AI-powered smart tea set creates narratives from stories shared by friends

AI can almost be found everywhere these days, but most people will probably be familiar with generative AI like ChatGPT. These are mostly encountered in computers and phones because that’s where they make the most sense, but their applications can definitely go beyond that limited scope. These conversational AI can, for example, be embedded anywhere that has a computer, a microphone, and a speaker, which can literally be any object you can imagine.

Yes, it might result in an odd combination that challenges your notions of what AI chatbots can do for you. This smart tea set concept, for example, is a rather intriguing example of this idea, weaving technology, tea-drinking rituals, and social bonds in an unexpected way.

Designers: Kevin Tang, Kelly Fang

ChatGPT and others like it have started to approach the so-called “uncanny valley” in a totally non-visual way. The responses they give sound or read so naturally that it really takes an expert to distinguish it from human output. Talking to these chatbots almost feels like talking to someone, perhaps a friend who is willing to hear how your day went.

That’s the kind of experience that gpTea, a play on the brewed drink and this type of generative AI, wants to bring in a rather novel way. As a smart tea set, it not only brews tea but even tips the kettle forward to automatically pour the drink into a specially designed cup. Impressive as that may seem, that’s not even its most notable feat.

1

gpTea’s key feature is actually in interactive storytelling that weaves the responses of friends and family separated by distance and connected only through the Internet using this smart tea set. It asks you how your day went and, depending on your response, it might share a similar story given by another friend or loved one in the past. The more people use it, the bigger and longer the narrative grows. It’s almost like developing an oral tradition or history, except one that’s stored in the memory of an AI.

1

Another interesting feature of gpTea is the glass cup itself, which has a circular display at the bottom. The AI also generates images related to the story it’s telling, making it feel like you’re using magic to see the scene inside the cup. Admittedly, it’s a rather convoluted and complex way of sharing stories with friends when you can just talk to each other, but it’s still an interesting application of AI that actually tries to build connections between humans who are physically far apart.

The post AI-powered smart tea set creates narratives from stories shared by friends first appeared on Yanko Design.

Top 10 Essential Tea & Matcha Brewing Tools For A Superior Tea Experience

What’s the first thing you need when you wake up? Is it a cup of tea?! Me too! I need a boost of energy, a dose of motivation, and a rush of serotonin every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. We all need our cup of tea. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know results from your hard work, something precariously prepared with your personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive tea brewer is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and operating the machine)! This collection of kitchen tools and appliances is designed to make your tea-making and drinking experience effortless and fun!

1. Smart Tea Pot

Say hello to the Smart Tea Pot, an essential for all tea lovers. It is a unique connected teapot, which lets you brew your own tea using technology. You can prepare a delicious brew based on the tea you like to drink, creating a specialized brew of your own choice.

Click Here to Buy Now: $349

Why is it noteworthy?

The Smart Tea Pot features advanced brewing adjustment you can customize, to prepare the kind of tea you want. It has a “Golden Drop” rotating infuser which is the perfect example of Japanese minimalism.

What we like

  • Features a compact size, and minimal design language
  • It is the perfect specimen of Japanese minimalism and design philosophy

What we dislike

  • The teapot uses tech for brewing, which may take time for users to adjust to

2. Hug Cup

Dubbed the Hug Cup, this adorable cup embodies the designer’s belief that, “we give special attention to things we use in our everyday life. We like to have a personal relation to the objects we touch closely, such as a cup.” The cup has a unique take on the mug’s traditional side handle.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Hug Cup lets users securely hold it while allowing them to feel the warmth of the liquid contents within. Imre says “The whole cup creates an intimate tunnel through the cup itself for your finger, you may enjoy the heat of your beverage without burning your palm.”

What we like

  • Gives the typical mug a wholesome makeover

What we dislike

  • The new form of the handle could take a while to adjust to

3. ChaiBot

The ChaiBot is designed to be the Nespresso of tea. It automates the entire process of making tea. It merges the expertise of tech with the old and wholesome art of tea brewing. It is a tabletop device that can work well with every type of tea there is, ranging from liquor tea to milk-based chai, or some soothing matcha.

Why is it noteworthy?

You simply need to add tea to the ChaiBot and tell it to start brewing. The ChaiBot chooses the right temperature and begins to expertly prepare your tea, based on the kind of tea you’ve got. The brewed tea is then poured into a kettle, which keeps it warm for hours.

What we like

  • Compatible with all kinds of teas
  • Gives your tea 30% more antioxidants than if you brew it manually

What we dislike

  • It is a bulky and space-consuming appliance, not well-suited for smaller kitchens

4. U Soo

Named U Soo, this concept allows you to chill and relax, as you prepare a cup of tea for yourself. You are able to smell the tea as it steeps, so it also doubles up as an aroma diffuser. The machine is a lot like a coffee machine or something truly unique and eccentric right out of a laboratory.

Why is it noteworthy?

You can witness the entire process – ranging from boiling the water to the steeping of the tea when you pour it into your cup. This whole transparency adds a rather therapeutic and interactive element to the tea machine.

What we like

  • Has transparent bits, making it quite interesting and interactive

What we dislike

  • Since it is a concept, we don’t know how well it will translate into a real product

5. Cuzen Matcha

Say hello to Cuzen Matcha – the matcha maker you’ve been waiting for! It is a compact and sleek appliance, well-suited for homes, offices, and basically any space with an outlet. The product is portable, allowing you to enjoy a fresh and authentic cup of matcha tea wherever you feel like.

Why is it noteworthy?

The magnetic whisker replicates the movements of the traditional bamboo whisk, and it mixes cold water with tea, preparing a frothy matcha drink for you. It is equipped with an aluminum canister to ensure your leaves stay fresh, and it supports sustainable tea farming with eco-friendly packaging.

What we like

  • Sleek and compact form that can be carried anywhere with you

What we dislike

  • Takes up a substantial amount of counter space
  • Not compatible with other teas, you need to use the Cuzen Matcha brand leaves

6. FinalPress V2

Named the FinalPress V2, this product is portable, lightweight, and all-metal. It provides the fine and premium quality of a French Press directly inside your tea cup or coffee mug. It is great to prepare some top-notch tea of your choice, wherever you like.

