The “3G sunset” is a consequence of the faster, more efficient 4G LTE and 5G networks taking over signal bandwidth. When it debuted in 2001, 3G was a revolutionary vehicle that opened up the transmission of wireless data, including things like the use of phone apps and the integration of GPS systems into cars. After two decades, however, technology has moved on, with wireless providers needing more wavelengths to fully support their 5G resources. In fact, if all the 3G signals are not taken down, 5G won’t be as fast as it’s meant to be. So, the convenience of the less than one percent of American cell phone users (unfortunately mostly elderly and low-income) still on the antiquated network is being sacrificed for the sake of progress.

Phones

This should not be news to anyone at this point. All the major cell phone carriers have made efforts to contact all their clients still using 3G devices, in many cases even offering incentive programs to upgrade customers for little or no cost to 4G or 5G phones. And for those who want the simplicity of the earlier devices, most brands still sell flip phones or models with large buttons. Those who have old 3G devices stashed for emergencies should call and cancel those lines to avoid paying for unusable services.

If you bought a phone in the last 10 years, you most likely have 4G or 5G connectivity and the end of 3G may not seem like a big deal. However, there are actually plenty of non-phone devices that only use 3G, some of which you may never have even considered. For example, early generation iPads, Kindles, and older Chromebooks will no longer be able to connect to cellular data networks after the 3G sunset.

Auto Data Functions

One major source of frustration for many people will be the end of connectivity with their car data functions. Plenty of carmakers were still installing 3G technology even up until the beginning of 2022. The shutdown could affect everything from GPS navigation and automatic crash notifications systems to emergency buttons and remote entry features. While some auto companies are planning free upgrades, numerous brands including Chrysler, Hyundai, Lexus, Nissan, Toyota, and BMW are basically telling their customers “too bad, so sad.”

The affected vehicles extend to commercial and public fleets, as well. About 10 percent of all public school buses will lose GPS and communications services after the sunset, according to the School Superintendents Association. And many public bus systems around the country will be no longer be able to display real-time route information after the switch.

Alarm Systems

Some home security systems and medical alert devices will also lose connection after the 3G sunset. While the eventual end has been in sight for several years, the time that those companies would have spent upgrading and swapping out new equipment was taken up by a global pandemic, when people were locked down and not allowing workers into their homes, and when factories shut down and supply chains were totally disrupted. While all of the major carriers have delayed their 3G expiration dates to account for these obstacles, the odds are that many alarm companies will not be caught up before service is lost.

If you have concerns about any one of these issues, time is of the essence. Contact your phone provider, auto dealership, or alarm company to find out if your devices use 3G and what options are available to stay connected after the network gives up the ghost for good.

The post The End of 3G and What It Means for You first appeared on Dornob.

Even if you haven’t traveled down the once-daily rabbit hole of Worldle-dom yourself, you’ve most likely seen those little green and yellow tiles all over your social media feed as people post their prowess with the word of the day like clockwork. Rather than being annoying, however, this little quirk is just one of many things that makes Wordle so charming.

But what exactly is it?

A cross between Boggle and a mini-crossword (sans clues), Wordle’s underlying charm lies in its simplicity. Basically, you have six tries to guess a five letter word. As you fill in your guesses on the grid, the letters light up after each turn – gray for incorrect, yellow for correct but in the wrong place, and green for right place, right letter. That’s it. That’s the game.

So how has such a seemingly banal word game taken social media (and by extension, the whole world) by storm?

While many have issued their hypotheses in the past weeks over what it is that makes Wordle so appealing, the answer may be as simple as the game itself. It’s fun, it hits that sweet spot of logic and luck, and it’s easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Plus, it only takes a couple of minutes out of your day – a couple minutes to just focus on the soothing grid without being inundated with outside stimulus (COVID! News! COVID!) No pop-ups, no muss, no fuss. Just a website that you visit daily for a soothing word balm.

Like the game itself, Wordle’s origin story is surprisingly simple. Looking to create a word game for his partner (who like many of us, loves word games), software engineer Josh Wardle created the game with a pun on his name: Wordle. After sharing it with friends and family, it became clear that the game was something special, prompting Wardle’s decision to go public with the great grid game in October 2021.

And with millions of daily users, it was only a matter of time before Wordle took a leap into further pop-culture fame. At the end of last month, the online sensation was sold to the New York Times for “a low seven figures,” according to a statement from the newspaper. A perfect fit for NYT games like the daily crossword and Spelling Bee, Wordle will, unlike some of its NYT Games fellows, remain free for the time being, and fans will be happy to know their wins and streaks will be preserved, too. It’s unclear if the game will end up behind a paywall in the future, but what is certain is that Wordle isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

It’s hard to say what exactly has made Wordle so popular, but it may be down to the fact that in these uncertain times, a game like Wordle adds a much needed break from reality while still, despite its internet popularity, managing to keep its charm and appeal. And that, more than anything, is a great reason to tip your cap to Mr. Wardle for a job well done.

The post Wordle Wows with Wonderful Wordplay first appeared on Dornob.

The video game store is modeled after the company’s Oregon headquarters and allows players to play rounds of “Tag,” “The Floor is Lava,” and “Dodgeball” with their online avatars. Participants can also design their own mini-games using interactive sports gear.

“Nike created this bespoke world with the backdrop of its world headquarters and inside Roblox’s immersive 3D space, building on its goal to turn sport and play into a lifestyle,” the company said in an official press release.

More importantly for the sportswear giant, gamers can outfit their avatars with digital brand merchandise like hats, shirts, cleats, and of course, sneakers.

