Tesla says ‘Full Self-Driving’ will be ready for Europe and China in early 2025

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Tesla has tweeted its roadmap for the remaining months of 2024 and early 2025, revealing that Full Self-Driving could be available in Europe and China in the first quarter of next year, if it gets the proper approval from each region's respective regulators. Company chief Elon Musk previously said that he expects to receive regulator clearance from the regions by the end of the year. The Wall Street Journal reported in April that authorities in China had already tentatively approved the launch of Tesla's Full Self-Driving software in their country. It's not quite clear where the company stands with European Union regulators at the moment. 

In a response to the original post, Musk added that he's hoping for FSD to be approved in Right-Hand Drive markets by the end of the first quarter or by early second quarter next year. Since he's presumably talking about RHD markets in Europe and China, then he's pertaining to the UK, Hong Kong and Macau. 

The automaker has also revealed that Full Self-Driving will be available for Cybertrucks sometime this month, along with the Autopark capability. In October, Tesla is adding unpark, park and reverse functions to FSD, as well. The FSD software isn't free, and buyers will have to pay to be able to unlock its semi-autonomous driver assistance capabilities. In the US, Tesla owners can buy the software outright for $8,000, though they can also pay a $99-per-month subscription fee for the supervised version of the feature. 

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/transportation/evs/tesla-says-full-self-driving-will-be-ready-for-europe-and-china-in-early-2025-033012374.html?src=rss

Best pencil sharpener for those who don’t want to waste their pencils or time

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While many wars have been fought over different kinds of pens and their designs, some people still prefer the simplicity and unique texture of a good, old-fashioned, wooden pencil. Unfortunately, even die-hard pencil fans will admit that their favorite writing tool can sometimes be a pain to maintain. Not only do they tend to go missing exactly when you need them, they might also be too dull by the time you do find them among the pile of other writing instruments. You waste a lot of time fumbling with tools while your muse slips away before you have a chance to write the idea down on paper. Having your tools always within reach helps cut down on time and friction, and this striking minimalist design solves that by combining two of the most essential pencil accessories in one.

Click Here to Buy Now: $55

The Problem: Sharpeners are Unattractive, Inefficient, Out of Reach

A pencil is one of the most basic and most timeless writing instruments known to man. It has its own distinct charm that’s exhibited both by its graphite marks as well as the design of its barrel. That said, the pencil has also inherited the one flaw of its ancestors: the need for regular sharpening. Mechanical pencils try to offer an alternative design but also sacrifice the unique personality of the wooden pencil in favor of precision and convenience.

Sharpening a pencil isn’t exactly too much work, but scrambling to find the sharpener costs too much time and tension when you need to jot something down quickly. And that’s not even considering the time you spend actually looking for your pencil in the first place, especially if your favorite is lost among half a dozen barrels. A pencil and a pencil sharpener sound like two things that should go together, but there has never been a design that puts two and two together, at least until now.

Why is this the Best Pencil Sharpener?

This Upright Pencil Sharpener solves that by putting the sharpener where the pencil is or vice versa. Shaped like a disc or puck, the singular hole in the middle serves as a stand for your beloved writing tool, ready for you to pull it out when you need it. And should the pencil’s tip finally become too dull, you know exactly where to find the sharpener. No more searching inside drawers for a small metal or plastic box, or standing up to walk toward a mounted electric sharpener.

Despite its rather simple appearance, this pencil sharpener and stand in one is a prime example of great design. The base that holds the shavings is made from anodized aluminum with a matte black finish, while the cover that keeps the shavings from flying around is made from warm-toned walnut wood. A strong magnet keeps these two pieces together, so you don’t have to worry about accidentally knocking off the cover and spilling its contents. And when you are ready to empty the container, the 6cm diameter of the base makes it easy to throw everything out.

Who is this Pencil Sharpener for?