Why is it noteworthy?

Fill the FinalPress V2 with the tea of your choice, shut it, and immerse it in water to begin the infusion process. The press can be filled with hot or cold water, and once it’s done, hit the plunger on the top to extract all the water out of the basket. You have some fresh and delicious tea ready for you!

What we like

  • Portable and lightweight design
  • It seems pretty easy to clean

What we dislike

  • Prepares only one serving in a go

7. Mosi Tea

Meet Mosi Tea! You can now easily and effortlessly brew and drink some soothing loose-leaf tea at home, or on the go, using Mose Tea’s patent-pending, multisensory tea infuser. Mosi Tea allows you to brew the perfect cuppa no matter where you are. Whether you prefer your tea hot or cold, Mosi brews it for you in no time.

Why is it noteworthy?

Mosi prepares your tea in no time, with zero effort. You don’t even need to carry around any messy tools. It is made from Tritan which has the feel and look of glass. The material is strong enough to withstand extreme temperatures and clumsy hands, ensuring the bottle stays safe.

What we like

  • The mouthpiece mimics a teacup, making it easy and fun to drink from

What we dislike

  • Small liquid volume compared to the size of the bottle

8. BRÜ Tea Maker

This is the BRÜ tea maker, designed to prepare the perfect cup of tea for you at the push of a button. You can use any tea! You simply need to set the temperature, cup size, and brew time, and it prepares the tea for you, saving you a whole load of time and energy. It saves your previous settings, so you can simply repeat the process, without the need to set up the machine every single time.

Why is it noteworthy?

BRÜ lets you use any drink you fancy, the included spoon and sieve prepare any kind of tea for you. You don’t need to use any expensive capsules of pods with BRÜ, you can just use the tea you have at home, allowing you to explore and try different flavor combinations.

What we like

  • Saves your tea preparation settings for you
  • It can also prepare pot noodles and coffee for you

What we dislike

  • Hefty price tag

9. TMB

Dubbed the TMB or the Modular Bottle, this one-of-a-kind bottle is designed to hold your drink of choice as you work through the day. This bottle will cater to your various drinking requirements, ensuring you don’t ignore your hydration while working, and providing you with a refreshing beverage when you need it.

Why is it noteworthy?

The inside of TMB is made from durable borosilicate glass, which ensures your drinks have the perfect taste, irrespective of how many times the bottle is used. The bottle is also easy to clean, and the mid-section is translucent, so you can always see how much liquid is left inside.

What we like

  • It features an Infusion Module Add-On for tea and fruits
  • Has a secret compartment to store snacks

What we dislike

  • Since it is a glass bottle, it can break easily and must be handled with care

10. Imbue

Meet Imbue – the magnetic tea-infusing vessel. This unique device brews great-tasting loose-leaf tea anywhere for you. You don’t need to carry your entire kitchen with you! It is designed to simplify the process of brewing loose-leaf tea for you. It easily and effortlessly steeps leaves at home or on the go.

Why is it noteworthy?

Imbue can prepare delicious hot or cold tea for you. It prepares single-serving loose tea for you wherever you like. It also functions as an excellent water bottle once the tea is over. It serves well as a multi-use vessel.

What we like

  • Made from shatter-resistant borosilicate glass which functions as an effective insulator
  • The lid is made from bamboo, adding an eco-friendly element

What we dislike

  • Seems a bit fragile, and looks easily breakable

The post Top 10 Essential Tea & Matcha Brewing Tools For A Superior Tea Experience first appeared on Yanko Design.

Master the Art of Tea-Making: Top 10 Essential Products

What’s the first thing you need when you wake up in the morning? Is it a cup of tea?! Me too! It’s the boost of energy, dose of motivation, and rush of serotonin that I need every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. We all need our cup of tea. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know is the result of your hard work, something precariously prepared with your personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive tea brewer is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and operating the machine)! And this collection of kitchen tools and appliances is designed to make your tea-making and drinking experience effortless and fun!

1. Smart Tea Pot

Calling all tea lovers! You guys need to get your hands on the Smart Tea Pot. This unique connected teapot gives you a chance to brew and prepare your own cup of tea using technology. It prepares a relaxing brew on the basis of the tea you prefer to drink, creating your own choice of brew.

Click Here to Buy Now: $349

Why is it noteworthy?

It has advanced brewing adjustments which you can customize according to the tea you wish to drink. It features a “Golden Drop” rotating infuser which perfectly captures the beauty of Japanese minimalism.

What we like

  • It has a compact size and minimal aesthetics

What we dislike

  • The teapot uses technology for brewing, which can be complicated for some people to use

2. U Soo

Called U Soo, this conceptual tea maker lets you chill and relax. When the tea is being prepared, you can actually smell the tea as it steeps, so it also functions as an aroma diffuser. The machine resembles a coffee machine, or something eccentric straight out of a laboratory.

Why is it noteworthy?

You can witness the entire process – ranging from boiling the water to the steeping of the tea when you pour it into your cup. This whole transparency adds a rather therapeutic and interactive element of the tea machine.

What we like

  • Has an element of transparency which makes the tea maker interactive and interesting

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

3. Ceramic Mug

Called the Ceramic Mug, this elegant little mug is well-crafted and the ideal example of earth meets wood. It combines a symphony of textures to create a lovely treat for your fingers and lips. As you slowly drink from the mug, you experience an enriching sensory stimulation.

Click Here to Buy Now: $60

Why is it noteworthy?

When you drink your tea from the mug, you come into contact with the surface, and this sets a soothing mood for your entire tea-drinking experience. It serves as an engaging design with intriguing contrasts.

What we like

  • The mug is made from quality Japanese ceramics

What we dislike

  • The mug cannot be placed in a microwave, which is quite inconvenient

4. Earth-friendly Stacking Cup

Called the Earth-friendly stacking cup, this refined and minimal cup is designed to save the environment. It is crafted from eco-friendly synthetic materials, which offers the cup a pretty unique texture. This ensures that you have a sensory experience when you drink your tea.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The cup has a lovely texture which makes you think of wood and ceramic. It offers a unique sensory experience in your lips and mouth, while also featuring minimal aesthetics and an eco-friendly practice.

