver updates ensures these security measures remain effective throughout the device’s lifecycle, a crucial consideration for business deployment.

The reliability engineering behind these devices deserves special mention. In addition to the standard 24 military-grade test procedures, ASUS conducts an additional 157 tests to ensure these machines perform consistently in real-world conditions. The reinforced stainless steel hinges, tested to endure 50% more open-close cycles than standard laptops, address one of the most common failure points in portable computers.

For organizations with specific requirements, ASUS offers hardware and software customization options. This flexibility allows businesses to tailor these devices to their particular needs, whether that involves custom BIOS settings, preloaded software, or specific hardware configurations.

The ExpertBook series demonstrates ASUS’s understanding that business users have different priorities than consumers or gamers. Performance matters, but reliability, security, and manageability often take precedence. By addressing these needs directly, ASUS has created machines that serve as productive tools rather than potential liabilities for business users.

Key takeaways:

• Business-ready durability with 24 military-grade tests and reinforced hinges rated for 50% more open-close cycles than average laptops.
• Practical AI tools like ExpertMeet enhance productivity through noise cancellation, auto-framing, and meeting transcriptions without offloading to cloud services.
• Serviceability and security are front and center, with easily upgradeable internals, TPM modules, BIOS rollback, and long-term driver support for corporate IT environments.

Chromebook CX14/CX15: Simplified Computing for Modern Needs

ASUS’s Chromebook lineup demonstrates its understanding that different users have vastly different computing requirements. The Chromebook CX14 and CX15 models address specific segments with thoughtfully designed hardware that complements Chrome OS’s streamlined approach.

The product segmentation is particularly clear with these devices. ASUS has created distinct configurations targeting business professionals, college students, K-12 students, cloud workers, and general daily users. This targeted approach ensures each variant provides the features most relevant to its intended audience without unnecessary complexity or cost.

For business professionals and college students, the Chromebook Plus variants deliver elevated performance and reliability. These machines enable seamless work with specifications that handle multitasking, video conferencing, and productivity applications with ease. The enhanced processing power and memory configurations ensure these devices remain responsive even with multiple browser tabs and applications running simultaneously.

The standard Chromebook models focus on enhanced productivity and portability with a cost-effective approach. These variants strike an effective balance between performance and affordability, making them ideal for K-12 education environments and cloud workers who primarily use web-based applications.

The design philosophy across the lineup emphasizes simplicity and ease of use. The clean aesthetics and durable construction ensure these devices withstand daily handling while maintaining a professional appearance. The 14-inch and 15-inch display options provide flexibility based on user preference for portability versus screen real estate.

What makes these Chromebooks particularly valuable is how they embrace the strengths of Chrome OS. The lightweight operating system boots quickly, updates automatically, and provides built-in security features that reduce maintenance overhead. For educational institutions and businesses managing multiple devices, these characteristics translate to tangible time and cost savings.
The versatility of these machines extends beyond traditional laptop use. The 180-degree hinge allows for flexible viewing angles and collaborative work, while the responsive touchpad and keyboard provide a comfortable user experience for extended productivity sessions.

Battery life is appropriately emphasised across the lineup, ensuring these devices remain usable throughout a full day of classes or meetings without requiring access to power outlets. This practical consideration demonstrates ASUS’s understanding of how these devices are actually used in educational and business contexts.

For users whose computing needs center around web browsing, document creation, video conferencing, and media consumption, these Chromebooks provide everything necessary without the complexity and cost of more powerful systems. This focused approach to computing represents genuine value for specific user segments rather than a compromise.

Key takeaways:

• Targeted segmentation aligns configurations with users: Chromebook Plus for professionals and students; standard Chromebooks for K–12 and cloud-focused roles.
• Chrome OS optimization means fast boot times, automated updates, and integrated security, making them low-maintenance and ideal for institutional deployment.
• Everyday usability is enhanced by responsive keyboards, 180-degree hinges, and battery life designed to last through full work or school days without charging.

Final Thoughts: Cohesive Design Philosophy

ASUS’s 2025 lineup demonstrates a clear understanding of diverse user needs through purpose-built machines. Their consistent design philosophy spans all categories, with thermal management excellence in both premium ProArt and gaming TUF series, and durability emphasis from business ExpertBooks to education Chromebooks.

AI implementation focuses on practical applications that solve real problems, from creative tools to meeting assistance. Comprehensive port selection across models acknowledges that dongles remain significant pain points for users.

