Six pieces of simple and minimal tech – from a dumb phone to a low-tech laptop, and a radio designed for dementia patients – that promise to counter the impact of information overload and unnecessary feature creep
Buying tech to cure us of our tech addiction is a curious sticking plaster for a problem that cuts much deeper. Nevertheless, some companies are now creating devices that eschew bells, whistles, nudges, and pokes for a more holistic and hassle-free engagement with technology. Whether it’s to spur on the creative flow, improve accessibility, or simple to better blend into the background to create a more seamless space, here are six examples of contemporary gadgets that strive not to stand out. 1.
The user then has instant access to the presets via the main controls, with no way of accidentally de-tuning the radio. The design is soft-edged and friendly, eschewing any overt branding and labelling. The company’s aim is to ensure the familiar and reassuring sound of music and talk radio remains accessible to those who can no longer operate even the simplest conventional device.
XGIMI’s new Magic Lamp is a roof-mounted projector system currently only offered in China. The company has carved a niche in the home projection market, and many of its products are available elsewhere in the world – like the ultra-portable Halo+ – so the Magic Lamp might yet shine in your home. As the name suggests, the glowing disc doubles up as a room light, with a clever bespoke short-throw projection system that’s kept away from any obstructions.