Pencil sharpeners are technically very utilitarian products, but this one easily sets itself apart with its elegance and appeal to the discerning, design-conscious pencil lover. The striking brass mechanism inside provides additional visual contrast to the darkness of the aluminum base. The angle of the blade inside is designed for optimal sharpening to reduce waste and prolong the pencil’s life. Simple, beautiful, and multi-functional, this pencil sharpener stand helps save you time and effort while allowing you to put your favorite pencil on display for everyone to see and appreciate.

Click Here to Buy Now: $55

The post Best pencil sharpener for those who don’t want to waste their pencils or time first appeared on Yanko Design.

HMD Fusion revives the modular phone dream with Smart Outfits back covers

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Implementing a truly modular phone might be next to impossible at this point in time, but that doesn’t mean that the idea has no merits. It also doesn’t mean we can’t have some of the flexibility and customization that the concept promises, at least in some way that is practical and, more importantly, accessible to people today. That’s the vision behind the HMD Fusion, now formally a real thing rather than just a proof of concept, giving owners the choice of how they want to live their mobile phone life and, perhaps more significantly, the tools and opportunity to make their own “Smart Outfits” to customize their experience.

Designer: HMD

You might have heard of this style of smartphone modularity before, particularly if you’ve been following Nothing’s recent escapades. The CMF Phone 1 opened the doors to customized back covers, and it didn’t take long before creative people really took that offer and ran with it to a rather amusing degree. Now the HMD Fusion is daring to dream a bit bigger with an even more open ecosystem as well as a more affordable smartphone base.

The highlight of the HMD Fusion is the Smart Outfits, which you can place on its back as a rear cover. These can range from anything like a rugged protective cover to a wireless charging coil. Because of the special pogo pins on the back of the HMD Fusion, you can actually have more interactive functionality and no longer have to worry about needing a separate power source. The Flashy Outfit, for example, offers a ring light for taking selfies, whether with the 108MP rear camera or the 50MP front cam. You can also have something like a detachable game controller that won’t have the instability and latency of Bluetooth.

HMD, however, isn’t stopping there. It’s actually providing an open source software and hardware toolkit for more seasoned veterans to make their own Smart Outfits. It could potentially open the floodgates of creative designs, though do expect some to be over-the-top and impractical but also fun and novel. There is definitely unlimited potential, only hampered by the phone’s own hardware.

Inside, the HMD Fusion is pretty much an entry-level phone, with a Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 process, 6GB of RAM, and an HD+ resolution screen only. The aforementioned cameras squarely aim at the GenZ market, though, who could use the Smart Outfit system to literally dress up their phones. Fortunately, the HMD Fusion also carries a very GenZ-friendly price tag of £199/249€ (roughly $279), which means almost anyone can have access to this appetizer of a modular phone, presuming it becomes available in their region.

The post HMD Fusion revives the modular phone dream with Smart Outfits back covers first appeared on Yanko Design.

I Sat In The $6000 Robotic Massage Chair at IFA 2024: A Luxurious Hands-On with the Bodyfriend Quantum

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The beauty of my job lies in not just discovering the new and innovative, it’s also in discovering the bizarrely futuristic… and the Bodyfriend Quantum robotic massage chair firmly fits the latter. Spotted at IFA 2024, the chair feels less like your average massage lounger and more like a Gundam suit with a touch of luxury. Nestled in its sleek, premium leather, with built-in Bang & Olufsen speakers, the Quantum manages to blur the line between high-tech gadgetry and a luxury spa. I didn’t think a chair could make me feel this pampered, but after spending some time in it, I’m convinced—this isn’t just a massage chair; it’s a full-fledged bodygasm.

Sinking into the Quantum was like stepping into a different world, where every detail is designed to make you feel like royalty. But what really sets it apart isn’t just the leather or the fancy tech specs—it’s the attention to detail in how it delivers its massages, all while serenading you with crystal-clear audio from none other than Bang & Olufsen. Let’s just say, it’s not your average chair.

