Latest news with #retrodesign
CNA
3 days ago
- CNA
This travel charger combines retro charm with fast charging support
The travel charger is supposed to be a utilitarian device where function trumps form. It turns out, one company didn't get the memo. Sharge has become known for its chargers and power banks that combine aesthetics and functionality and this retro charger is no different. Is the Sharge Retro 67W GaN Charger worth it? Shaped like a classic Macintosh computer, its screen displays real-time charging speeds using a large, pixelated font. When the 67W GaN charger is plugged into a socket but not charging any devices, it displays a digital rain pattern that's reminiscent of the Matrix. The charger supports a maximum output of 67W and has three USB-C ports, each of which is capable of charging at 67W max. Plug in two devices and it charges at a maximum of 45W and 20W. Three-port charging supports 45W on 1 port and 15W on the other 2 ports. Sharge says the device includes safety protection and the Travel Set includes UK, EU and AU adapters. Cons? This doesn't include a USB-A port for legacy devices. Its prongs are located on the bottom, so the charging display may be hard to view if it's plugged into a wall socket Pros: Retro design, displays charging speed, 67W charging, UK, EU and AU adapters Shop here Gallium nitride (GaN) conducts electricity more efficiently and generates less heat than older silicon-based chargers, allowing them to charge devices faster. GaN chargers also require fewer components than silicon chargers, so they can be more compact while handling greater loads. If you're looking for more powerful GaN travel chargers or prefer plain-Jane devices, here are some other travel chargers to consider. Like the Sharge Retro 67W Charger, these can also be used in Singapore, making them versatile choices. This 65W multiport USB-C has two USB-C ports and one USB-A port for legacy devices. It includes interchangeable UK, EU and US plugs. Shop here A 65W charger with two USB-C ports, one USB-A port and one universal socket for devices that don't support USB power delivery. It includes sliding UK, EU, AU and US plugs. 8A surge protection Shop here This slimline 65W charger is designed to fit into tight spaces. Featuring one USB-C port and one USB-A port, it supports fast charging. It has US, EU and UK plugs. Shop here For travellers with more demanding charging requirements, this 140W charger features two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. It supports fast charging, has US, EU and UK plugs, although Type A for Australia and New Zealand is absent. IntelliSense technology detects and distributes the correct charging current to connected devices Over-heat, over-voltage, over-current and short-circuit protection Shop here WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A GaN TRAVEL CHARGER Gallium nitride (GaN) is a semiconductor that conducts electricity more efficiently and generates less heat than silicon-based chargers. This allows them to charge multiple devices faster and have more compact designs. Sockets: Check that your travel charger includes US, EU, AU and UK sockets so you're covered wherever you travel in the world. Power output: If you want to fast-charge your laptop, or charge your phone and laptop simultaneously, consider a charger that supports at least 65W charging. Size, weight and cost: The current GaN charger sweet spot lies with 65W and 100W devices. More powerful chargers will be bigger, heavier and in some case, much more expensive. If you travel with a lot of devices that need to be charged rapidly, this could still be a viable option for you. Safety: Look for built-in features like over-voltage, over-current and short-circuit protection that help protect your devices.
Digital Trends
6 days ago
- Digital Trends
Stunning Mac mini dock revives the Apple Macintosh with a tiny screen
Over a year ago, product designer Scott Yu-Jan created a Mac Studio iPad dock that was inspired by the classic Macintosh design, integrating the iPad mini and a Mac Studio in a sleek 3D-printed package. A few months later, he gave a portable computer treatment to the Mac mini by linking it with a full-sized keyboard and an oddly wide display. Yu-Jan, who is currently an interaction designer at Google, doesn't sell his ware commercially. However, if you've ever dreamed of giving a retro Macintosh look to your tiny Apple desktop, there's finally a product for you. The device in question is Wokyis M5, a Mac mini dock that features a 5-inch display and a heck ton of connections, including an M.2 SSD slot (up to 8TB capacity). The Kickstarter project, which has currently been oversubscribed by more than 16 times over its initial crowdfunding goal, will begin shipping next month. The hub offers a total of 13 ports, which include USB-C (10Gbps USB 3.2), USB-A (four units, 1Gbps), HDMI, SD/microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm headphone jack, as well. Recommended Videos The Wokyis website lists the official price of the hub at $199, but on Kickstarter, the 10Gbps version is put up for $169. The 80Gbps variant should cost you $339. Of course, if you pledge as an early bird supporter, the price will come down to as little as $109 for the base model and $199 for the higher-end trim. The biggest draw is the retro Apple Macintosh design format, and the 5-inch display on it. This is no toy screen. It's a fully functional panel that supports screen extending or mirroring for the Mac mini, just like any other external display connected to your Mac. I believe it would be perfect for controlling media playback or keeping an eye on chats. There's even a power button underneath the screen, adorned in the classic Apple logo color wave. Do keep in mind that it only supports the current-gen Mac mini with its shrunk chassis and an M4 series processor inside. However, it will work when connected with a MacBook, as well. You can check out more details about Wokyis M5 on its Kickstarter page and the brand's official website.