What we like

  • Made from plant-derived biodegradable resin

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically quite common to other cups on the market, nothing to set it apart

5. OTOTO’s Tea Trap

Look at this adorable little tea trap by OTOTO! OTOTO’s Tea Trap puts a whimsical and amusing twist on the art of tea brewing. It’s a refreshing change from the typical metal infusers, and instead, it resembles a carnivorous plant – one that eats tea leaves for breakfast!

Why is it noteworthy?

You fill the Tea Trap’s stomach or mouth with leaves and dunk it in a cup of hot water. The tea infuses through the perforations on the infuser. The Tea Trap also includes an elongated handle which you can use to stir until your tea achieves the perfect color. Once you’re done preparing your tea, the trap spits out the leaves into the bin.

What we like

  • Adds a fun twist to an ordinary design

What we dislike

  • The holes in the trap seem to be too big for loose tea, it can slip out

6. DADO

Called DADO, this minimalist capsule teach machine is a unique conceptual design that looks unlike a typical tea maker. It has a modern twist to it. The kettle portion is inspired by a traditional tea maker, and the entire design has a minimalist ethos which brings a sense of calm to your tea-preparing experience.

Why is it noteworthy?

DADO features a kettle and two cups placed on top of a heating pad, which resembles an induction stovetop. You can fill water in the kettle using the bucket section located at the back. You can preheat the cups that are next to the kettle by simply pressing a button.

What we like

  • Perfectly merges traditional and minimal aesthetics
  • It has different flavors for the tea capsules

What we dislike

  • Disposable capsules with a substantial carbon footprint

7. Bota

Meet Bota – an all-in-one smart tea bottle that lets you brew a cup of hot tea, letting you enjoy your favorite flavors. It has everything you could need to make tea in a single bottle. It holds and boils your water for you at the specific temperature needed for brewing. It also includes a steeping chamber to hold the leaves separately.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bota is extremely easy to clean and ensures a hassle-free cleaning experience. It also keeps your tea hot for about 12 hours. You can drink some hot tea anytime or anywhere, letting you brew a fresh batch whenever you like.

What we like

  • Features a sleek and portable form
  • No complicated buttons, easy-to-use

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically similar to other portable brewers on the market

8. ECLIPSE

Called the ECLIPSE, this portable tea brewing station is an innovative design, completely different from the boring old tea bag. The design features a travel thermos and a French-press-style brewing system and is designed to be easy to use and easy to carry. You can brew two cups or one large of tea.

Why is it noteworthy?

ECLIPSE completely modernizes the tea-making process. It offers the same steps you’d see in a regular tea brewing process but in a new format and form. It is a multi-part travel press that features a measuring cup, brewing teapot, plunger, and a drinking vessel.

What we like

  • Features an easy-to-carry and portable design
  • Equipped with a ceramic coating to pay tribute to the traditional tea-brewing practices

What we dislike

  • There aren’t different color or size options

9. USM-Inspired Kettle

If you’re someone who loves the work of the Swiss modular furniture brand, then you need to check out this USM-inspired kettle. This kettle uses the original aesthetics of the brand, creating a kettle that is circular in design, while the handle is rectangular. The spout has a unique triangle shape.

Why is it noteworthy?

The renders of the kettle display it in various colors, which are also the basic colors of the USM Haller line. There are kettles available in blue, orange, red, yellow, and white, creating a kitchen appliance that is fun, and whimsical while also being wholly functional.

What we like

  • Minimal and clean aesthetics
  • Available in various USM-inspired colors

What we dislike

  • It’s still a concept, so we don’t know how well it will translate into a tangible product

10. TEO Smart Tea Maker

Dubbed the TEO Smart Tea Maker, this sleek and unique design has a coffeemaker feel to it. It features a monochromatic design which allows you to pay focus to the tea extract, by making that portion transparent. The tea maker comprises of three main parts – the water tank, the brewing section, and the glass container.

Why is it noteworthy?

The glass container is transparent and gives the teak maker a really appealing and sleek look. You pour the brewed tea into that section. The tea maker also has a fourth component – which is basically the base and it looks like an induction stove, although it does include lesser buttons.

What we like

  • Brings a peaceful and zen-like sensation to the tea-making process
  • Sleek monochromatic design that will blend well with modern kitchens

What we dislike

  • It is a concept, so we don’t know how well it will work in reality

The post Master the Art of Tea-Making: Top 10 Essential Products first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Products All Coffee & Tea Makers Need In Their Kitchens

Everyone has a beverage of choice that they need in the morning to wake them up – usually, it is coffee or tea. For me personally, it is coffee!  I love coffee, I need it to start my day, or else I simply refuse to start my day! It’s the boost of energy, dose of motivation, and rush of serotonin that I need every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. We all need our cup of tea or coffee. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know is the result of your hard work, something precariously prepared with your personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive coffee machine or tea brewer is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and operating the machine)! From a smart teapot to the Tesla of coffee machines – this collection of super cool and easy-to-use tools will start you off on your coffee/tea brewing journey. Cheers!

1. K-Round

Keurig has designed the K-Round – a puck of compressed coffee that eliminates the pod completely. The puck is made using only plant-based natural materials. It is completely compostable and doesn’t leave behind any waste except for a small leftover disc that can be discarded or even composted with natural waste.

Why is it noteworthy?

The K-Round has completely recreated the whole idea of the pod by providing users with a sensorial and unique experience even before the coffee has been brewed. The pods have a distinctive and powerful coffee smell that titillates your nose and makes the coffee-making experience even more engaging.

What we like

  • Comes in a variety of sizes, depending on the brew you want
  • You can look at the pods and see how fine or coarse they are

What we dislike

  • Only compatible with the upcoming Keurig Alta
  • The pods haven’t been released yet

2. xBloom

Called the xBloom – the Tesla of Coffee Machines is the first coffee machine with innovative Autopilot features, which makes it a pretty unique one. This device makes prepping coffee super easy and convenient, and it transforms it into an art form. The machine is quite sleek and pristine!

