Xbox Series S toaster is now a real thing that can toast your bread

You probably know a gamer or two (or more) who live and breathe playing games on their console of choice, to the point that they tend to skip things like talking to other people and even eating. There are also probably gamers who see their game graphics everywhere, even on their food. Well, this can happen literally now, at least for Xbox fans as you can now imprint the logo on your bread.

Designer: Microsoft

The Xbox Series S toaster is now available to make all your Xbox toast dreams come true. It may seem like a joke item but it’s a real product that you can buy at Walmart and you can use as you toast your loaf bread, waffle, bagel, or whatever else piece of bread that you want to have the Xbox logo on before you actually eat and consume it. It doesn’t serve any other purpose except to put that logo on your bread and for Microsoft to have that image of having fun at their own expense.

This is actually born out of the memes that populated social media sites when the Xbox Series S first came out, comparing it with, you guessed it, a toaster. It has a digital countdown timer and you can even choose the shade setting for the xbox logo to be imprinted on your bread. The design of the toaster itself is similar to the Xbox Series S so you might have to be careful or you could start playing games in your kitchen or you might put a piece of bread into your actual Xbox.

This isn’t the first time they created an actual appliance based on people making fun of their console designs. The Xbox Series X mini fridge came out previously and we wouldn’t be surprised if they will eventually lean into this and create other kitchen appliances with the Xbox branding like a microwave, cutlery, plates, and even other products not related to the kitchen or eating. But for now, enjoy having the Xbox logo on your toast as you play games while eating.

5 Crazy Nintendo Patents that were almost turned into real products

Did you know Nintendo *almost* made a smartphone case with a built-in Game Boy? Well, now you do…

Nintendo has always been a pioneer in the gaming world, known for its innovation and creativity. Starting out selling gaming cards, the company practically led the charge on gaming innovation, starting with their entertainment systems, to the birth of the world’s first handheld gaming console (Apple TV has an entire movie on how Tetris made its way to the first Game Boy). That was just a milestone for the company, which went on to revolutionize gaming with Super Mario, Pokemon, Legend of Zelda, and an entire host of other games that hold legend-status in the gaming world. The Game Boy then transformed into the Nintendo DS, which led to the Wii, and finally the wildly successful Switch. But did you know that not all of Nintendo’s ideas have seen the light of day? Or rather, some of their less-than-brilliant ideas that remain languishing in a patent office.

The folks at NeoMam Studios partnered with Guide Strats to bring some of these patents to life and let’s say, we would have loved to be a fly on the wall at the Nintendo office when these products were being pitched. From a Joy Con-enabled horse saddle to a smartphone case with a Game Boy built into it, these concepts are bizarre, to say the least…

Designers: NeoMam Studios for Guide Strats

Nintendo Inventions That Stayed On Paper

1. Nintendo Playable Game Boy Smartphone Case

(Patent No: US20180275769A1)

Somewhere down the road execs at Nintendo saw the rise of smartphones and thought – what if we turned the iPhone into a GameBoy?! This slap-on case for your smartphone basically acts as a physical emulator, blocking most of the screen to allow you to only see a small portion of it, where the game would be displayed. Buttons on the front tap the screen when pressed, allowing you to effectively get the Game Boy experience on a modern-day smartphone. The pros? Peak nostalgia and tactile buttons. The cons? Pretty much everything else, including the clunky GB cover that would practically consume your smartphone’s entire aesthetic.

2. Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons with Hinges

(Patent No: JP2019146737A)

A little less weird conceptually, but equally absurd on a technical level, Nintendo patented ‘bendable’ Joy-Cons for their Switch device. The reason? Ergonomics in general, given that the Joy-Cons aren’t as ergonomically shaped as other controllers on the market like Sony’s DualSense controller or Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Controller. These unique controllers, however, have hinges in them that allow them to bend away from you, enabling a natural gripping position while still having the screen facing you clearly. Given that ‘drifting’ is already a problem within the Joy-Cons, having more moving parts that could compromise accuracy seemed like a bad idea, which is why the patent was left as it was.