The Sun
29-05-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
Iconic car brand to REVIVE ‘minimalistic' hatchback loved in the '80s – but with a modern twist
MOTORISTS can now get their hands on an iconic '80s design - but with a modern twist. The car has been redesigned and modernised, while keeping all of the much-loved original features. 4 4 4 Bringing it into the future with a new electric model, Skoda has reimagined their popular Favorit hatchback. The updated version is based on the original 1987 version, retaining its retro feel without cliche features. Its electric model was design by Ljudmil Slavov and took around 120 hours of his own time. He said: "I wanted to update the original idea for today, when various SUVs are popular." Ljudmil added: "A higher body structure allows for better battery placement in the floor." With a retro design to base the new model on, Ljudmil wanted to "evolve and elevate" the "already minimalistic" features of the 1987 hatchback. He described this process as "very challenging." "I sketched many versions, searched for the ideal shape of the grille and headlights, tried different perspectives and consulted a lot with colleagues," Ljudmil said. Some of the features are clearly paying homage to the original design. Its interior mirror some of the car's original design features, although we're yet to see photos of the specific design. The seats' headrests are modelled on the open-centred items in the retro model, while brown leather upholstery is used to reference 1980s fashion. Some of the features Skoda drivers have come to recognise in their newer models are missing, with the 'Tech Deck' face being a notable exclusion. Its wheels are inspired by the placeholders used when the wheels aren't a prominent part of the design. The front and rear lights have been modernised with LED running lights and covers hiding the main-beam lamps. Motorists might be surprised by the rear-hinged doors - a departure from the original design. This isn't the first time that Ljudmil has designed a car inspired by the Favorit - in the early 1990s he designed a rally version that achieved success in the World Rally Championship's F2 class. The rally design differed from the new passenger version as it was both lower and wider, with unpainted plastic bumpers. Over the last few years, Skoda has released several cars that were inspired by historic models. In 2021, they released cars inspired by the 1203 van, Voiturette A, Felica Cabriolet, 130RS and Popular Monte Carlo. Ljudmil was also responsible for designing the re-imagined Popular Monte Carlo. 4
Daily Mail
12-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Daily Mail
Bunnings shoppers go wild over $49 item - but not everyone's impressed
A retro-inspired $49 table lamp from Bunnings is dividing the internet - with some shoppers hailing it as a must-have piece of home decor, while others say it looks suspiciously like a giant glazed doughnut or a caramel pudding. The Verve design Elton table and wall light, available in vibrant orange and muted green, has become the latest object of obsession among design-savvy bargain hunters. Its distinctive doughnut-shaped silhouette and coloured glass finish tap directly into the resurging 1970s design aesthetic that's dominating Australian interiors. But while fans say it's a stylish and affordable way to add instant character to any room, others aren't quite convinced. 'I thought it was a caramel dessert,' one shopper wrote. 'Literally looks like a Werther's Original,' said another. A third added, 'I can't believe it's not a giant glazed doughnut.' Despite the sweet comparisons, most agree that the lamp offers a delicious slice of retro charm at a price point too good to pass up. Made from tinted glass, what sets it apart is its versatility, as it functions as both a table lamp and a wall light, which is a huge selling point for renters or those looking to maximise space without committing to fixed fittings. Whether positioned on a bedside table, shelf, or mounted on a wall, the lamp casts a soft, ambient glow perfect for winding down at the end of the day. Interior design expert Lucy Sutherland previously told FEMAIL that such lamps are right on trend, thanks to a full-blown resurgence of 1970s style in Australian homes. 'We saw a big revival of 1970s style, bringing back the bold, quirky aesthetics of that era,' she explained. 'Claret red and mustard yellow were key colours, paired with high-gloss finishes that added a sense of retro glamour.' According to Sutherland, the new wave of '70s design is less kitsch and more curated. Think plush velvet couches, sculptural lighting, and rich, tactile materials like chrome, gloss lacquer, and coloured glass. 'Coloured glass also made a comeback - not just in vases and accessories but in side tables, coffee tables, and more,' she said. 'It's all about combining nostalgic elements with contemporary style.' The Verve design lamp does exactly that. In orange, it brings a sense of warmth and whimsy - perfect for pairing with soft textiles, wooden furniture, or terrazzo tiles. The green version, meanwhile, offers a more subtle, earthy feel, and works beautifully in boho, mid-century modern, or eclectic interiors. 