Revolutionary Design Meets Functional Innovation

At the core of the Bodyfriend Quantum is its Robo Walking Technology—a first in the industry—that gives each leg its own independent movement. And trust me, it’s not a gimmick. Sitting in the chair, you immediately notice how much more natural and personalized the massage feels, especially around the lower body. My desk-hunched spine and worn-out calves felt like they were getting precisely the kind of treatment they needed. It’s as if the chair knew what my body was asking for before I did.

This independent leg movement is more than just for show—it makes a real difference in how effectively the chair targets specific muscles. Whether you’re using it for muscle recovery or just as a fancy way to unwind after a long day, the Quantum feels like it’s been engineered with a deeper understanding of how to work the human body. After just a few minutes in it, my lower back and legs were thanking me.

Immersive Sound Through Bang & Olufsen Partnership

The partnership with Bang & Olufsen might raise a few eyebrows. Do you really need top-tier audio in a massage chair? After my experience, the answer is a pretty confident yes. The moment I leaned back and let the chair do its thing, the speakers came to life, filling the space around me with rich, immersive sound. Whether you’re into lo-fi beats, classical symphonies, or nature sounds, the high-quality audio adds a layer of relaxation that most massage chairs simply don’t offer.

It doesn’t feel like a bolted-on extra. The audio blends seamlessly with the massage itself, so whether you’re zoning out to music or catching up on your favorite podcast, the chair’s sonic experience pulls you deeper into that calm state. Benny Kang of Bodyfriend mentioned that the speakers can be used to play binaural beats too, stimulating the mind along with your body.

Precision Massage and Intuitive Control

Bodyfriend has packed a lot of tech into this chair, but it’s the execution that stands out. The XD-PRO thermal module and Finger Moving Massage Module work together to give an eerily human-like touch. It doesn’t just knead your muscles in broad strokes; instead, the chair moves in subtle, calculated increments—80 movements in 1.25mm steps to be exact. For someone who carries a lot of tension in their shoulders and lower back, it’s like having a physical therapist who knows exactly where to focus.

Then there are the finer touches—literally. With 81 air pockets wrapping your body and heat therapy zones that bring the warmth up to a balmy 50°C, the Quantum creates an environment that’s both soothing and deeply therapeutic. The heat applied to the back, calves, and soles not only relaxes muscles but also feels fantastic on sore feet, thanks to its three-step foot roller system. It’s an experience that goes beyond simple pampering.

A Touch of Luxury (and Functionality)

The 10-inch Full HD tablet mounted on the chair is intuitive and easy to navigate. There’s no fumbling with a million buttons—you can switch modes, adjust settings, or dive into the chair’s “High-End Healthcare Massage Mode” with just a tap. If you’re someone who likes control over your relaxation routine, this tablet makes it easy to fine-tune everything from intensity to heat levels without pulling you out of the experience.

It’s also worth noting that the Quantum is clearly built for longevity. The leather is buttery-soft yet durable, and the entire build feels solid and well-constructed—something you’d expect for the price tag this chair is likely to carry. But for anyone serious about integrating relaxation or recovery into their daily routine, it’s hard to imagine anything better.

A Luxurious Experience for the Wellness-Focused

The Bodyfriend Quantum is positioned for those who are serious about wellness and ready to invest in high-end healthcare technology. Its meticulous design, advanced massage features, and thoughtful additions like Bang & Olufsen speakers make it a standout product in the luxury massage chair market. While it caters to those with specific muscle stimulation needs—such as the elderly or individuals recovering from injury—it also serves as an indulgent piece of tech for anyone looking to upgrade their relaxation routine.

After my session with the Quantum, I can safely say it delivers on its promise of providing a unique massage experience. I hate to be the cliche, but I’m the millennial with lower back pain (I lugged a laptop bag around through IFA 2024), so even a 5-minute cycle with the Quantum felt like absolute bliss. Sure, it may come with a premium price, but for those looking to pamper themselves or take better care of their health, the Bodyfriend Quantum is like Chandler and Joey’s Barca-lounger on absolute steroids. You’ll probably spend hours in the chair without realizing it.

Now, if only it came with a built-in coffee machine.