Why is it noteworthy?

Designed by ex-Apple employees, the xBloom can be used to identify, grind, dispense, brew, and pour your coffee for you. It utilizes the finest beans which has been sourced from the top roasters worldwide, making it the finest cup of coffee you can enjoy.

What we like

  • Makes you feel like a professional barista is making you a cup of coffee, providing an enhanced coffee-making and drinking experience.
  • Equipped with NFC technology

What we dislike

  • The machine does not accommodate instant coffee, which is often a problem for coffee drinkers

3. OutIn Nano

Named the OutIn Nano, this adorable flask-shaped beauty lets you prepare a golden cup of coffee anywhere. You can use the espresso maker indoors, outdoors, or even in the sky, as it lets you pull a shot of espresso wherever you like, letting you enjoy a hot cup of coffee in ease.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Nano also features its own water heater, so it warms up your water as it brews the coffee, so you don’t need anything to prepare coffee besides an empty cup, and a desire to prepare some coffee!

What we like

  • A portable espresso maker that heats your water for you
  • Features an easy-to-use single-button interface to brew your coffee

What we dislike

4. Smart Tea Pot

If you’re in the mood for a nice hot cup of tea, then you need to get your hands on the Smart Tea Pot. The Smart Tea Pot is a unique connected teapot that allows you to brew your own tea using technology. This pot lets you prepare a yummy brew based on the kind of tea you like to drink.

Click Here to Buy Now: $349

Why is it noteworthy?

The Smart Tea Pot has advanced brewing adjustments which can be adjusted according to the tea you drink, as well as your tea-drinking requirements. The pot has a “Golden Drop” rotating infuser which is the perfect specimen of Japanese minimalism.

What we like

  • Features a compact size, and clean minimal aesthetics

What we dislike

  • The teapot uses technology for brewing, which can be complicated for some people to use

5. Ceramic Mug

This beautiful little mug is finely crafted and is the perfect specimen of earth meets wood. The mug features a unique and lovely symphony of textures and is intended to be a lovely treat for your lips and your fingers. As you drink from the mug, you experience sensory stimulation.

Click Here to Buy Now: $60

Why is it noteworthy?

As you sip the drink, your lips come into contact with the surface, and this lovely impression sets the mood for the entire experience. It functions as an engaging design with interesting contrasts.

What we like

  • The mug is made from quality Japanese ceramics

What we dislike

  • The mug cannot be placed in a microwave

6. The LanderShot Lunar Espresso Machine

The LanderShot Lunar Espresso Machine is crafted from sleek, space-grade aluminum and carbon fiber. It has a unique futuristic aesthetic that is extremely attractive and will turn heads. It features robust dials and gauges to the stainless steel plumbing which is created for precision and durability.

Why is it noteworthy?

The design is an excellent fusion of functionality and futuristic aesthetics. It is made from CNC-machined type III hard-coated 6061 aluminum and carbon fiber. The coffee machine features a robust and sleek chassis, accompanied by stainless steel plumbing and a sturdy pump system.

What we like

  • Provides an interactive and hands-on approach to coffee brewing
  • The control transforms the brewing process

What we dislike

  • Quite a hefty price tag

7. Brewster

This battery-powered coffee machine is called the Brewster, and it is designed for the future. It will satisfy your random coffee cravings with complete convenience and precision, allowing you to enjoy the perfect cup of joe everywhere you like. It is a portable design providing you with coffee anytime, anywhere.

Why is it noteworthy?

Brewster is more than just a coffee machine, it is a lifestyle innovation designed for the future. It features a convenient compact design, that makes it super easy to carry around.

What we like

  • Features a battery-powered design that doesn’t really need to be tethered to a chord
  • It has an intuitive design that offers a hassle-free coffee-making experience

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we’re not sure how functional and practical it will be as a real product

8. Earth-friendly Stacking Cup

Meet the Earth-friendly stacking cup – a minimal and elegant stacking cup that saves the environment! Made from eco-friendly synthetic materials, this cup has a unique texture that adds a sensory experience to your tea-drinking experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The stacking cup has a lovely texture that resembles wood and ceramic. It creates a distinctive sensory experience in your mouth and lips while encapsulating minimal aesthetics and eco-friendly practices.

What we like

  • The cup is crafted from plant-derived biodegradable resin

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically quite common to other cups on the market, nothing to set it apart

9. Earth-Friendly Tumbler

Named PAPLUS, this unique earth-friendly tumbler features a new type of thermoplastic resin that can be mixed with biodegradable paper. This makes the tumbler sustainable and stylish, making it quite easy on the eyes.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The tumbler is made using eco-friendly material to which creates a texture quite similar to that of ceramic or wooden cups. Once you take a sip from the tumbler, you are presented with a lovely flavor, which builds a new sensation for your lips.

What we like

The tumbler creates a lovely new act of drinking beverages, taking it to a whole new level

Features a heat resistance of 120°,

What we dislike

  • The natural color will fade with time, which may not be liked by all users

10. Slim Fold Dish Rack

Called the Slim Fold Dish Rack, this innovative dish rack can be carried anywhere with you! The rack features a patent-pending spring mechanism which can be adjusted and shrunk. You can easily deploy the dish rack, and it is quite easy to set up and use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $75.00

Why is it noteworthy?

This product has a minimalist yet sturdy design. It provides adequate ventilation, and there is enough space for utensils, plates, and cookware of any size. It is a great design for your kitchen, or for camping outdoors.

What we like

  • The rack is easy to clean and maintain
  • Features a flexible collapsible form

What we dislike

  • The wires are quite slim, and it can be tough to hold utensils

The post 10 Best Products All Coffee & Tea Makers Need In Their Kitchens first appeared on Yanko Design.