“Experience global football in an official Roblox colorway of the Mercurial football boot,” the press release reads. “Gear up in classics like the Air Force 1 and Nike Blazer and in new drops like the Air Force 1 Fontanka and the Air Max 2021. All can be found in the digital showroom, along with a host of other Nike apparel staples like ACG and Nike Tech Pack.”

Players can earn these products by collecting Gold Medals in NIKELAND. That requires completing competitions, building up yards, exploring, and finding Easter eggs. Additionally, Nike fans can purchase any of the exclusive apparel in the digital showroom.

The company is also creating an augmented reality experience in its flagship store in New York to merge the digital and physical realities. “Nike’s commitment to inspiring the advancement and innovation of the future of sports experiences will continue this December when the brand brings the immersive world of Roblox and NIKELAND to life at Nike’s HOI (House of Innovation) in New York.”

Using a Snapchat filter, people visiting the kids’ floor there will be able to “see the space transformed into an augmented reality version of NIKELAND, including its signature avatars, fun games to play, and NIKELAND-inspired Easter eggs to find.”

The Roblox foray could prove to be a lucrative new branch of the company’s revenue streams. The global metaverse market is forecasted to produce over $6 billion in 2021. Some experts believe it could reach $41 billion within another five years.

Further evidence that Nike is planning to build up their virtual reality presence can be found on their job boards. With an October 23rd job listing for a “Virtual Material Designer of Footwear” among other virtual design roles, the company is calling for a “Digital Product Creation group” that will focus on “igniting the digital and virtual revolution at Nike.”

The athletic wear brand is also taking steps to protect their intellectual property in the broader metaverse. In late October 2021, the company filed seven applications with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, among which were the terms “Nike,” “Air Jordan,” “Jumpman,” the brand’s slogan “Just Do It,” and its iconic swoosh logo.

Having ownership of their catchphrases and names will help them police the use of their intellectual property across the many digital universes that are exploding in popularity across the globe.

The post Nike Poised to Make Metaverse Profits with New Roblox NIKELAND first appeared on Dornob.

So when trusted news outlet Bloomberg reported that there was a Nintendo Switch Pro coming soon with an upgraded screen and possible 4K output, everyone started to get their hopes up.

Gamers were thrilled with the idea that a new Switch would be able to keep up with other modern consoles and play the latest games currently only available on the more expensive offerings from Sony’s PlayStation, Microsoft’s Xbox, or on a gaming PC. The timing also made perfect sense, as 2021’s E3 convention was fast approaching, itself historically a time when video game companies make the year’s biggest announcements.

To date, there’s only been one very minor upgrade to the original Switch system, which brought more robust battery life to the console. Of course, that system wasn’t really a new iteration, but instead the model that replaced the original Switch on store shelves sometime in late 2019. There was also the release of the Switch Lite in 2019, a cheaper alternative that operates as a handheld-only device and doesn’t come with the detachable joy-con controllers.

Well, E3 2021 came and went, and Nintendo announced nothing about a new system. But then, on July 6th, the company gently announced the “new member of the Nintendo Switch family” on Twitter: The OLED Switch.

Meet the newest entry to the #NintendoSwitch family! Nintendo Switch (OLED model) brings the versatility of the Nintendo Switch experience with a vibrant 7-inch OLED screen, a wide adjustable stand, and more. Nintendo Switch (OLED model) releases on 10/8.https://t.co/zRpGxakJDn pic.twitter.com/Tsc55r35ay

— Nintendo of America (@NintendoAmerica) July 6, 2021

The announcement, however, seems to have left people slightly disappointed. None of the most requested features of a Switch Pro are here. No 4K output, no better chipset, no Bluetooth headset connectivity. So who exactly is the OLED Nintendo Switch for?

The main upgrade to the system is the OLED screen. Slightly bigger than on the original Switch, it also boasts a more vibrant, brighter picture in handheld mode. Other upgrades to the system include better speakers and an improvement on the less-than-stellar original Switch kickstand — great news for folks who like to play the console in tabletop mode. The new system also comes with 64 GB of internal storage, doubling the original system’s 32 GB.

On top of that, the new Switch dock comes with a built-in LAN port for those gamers that want an extra-steady connection to the internet for online gaming. Originally, if you wanted to hardwire your internet to the system, you needed to purchase a separate LAN adaptor that would connect to one of the system’s USB ports. But even besides the LAN port, the new dock looks great, with an attractive white coloring that will be sure to stand out on your entertainment center.

But do these minor upgrades justify a $50 increase in price? The original Switch (which will still be available to purchase) is available for $299.99, while the OLED model will cost $349.99 when it’s released this October.

If you’ve had a Switch since launch day and it’s starting to show wear both cosmetically and in the way of battery life, then we see no reason not to upgrade to the new one. All of your existing accessories will work with it, and you’ll be getting a battery that has the potential to work three times as long in handheld mode.

However, if you have a more recent Switch with already-increased battery life, the answer becomes a bit trickier. If you tend to split your time evenly between docked and handheld modes and you don’t feel like you can live without a bigger, brighter screen, then this might be the upgrade for you. If you only ever play in docked mode, then you won’t notice any changes to the system except for the cosmetic one made to the dock.