The post I Sat In The $6000 Robotic Massage Chair at IFA 2024: A Luxurious Hands-On with the Bodyfriend Quantum first appeared on Yanko Design.

The US, UK, EU and other major nations have signed a landmark global AI treaty

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The United States, United Kingdom, European Union, and several other countries have signed an AI safety treaty laid out by the Council of Europe (COE), an international standards and human rights organization. This landmark treaty, known as the Framework Convention on artificial intelligence and human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, opened for signature in Vilnius, Lithuania. It is the first legally binding international agreement aimed at ensuring that AI systems align with democratic values.

The treaty focuses on three main areas: protecting human rights (including privacy and preventing discrimination), safeguarding democracy, and upholding the rule of law. It also provides a legal framework covering the entire lifecycle of AI systems, promoting innovation, and managing potential risks.

Besides the US, UK and the EU, the treaty’s other signatories include Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, Moldova, San Marino, and Israel. Notably absent are many major countries from Asia and the Middle East, and Russia, but any country will be eligible to join it in the future as long as they commit to comply with its provisions, according to a statement from the Council of Europe.

“We must ensure that the rise of AI upholds our standards, rather than undermining them,” said COE secretary general Marija Pejčinović Burić in the statement. “The Framework Convention is designed to ensure just that. It is a strong and balanced text - the result of the open and inclusive approach by which it was drafted and which ensured that it benefits from multiple and expert perspectives.

The treaty will enter into force three months after five signatories, including at least three Council of Europe member states, ratify it. The COE’s treaty joins other recent efforts to regulate AI including the UK's AI Safety Summit, the G7-led Hiroshima AI Process, and the UN's AI resolution.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/ai/the-us-uk-eu-and-other-major-nations-have-signed-a-landmark-global-ai-treaty-232119489.html?src=rss

Peacock Premium is only $5 for four months for a limited time

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NBC is offering a discount on its Peacock Premium streaming service. Until September 6, you can get four months of access to the ad-supported tier of the streaming platform for $5 per month. This deal nets you more than 30 percent off the list price for the plan during that time frame; the Peacock Premium access tier normally costs $8 a month.

To take advantage of the reduced price, customers can sign in to the Peacock platform and use the code TGIF. Once you've signed up, the plan can be canceled at any time. The TGIF offer can't be combined with any other deal, and it does not extend to current subscribers on the Peacock Premium and Premium Plus plans. As mentioned, the deal is only available for a limited window, through September 6.

Now is a good time for football fans to try out Peacock. The NFL season begins this weekend and Peacock will have exclusive access to the Packers v. Eagles game being played in Sao Paulo, Brazil on September 6. The network's exclusive stream of the AFC Wild Card game in January set records as the most streamed live event in history, reaching 27.6 million viewers.

On top of the seasonal sports content, Peacock is also home to several fan favorite TV sitcoms including The Office, Parks and Recreation, and New Girl. It also hosts original programming such as Poker Face.

Follow @EngadgetDeals on Twitter and subscribe to the Engadget Deals newsletter for the latest tech deals and buying advice.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/streaming/peacock-premium-is-only-5-for-four-months-for-a-limited-time-225157876.html?src=rss

Twelve South PlugBug Chargers Hands-On at IFA: The World’s Only Chargers with Apple’s Find My feature

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Remember when Apple debuted the Apple TV remote without a Find My feature and the internet collectively groaned because losing your TV remote is perhaps the single biggest cliche as far as remote controllers go? Well, here’s a similar situation – imagine losing the charger to your phone or laptop. I’m sure it’s happened to you multiple times (it literally happened to me today)… and while I don’t recommend waiting for Apple to build the Find My feature into their chargers, I really don’t need to because Twelve South beat them to it. The world’s first (and so far only) charging bricks with their own tracking chip, the Twelve South PlugBug chargers made their first appearance at IFA today. Designed to be compact, colorful, powerful, and trackable, these charging bricks are the perfect accessory for the absent-minded tech-user. Imagine misplacing your charger in a crowded cafe, at work, or under the bed at home; with Find My, you can locate it just like you would an AirTag. That’s what Twelve South brings to the table with the PlugBug 50 and the more robust PlugBug 120.