10 Best Kitchen Tools For Brewing The Ultimate Cup Of Coffee, Tea & Espresso

Everyone has a beverage of choice that they need in the morning to wake them up – usually, it is coffee or tea. For me personally it is coffee!  I love coffee, I need it to start my day, or else I simply refuse to start my day! It’s the boost of energy, dose of motivation, and rush of serotonin that I need every morning. And, I’m pretty sure that’s the case for most of us. We all need our cup of tea or coffee. There is a different satisfaction and pleasure in sipping caffeine that you know is the result of your hard work, something precariously prepared with your personal touch to it. And if you’re someone who’s chasing that feeling, then a unique, innovative, and interactive coffee machine or tea brewer is all you need, and ninety-five percent of the battle is won (the other five percent is you setting aside your laziness and operating the machine)! From a smart teapot to the Tesla of coffee machines – this collection of super cool and easy-to-use tools will start you off on your coffee/tea brewing journey. Cheers!

1. xBloom

Meet the futuristic xBloom – the Tesla of Coffee Machines. It is the first coffee machine with an Autopilot feature, making it quite an innovative and unique one. This makes preparing coffee super easy and efficient, almost transforming it into an art. The coffee machine is quite sleek and pristine, and looks like it jumped straight out of a sci-fi movie!

Why is it noteworthy?

The xBloom was designed by ex-Apple employees, and it identifies, grinds, dispenses, brews, and pours your coffee for you. The machine uses the finest beans sourced from the top roasters worldwide, offering you the finest cup of coffee to enjoy!

What we like

  • With the xBloom, it feels as if a professional barista is making you a cup of coffee, creating an elevated coffee-drinking experience
  • Features the power of NFC technology

What we dislike

  • It does not accommodate instant coffee, which can be a hassle for some coffee drinkers

2. Smart Tea Pot

If you prefer tea over coffee, then you need to get your hands on the Smart Tea Pot. This connected teapot lets you brew yourself a cup of tea with the help of technology, creating the perfect brew for you. You can prepare a delicious brew based on the kind of tea you like, depending on your mood and needs.

Click Here to Buy Now: $314 $349 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The Smart Tea Pot features advanced brewing adjustments that are influenced by the kind of tea you need, and your tea-drinking requirements. It has a “Golden Drop” rotating infuser, which is a perfect example of Japanese minimalism, and it merges technology with simplicity.

What we like

  • Has a compact size, and clean minimal aesthetics allowing it to perfectly fuse with your kitchen and dining space

What we dislike

  • The Smart Tea Pot employs technology for brewing customizations, which can be complicated for those who prefer traditional, simple tea-making processes

3. Ceramic Cup

This minimalist-looking mug is finely crafted, and is a true meeting of the earth and wood in a unique and subtle symphony of texture. It is designed to be a lovely treat for your sensitive lips as well as your fingers. As you drink from it, you are invited into a sensory experience where you can truly enjoy sipping your tea.

Click Here to Buy Now: $54 $60 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

When we’re sipping a drink, our lips come into contact with the surface of a glass or mug, and this impression sets the mood for the entire experience. This beautiful mug intends to create that kind of engagement in the form of a design with intriguing contrasts.

What we like

  • Crafted from quality Japanese ceramic

What we dislike

  • You cannot put the mug into a microwave
  • The aesthetics can be considered a bit simple and boring

4. Brewster

This battery-powered coffee machine is called the Brewster, and it is designed for the future. It will satisfy your random coffee cravings with complete convenience and precision, allowing you to enjoy the perfect cup of joe everywhere you like. It is a portable design providing you with coffee anytime, anywhere.

Why is it noteworthy?

Brewster is more than just a coffee machine, it is a lifestyle innovation designed for the future. It features a convenient compact design, that makes it super easy to carry around.

What we like

  • Features a battery-powered design that doesn’t really need to be tethered to a chord
  • It has an intuitive design that offers a hassle-free coffee-making experience

What we dislike

  • It’s a conceptual design, so we’re not sure how functional and practical it will be as a real product

5. Earth-friendly Stacking Cup

Enjoy your favorite beverage with this Earth-friendly stacking cup. It is a stylish and minimal stacking cup that helps you save the environment. It is built from eco-friendly synthetic materials and has a unique texture which contributes to a distinctive and sensory tea-drinking experience.

Click Here to Buy Now: $22.5 $25 (10% off at checkout). Hurry, Valentine’s Day sale ends in 48 hours!

Why is it noteworthy?

The texture of the stacking cup is unique and resembles ceramic and wood. It provides a distinctive sensory experience to your mouth and lips, while also embodying minimal aesthetics and eco-friendly practices, forming a soul-enriching drinking experience that you won’t forget.

What we like

  • Made from plant-derived biodegradable resin
  • The material biodegrades into water and carbon dioxide through natural microbial action

What we dislike

  • Aesthetically quite common to other cups on the market, nothing to set it apart

6. Earth-friendly Tumbler

Have you ever heard of PAPLUS? It is a new kind of thermoplastic resin that can be mixed with biodegradable paper to add durability, heat resistance, and moldability which normal PLA often tacks. This unique earth-friendly tumbler is made using PAPLUS, making it a sustainable and stylish drinking tumbler for your coffee or tea.

Click Here to Buy Now: $25

Why is it noteworthy?

The earth-friendly tumbler is made using an eco-friendly material to add a unique texture that is similar to the surface of ceramic or wooden cups. As you take a sip from this tumbler, a wonderful flavor is brought to your tongue, which creates an engaging sensation for your lips.

What we like

  • Uplifts the act of drinking beverages to a new sensory experience for your tongue and lips
  • Has a heat resistance of 120°, allowing you to enjoy piping hot as well as ice-cold drinks

What we dislike

  • The natural color of the tumbler can fade or become uneven with use, which may not be appreciated by users

7. F1 Coffee Grinder

Dubbed the F1, this portable and sleek wireless coffee grinder works automatically and manually. It features industrial-grade conical burrs, and a motor that provides 100 grind settings, allowing you to prepare fresh coffee when you’re at home or even out camping!

Why is it noteworthy?

Features a built-in fold-out collection tray, and allows you to hot-swap for one-button electric grinding or a hank-crank for a more hands-on grinding experience. The grinder is the size of a small thermos, and can easily fit into bags and suitcases.