If you’ve somehow resisted the Switch for this long but are thinking of finally picking up the system (which in general comes highly recommended, as the Switch’s game library is second to none), then this is absolutely the system for you. The addition of the LAN port in the dock for online gaming basically makes the purchase worth it.

https://youtu.be/4mHq6Y7JSmg

The bottom line is this: if you primarily play your Switch in handheld mode and the boost in size and brightness appeals to you, then this is a decent upgrade. However, if you already own a Switch and play almost exclusively in docked mode, then there is little here to recommend upgrading. If you already own a Switch Lite but wish you could also dock your system for some TV gaming, then this is the system for you, as you likely value the ability to play in handheld mode, too. Finally, if you don’t have any Switch system in your possession, then the new OLED Nintendo Switch is definitely the way to go. But, no matter which one you choose, you can’t go wrong with any of the systems in the Nintendo Switch family. After all, any device that lets you stomp Goombas, explore the hills of Hyrule, and pay all of your hard-earned bells to Tom Nook is easily worth its weight in Mushroom Coins. Let’s-a go!

The post Is Nintendo’s New OLED Switch Model Worth the $350 Price Tag? first appeared on Dornob.

“We often hear from creators that they’d love just a little more time to bring their cooking demos, elaborate beauty tutorials, educational lesson plans, and comedic sketches to life with TikTok’s creative tools,” the company explained in a blog post. “With all the ways our community has redefined expression in under 60 seconds, we’re excited to see how people continue to entertain and inspire with a few more seconds — and a world of creative possibilities.”

TikTok famously began with ultra-short 15-second time limits for its clips, which it then extended by allowing users to string together up to four video segments for a 60-second total. Those limitations might have been annoying for people who struggled to fit anything meaningful into a 15-second time period, but it also challenged people to get creative with how they filled that time. Back then, the clips were little more than flashes of content designed to intrigue or make you laugh. Users who skyrocketed to popularity in those days mastered the art of getting to the point as quickly as possible.

https://www.tiktok.com/@chowderthebulldog/video/6955396439560244486?referer_url=https%3A%2F%2Fnewsroom.tiktok.com%2F&referer_video_id=6955396439560244486&refer=embed

https://www.tiktok.com/@asta.darling/video/6954805082588269829?referer_url=https%3A%2F%2Fnewsroom.tiktok.com%2F&referer_video_id=6954805082588269829&refer=embed

Now, with a three-minute limit, users will be able to do a lot more with TikTok. Tutorials, guides, promotional videos, short films, and whatever else users dream up will be far more convenient to create and consume, potentially making TikTok feel similar to competitors Instagram and YouTube, for better or worse. Part of what makes the app so addicting for many users is how quickly the content streams by as you watch, holding your interest no matter how short your attention span may be. But longer content could change that dynamic, making us all more likely to skip clips that drag on a little too long.

The outrageously popular Chinese social media company will also begin using automated reviewing systems to hunt down videos with graphic content, sex, violence, nudity, and illegal activities, as well as content that violates its minor safety policy. The system will remove any videos suspected to contain such content and the creators will be given opportunities to appeal to human moderators if they believe the removal was an error. TikTok previously used all human moderators in the U.S., many of whom reported developing PTSD-like symptoms from the “volume of distressing videos” they were forced to watch.

Of course, computers still make mistakes, so TikTok users will likely see a period of heavy-handed automated takedowns before the system gets a little better at deciding what to remove. There’s also the fact that TikTok has a history of discriminatory moderation, intentionally deleting or shadow banning videos with LGBT-related hashtags and suppressing content by disabled, queer, and overweight creators, and it remains to be seen whether these problems continue or worsen using AI.

The post TikTok is Encouraging Longer Videos With a New 3-Minute Time Limit first appeared on Dornob.

It all started when Neuralink co-founder Max Hodak said on Twitter, “We could probably build Jurassic Park if we wanted to. Wouldn’t be genetically authentic dinosaurs but [shrug emoji]. Maybe 15 years of breeding + engineering super exotic novel species.”

He followed that tweet up with another musing about whether humans going to unprecedented lengths to play God might actually help conservation efforts. “Biodiversity (anti-fragility) is definitely valuable; conservation is important and makes sense. But why do we stop there? Why don’t we more intentionally try to generate novel diversity?”

Some interpreted these statements as a declaration of Neuralink’s ability to pull such a thing off. While their work is impressive (and kind of scary), as far as anyone knows, the company is nowhere close to achieving that level of technology. Neuralink’s primary project is developing “ultra high bandwidth brain-machine interfaces” that connect humans with computers, a pretty bold goal in its own right. They’ve successfully implanted these chips into the brain of a pig and of a monkey, recently releasing footage showing the monkey playing video games using only its brain.

Hodak hasn’t stepped up to clarify his remarks, but it’s likely that the “we” in his statement referred more broadly to humanity as a whole rather than to his own company. As CNET explains, actually resurrecting dinosaurs is virtually impossible. While the films (and source material, author Michael Crichton’s books of the same name) are premised upon retrieving dino DNA from mosquitoes in amber, that genetic information has spent millions of years degrading and would almost certainly be unusable. However, some more recently extinct animals could be candidates for “de-extinction.”

“We can still extract DNA from these creatures and could theoretically build and implant a mammoth embryo in a modern-day elephant,” says CNET. “The question is: should we? Jurassic Park offers a pretty good reason not to, but mammoths aren’t quite as bloodthirsty as Tyrannosaurus rex.”

Now that actually does make sense, especially considering the fact that the sixth mass extinction of wildlife is currently accelerating, and it’s mostly our fault. We’re about to lose a heartbreaking number of creatures, with about 500 species of land animals likely to go extinct within twenty years – the same number we lost over the whole of the last century. But rather than trying to bring back dead animals, how about we try a little harder to protect the ones we have, and keep our planet alive while we’re at it? Just a thought.

The post Neuralink Co-Founder Sets Sights on Real-Life Jurassic Park first appeared on Dornob.