The PlugBug series comes in 2 models – the smaller 50W charger, and a larger 120W charger with replaceable heads for international travel. The smaller PlugBug 50 has a 50W output (as its name suggests) and offers dual USB-C ports, perfect for powering up your iPhone and iPad simultaneously. It’s designed to slide into your daily routine with ease, packing just enough power to handle multiple devices without taking up much space in your bag, or behind your couch.

The PlugBug 120, on the other hand, is a multi-port powerhouse with 120W of total output, enough to charge a MacBook Pro, an iPad, and two more devices—all at once. With four USB-C ports, it’s ideal for those juggling multiple gadgets, whether you’re working from a coffee shop or charging up in a hotel room. Twelve South deliberately ditched the USB-A ports for these plugs, keeping things modern and up-to-date. The standout feature, however, is the interchangeable plug heads for different regions. Whether you’re hopping between the US, UK, or Europe, the PlugBug 120 has you covered with its international plug options. It’s a simple yet effective solution for people who often find themselves digging through a bag of adapters just to get their gear charged abroad.

But what sets both chargers apart from your standard USB-C bricks is their integration with Apple’s Find My network. Misplaced your charger? No problem. You can track it via the Find My app, and yes, this even works when the charger is offline. Unlike most gadgets you lose in your daily hustle, the PlugBug can be tracked just like an AirTag. It’s a feature that’s becoming increasingly valuable as we juggle more devices in our connected lives. Due to electrical regulations, the Find My feature is powered by a tiny, replaceable battery instead of being directly connected to the plug itself (you’ll need to swap it out every year or so). This simultaneously ensures that Find My works even if the charger isn’t plugged in.

The design of both chargers doesn’t stray too far from what we’ve come to expect from Twelve South—clean, minimal, and functional. The foldable prongs on both models make them super portable, while the compact design ensures they fit into tight spots, whether at home or in cramped outlets on the road. They’re also a combination of white and bright red, so don’t worry about not spotting the charger from a mile away. If the charger does become difficult to find, the Find My is a pretty cool add-on.

As for pricing, the PlugBug 50 will run you $69.99, while the PlugBug 120 is priced at $119.99—not exactly impulse buys, but reasonable for what they offer, especially if you factor in the peace of mind that comes with never losing your charger again. Both models are expected to hit shelves by mid-September 2024.

Given how losing a charger can often feel like losing a limb, the PlugBug lineup offers a bit of relief—and a clever way to keep your tech life on track. Just remember to check Find My before you accuse the couch of eating your charger.

The post Twelve South PlugBug Chargers Hands-On at IFA: The World’s Only Chargers with Apple’s Find My feature first appeared on Yanko Design.

Did Sony just reveal the PS5 Pro design in its 30th Anniversary announcement?

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Today, Sony shared a first glimpse at what it has planned to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the PlayStation and it seems likely that a PS5 Pro will be a part of the party. Hidden in the marketing material is what may be an image of the rumored upgrade to the current-gen PS5 console. Zoom in between the "S" of the PlayStation logo and the "3" of 30th and you'll see a console similar to a PS5 that doesn't quite match the look of any past or present PlayStation product.

This is obviously not an official announcement or confirmation about the PS5 Pro, so we're really no closer to definitive news about the new hardware launch. But it's hard to ignore just how much the silhouette of that beefy console looks like the possible PS5 Pro rendering that was leaked in late August. The larger size and the three lines across the body seem pretty dang similar between the two images.

And if you want to go really far down the rabbit hole, the actual 30th anniversary of PlayStation is December 3. Sounds like the perfect day to start selling a powerful new console to me. That date would also align neatly with rumors circulating earlier this year that the PS5 Pro version would arrive in time for holiday shopping.