What we like

  • Travel-friendly grinder with Scandinavian minimalism

What we dislike

  • You need to remove the motor, before washing it in the dishwasher

8. Slim Fold Dish Rack

This unique and innovative dish rack can be carried anywhere with you. It has a patent pending spring mechanism, that you can adjust and shrink from 14″ to 1.2″ within seconds. Deployment of the dish rack is also just as fast, making it quite easy to set up and use.

Click Here to Buy Now: $75.00

Why is it noteworthy?

Called the Slim Fold Dish Rack, this product has a minimalist yet durable design, which ensures adequate ventilation, and has plenty of space for plates, utensils, and cookware of any size. It is an excellent design for your kitchen or for camping outdoors.

What we like

  • Flexible collapsible form that will clean and dry your utensils in no time
  • Easy to clean and dishwasher-friendly

What we dislike

  • The slim wires will find it difficult to hold heavy utensils (pots and pans)

9. Steampunk Espresso Machine

Called the Steampunk Espresso Machine, this unique espresso machine was designed by Ahmet Kemal Daşhan for Steam Espresso. It is adorned with brass fittings that take you on an exciting and surreal journey through time. It has a distinctive appearance, that makes it stand apart from boxy and typical coffee machines on the market.

Why is it noteworthy?

The espresso machine features exposed gears that are reminiscent of a bygone era’ mechanical marvels, which besides serving a functional purpose, also add a touch of authenticity to the entire espresso-making experience. The machine features vintage aesthetics which take you back in time.

What we like

  • Helps you embark on a visual journey through time

What we dislike

  • It’s a concept, so we are unsure how it will translate into a tangible product

10. DOTS

Called DOTS, this portable coffee machine is an excellent fit for automated vehicles, but it can also be used for other on-the-go scenarios as well. It is a great option for those long car journeys, where you need to get somewhere in a jiffy, and cannot stop for a much-needed coffee break.

Why is it noteworthy?

The DOTS coffee machine has a removable bottom, so it can be adapted for whatever use you have for it. It utilizes coffee capsules instead of the usual brewing method to make it easier to use.

What we like

  • A control or lever lets you adjust the intensity of the extraction method from the capsule

What we dislike

  • It has a lid to place a straw on it, but sipping hot coffee with a straw seems weird and uncomfortable

The post 10 Best Kitchen Tools For Brewing The Ultimate Cup Of Coffee, Tea & Espresso first appeared on Yanko Design.

Smart tea bottle lets you brew your calming beverage anywhere you go

Coffee is often touted as the fuel that runs the world, but not everyone is a lover of the brown liquid. For others, tea is what gets them going, whether perking them up for the work ahead or putting them in a more relaxed state. But just like coffee, good tea isn’t something you can just make any time, even though it’s technically a bit easier to steep and infuse tea leaves compared to coffee beans that still have to be ground. Keeping the freshly brewed tea still fresh when and where you actually want to drink it can also be a bit of a problem, especially if you spend a lot of time outside. This portable smart bottle solves all of that by letting you brew your favorite tea anywhere you need it and keeping it warm so you can enjoy it all day, wherever you go.

Designer: Bota

To be fair, you can actually brew tea anywhere as long as you have all the necessary pieces, which include the tea leaves, a way to boil water, and a brewing chamber to steep the leaves in the water. The problem is that you need to bring that many pieces with you, which is almost the same as saying you can’t. That’s where Bota comes in, an all-in-one smart tea bottle that lets you do all of those, keep your brewed tea hot, and let you enjoy your favorite flavors as you go about your day or even night.

Bota includes everything you need in a single bottle. It holds and then boils water at the specific temperature you need for brewing. It has a steeping chamber to hold the tea leaves separately from the rest of the bottle, allowing for hassle-free cleaning afterward. And it can keep that tea hot for about 12 hours, presuming you don’t finish that delight cup before then. Drink a hot cup of tea any time or brew a fresh batch when you get the chance. All you need are the tea leaves and water.

Despite all those features mashed together, Bota manages to come in a sleek and portable form, making it easy to throw the bottle in your bag when you’re in a rush (after you’ve securely closed the lid, of course). There are no complicated buttons either, just a single touch screen and button to set the temperature and start the boil. It’s a stress-free experience for making a drink that’s associated with calmness and relaxation.

There’s also an indirect sustainability angle to this portable device that also gives you a good feeling while you take a sip. You produce less waste by doing away with single-use cups and using tea leaves directly, so you can make as much tea as you want without adding to the planet’s trash problem. This way, you can relax and enjoy your favorite drink knowing that you’re healthy lifestyle doesn’t come at the cost of the Earth’s health.

The post Smart tea bottle lets you brew your calming beverage anywhere you go first appeared on Yanko Design.

Rediscovering the Ritual of Chinese Tea Culture with The Origin Health Pot

In the vast landscape of health pots, where countless shapes and varieties abound, it takes something truly special to stand out. In China, health pots have gained immense popularity due to their beneficial properties. However, in the sea of existing options, the ORIGIN Health Pot sets itself apart by drawing inspiration from an ancient Chinese tea culture.

Tea culture has always held a significant place in Chinese society, embodying a sense of tradition, elegance, and tranquility. The act of drinking tea transcends a mere beverage; it becomes a ritualized experience, an artistic journey that allows individuals to immerse themselves in a state of calm and selflessness. It is in this cultural tapestry that the ORIGIN Health Pot finds its origin.

Designer: RITE 

ORIGIN seeks to explore the mysterious depths of Chinese tea culture and translate its essence into a tangible product. The pot’s design encapsulates the rhythm and lines of traditional Chinese tea sets, encapsulating the mellow and gentle spirit of tea tasting within its form. By infusing the ritualistic elements of Chinese tea drinking, the ORIGIN Health Pot provides a unique and enriching experience for tea enthusiasts.

At the core of the ORIGIN Health Pot is its dedication to restoring the ritual sense of Chinese tea culture. The pot’s design meticulously incorporates the principles and aesthetics of tea ceremonies, allowing users to indulge in the beauty of rules and traditions. With every sip, one can revel in the tranquility and profound satisfaction that comes from embracing the spirit of Chinese tea culture.

