There are untold energy sources all around us, if we can just figure out how to tap into them. Swiss researchers have now demonstrated an environmentally friendly way to make spongy wood flooring that can generate electricity with every step. The material works using what’s called the piezoelectric effect. Essentially, as the material is compressed under mechanical stress, positive and […]
Spongy Wood Nanogenerators
Two-Factor ID Requires Users To Make Faces
Although facial ID verification tech may seem pretty impressive, it can be thwarted. An experimental new system is claimed to be more foolproof, by requiring users to make specific facial movements. According to Utah’s Brigham Young University (BYU), existing facial ID technology – such as that utilized on some smartphones – can be circumvented by holding the phone up to […]
Keytool Multitool Slices
Startup Keytool is stepping into the world of everyday carry with the belief your keyset can do much more than open your front door, offering an eponymous multitool with an impressive suite of functions. The Keytool multitool is far from the first keychain multitool we’ve looked at, but does come in a neat and elegant package with a couple of […]
Tiny Audio Studio
You’ve used the time isolated from the world wisely. Your home improvements look great and your chef skills are bar none. Maybe you even picked up a vlogging side hustle. For the latter, you’ll need the latest audio tech and we’ve got you covered. With AudioWow, creators can take their creative masterpieces on the road. Using Bluetooth 5.0, this audio […]
Omnidirectional Camera
Omnidirectional video cameras are becoming increasingly popular, although they’re still mostly just used recreationally. An international scientific research team, however, has now utilized one of the devices to gain a better understanding of whale behaviour. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the things, omnidirectional cameras are essentially actioncams with two or more lenses, which allow them to capture […]
Walking Boxes Turn Into Custom Food Trucks
The future of food trucks is sustainable — at least according to Walkingboxes, a German startup creating custom food trucks out of shipping containers. The company, which is barely a year old, is the brainchild of award-winning designer Daniel Lorch. Walkingboxes uses 90% recyclable or biodegradable materials in its construction processes. According to the founder, the idea stemmed from his […]
Vegan Junk Food
More people than ever are switching to a vegan lifestyle these days. And whether this increase is caused by increased environmental awareness or because there are so many more options for those on a plant-based diet, it’s clear that veganism is on the rise. With that newfound popularity, comes the rise of differentiators within the vegan community. We’re speaking, of […]
Integrating Cameras & AI For Easier To Use Exoskeleton
Robotic exoskeletons are already making a huge difference to people who are otherwise unable to walk, but the things do still have some limitations. Researchers are now seeking to address those problems, using onboard cameras and AI. Although motorized exoskeletons automatically help move the wearer’s legs as they walk along level ground, most have to be manually switched over to […]
Anti-Counterfeit Labels
Most of today’s anti-counterfeiting labels have one thing in common: they’re visible, meaning that counterfeiters can attempt to replicate their appearance. An experimental new sticker, however, contains “invisible” imagery. Being developed by scientists at Russia’s ITMO University and St. Petersburg Academic University, the label takes the form of a thin, flexible silicon-based film. The surface of that film is filled […]
Hotel In A Box
London-based design firms Koto Design and Aylott + Van Tromp have joined forces to create a modular “hotel in a box” concept. Dubbed Hytte, the accommodation concept features a series of prefabricated cabins that are designed for the eco-conscious travel industry. Each turn-key cabin features a bespoke interior design and comes delivered fully furnished, transforming an outdoor space into a […]