Besides the speculation around the PS5 Pro, Sony did formally share some news about how it plans to mark the big three-oh. Between October and January, the company is making some digital soundtracks from its games available for the first time on Spotify: God of War, God of War II, God of War: Ghost of Sparta, Twisted Metal, Starhawk and Unit 13. There will also be a special event aimed at getting first-time players introduced to the Gran Turismo franchise and a pretty darling collection of toys called Shapes of Play inspired by the colors and shapes of PlayStation consoles. And there's a little stage for a 30th anniversary photo op in the hub area of upcoming release Astro Bot, which looks just wonderful.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/playstation/did-sony-just-reveal-the-ps5-pro-design-in-its-30th-anniversary-announcement-212322835.html?src=rss

Sharge Forged Carbon Fiber Series Hands-On at IFA 2024: Power Banks with an Aerospace-grade Touch

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At IFA 2024, where the latest and greatest in tech innovation often compete for attention, Sharge made its mark by introducing the Forged Carbon Fiber Series. Known for creating high-performance portable power solutions, Sharge’s new lineup captured the spotlight not only for its charging capabilities but also for its striking design. This collection, featuring the CarbonMag 10K MagSafe Power Bank, and the CarbonMag 5K MagSafe Power Bank, merges utility with premium materials, offering a standout option for those who demand both function and form from their tech accessories.

Forged Carbon Fiber: A Distinctive Edge

The use of forged carbon fiber in Sharge’s latest series is a significant design decision. Forged carbon fiber is a material associated with luxury and high-performance industries, such as motorsports and aerospace. It is strong, lightweight, and gives the devices a unique, patterned aesthetic. Unlike traditional woven carbon fiber, forged carbon is formed through a random compression process, resulting in each power bank featuring its own distinct, marble-like texture.

This design choice isn’t purely cosmetic. The forged carbon fiber exterior provides durability and resistance to everyday wear and tear. Whether you’re commuting daily or traveling, the rugged construction ensures that the power bank can handle a few bumps along the way without compromising its sleek appearance.

CarbonMag 10K: Lightweight Powerhouse

The CarbonMag 10K is the heavy hitter of the series, boasting a 10,000mAh capacity wrapped in a carbon fiber shell that offers both durability and portability. Its use of carbon fiber not only enhances its structural integrity but also keeps the device extremely light—perfect for users constantly on the move. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry without adding significant weight to your bag, while the carbon fiber’s unique texture gives it a modern, premium feel.

On the connectivity front, the CarbonMag 10K supports fast charging through its USB-C ports, ensuring your devices can charge quickly, whether it’s a phone, tablet, or even some laptops. With up to 22.5W output via USB-A and 20W via USB-C, the 10K keeps you powered throughout the day. The CarbonMag 10K also incorporates Qi2 wireless charging, allowing compatible devices to juice up without needing a cable. This feature is a great addition for those with wireless charging-enabled devices, especially if you often forget cables or simply want a cleaner charging setup.

The power bank’s focus on durability extends to its internal battery tech. It uses high-efficiency battery cells that are designed for longevity, supporting multiple charge cycles without significant degradation. SHARGE also integrated intelligent charging protection, ensuring your devices don’t overheat or suffer from voltage irregularities during the charging process.

CarbonMag 5K: Ultra-portable Everyday Charger

For those prioritizing portability, SHARGE’s CarbonMag 5K hits the sweet spot. With its 5,000mAh capacity, this model is geared towards users who need a quick top-up without carrying a bulkier device. The ultra-slim design makes it incredibly easy to slip into a pocket or purse, a major advantage when you’re traveling light. Despite its smaller size, the 5K shares the same carbon fiber build as its bigger sibling, offering the same lightweight strength.

While the 5K’s charging capacity is lower than the 10K, it’s still capable of fast charging. It features the same 20W output via USB-C, making it a solid option for anyone looking to quickly charge their smartphone or other small devices. Although it doesn’t support wireless charging, it makes up for it with its extremely portable profile. The compact design paired with carbon fiber construction ensures that this power bank remains durable even with frequent use.