With its 139,000 members, the Repaintings online community has posted thousands of funny retouched secondhand art. The group’s summary and invitation reads, “Find a painting at a garage sale, thrift store, or in the trash and repaint it. Add some monsters! Add a UFO! Some lasers? Don’t mind if I do! Post the results. Before and After pics appreciated.”

The rules are simple: the art must make an attempt at humor, no digital art (only good-old-fashioned by-hand techniques), and no memes or politics.

The artwork ranges in skill from rudimentary to masterful, with themes all over the board. Even our COVID-19 times get a shoutout with a recent poster featuring a nursery bookshelf scene that transforms into the “A-paw-calypse,” with all the stuffed animals in face and gas masks.

Another poster capitalized on the recent Bernie Sanders mitten craze by painting the sitting senator with his iconic handwear at the table in an old café setting.

Cartoon figures and video game icons are a particularly popular insertion by posters. One formerly serene beach background now features SpongeBob and Patrick running across the sand to greet Gary the sea snail. Another finds the Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine stuck in a river. Mario and Luigi and their pals race cars under an old stone bridge in one remake, and a giant Meowth hot air balloon carries Team Rocket through a snowy mountain setting as Ash and Pikachu look on in another. One post even turns a vista of rising birds into the video game Duck Hunt.

Others take on pop culture references from live-action Hollywood. One 18th-century damsel gets a makeover as a Ghostbuster, complete with backpack and gun pointed at Slimer. In another post, we see Darth Vader from behind, sitting in a lifeguard tower, gazing out at the seagulls and ocean as his black cape flaps in the wind. One clever crafter attached a Demi-gorgon head to a dog on the cover of an old Life magazine. And a young maid in an impressionistic field of pastels gets the shock of her life when the canvas is ripped up to reveal a leering Jack Nicholson shouting, “Here’s Johnny!”

A few art transformations make a nod to literature. One still life now shows a tiny Alice in Wonderland looking up at the mocking tiger lilies and daisies. The Kraken from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea makes an appearance in another post to wrap its tentacles around a few sailing vessels. And one hints at the childhood favorite Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs as syrupy waffles invade the sky over a winter barn scene.

One talented artist gave a 1700s girl the Haunted Mansion treatment, painting a parrot on her shoulder and skeletons to both that can only be seen in UV light. Another macabre offering is the words “they won’t ever find your body” affixed to a painted plate that originally only showed a rowboat docked in the marshy grass between trees.

Amazon gets its own tribute, with a Victorian schoolhouse metamorphosing into a shipping warehouse, complete with kids filling, sealing, and stacking packages.

And then there are the just plain silly ones. A banana gets duct-taped to a lofty mountain in one post, while a curious cow’s snout takes up the foreground of a landscape in another. A dignified Renaissance gent gets a pie to the side of his face, and a series of floral vases turn into goofy monster faces.

Even though this online community got its start back in 2014, long before COVID, its members are still providing some much-needed laughs in today’s socially-distanced world.

The post Online Community Retouches Thrift Store Art for Laughs first appeared on Dornob.

Mars House is a digital house. According to the platform where the home design was sold, it’s the first digital home ever sold. While that automatically earns it the title of the biggest sale for a home-design NFT ever, it might be a while before another digital house fetches 288 ETH, which is the cryptocurrency equivalent of $514,557.79.

Krista Kim has made a name for herself as an inspiration in the techism movement – an artform that combines art and technology. It’s a branding that inevitably increased the dollar amount on the final sale of Mars House. However, the project likely also garnered attention thanks to Kim’s collaboration with Jeff Schroeder of the Smashing Pumpkins.

Adding to the artistic and design aspects of the digital house is the focus on human well-being. According to Kim, the Mars House was created to be a healing atmosphere. Especially during the pandemic, she has embraced a Digital Zen philosophy that raises mental health awareness.

To further promote the cause, the majority of the proceeds were put towards the Continuum Foundation, as reported by Kim in a tweet following the sale that read, “@ARTofInternet is the new owner of Mars House and we will put the majority of proceeds to our Continuum Foundation, which will support a world tour of healing sound and light installations for mental health and healing. NFTs can do powerful social good by empowering artists.”

The Mars House was inspired by the architecture of Kyoto, although Kim further expanded on the tradition using digital aids to ultra-modernize. Since the intent was to formulate a meditative space, the floorplan is open and reflective – literally – with floors, ceilings, and furniture made of glass. In honor of the Earth, all decor and building supplies inside the home stem from renewable materials. Jeff’s musical contribution soundtracks it all with a calming composition that floats through every room.

NFTs (Non-fungible tokens) combine digital works with a specific type of blockchain that provides a unique signature to each one. This encryption means there is only one owner and one product, effectively enabling the creation of a virtual art market for emerging and established artists to develop, buy, and sell their work. In the case of Krista Kim’s Mars House, it also serves as a medium to promote the cause of improved mental health.

“As a Techism artist, I am challenging the power [of] NFT as an art medium. Mars House will live forever as an NFT, so let it represent an art movement for humanity through the power of digital technology. Let it remind future generations that we are here to create a new and better world,” Kim says. “The NFT can become an agent of positive social change through empowerment of artist-led initiatives, and Jeff and myself are ready to show how it is done.”

The post Artist Krista Kim and Musician Jeff Schroeder Sell Digital NFT House for Over $500k first appeared on Dornob.

The test, produced by DxTerity Diagnostics, “is the first at-home saliva test to receive Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA for symptomatic and asymptomatic testing,” according to a statement released by the online mega-retailer on January 5th.