Display technology matches each intended use case: color-accurate OLED for creators, high-refresh panels for gamers, and practical displays for business and education.

ASUS includes features based on purpose rather than artificial differentiation, aligning with contemporary design sensibilities that prioritize function over ornamentation. This user-centric approach delivers genuine value across all segments, creating effective tools rather than specification showcases.

The post ASUS Unveils Comprehensive 2025 Lineup: From Creator Powerhouses to Gaming Beasts first appeared on Yanko Design.

Unveiled at a Berlin launch event under the theme “Fashion Next,” the new lineup balances high-precision health tracking, expressive industrial design, and a more universal approach to platform compatibility. The headline announcement is the Huawei WATCH 5, now joined by a re-engineered FIT 4 Series, all built to run on both Android and iOS devices.

Designer: Huawei

TruSense and the Rise of Fingertip Biometrics

Central to the WATCH 5 is the introduction of Huawei’s TruSense System, anchored by the Multi-sensing X-TAP module. Rather than relying on wrist-bound photoplethysmography alone, X-TAP brings health interaction directly to the fingertip. It provides faster and more granular readings through a gesture-based input system. The device supports quick-tap gestures like Double Tap and Double Slide. This reduces the need for menu-diving or screen tapping during workouts or daily routines. These are not just shortcuts. They are structured interactions that keep the wearable experience fluid without compromising data access.

The hardware reflects a deliberate balance of elegance and performance. Sapphire glass curves over aerospace-grade titanium and 904L stainless steel, a pairing typically reserved for luxury watches. For the first time, the WATCH 5 ships in two sizes, 46mm and 42mm. This brings comfort to a broader user base without diluting the design language.

Rebuilding the FIT Platform

The FIT 4 Pro stands as a complete rework of Huawei’s entry-performance tier. At just 9.3mm thin, it trades visual weight for technical density. New water-resistance support extends tracking to diving depths of up to 40 meters. A reworked air pressure sensor now delivers elevation data tuned for trail running and mountain climbs. Offline map support and sport-specific modes such as golf, diving, and trail training turn this into a multi-condition training device.

Build materials signal a shift in direction. Aviation-grade aluminum and titanium alloy bezels bring FIT 4 Pro closer to the sophistication of the WATCH 5. Sapphire glass has also been added for enhanced durability, especially in high-contact outdoor use.

Interoperability and Expanded Harmony

Both the WATCH 5 and FIT 4 Series operate independently of a Huawei smartphone. iOS and Android support remains intact. Gesture controls and activity syncing are supported across Huawei’s broader ecosystem. The launch also included FreeBuds 6, which work seamlessly with the wearables. Open-fit audio now enters a higher fidelity tier thanks to new dual drivers and refined voice call algorithms. The MatePad Pro 12.2 was also introduced. Its value lies in its role as an accessory-level companion, especially with the tandem OLED PaperMatte display and Huawei Glide keyboard.

Battery longevity has been improved across the entire range. Huawei is targeting users who expect multiple days of uptime without sacrificing display brightness or connectivity. These are not devices designed to stay tethered to a charger.

Pricing and Availability

Pre-orders are now open. The Huawei WATCH 5 starts at £399.99. The FIT 4 and FIT 4 Pro are priced at £149.99 and £249.99 respectively. FreeBuds 6 will be available at £139.99. All product lines will be available from the Huawei Store, with retail launch scheduled for May 26.

Huawei’s wearables are no longer treated as a secondary category. With TruSense and X-TAP, the brand is defining a new path in user-driven health technology. Everything is wrapped in high-finish industrial craft. This is not a spec war. It is a recalibration of what daily smartwear should feel like when hardware and wellness are developed as part of the same conversation.

The post Huawei Redefines Its Wearable Future with WATCH 5 and FIT 4 Series first appeared on Yanko Design.

Wireless mics fail when they rely too much on perfect conditions. BOYAMIC 2 fixes that by making every part of the system self-contained. Each transmitter records on its own. Each receiver controls levels, backups, and signal without needing an app. Noise is filtered in real time. Recording keeps going even if the connection drops.

Designer: BOYAMIC

There’s no need for a separate recorder or post-edit rescue. The unit handles gain shifts, background interference, and voice clarity without user intervention. Everything shows on screen. Adjustments happen through physical controls. Files are saved directly to internal memory.

This system is built to capture clean audio without depending on external gear. It records immediately, adapts instantly, and stores everything without breaking the workflow.