3. Nintendo Wii Football Controller

(Patent No: EP2090346B1)

Given how the Wii’s controllers made them perfectly suited for workouts and sports like boxing, skiing, and table tennis, the good folks at Nintendo thought it would make sense to have a football (or rugby ball) accessory for the Wii remote, allowing people to pass, throw, dodge, and run in the game. The solution was an incredibly odd-looking accessory that felt like shoving a remote control into an existing football. “The game-playing public generally expects a football video game to provide a reasonably accurate model of at least some aspects of the actual game of football,” argued Nintendo’s patent. What Nintendo didn’t realize at the time, was that it wasn’t realistic to expect people to play football indoors without breaking bones, furniture, and possibly even your Nintendo Wii. Luckily, sanity prevailed and the Nintendo Wii Football Controller was scrapped.

4. Nintendo Portable System with Interchangeable Controls

(Patent No: US20140121023A1)

This one might be the least absurd because you can really see Nintendo’s thinking at the time. The “Nintendo Portable System with Interchangeable Controls” was filed as a patent 10 years ago, long before the Switch was released. The idea – a Nintendo 3DS-style handheld console with interchangeable controls that could slide in and out, allowing you to swap between joysticks, action buttons, and a D-pad based on the game you wanted to play. Eventually, this concept evolved into the Switch as we know it today, and these tiny removable modules were effectively adapted into removable joy-cons, which many will argue was a much better idea in hindsight!

5. Nintendo Wii Inflatable Horseback Riding Peripheral

(Patent No: US8277327B2)

Let it be known that the Wii years should go down into the annals of history as some of Nintendo’s weirdest years. As the company saw success with its motion-sensing console/controller system, the company decided the best way to build out the Wii ecosystem would be to create accessories. If the football accessory wasn’t enough, the Nintendudes decided to patent this ridiculous exercise-ball-inspired “Inflatable Horseback Riding Peripheral”. The idea, you’d sit on it with the Wii remote docked between your legs, rocking back and forth to control the horse’s movements. Thankfully for Nintendo and all the gaming fans out there, a particular Jim and Dwight scene from The Office helped Nintendo understand exactly how ridiculous this would look…

Image Credits: Guide Strats

This MagSafe compatible accessory with real clock helps curb digital addiction

Smartphone as a tool has evolved beyond comprehension but the double-edged sword characteristic of the mobile device has turned it into a nightmare for some. When not used in moderation, or excessive indulgence in time-consuming apps takes a toll on health and productivity, the smartphone becomes a self-destructive tool.

Even if you decide to go cold turkey and completely give up smartphone addiction, the demon haunts you, and the vicious circle strikes again. The best strategy is to have that sense of realization and not try to restrict anything, but rather realize how important your time is.

Designer: Hyunsub ‍Shin and Yeji Han

Thinking along the same lines, the two budding designers have mustered up this unique MagSafe-compatible accessory to get over digital addiction. Sticking to the back of the smartphone, there’s a real clock with a single-hour hand to keep one aware of the passing time. It also doubles as a holder for all your cards, quick cash, or any other important receipt. There’s space to insert a supplied paper card that gets the embossing of the clock hand for the time you’ve not used the phone. This can be used to jot down the tasks completed during that period for a sense of accomplishment and create a journal.

The premium-looking accessory also doubles as a stand if you want to consume multimedia content. Sure, it will add bulk to your phone but if you desperately want to take your digital detox seriously, it is a good way to do it.

This MagSafe compatible accessory with real clock helps curb digital addiction

Smartphone as a tool has evolved beyond comprehension but the double-edged sword characteristic of the mobile device has turned it into a nightmare for some. When not used in moderation, or excessive indulgence in time-consuming apps takes a toll on health and productivity, the smartphone becomes a self-destructive tool.