The FDA originally approved the test on December 9th, becoming available for purchase through Amazon just last week. An individual test sells for $110 but is likely reimbursable through FSA, HSA, and insurance plans. Businesses or individuals can also purchase a 10-pack of tests for $1000. Either option offers free shipping to you, and prepaid express return shipping gets the sample to the lab at no additional cost.

“We have demonstrated the reliability and quality of our COVID-19 testing solution with big business, and now we want to expand access to customers at home and small businesses,” says Bob Terbrueggen, Ph.D., Founder and CEO of DxTerity. “Amazon is the perfect partner for expanding access to millions of U.S. customers.”
Terbrueggen is referring to DxTerity’s COVID-19 testing solutions that have already been provided to over 130 U.S. corporate partners, including numerous Fortune 500 companies, global pharmaceutical organizations, and entertainment groups.

Perhaps best of all, this test doesn’t include the dreaded nasal swab. Instead it relies on saliva. Only a small sample is needed, too, so collection involves nothing more than spitting into a tube. That tube is then sent to a lab in LA, where the diagnostics are run. To send it in, users must register and submit a physician’s authorization using an online portal, and then drop off the sample at a FedEx collection location on the same day the test is taken. Results typically come in 24 to 72 hours after the sample arrives at the lab.

This mail-order version can be used for both symptomatic and asymptomatic testing at home or in the office. It can be an especially useful tool in a work environment or in advance of a family gathering, since an estimated 40 percent or more of COVID-positive patients don’t exhibit any outward symptoms. It is unsupervised, of course, so it might not fulfill some travel requirements. The test also has other limitations in that it doesn’t confirm immunity or identify existing antibodies.

The FDA has approved other types of home tests, each with their own availability, procedure, and reliability. These include products from Ellume, Lucira Health, and Abbott Laboratories. Priced between $25 to $50, these tests are less expensive than the DxTerity Diagnostics variety, but they aren’t nearly as easy to obtain since they’re not yet available on Amazon. Another possible obstacle is the reliability of these tests. For example, the nasal swab offering from Ellume is 96-percent accurate for those having symptoms, and 91-percent effective for those without. There is no lab involved and results are available in 20 minutes. Unfortunately, rapid tests like this one result in a small number of false positives and negatives, so they still require follow-up in the form of confirmation by another test. Another option by Everlywell is ordered directly from the company, arriving in two to six days. You then self-administer a lower nasal swab sample collection and overnight ship it to the lab. Although the cost is $109 up front, customers can then submit the receipt for reimbursement through their insurance company.

Ultimately, the best testing option for you depends on the situation in your area, as it can often take several days to obtain a test in person. You should also consider the reason for your getting tested, and whether or not the results will be considered reliable for your needs. To avoid unexpected expenses, check with your insurance company regarding their policy on reimbursement before ordering any at-home COVID-19 test.

The post You Can Now Order Your COVID-19 Test Through Amazon first appeared on Dornob.

But across the Atlantic, in Milan, Italian TikTokkers are doing things a little differently. “Defhouse” is a 5,380-square-foot penthouse decked out in colorful Memphis Design-style decor. Currently housing eight up-and-coming social media stars between the ages of 16 and 20, Defhouse was created by the digital company Web Stars Channel Group (WSC), which specializes in strategic marketing for influencers.

“The Collab Houses all around the world have a very similar style: very soft, very enlightened, with a few objects and a few colored elements, making the social connection to the person and not to the space,” says Giuseppe Greco, artistic director of WSC. “We wanted to do the opposite: we put in a lot of color, and a lot of elaborate patterns that maybe create confusion, but make the contributions unique.”

There’s nothing subtle about Defhouse. Virtually every surface is splashed with vivid contrasting patterns and eclectic objects, from neon ghosts above the beds to calligraphic glow-in-the-dark hallways. Cloud-shaped lighting hangs above the retro mishmash of the living room. Doodles are scrawled across the surface of every drawer and cabinet in the kitchen, where residents walk on a mural of the sky while gazing up at another mural of vegetables. Some of the patterns seen on the walls come straight from the work of Ettore Sottsass, founder of the design collective Memphis Group.

Does this mean Memphis Design, the postmodern Milanese movement that began in 1981, is popular with teenagers? Not necessarily, though it is making a comeback in the wider world of design. Art director John Pentassuglia says the concept was borne from the idea that young influencers are “children of pop,” and WSC wanted to take some of those jarring, offbeat, and irreverent influences and reinvent them for a new generation. The result feels a little frenetic, reflecting the fast-paced nature of digital content and viral fame, but Defhouse residents seem to love it.

“The house is our paradise, is tailor-made for us,” 20-year-old influencer Simone Berlini told Domus. “Every wall and object can be used as a background and as props: we can use any element to get an idea for a video. It’s another life for us, having all these possibilities.”

Defhouse is meant to be both a stage and a talent incubator, set apart from American collab houses in a way that’s visibly Milanese. It’s not a reality show, says WSC. The house’s young residents go about their normal lives while living there, though they’re also being trained in subjects like acting, diction, and sustainability and expected to generate content on a regular basis. They’re “working,” and while that work often looks like partying, it can be very lucrative. Some of the highest earning TikTokkers bring in $5 million a year.

The post Milan’s TikTok Collab House Takes Cues from the Memphis Design Movement first appeared on Dornob.

Brushstroke “Wallpaper”

This technique requires no special skills, but the effect is uber chic. Uploaded by @tiktokeyedoc, this designer made use of paint and a good brush to trick our eyes into seeing wallpaper where there was none. To recreate the look, simply decide how far apart you want your paint dashes to be and go for it. This is a project that might even be done while you’re at home on one of your many work conference calls.