Industrial Design and Physical Form

Each transmitter is small but solid. It’s 40 millimeters tall with a ridged surface that helps with grip and alignment. The finish reduces glare and makes handling easier. You can clip it or use the built-in magnet. Placement is quick, and it stays put.

The record button is recessed, so you won’t hit it by mistake. An LED shows when it’s active. The mic capsule stays exposed but protected, avoiding interference from hands or clothing. Nothing sticks out or gets in the way.

The receiver is built around a screen and a knob. The 1.1-inch display shows battery, signal, gain, and status. The knob adjusts volume and selects settings. It works fast, without touchscreen lag. You can see and feel every change.

Connections are spaced cleanly. One side has a USB-C port. The other has a 3.5 mm jack. A plug-in port supports USB-C or Lightning. The mount is fixed and locks into rigs without shifting.

The charging case holds two transmitters and one receiver. Each has its own slot with magnetic contacts. Drop them in, close the lid, and they stay in place. LEDs on the case show power levels. There are no loose parts, exposed pins, or extra steps.

Every shape and control supports fast setup and clear operation. You can press, turn, mount, and move without second-guessing. The design doesn’t try to be invisible; it stays readable, durable, and direct.

Signal Processing and Audio Control

BOYAMIC 2 uses onboard AI to separate voice from background noise. The system was trained on over 700,000 real-world sound samples. It filters traffic, crowds, wind, and mechanical hum in real time. Depending on the environment, you can toggle between strong and weak noise reduction. Both modes work directly from the transmitter or through the receiver.

The mic uses a 6mm condenser capsule with a 48 kHz sample rate and 24-bit depth. The signal-to-noise ratio reaches 90 dB. Two low-cut filter options, at 75 Hz and 150 Hz, handle low-end rumble. These are effective against HVAC, engine hum, or low vibration.

Gain is managed with automatic control. The system boosts quiet voices and pulls back when sound gets too loud. Built-in limiters stop clipping during spikes. A safety track records a second copy at -12 dB for backup. This makes it harder to lose a usable take even when volume jumps suddenly.

Each setting is adjustable on screen. You don’t need a mobile app to access basic controls. Everything runs live and updates immediately. There are no delays or sync problems during capture.

Recording and Storage

Each transmitter records internally without needing the receiver. Files are saved in 32-bit float or 24-bit WAV formats. Internal storage is 8 GB. That gives you about ten hours of float audio or fifteen hours of 24-bit. When full, the system loops and overwrites older files.

Recording continues even if the connection drops. Every session is split into timestamped chunks for fast transfer. You can plug the transmitter into any USB-C port and drag the files directly. No software is needed.

This setup protects against signal loss, battery drops, or app crashes. The mic stays live, and the recording stays intact.

Each transmitter runs for up to nine hours without noise cancellation or recording. With both features on, the runtime is closer to six hours. The receiver runs for about fifteen hours. The charging case holds enough power to recharge all three units twice.

The system uses 2.4 GHz digital transmission. Its range can reach up to 300 meters in open areas. With walls or obstacles, it drops to around 60 meters. Latency stays at 25 milliseconds, even at long distances. You get reliable sync and stable audio across open ground or indoor spaces.

Charging is handled through the included case or by direct USB-C. Each device takes under two hours to recharge fully.

Compatibility and Multi-Device Support

The system supports cameras, smartphones, and computers. USB-C and Lightning adapters are included. A 3.5 mm TRS cable connects the receiver to most cameras or mixers. While recording, you can charge your phone through the receiver, which is useful for long mobile shoots.

One transmitter can send audio to up to four receivers at once, which helps with multi-angle setups or backup channels. The receiver also supports stereo, mono, and safety track modes. Based on your workflow, you choose how audio is split or merged.

Settings can be changed from the receiver screen or through the BOYA app. The app adds firmware updates, custom EQ profiles, and gain presets for different camera brands. But the core controls don’t depend on it.

The post BOYAMIC 2 Rebuilds Mobile Audio with AI and Onboard Capture first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smartphone design has long flirted with minimalism, but Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Edge commits to it at a scale the industry has rarely seen. At 5.8 mm and 163 g, it becomes the thinnest Galaxy flagship to date, yet it resists every shortcut thin phones often embrace. This isn’t just a matter of slimming down for the spec sheet. The S25 Edge is the result of rethinking physical constraints as opportunities for structural clarity, system-level optimization, and a more intentional relationship between form and function.