Even if you decide to go cold turkey and completely give up smartphone addiction, the demon haunts you, and the vicious circle strikes again. The best strategy is to have that sense of realization and not try to restrict anything, but rather realize how important your time is.

Designer: Hyunsub ‍Shin and Yeji Han

Thinking along the same lines, the two budding designers have mustered up this unique MagSafe-compatible accessory to get over digital addiction. Sticking to the back of the smartphone, there’s a real clock with a single-hour hand to keep one aware of the passing time. It also doubles as a holder for all your cards, quick cash, or any other important receipt. There’s space to insert a supplied paper card that gets the embossing of the clock hand for the time you’ve not used the phone. This can be used to jot down the tasks completed during that period for a sense of accomplishment and create a journal.

The premium-looking accessory also doubles as a stand if you want to consume multimedia content. Sure, it will add bulk to your phone but if you desperately want to take your digital detox seriously, it is a good way to do it.

The iPhone 15 Pro Hands-On: Lighter, Snazzier, And A Real Pinky-Saver

The latest iPhone 15 lineup for 2023 was recently introduced by Apple at their headquarters in Cupertino, California. I was surprised by this one as someone who has followed many iPhone launches. The lineup offers a variety of options, from the basic iPhone 15 at $799 to the high-end iPhone 15 Pro Max priced at $1199.

Today, I had the opportunity to get a closer look at these new iPhones. While most people might not notice the differences immediately, I was struck by one thing – the Pro and Pro Max versions were incredibly light! Cradling them in my hand left me momentarily speechless.

It’s worth noting that Apple has significantly changed its Pro series this year. The steel material has been replaced with a stunning titanium body, completely transforming the device’s feel. While this change may not be immediately obvious from a distance or in photos, holding the iPhone 15 Pro or Pro Max is a completely different experience. It’s as if your trusted daily companion has undergone a rigorous workout and emerged stronger and more impressive than ever before. This revamp is truly awe-inspiring and may make you consider upgrading from your previous year’s Pro model.

We’re considering a 9% weight drop on the 6.1-inch iPhone 15 Pro from last year’s model. Its larger variant, the 6.7-inch iPhone 15 Pro Max, has also shed some weight, standing 8% lighter. Now, these percentages might seem minor in writing, but in the realm of day-to-day handling, it’s a game-changer. I mean, just consider the countless hours we spend with our phones in hand. From binging videos to texting or, let’s be honest, those endless scrolling sessions. Every gram saved is a win, especially for that ever-struggling pinky finger propping up the phone’s base.

Granted, $999 might be a tad heavy on the wallet, especially for the Pro version with a basic 128GB. But considering the comfort and the premium feel, it’s an upgrade I’m seriously contemplating. And for those of us who’ve had our pinkies working overtime these past years, this is the break they’ve been waiting for.

In essence, if you’re in the market for an upgrade, or even if you’re just a curious tech enthusiast, the iPhone 15 Pro lineup deserves a look – if not for anything else, then to give your pockets and pinky a lighter day. I’m contemplating handing my 1TB iPhone 14 Pro Max to my 13-year-old daughter. I’ve got my sights set on the iPhone 15 Pro Max. But choosing the color? Well, I’ve got until Friday to make up my mind.

Delving into the iPhone 15 Pro’s ‘Action Button’: A Multifunctional Marvel

In an era of minimalist design, where every element aims to provide multifunctionality, Apple’s iPhone 15 Pro emerges as a frontrunner, seamlessly aligning with the device’s aesthetic and delving deep into practical utility.

During my hands-on interaction, the Action Button immediately commanded attention. It’s evident Apple meticulously designed it to eliminate inadvertent triggers; a brief press enlightens you with an on-screen cue, suggesting a more intentional press-and-hold mechanism. This thoughtful addition undoubtedly enhances user experience, ensuring tasks are executed deliberately.