DIY Hexagon Wall Shelves

You’ve got to watch the video to see how simple it is to make these trendy hexagon shelves. @bretomolonis/TikTok whipped up several of these cute shapes for just $25. Just get your hands on some wood, a mitre saw, painters tape, and adhesive glue, and voila! Stylish geometric shelves worthy of any space. These little beauties are perfect for holding succulents, crafts, or any other sort of trinket.

Up-Styled Builder-Grade Door

Most interior hollow-core doors offer little in the way of architectural interest. This viral TikTok design hack by @jacklyndorminy adds a herringbone wood façade and some black paint to a standard door, transforming it into a functional work of art.

Yarn Wall Hanging

@reillybrown made this fabulous wall decor from a craft loop and some carefully chosen colored yarn. You could make one just like this, or get creative and invent your own pattern.

Cottagecore Orange Garland

Dried orange garland is an age-old Christmas trimming, but due to the cottagecore aesthetic taking the social media scene by storm this year, a simple garland of wildflowers and sweet-smelling oranges can now be any-time decor. This string of dried nature, uploaded by @thekwendyhome, perfectly highlights the simpler life that cottagecore fans adore.

Paint Stick Lampshade

This stunning DIY lampshade cover from @fromgrittopearl is constructed from nothing more than paint sticks and two wooden rings. If you angle your computer screen just right during your Zoom meetings, it can be a great conversation piece.

Dreamy Office Pegboard

With everyone creating home office spaces in 2020, you can give yours a little boho flair with this painted wall pegboard by @narwhalcarouselco.

Inkblots Gallery Wall

Think your psyche could use a little analyzing after many months of social distancing? This gallery wall of ink blots by @houseofhipsters might just do the trick. You can find sets of Rorschach test prints on Etsy, but the real mental quiz may be whether you can actually hang them all in a perfect grid.

IKEA Coffee Table Hack

@officially.alicia.p made this Scandi style coffee table from an IKEA cutting board and basket. Her video shows the table supporting a gym weight of 44 pounds, making the easy mashup charming and strong.

If you’re still hungry for more design inspo, the TikTok app has millions of other videos highlighting every kind of style and skill level to whet your quarantine project appetite.

The post 9 DIY TikTok Decor Projects to Brighten Up Your Quarantine first appeared on Dornob.

Couches

Having personally bought a couch and chairs from Wayfair recently, I can attest to the company’s excellent customer service and expedient delivery. Check out the living room furniture discounted up to 70 percent. Although we question whether the original price is inflated on some of these, the sale amounts are still hard to beat.

For example, the Bjorn 59 Wide Rolled Arm Settee is currently just $319.99.

Kitchen Workspace

It never seems like we have enough counter space, so take a look at the various kitchen carts on sale this year, including this Delesha Multifunction Prep Table with Wood Top reduced from $339 to $186.99.

Area Rugs

While Wayfair offers frequent discounts on rugs, this sale is fairly comprehensive, with a large variety to choose from. This 5 x 7 Warlick Oriental Gray/Taupe Area Rug dropped from $226.10 to $61.99, and that’s just one example.

Bedding

You’ll see discounts up to 80 percent off in Wayfair’s bedding department, so it’s a pretty good time to replace the sheets or comforter. This Acosta 2 Piece Reversible Quilt Set is a great example, regularly priced at $99.99 and now just $32.99. See the full collection here.

Office Furniture

We all know 2020 has been the year of the home office. If you’re looking for an upgrade or a gift, check out these office furniture deals. For example, this nearly perfectly-rated Augustus 25.62″ H x 60″ W Metal Etagere Bookcase is now $139.99, a whopping 53 percent off the regular $299.99.

Appliances

If you’re in the market for a new refrigerator or washer and dryer set, the GE sale here offers some great deals. These prices match or are lower than other similar sales we’ve seen by home improvement chain stores. And with up to 40 percent off all GE appliances, it might just be time to move into the world of smart appliances with the 30″ GE Profile Smart Appliances 600 CFM Convertible Under Cabinet With Wi-Fi, now $399. If you’re hoping to replace multiple fixtures, take advantage of the Wayfair gift cards in the following amounts: two appliances $50; three appliances $100; four appliances $200; five appliances $300; six appliances $600, seven or more appliances $700.

Wall Art

Central to any interior design style, wall art makes a great gift to both yourself and others. With discounts of up to 80 percent in this department, Wayfair is the place to shop. Go colorful and a bit abstract with this “Cosmic Voyage 187” by Jonas Gerard – Print starting at just $30.99. You can choose from a canvas, black frame, or white frame in a variety of sizes. Another option is the serene “New Dawn” by Carol Robinson Photographic Print on Wrapped Canvas, available in three sizes with a price tag starting at $29.99.

Closeout Deals

Be sure to check out the closeout section for deep discounts on a variety of items in all areas of the house. For example, the Marotta Desk by Mercury Row in the espresso color option is reduced to $184.99 (from $234.99), and the Carmon Ceramic Garden Tool is slashed from $507 to $83.99. These items are not specifically part of Wayfair’s Black Friday savings and are in very limited supply, but while you’re there it’s a section you definitely shouldn’t overlook.

The post The Best Deals from Wayfair’s 2020 Cyber Week Sale first appeared on Dornob.

So is it worth it to get Apple’s new HomePod Mini? The short answer is yes, especially if you already own a host of Apple products, because the Mini introduces some features the others just don’t have.