Practicality is another key aspect of the Pot. The pot features a detachable split tea tray, providing convenience for tea drinking in compact spaces or on the go. This innovative feature ensures that the Pot seamlessly fits into various lifestyles while maintaining its commitment to preserving the essence of Chinese tea culture.

The ORIGIN Health Pot is available in two stunning variations: pearl white and matte black. Both options exude elegance and sophistication, mirroring the beauty found in Chinese culture. The pot’s design is carefully crafted to harmoniously blend the beauty of the product itself with the beauty of rules, resulting in a visually stunning and spiritually fulfilling experience.

In a market saturated with health pots, the ORIGIN Health Pot emerges as a beacon of authenticity and reverence for Chinese tea culture. By reintroducing the ritualized aspects of tea drinking into the modern world, it invites individuals to slow down, savor the moment, and find solace in the simple act of enjoying a cup of tea.

So, if you’re someone who appreciates the artistry and tranquility of Chinese tea culture, the ORIGIN Health Pot is a must-have. Indulge in the beauty of tradition, experience the exquisite harmony of lines and rhythms, and embark on a journey that celebrates the timeless allure of tea. The ORIGIN Health Pot invites you to rediscover the origins of Chinese tea culture and find serenity in each and every sip.

The post Rediscovering the Ritual of Chinese Tea Culture with The Origin Health Pot first appeared on Yanko Design.

This smart tea pot can read your mood to make the perfect brew

Many people swear by coffee to get through the day, but there is also quite a good number that prefer the variety of teas to get their fix. Just like with different coffee beans, different tea leaves have different personalities; that is, they have different brewing requirements like time and temperature. Further complicating things is the fact that tea can give you different experiences depending on when you drink them or your mood at that time. Considering these different factors can make brewing tea sound almost impossible for mere mortals. Thankfully, that conundrum is a thing of the past with this connected tea pot that looks just as good as the brews it makes.

Designer: Hiroaki Nishimura

Click Here to Buy Now: $254 $299 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, sitewide Pre-Black Friday sale ends Nov 23rd.

The art of brewing tea goes back centuries, but just like coffee, it has been commercialized and diluted down into cheap teabags. Even without considering the rituals involved, brewing tea is almost like a precise art that varies depending on the type of tea leaves being used. Some require a longer steeping time at lower temperatures, while others are best at a high temperature and for a brief period only. That’s not much of a problem if you stick to one kind, but tea lovers who crave and enjoy variety will have to keep in mind those different requirements.

Fortunately, we can now rely on technology to take the drudgery out of a process that should be calming and relaxing. Rather than memorize the different conditions for different leaves, the Teplo connected tea pot memorizes those for you. A simple tap on the smartphone app will set the precise time and temperature for the tea leaves you place inside the infuser. This insightful tea brewer, however, can do more than that and can even adjust those brewing factors to match your mood, the time of day, or the surrounding conditions.

You might, for example, prefer a stronger dose of caffeine in the morning, or maybe you want a bit of sweetness when you’re almost out of energy in the afternoon. Changing the temperature can result in these different teas, even using the exact same tea leaves. This seemingly magical feat is actually the result of advanced technology, combining data from different sensors to paint a holistic picture of your mood. In addition to detecting room temperature, humidity, brightness, and noise, a fingerprint sensor on the base can also read your heart rate and body temperature, allowing the tea pot to adjust the temperature and time to create a personalized brew each and every time.

This innovative tea pot isn’t just smart, it’s also a handsome appliance that’s perfect for your kitchen countertop or table. Inspired by the last “golden drop” of tea, the pot’s unique and beautiful infuser automatically rotates to submerge the tea leaves for the optimal brewing time and then rotates again to prevent over-steeping. Whether you’re waiting for your caffeine fix for the day, winding down after a long day at work, or simply looking to relax and chill, this intelligent tea maker will serve you the perfect cup of tea to fit your mood.

Click Here to Buy Now: $254 $299 (15% off at checkout). Hurry, sitewide Pre-Black Friday sale ends Nov 23rd.

The post This smart tea pot can read your mood to make the perfect brew first appeared on Yanko Design.

ClayClay Container’s shape is based on a stretched slinky

ClayClay Container Inspiration

We can never have enough of quirky containers from different designers. Getting a new one every time a new design is introduced may be unnecessary, but creative enthusiasts and designers know the delight such things bring. The ClayClay Container is yet another piece that can be used in different ways. It can be a mug for your coffee or a small bowl for your cereal or fruits. It can be a pot for your small plant or a small knick-knack for your desk.

Designer: Paper Play

ClayClay Container Details

ClayClay Container

This ClayClay Container comes with a soft shade and curves but is hard; of course, it is ceramic. It is made by Paper Play, a Chinese company that designs different everyday products in more innovative and creative forms. The new container’s design is based on the rainbow spring, the Slinky. The shape appears like a rainbow spring in its stretched form as one plays with it. There is a silver ball on one side as if supporting the slinky. The ball also functions as a handle for when you want to use the container as a mug.

The ClayClay Container appears to be available in purple and black. The glossy finish makes it a standout, but we can imagine it in other textures and materials too. Unlike the purple model, the black version features a matching black ball for a more neutral look.

ClayClay Container Designer

The shape of the ClayClay Container is unique but offers that modern contemporary feel. It will be an attractive addition to wherever you want to put it when not used as a mug. It may also spark creativity as its form evokes a sense of playfulness with the slinky reference.

Some kids today may not know what a slinky or rainbow spring is. Perhaps this ClayClay Container will be an excellent introduction. Drink your coffee first before showing the slinky because we’re certain your kid won’t make you stop playing with it.

ClayClay Container Design

ClayClay Container joins the roster of interesting mug designs we’ve featured here. It follows the Hug Cup and the self-filtering mug for their innovative design. It’s creative like the Creative Ceramic Tea Mug and the Earless Mug. It’s as useful as the Drop Rest Mug and is as attractive as the Slurp Mug. The slinky shape of the mug is similar to the Pet Table with its S form. But unlike the Pet Table that combines two separate parts, the ClayClay is only one unit.

Concept ClayC

ClayClay Container Concept

The post ClayClay Container’s shape is based on a stretched slinky first appeared on Yanko Design.