Shared Features: Strength and Style

Both models in the CarbonMag series share a focus on high performance wrapped in sleek carbon fiber exteriors. The material choice is key to the series’ identity—it’s not just about looking good; it’s about offering real-world durability. Carbon fiber, known for being lightweight yet incredibly strong, provides a distinct advantage over traditional plastic or metal builds. This also makes these power banks stand out among competitors, many of whom still use bulkier or heavier materials.

Additionally, SHARGE’s attention to user safety is reflected in both models’ built-in safety protocols, which protect against overcharging, overheating, and short circuits. This is particularly important for users who might charge multiple devices frequently or leave their power bank plugged in for extended periods.

A Smart Choice for All Users

The CarbonMag 10K and CarbonMag 5K are designed to meet different needs without sacrificing style or strength. The 10K is ideal for heavy users who need multiple device charges in one go, while the 5K is the perfect companion for day trips or short outings when you just need a quick boost.

SHARGE’s presence at IFA 2024 demonstrated the brand’s ambition to push the boundaries of portable power solutions. By combining the strength and lightness of carbon fiber with advanced charging tech, the CarbonMag series delivers a sleek and functional option for modern users. Whether you’re looking for a power bank that can handle a weekend’s worth of charging or something that fits in your pocket, SHARGE seems to have struck a balance between utility and style. Now, the only challenge left is choosing which one to carry—though at this rate, maybe you’ll want both.

The post Sharge Forged Carbon Fiber Series Hands-On at IFA 2024: Power Banks with an Aerospace-grade Touch first appeared on Yanko Design.

You can now officially create and use Baldur’s Gate 3 mods on PC

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Baldur’s Gate 3 modding has arrived for PC players. After a closed alpha in June and an open beta in July, the long-awaited Patch 7 — which may be the game’s last big update — is now available. It lets you play around with user-created weapons, armor, classes and subclasses, spells, dice skins and just about anything else you can imagine.

Mods are available through an official (mod.io-powered) in-game Mod Manager and external channels. “We will never prevent modding outside of our own official pipeline,” Larian Studios wrote. But the developer says its officially approved mods are targeted for stability and cross-platform compatibility. “It’ll also ensure a smoother experience, at the cost of more script-focused modding, which can still be done outside of our pipeline,” the studio wrote.

Larian said earlier this summer that Baldur’s Gate 3 mod support would arrive on PC first, with Mac and console support “shortly after.” But the developer clarified in an update today that console (PS5 and Xbox Series X/S) and macOS players can expect Patch 7 in October.

That presents some short-term compatibility issues. If you want your game save files to work across PC and console, you’ll need to hold off on installing Patch 7 on your PC. However, cross-platform save compatibility will return in October when the update lands on PlayStation, Xbox and Apple devices.

Screenshot of the Baldur’s Gate 3 in-game mod manager.
Larian Studios

Larian says Patch 7 in Baldur’s Gate 3’s console versions will include “an additional curation process” to determine which mods will be available across platforms. “While not all PC mods will become available for console, we’ll be sure to publish guidelines to help you understand what kind of content will pass our necessary checks — without blocking any unsupported creative mods on PC — so that we can continue supporting the modding community both inside and outside our official pipeline,” the studio wrote.

Mod support isn’t just a fun bonus for gamers; it’s also a way for Larian to keep the game alive as it pivots resources to new projects. CEO Swen Vincke said in June that opening the gates to modding would allow the developer “to say ‘ok, now it’s yours fully,’” according to Eurogamer. Of course, the studio will still push updates for critical bug fixes, but today’s arrival of Patch 7 is likely the first stage of calling it a wrap on one of 2023’s best games.

If you want to roll up your sleeves and dive into Baldur’s Gate 3 mods, Larian has created a series of handy tutorials for modding guidelines, getting started with mods, creating mods and browsing others’ creations.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/pc/you-can-now-officially-create-and-use-baldurs-gate-3-mods-on-pc-210006703.html?src=rss