Venture into the settings and a vast realm of customization is unveiled. But of all the utilities the Action Button can be mapped to, the camera stands out as my personal favorite, and it’s likely to be the most frequently used by many. In an age of fleeting moments and instant captures, the ability to immediately access the camera could be game-changing.

But the versatility of the Action Button doesn’t halt there. Whether you’re looking to instantly shift the ambiance using the ‘Focus’ mode, illuminate your surroundings with the ‘flashlight,’ or swiftly capture a voice note with ‘voice memo,’ this button can do it all. The’ translate’ function promises to be invaluable for users who often find themselves in diverse linguistic landscapes. The ‘magnifier’ feature is also a boon for those seeking visual clarity, making minute details discernible.

The Action Button on the iPhone 15 Pro is an impressive feature that is made even better by its integration with ‘Shortcuts.’ This feature allows for endless possibilities, even if third-party apps don’t have direct access to the Action Button. With ‘Shortcuts,’ users can create a personalized experience by accessing specific apps or features within them.

The Action Button is more than just a physical button; it represents Apple’s commitment to merging design and functionality. No matter what your preferred ‘action’ may be, whether it’s taking photos or using voice memos or translation features, the Action Button has something for everyone. This is a testament to Apple’s design philosophy and the universality of the button.

iPhone 15 Pro Series: A Photographic Evolution

The cameras on the iPhone have always been a standout feature, attracting those who appreciate attention to detail. During my brief experience with the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max, it was clear that the image quality was nothing short of amazing. However, a more thorough analysis of these camera systems will be saved for a comprehensive review.

A Symphony of Lenses

At first glance, the iPhone 15 Pro promises a renewed main camera experience. Yet, it’s the iPhone 15 Pro Max, with its all-new 5x telephoto camera, that truly shines—especially for those moments when distance challenges the story you’re trying to capture. Whether it’s a majestic eagle in mid-flight, the grandeur of distant peaks, or just children lost in their playful world, the Pro Max delivers.

During the launch event, Greg “Joz” Joswiak, Apple’s dynamic marketing leader, highlighted the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max’s remarkable feature, which is like having access to seven different camera lenses. It’s fascinating to see how smartphones today can imitate traditional cameras’ zoom lenses with their various lens combinations. All of this technology is packed into a compact, handheld device. However, this level of luxury is typically only found in the highest-end smartphones.

The Lure of the Details

Both versions of the Pro model have a reliable camera setup. The main camera is a 48-megapixel wide-angle lens, and there is also a 12-megapixel ultrawide option. However, there are some differences. The main camera can adjust its focal length from 24mm to 35mm, making it flexible and versatile for photographers. On the other hand, the ultrawide lens has a focal length of 13mm and can smoothly shift into a macro mode, perfect for capturing close-up shots.

The difference between the two Pro models is most noticeable in their telephoto capabilities. The iPhone 15 Pro has a 3x telephoto lens, similar to its predecessor, while the Pro Max has a 5x lens supported by advanced image stabilization technology.

Crafting the Vision

Apple stays ahead of the game with its continuous advancements despite the competition from Android giants. The main camera, boasting 48 megapixels, is the core of the photography experience on both models. With a larger sensor and Apple’s computational expertise, the visuals are guaranteed to be breathtaking, and you have the freedom to customize your perspective when using the camera.

Even in low-light conditions or as the sun sets, the new lens offers clarity thanks to its wide f1.8 aperture. Additionally, the second-generation image stabilization ensures that the iPhone’s reputation for superior camera technology will persist.

As the iPhone 15 Pro series photographic narrative unfolds, we’ll watch every frame and every story. Keep those lenses focused and the stories flowing until the full review.

iPhone 15 Series: A USB-C switch with a Twist

The iPhone 15 and 15 Pro mark Apple’s entry into the world of USB-C, which is a long-awaited move. At first glance, it seems like a significant step forward, but there are complexities to this innovation, as is common with many advancements.