Unveiled last month alongside the new iPhone 12 lineup, the HomePod Mini ($99) is a smaller, more affordable, and more versatile take on the original HomePod ($299). It’s a lot more than just a speaker, though it does its primary job with surprising power for such a compact object. Diminutive enough to hold in the palm of your hand, the 3.3-inch acoustic mesh-wrapped (and appropriately apple-shaped) HomePod Mini is virtually unnoticeable on a table or shelf, and it’s available in white or space gray.

First of all, it’s brilliantly simple to pair two HomePods. They automatically recognize each other and separate into left and right channels for true stereo sound. Plus, they’re easily loud enough to fill a room, offering clear and distinct bass, treble, and mid sounds without distortion. Naturally, the HomePod Mini works with Apple Music, but also podcasts, radio stations, iHeartRadio, and TuneIn, with support for Amazon Music and Pandora coming shortly.

A three-microphone array listens for Siri commands while a fourth microphone isolates sound coming from the speaker so it can still hear you while music is playing. It’s even capable of providing a personalized experience, identifying the voices of up to six people in your household to tailor music and podcasts to their preferences and automatically connect to their phones through a U1 Ultra Wideband chip. Visual, audio, and haptic responses make it clear when the speaker has switched from one user to another.

It even functions as an intercom, allowing you to tell everyone in the house it’s time for dinner through a voice message and push notifications on iOS devices (activated by saying “Siri, tell everyone…”). Like the original HomePod, the Mini can also serve as a hub to control all HomeKit-compatible smart home accessories from within and outside your home. One drawback to Apple’s HomeKit ecosystem is the fact that it still offers fewer compatible smart home devices compared to Amazon and Google, though if you’re tech-handy you can use plugins from Homebridge to connect non-HomeKit devices.

Part of the reason the HomePod never took off like the Echo or Google Home was its considerably higher price tag, along with the fact that earlier versions of Siri weren’t quite as nimble as the competition. The Mini solves those issues, and it’s a great introduction to the HomeKit system. If you find you need more powerful speakers after all, the original HomePod features a high-excursion woofer and seven tweeters, a six-microphone array, and the ability to create a home theater effect with Apple’s 4K TV, so it, too, can still be a useful purchase.

The post Is Apple’s New HomePod Mini Worth the Hype? first appeared on Dornob.

From thousands of entries, “The Etsies” selected 100 finalists across ten categories, including category winners, Grand Prize winners, and the first-ever People’s Choice Award winner. You can check out the full list selected by judges Drew Barrymore and Etsy trend expert Dayna Isom Johnson (whom you may know from NBC’s Making It) on the site, though we’ve taken the liberty of narrowing it down to a few personal favorites here:

Grand Prize Winner: Stackton Credenza by AdrianMartinus

“The Stackton Credenza is so beautiful, and at first glance, one would never know that it is actually made out of recycled skateboards…how cool is that?!” says Barrymore of this Grand Prize Winner, which earned creator AdrianMartinus $15,000 in prize money. The rainbow stripes give this sleek piece of furniture ($4,370) a modern, playful, and unique look.

People’s Choice Award Winner: Ombre Gemstone Ring by Dani Barbe

The public chose this lovely ombre stacking ring ($126) by Dani Barbe as its favorite offering, featuring green gemstones set in a hand-hammered gold-plated band made of recycled metal. “With hiddenite, prasiolite, peridot, green tourmaline, emerald, and green garnet (yes, garnet does come in green!), your finger will sparkle in stunning shades of green,” says the seller.

Weddings Category Winner: Estelle Celestial Wedding Dress by Wardrobe by Dulcinea

It’s easy to see why this was a standout entry. After all, Etsy is a great place to find custom wedding gowns you won’t see anywhere else, and Wardrobe by Dulcinea hit a home run with the “Estelle Celestial Wedding Dress” ($888). Made to the buyer’s exact measurements for a perfect fit, the two-piece gown features a bodysuit with cape sleeves and an A-line skirt, all covered in sparkling silver and gold sequin stars.

“My hope is that my separates get worn after the wedding as well, to a festive New Year’s Eve celebration, for example, or an extra-special anniversary dinner,” says designer Inge Stalyte.

Pets Category Winner: Wall Shelf Cat Bed by Cosy and Dozy

Pet furniture is no longer as ugly and utilitarian as it used to be. In fact, some of it is downright cool-looking, adding some flair to the home in its own right. Cosy and Dozy’s Wall Shelf Cat Bed ($207) gives cats the high vantage point they love and features a comfortable and stylish curved design topped with a cushion.

“For us, animals are family members, so we wanted to make sure our two adopted kitties had a place where they’d feel safe and at home,” says Poland-based design duo Magdalena and Wojtek Zajdel.

Art Category Winner: Macrame Plant Hanger by Demi Macrame Designs

We’ve all seen macrame plant hangers galore, but this one is different. Demi Macrame Designs integrated a small planter pocket into the center of a woven wall-hanging art piece ($1,300), recommending vining plants like pothos that will trail down the front in dramatic fashion. “The color story is made possible by the hand-dyed cotton string that accompanies the natural cotton and raffia fibers.”

Finalist: Face Trays by Madriguera Workshop

Embodying hip, pared-down Millennial style, these ceramic Face Trays ($93.90) by Madriguera Workshop look cool as display pieces propped up on a shelf or in practical use as serving plates for parties, and they’re 100-percent handmade.

Entry: Fluted Club Chair by Wren and Cooper

It may not have been a winner, but the Fluted Club Chair by Wren and Cooper definitely still deserves a moment to shine. Solid wood, deeply fluted panels supported by a lacquered steel base with handmade solid brass-brushed feet form its body, which itself is topped with a couple of super comfy-looking cushions. To top it all off, the semi-circle arm rests made of saddle leather give the chair a graphic edge.