Samsung didn’t simply make a thinner phone. They used that constraint as a filter, refining every component—internally and externally—around a single design mandate: eliminate waste, preserve performance, and preserve the character of the S Series without defaulting to bloat.

Designer: Samsung

Structure, fit, and materials

The outer frame is cut from titanium, selected for its rigidity under compression and lateral stress. Corners are tight but not sharp, with just enough radius to keep the body from feeling abrupt in hand. Both front and back panels are made from Gorilla Glass Ceramic 2, a new composite that hits a balance between hardness and thinness, helping maintain the slim profile without compromising scratch resistance.

Surfaces transition cleanly. The side key now sits slightly lower, aligned to the natural position of the thumb when the phone is held in one hand. There’s no flourish or detailing around the button. It just sits where it needs to be, framed by tight tolerances and flush lines.

Inside, the layout switches from vertical stacking to lateral tiling. Components are spread across the shell in a flat array, allowing thermal zones to separate and structural support to remain uninterrupted. Logic boards, battery cells, and shielding plates follow the contours of the titanium chassis, with no redundant space between them.

Performance, thermals, and power efficiency

Samsung didn’t scale back the silicon. The S25 Edge runs the same Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy found in its Ultra sibling. The difference is how it stays cool. A newly shaped vapor chamber spans beneath the logic layer, dispersing heat outward toward the sidewalls without thickening the device.

The thermal solution keeps clock speeds steady, even under sustained load. The titanium body assists heat dissipation without needing extra bulk or airflow cutouts. Speaker components are positioned away from the warm zones, preserving acoustic clarity while maintaining balance across the frame.

Camera compression and internal optics

Fitting a 200 MP main camera into a 5.8 mm body required more than downsizing. Samsung rebuilt the module architecture. Lens elements were reshaped and stacked with shorter clearances. Stabilization hardware was anchored using a ceramic suspension bracket to maintain precision without vertical depth.

The result is a flush-mounted module that captures sharp detail without overcorrecting for its size. A secondary 12 MP ultra-wide camera expands the field of view and handles macro distance via autofocus. Up front, a 12 MP sensor brings 10-bit Log video to the selfie camera, opening up grading options previously limited to rear-facing setups.

The ProVisual Engine tunes the output in real time, enhancing textures at the edge level while avoiding overprocessing. Nightography mode blends exposures in low light to preserve contrast and minimize artifacts in dark tones.

AI features inside One UI 7

One UI 7 integrates Samsung’s AI tools directly into standard tasks. Photo Assist lets users erase or replace elements in the gallery. Audio Eraser cleans up environmental noise in video. Writing Assist reworks sentences inside the message field itself, offering quieter guidance without moving users between apps.

All of it runs locally. Galaxy AI does not send data for external processing. Tasks are isolated inside Samsung Knox Vault, which enforces a physical separation from the main OS, ensuring that private interactions don’t leave the device.

The system quietly adjusts over time. It anticipates recurring actions, preloads commonly used tools, and adapts to user rhythm without needing prompts. The changes don’t announce themselves. They just streamline what’s already happening.

Gemini and context-aware interaction

Google’s Gemini now functions through the camera as a live input stream. It reads posters, labels, clothing, or scenes in real time, then offers actions based on what’s visible. You can point at an event flyer, ask for information, and have it saved to Calendar without switching apps.

Conversations occur naturally, and the interface only changes when necessary. Gemini provides content and responds to commands using context from the current situation and your previous choices. For example, if you ask what to wear, it will suggest outfits based on the weather and then integrate those suggestions with your travel plans all in one interaction.

It doesn’t feel like a separate assistant. It behaves like a layer that watches and helps without disrupting what you’re already doing.

Availability and final take

The Galaxy S25 Edge is available for preorder starting May 12, priced at $1,199, with units expected to ship by May 23. Customers who order through Samsung’s official channels will receive a storage upgrade from 256 GB to 512 GB, a $50 credit, and trade-in values of up to $630 depending on the device. The available color options, Titanium Silver, Jet Black, and Icy Blue, reflect the phone’s design philosophy: minimalist, intentional, and sleek.

This isn’t a phone chasing icon status through flash or identity design. It trims unnecessary space, keeps performance where it matters, and reshapes the internal logic of a flagship to fit inside a frame that most engineers would consider unworkable. Everything that stayed had to prove it belonged.

Galaxy S25 Edge doesn’t expand the category. It compacts it. And in doing so, it shows how flagship thinking changes when the space to get it wrong disappears.

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