'The orange is so cosy, but then the green is amazing,' one shopper wrote, unable to choose a favourite. 'I don't need any more lamps… but I want this! Off to Bunnings tomorrow,' added another. While it's certainly drawing praise for its aesthetic value, the lamp also speaks to a broader shift in how Australians are decorating their homes. The rising cost of living means many are turning to affordable retailers like Bunnings and Kmart for stylish, budget-friendly updates. With housing prices soaring and fewer people moving into new spaces, the focus has shifted to refreshing interiors rather than renovating them - and lighting plays a key role. One of the most defining elements of the current '70s revival, Sutherland noted, is its accessibility. 'Velvet was one of the first indicators of this shift - it emerged suddenly, with plush, groovy velvet couches popping up everywhere. For people who lived through the '70s, it might have been an era they never wanted to see again, but now, enough time has passed for it to feel fresh and exciting.' For younger buyers, it's a chance to engage with design history for the first time, and items like the Verve lamp offer an entry point into the aesthetic without breaking the bank. It's nostalgic but new, vintage but versatile. Of course, not everyone is sold. The unusual shape and glossy finish have sparked plenty of debate. One user said, 'Green one is just a slightly flat apple, love it,' while another called it 'very 1970s' - though it wasn't clear if that was praise or criticism. Regardless of how you see it - retro glam, modern minimalism with a twist, or novelty dessert - the lamp has managed to strike a chord. And in true Bunnings fashion, it's flying off the shelves. Whether you're a design aficionado chasing the latest trend, a renter looking for quick upgrades, or just someone who loves the idea of a lamp that looks good enough to eat, this $49 wonder might just be the sweetest home buy of the season.
Auto Express
09-05-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Express
Car Deal of the Day: Fiat 600e offers high-mileage EV drivers 12,000 miles a year for just £342 a month
Retro design 254-mile range; 12,000 miles a year for £342.03 a month Love the retro flair of the Fiat 500e but feel it's a bit too small on the inside? The 600e is its bigger brother, combining similar levels of panache with a welcome dose of practicality. But, despite its larger size, you can get one for a remarkably small price even if you're a high mileage driver. Advertisement - Article continues below If you scour the Auto Express Find a Car service, you'll find that Pink Car Leasing is offering the fashionable Fiat for £342.03 a month. Not the most eye-catching price, admittedly, but this deal isn't for the 5,000-mile limit we usually feature. You get a whopping 12,000 miles a year. That gives fantastic flexibility for higher mileage drivers who don't want to be stung for travelling further during their lease agreements. This is a 48-month deal which requires £4,104.31 to be put down as an initial payment – not the cheapest but remember this is a 12,000-miles-a-year deal. The package gets you a 600e in 'Red' trim – that's the name of it, although it does also come painted in a vibrant shade of red as standard. Also included is climate control, rear parking sensors, LED headlights, a digital instrument display and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Fiat also throws in a heat pump to improve efficiency during the winter. The 600e shares a lot of its components with the likes of the Peugeot E-2008 and Vauxhall Mokka Electric, so under the cutesy styling lies a 54kWh battery pack which gives a claimed 254 miles of range. A 154bhp electric motor gives keen performance, while supple suspension gives a cosseting and refined driving experience. The Car Deal of the Day selections we make are taken from our own Auto Express Find A Car deals service, which includes the best current offers from car dealers and leasing companies around the UK. Terms and conditions apply, while prices and offers are subject to change and limited availability. If this deal expires, you can find more top Fiat 600e leasing offers from leading providers on our Fiat 600e hub page. Check out the Fiat 600e deal or take a look at our previous Car Deal of the Day selection here… Find a car with the experts Car Deal of the Day: Volvo XC60 Black Edition is a mean-looking, posh SUV for under £450 a month Car Deal of the Day: Volvo XC60 Black Edition is a mean-looking, posh SUV for under £450 a month The XC60 is Volvo's best-selling car, and loved by Brits. It's our Deal of the Day for 6 May New BMW 1 Series and electric i1 to target younger drivers with bold design New BMW 1 Series and electric i1 to target younger drivers with bold design The BMW 1 Series is set for a shake-up, with a Neue Klasse front end and a choice of hybrid or battery electric powertrains when it arrives in showroo… EV affordability alarm! Running costs are £6k higher than for petrol cars, say car clubs EV affordability alarm! Running costs are £6k higher than for petrol cars, say car clubs Running costs for car share club EVs are £6k higher than ICE equivalents according to new data