The iPhone 15 Pro promises potential data transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps. Such speeds evoke images of near-instantaneous file transfers and seamless streaming. However, in a move that might perplex some, Apple’s choice to pack in a USB 2.0 cable, despite its type-C port, means users won’t tap into those blazing speeds right out of the gate.

During their keynote, Apple clarified that to harness the potential of these “USB 3 speeds truly”, an “optional USB 3” cable would be required. This addition promises not just brisker data transfer but also extends to sublime video output capabilities – imagine 4K at a mesmerizing 60 fps HDR.

Presently, Apple offers a solution for those seeking these enhanced speeds: a Thunderbolt 4 cable, available separately at $69. This might feel like an additional investment for the savvy consumer to unlock the iPhone’s capabilities fully.

Apple’s commitment to USB-C is evident in their expanded accessory lineup. From high-wattage charging cables to a handy USB-C to a lightning dongle, the ecosystem is evolving. However, the underlying message is clear: to experience the zenith of what the iPhone 15 series USB-C offers, an additional investment seems inevitable.

Apple’s adoption of USB-C technology is a significant advancement that brings the iPhone closer to universal compatibility and faster speeds. However, it’s crucial for users to fully understand its intricacies so they can make informed decisions and fully utilize the capabilities of their devices. As with any innovation, there is a mix of excitement and reflection.

This resurrected ‘iPod’ from Nothing isn’t real… but I honestly wish it was

You may think that a Nothing ‘Npod’ music player sounds like an absurd idea, but I’m here to say that it makes absolute sense…

There are some undeniable similarities between the Apple of Steve Jobs, and the Nothing of Carl Pei. Both founders started other successful businesses (Jobs also founded Pixar and Pei founded OnePlus) before finding their true calling in tech. In his 2022 presentation, Carl Pei mentioned that tech had stopped being fun, rather subtly casting aspersions at Apple that used to make exciting products once upon a time when Steve Jobs was in his ‘pirates of Silicon Valley’ era. Apple’s breakout product may have been the Mac, but it truly became a cultural phenomenon with a music product – the iPod. Similarly, Nothing made its global debut with a music product too – the Nothing Ear (1). One could argue that the Nothing Phone (1) almost perfectly matches the iPhone 12’s size and shape, so it’s safe to say there’s quite the overlap… and this fan-made Nothing Npod (1) takes things a step further.

Designer: Shreyansh Onial

Designed by Shreyansh Onial, the Nothing Npod (1) simultaneously pays homage to Apple’s iconic iPod Shuffle and Nothing’s transparent design aesthetic and glyph interface. In ways, it’s also a reflection of how Nothing is capable of revolutionizing the music industry through the power of technology and nostalgia.

The Npod (1) is a pretty literal fan-made reinterpretation of the iPod Shuffle, with the signature circular control panel on the front and a matching circular glyph interface on the back. A wireless charging coil on the back also hints at the iPod… er, Npod (1) charging wirelessly, although there’s definitely a USB-C charger on the bottom, judging by the ‘!’ glyph on the back which can also be found on the Phone (1) and Phone (2).

The presence of a glyph interface on the Npod (1) seems like an odd choice, but it isn’t inconceivable that the interface responds and reacts to the music being played. One arc in the circle could act as a volume indicator while the other could serve as a seek bar, showing the progress of the audio file (the Phone (2) had such a feature too).

The Npod (1) is designed to be a tad bit smaller than the Ear (2) case, reflecting the iPod Shuffle’s comparative size too. The Npod and TWS earbuds go together rather well if you ask me, although the music player is clearly missing a pocket clip that would allow you to attach it to your clothes for easy control and usage.

For now, however, the Npod (1) is just a fan-made concept (I imagine Apple’s legal team would sue Nothing into oblivion if they made something this, well, similar). Ultimately though, it’s a fun design exercise that also serves as a pretty strong reminder of the overlap between the current ethos of Nothing under Carl Pei, and of Apple in the turn of the millennium under Steve Jobs.