Sleek tea makers to brew that perfect cuppa every morning

There are some people who need a cup of coffee to start their day, or they simply refuse to start their day (I’m one of them). And then there are those who need a cup of tea to begin their day. There’s something about sipping a cup of tea in the morning that puts me in a really zen and calm mood. Though I may not be a tea drinker, I know that brewing your own tea, is almost like an art. It takes practice and patience. If you’re a tea drinker who’s always looking for new and innovative ways to prepare your morning cup of tea – we’ve curated a collection of unique, tasteful, and highly functional tea makers for you. From a smart tea maker to a travel tea flask with a built-in tea infuser – this collection of kitchen appliances is all you need to prepare and perfect your cup of tea!

1. The TEO Smart Tea Maker

The TEO Smart Tea Maker has a sleek, monochromatic design that has a coffeemaker feel but tries to bring attention to the tea extract itself by making that part transparent. It is made up of three main parts: the water tank which looks like your average industrial-looking teapot; the brewing section where you’re supposed to put the tea leaves and where the magic happens; and the transparent glass container where the brewed tea is poured into. There’s actually a 4th component, the base which looks like an induction stove but with fewer confusing buttons.

2. Chá

Chá is a travel tea bottle that can switch between a tea infuser and a regular thermal water bottle. Topped with a transparent lid, Chá allows each user to witness the seeping process while brewing tea to ensure their desired tea strength is achieved. With a handy rubber strap, users can even brew their tea with the bottle strapped to their backpack. The brewing process of Chá is just like filling a water bottle, but the lid of Chá features a compartment where users can place tea bags near a built-in infuser and transparent section that reveals the strength of each brew.

3. OTOTO‘s Tea Trap

OTOTO‘s Tea Trap puts a fun spin on the art of brewing tea. Unlike those boring metal infusers, the Tea Trap models itself on a carnivorous plant that chomps down on your tea leaves. Once the Tea Trap’s stomach (or mouth) is full, just dunk it in a cup of hot water, and the tea begins infusing through the perforations on the sides of the infuser. Use the Tea Trap’s elongated handle to stir it around till your tea reaches the right color, and when you’re done, the Tea Trap will very kindly spit out the tea leaves into the waste-bin, because nobody likes eating tea leaves… not even carnivorous plants!

4. The BRÜ Instant Tea Brewing Machine

The BRÜ Instant Tea Brewing Machine prepares that perfect cup of tea for you every single time! You simply add your tea to the machine and press a button to being the brewing process. The machine works with both tea leaves and tea bags. In fact, you don’t need any capsules or pods with this instant machine! You can control the settings, by selecting how long you want your tea to be brewed, as well as what temperature you would like it to be brewed. There’s even an option to pick the cup size, allowing you to prepare the perfect amount of tea. No wastage here!

5. The Skagerak Edge Terracotta Teapot

Inspired by ancient Greek and Egyptian craftsmanship, the Skagerak Edge Terracotta Teapot is a beautiful rustic product that helps you experience a real tea-brewing experience. Created primarily from terracotta, the teapot is matte from the outside and glazed from the inside. The glazed interior makes it quite easy to wash! The teapot also features a curved handle built from teak, which is also extremely easy to hold and handle. Two brass pins on the handle and a little brass topper on the lid handle add a stunning metallic contrast to the otherwise raw and organic-looking product.

6. The Inclusivitea kettle

The Inclusivitea kettle highlights the two biggest problem areas when it comes to using a kettle – the filling and the pouring. The redesigned kettle comes with two handlebar-shaped arms that let you easily carry it to fill it up with water. Dock it in the stand and plug the kettle into a power outlet and it begins brewing your tea. Once your tea’s ready, simply put the cup in its dedicated zone right under the kettle and press the main button that both filters the tea and dispenses it right into the cup. The dispensing stops once you release the button, completely eliminating any chances of over-filling your cup and/or spilling tea all over the place.

7. The Blue Project

Andersson and Fransson created The Blue Project, featuring an electric tea kettle that provides users with feedback to help promote sustainable use. To keep users from overfilling their kettles, The Blue Project’s electric kettle features a water controller that forces its user to settle on a predetermined measure of water before filling the kettle up with water. In addition to the water controller, Andersson’s and Fransson’s tea kettle comes equipped with a temperature regulator that increases in resistance as the kettle’s user increases its temperature, providing a tangible source of feedback to show the increase in resources needed for higher temperatures.

8. The Cat Loose Leaf Tea Mug & Infuser

The Cat Loose Leaf Tea Mug & Infuser is the perfect little product for all the cat + tea lovers out there! The cat-shaped mug features a built-in infuser. The little infuser is shaped like a fish, and can perfectly hold your loose tea leaf. The handle of the mug has been shaped after a cat’s tail! The mug is also transparent from the center, so you can keep an eye on how your tea is being steeped. The kitty-inspired mug/infuser is purrfect for adding a fun twist to your afternoon cuppa!

9. Hu-Kou

Comprised of a carrying case, tea bowl, and three teacups, Hu-Kou comes with everything you might need for an excellent cup of tea. Specifically molded to feel ergonomic by design, Hu-Kou’s tea bowl is shaped like a triangle with a built-in spout that allows users to pour tea directly from the bowl without having to remove the lid beforehand. Fit within a silicone carrying case, Hu-Kou’s stylish case comes with a shoulder strap so it’s even easier to bring tea on the go. The carrying case keeps enough space to fit the main tea bowl in addition to three teacups.

10. ECLIPSE

Meet the ECLIPSE, a portable tea brewing station that isn’t as limiting or as archaic as the teabag. It combines a travel thermos and a french-press-style brewing system in one easy-to-use, easy-to-carry design, and lets you brew two cups (or one large mug) of the tea of your choice. The inner layer of the ECLIPSE is lined with a ceramic coating to honor the traditional practice of brewing in ceramic teapots (while also ensuring that the tea doesn’t get a metallic or plastic taste) and gives you authority over how strong or mild you want your tea to be by letting you control brew-times.

The post Sleek tea makers to brew that perfect cuppa every morning first appeared on Yanko Design.