The post Shop Our Favorites from the Second Annual Etsy Design Awards first appeared on Dornob.

Stone & Beam “brings traditionally-inspired, casual comfort home designed to marry enduring, rustic style with practicality and the realities of everyday family life.” It’ll especially appeal to fans of Chip and Joanna Gaines’ aesthetic. Rivet combines “the best in midcentury and industrial modern design to bring you beautiful, affordable pieces for your ever-evolving lifestyle.” If you regularly lust over pieces at West Elm, Perigold, and Joybird, this line’s for you.

Here are a few standouts from each line that look much more expensive than they actually are:

Rivet Glass Ball and Metal Table Lamp

Available in either black or brass finish, this modern table lamp features a round milky-white glass shade resting on an angled rod supported by three legs, and its price tag is generally around $60.

Rivet Heather Modern Coffee Table

Available either as a coffee table or side table, this design features a walnut-hued top and base supported by a metal frame with a leather storage section that’s perfect for books and magazines. They range from $133 to $238.

Rivet Mid-Century Bonded Leather Swivel Chair

Whether you use it as an office chair or extra living room seating, this brown leather chair will add both style and comfort to any space it’s in. It features low-slung arms and solid wood legs, and costs $240.

Rivet Mid-Century Modern Wood and Metal 3-Tiered Kitchen Bar Cart

An accordion-style metal frame in gold gives this rolling bar cart some extra pizzazz. The shelves are solid wood, the wheels rotate, and two of them lock, so it’s highly functional, too. Get it for $164.

Stone & Beam Decatur Modern Tufted Wingback Accent Chair

Available in four colors, including gray, silver, oatmeal, and white, this contemporary wingback chair features stitch-tufted fabric, curved sides, and a solid wood frame. Prices range from $372 to $402.

Stone & Beam Alan Casual Wood Console Table

Understated yet high-impact, the “Alan” comes as either a media tower or console table ($548 – $768) and has a textural washed navy surface with gold hardware.

Stone & Beam Classic Home Office Desk

Get Pottery Barn looks for just $240 with this Stone & Beam desk made of solid pine and MDF with a dark espresso finish. It features cross-shaped legs, glass lines, and a drawer for storage.

Stone & Beam Floral Medallion Area Rug

A nice update on more traditional patterns, this contemporary floral medallion rug in wool feels both classic and contemporary. It’s available in a range of sizes and colors, including this beautiful blue. The 8’x10’ is just $402.

The post Stylish and Affordable Furniture Finds from Amazon’s Private Label Brands first appeared on Dornob.

Fictional Map Wall Art

Green-screen Zoom backdrops are so passé, so why not add a personalized touch to your meetings with a poster or map from your favorite movie or book in the background? Many come in various pre-cut sizes, are available custom-cut, and include materials and tools for easy framing.

Logitech C270 Webcam

For the most professional presentations anywhere, you’ll find that this reasonably-priced webcam from Logitech is ideal. The high-definition 30-fps camera self-adjusts to lighting conditions and boasts a noise-reducing mic that cuts out background sounds.

Logitech H390 USB Computer Headset

This comfortable headset not only enhances sound and speaking quality, but it also lets you easily mute the mic or adjust the volume with a handy in-line audio control button. No outside noises are audible with this bad boy on, even if you’re munching on snacks during your meeting.

Logitech C920 Pro HD Webcam

Avid Zoomers love this webcam model, which includes a 78-degree field of view and a 1080p HD picture, so your images are always crisp and clear. Combine that with mics on either side and a frame rate of 60fps, and you’ve practically got yourself a professional camera.

Memory-Foam Lumbar Support Pillow

Sitting for hours at a time can have devastating effects on your body. Zoom in comfort by lining your work chair with a memory-foam lumbar support pillow. Ergonomically constructed, it improves your posture and decreases pressure on your tailbone. For extra comfort, add an extra seat cushion to your chair, too.

Saicoo LED Lamp

If want to look your best for your Zoom meetings every time, it’s important to understand that lighting is everything. This LED lamp makes you look great in a flash: simply adjust its touch-receptive panel to control brightness and color temperature. No need to worry about a low laptop battery, either, since this lamp features a built-in charging port.

Shure MVS Digital Condenser Mic

This digital condenser microphone guarantees flawless sound, and its versatile USB and iOS connectivity let you link it to all kinds of electronic devices. Best of all, an accompanying app makes sharing, recording, and editing a total breeze.

TIJN Blue Light Glasses

Hours of Zooming will inevitably take its toll on your eyes before long. These blue light glasses keep them looking fresh and reduce stress, redness, and irritation by blocking 100 percent of harmful UV rays. Plus, the lightweight frames ensure hours of comfort.

UBeesize Phone Tripod

Nothing works better to keep your Zoom presentation focused like a sturdy tripod with rubber-coated bendable legs and non-stick feet. Even better, this stand comes with a handy remote control for your phone that works as far away as 30 feet.

UBeesize Ring Light With Tripod Stand

If you really feel like optimizing your images, consider splurging on the UBeesize combination ring light and tripod. It includes warm light, daylight, and cool light rings, each of which includes a whopping 11 levels of brightness. An added perk is a remote control that lets you turn on your camera from a distance with your smartphone.

Classic Travel Posters

Add a touch of esteem and cultural savvy to your Zoom profile with vintage travel posters. Choose a favorite vacation spot, a great shot of your hometown, or a dream destination from your bucket list. Keep people wondering by changing them every few months.

The post 11 Items Sure to Make Your Zoom Meetings Better first appeared on Dornob.