LG’s New Display Concept Blurs the Lines Between Reel and Real Even More for Gen – Z

In the ever-evolving landscape of technological innovation, one cannot underestimate the power of collaboration between academia and industry. A prime example of this synergy is the groundbreaking concept design project “Forme,” born from a collaboration between Korea Design Membership and LG Electronics in 2022. This visionary project aims to capture the essence of Gen Z’s content consumption habits while redefining the relationship between users and their displays.

Designer: KOREA DESIGN MEMBERSHIP PLUS (Jinwoo Jang, Jae In Lee, Jiung Yun and Jeonghyeon Lee)

People like us, Generation Z, often referred to as digital natives, are reshaping the way people interact with technology. For us, devices are not just tools; they are companions, woven intricately into our daily lives. It’s mostly because we have been born into the age of playing on iPads. (Well, I am a little older than that, so I relate to both sides on a decent level.) “Forme” recognizes this symbiotic relationship and envisions a display that becomes a true ‘Best Friend’ to the Gen Z clan.

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From waking up to winding down, Forme seamlessly integrates into the user’s daily routine. This concept acknowledges the strong connection Gen Z has with their devices – sleeping and waking up together, mirroring life patterns, and acting as a canvas for personal expression.

Gen Z yearns for a display that resonates with their emotions, habits, and aspirations. The Forme Display steps into this role as a true confidante – a ‘Best Friend’ who is there through thick and thin. This friendship is underscored by the display’s unique ability to sleep and wake with its user, mirroring the shared moments of rest and rejuvenation. In a society where the boundaries between technology and life are increasingly blurred, this concept breathes life into the display, making it an extension of the self.

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The Forme Display ingeniously incorporates an age-old element – window blinds. By drawing inspiration from the familiarity of blinds, the design encapsulates the essence of privacy, control, and versatility. The display itself is reminiscent of a protective roof, a shelter under which Gen Z can express themselves freely. This intuitive design metaphor allows users to easily lift the display, revealing a canvas that showcases not only digital content but also personal mementos, smartphones, and everyday essentials.

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The rise of vertical content, synonymous with the snack culture of Gen Z owing to platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat, is seamlessly accommodated by Forme Display’s innovative structure. Breaking away from the constraints of traditional horizontal displays, this concept embraces the future by harmoniously integrating both formats. The layered structure not only caters to this duality but also provides a visual representation of the blinds’ intricate mechanism.

The Forme Display embodies a delicate balance between aesthetics and functionality. The carefully chosen ‘Rare Low’ material wraps around the body, imparting a sense of intimacy and warmth. This ‘roof’ serves a dual purpose – not only is it visually striking, but it also offers a practical grip to easily lift the display. Meanwhile, the bottom speaker not only enhances audio quality but also contributes to the product’s overall stability. This amalgamation of elements transforms the Forme Display into a piece of art that seamlessly fits into the user’s environment.

In an era characterized by multifunctionality, “Forme” rises to the challenge. It includes provisions to accommodate a smartphone or essential office supplies, showcasing its adaptability to a variety of tasks. Innovation often hinges on achieving balance, and “Forme” achieves this equilibrium in terms of weight and portability. The design takes into consideration the modern Gen Z lifestyle, where mobility is paramount. By incorporating the concept of a ‘roof’ as the main structure, the product maintains a lightweight yet robust disposition, making it an ideal companion for the on-the-go generation.

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The Forme Display Concept stands as a beacon of innovation, a harmonious marriage of tradition and cutting-edge technology. It is not merely a display; it is a friend, a confidante, a custodian of memories, and a canvas for expression. As Gen Z navigates the ever-evolving landscape of digital interactions, the Forme Display serves as a constant companion, adapting, evolving, and encapsulating the spirit of a generation. In this era of rapid change, the Forme Display Concept invites us to embrace the future while cherishing the elements that make us who we are.