Technology + Ethics Behind Turning Trees into Power Generators

In its earliest stages, and developed by graduate students from Keio University in Tokyo, the “biological microgrid” Raiki will aim to harvest electricity from trees by drawing from the “triboelectric” effect in foliage. This is a phenomenon of movement, much like static electricity, generated when positively charged leaves come into contact with negatively charged materials (like a tree trunk). Industrial designer Catalina Lotero explained this …

Apple’s “Hermitage” Film Showcases the Power of the iPhone 11 Pro Max

Shot in one take over the course of five hours, this artistic homage to museums also spotlights advancements in tech

Using the State Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia as a backdrop, director Axinya Gog made a one-take film lasting five hours, 19 minutes and 28 seconds using an Apple iPhone 11 Pro Max. Masterpieces hang still, dancers use dramatic choreography to provide a sense of direction and orchestral performances arranged by Russian neoclassical composer Kirill Richter unfold in real-time throughout the museum’s 45 halls. …

Headphones For High-Quality Listening Experiences

Five over-the-ear options for brilliant sound while on the move

With more and more listeners adopting over-ear headphones for a more critical listening experience that earbuds generally don’t provide, the industry keeps innovating and evolving their already countless options. For many, wireless headphones are still viewed with suspicion, as being plugged in means there are fewer instances that might compromise performance. But many headphones provide both options. Also relevant is whether closed or open-back iterations …