All posts tagged: modular

Insta360 Luna Ultra Leaks Reveal 6x Zoom and Modular Design

Insta360 Luna Ultra Leaks Reveal 6x Zoom and Modular Design

Published by skeptic

DJI’s dominance in the pocket camera market may face a new challenge as Insta360 prepares to launch its Luna Ultra. According to TechAvid, the Luna Ultra introduces a modular design that allows users to detach the camera from its handle, offering unprecedented flexibility for capturing unique angles and tight spaces. This feature, combined with a rumored 6x optical zoom, positions the Luna Ultra as a versatile option for creators who demand adaptability in their gear. Meanwhile, DJI’s regulatory delays in the U.S. could give Insta360 a critical window to attract attention and gain market share. Explore how these competing approaches could shape the future of portable cameras. You’ll gain insight into DJI’s focus on dual-camera systems and stabilization improvements, alongside Insta360’s emphasis on creative flexibility and user-centric features. Whether you’re a professional seeking precision or a hobbyist looking for versatility, this feature breaks down the key advancements and market dynamics that are driving innovation in the pocket camera space. TL;DR Key Takeaways : DJI’s Osmo Pocket 4 introduces improved stabilization and better image quality but …

UK small modular reactors deal signed with Rolls-Royce

UK small modular reactors deal signed with Rolls-Royce

Published by skeptic

The UK’s push into next-generation nuclear energy has taken a decisive step forward, with Great British Energy – Nuclear (GBE-N) formally signing a contract with Rolls-Royce SMR. The agreement marks the official start of detailed design work for the first UK small modular reactors, a cornerstone of the government’s long-term clean energy strategy. Commenting on the landmark deal, Simon Bowen, Chair of Great British Energy – Nuclear, said: “This is an immense moment for the UK nuclear programme, our organisation, and the industry as a whole. “Today represents a true recognition of the efforts made across GBE-N, Rolls-Royce SMR and government to get to this point, and I’m hugely proud of the team for reaching this critical milestone.” A turning point for UK small modular reactors Small modular reactors, often referred to as SMRs, are designed to modernise nuclear power delivery. Unlike traditional large-scale plants, these reactors rely on factory-built components that can be assembled on-site. The result is a more predictable construction process, lower upfront risk, and faster delivery timelines. This contract moves UK …

Strange Modular Robots Are Writhing Across Landscapes

Strange Modular Robots Are Writhing Across Landscapes

Published by José Betancourt

Sign up to see the future, today Can’t-miss innovations from the bleeding edge of science and tech The future of robotics may not lie in the clunky androids we’ve been seeing so many of lately, but instead in strange, arachnoid conglomerations of sticks that writhe their way across landscapes. These so-called “metamachines” kind of look like if you made giant caltrops out of Magnetix and then zapped them with the gift of movement. They might sound cute, except that their creators say that their AI algorithm-inspired designs lets them keep persevering even after losing parts of themselves, like a limb that gets hacked off from a horror movie’s killer robot. In footage of the metamachine’s exploits, a researcher bludgeons one with a heavy stick that cuts off its rear half. This would immobilize or maybe even brick a robodog or a humanoid machine. Even so, the thrashing robot continues to crawl forward, unbothered. Their hardy nature is thanks to their modular design, wherein each of the robot’s leggy protrusions, each half a meter long, are themselves …

Can Modular Phone Accessories Finally Evolve Beyond MagSafe?

Can Modular Phone Accessories Finally Evolve Beyond MagSafe?

Published by skeptic

Predating the launch of Moto Mods in 2016, the first batch of Jolla The Other Half concepts included back covers with an extra E Ink display, an infrared camera, and an Angry Birds tie-in that activated themes and ringtones. But probably the most popular was a Blackberry/Nokia Communicator-style slider keyboard made and sold by two entrepreneurs from the original Jolla community. That trend is back in—at CES 2026, accessory company Clicks showed off a magnetic keyboard accessory you can slap on the back of any Qi2 or MagSafe smartphone, though it uses Bluetooth for connectivity. Quite a bit has changed in what’s achievable, not least more bandwidth, more capability, and more accessible, high-quality 3D printing. “We have seven pogo pins [on the Jolla Phone] which give you the capability to get power out and power in,” says Jolla CEO Sami Pienimäki. “So you can do maybe wireless charging, and you can power external circuit boards.” Pienimäki imagines E Ink interfaces or low-bandwidth radios on the back of its upcoming phone—it has an I3C interface, which …

EU strategy to rapidly deploy small and advanced modular reactors

EU strategy to rapidly deploy small and advanced modular reactors

Published by skeptic

The EU has outlined plans to deploy small modular reactors (SMRs) and advanced modular reactors (AMRs) by the early 2030s to support climate targets, energy security and industrial growth. The European Commission has presented a new strategy aimed at speeding up the development and deployment of small and advanced modular reactors across the European Union, positioning the technology as a potential pillar of the bloc’s long-term energy system. The plan, published alongside the Commission’s latest Nuclear Illustrative Programme (PINC), outlines how SMRs and AMRs could support Europe’s shift toward climate neutrality while strengthening energy security and industrial capacity. Officials argue that coordinated action between governments, regulators, industry and investors will be essential if the first commercial projects are to come online in the early 2030s. Dan Jørgensen, Commissioner for Energy and Housing, explained: “Small modular reactors are a safe nuclear technology that can contribute to delivering reliable, homegrown decarbonised energy, strengthening industrial competitiveness and reinforcing our energy security. “We are setting a clear pathway for Europe to move from research to concrete projects as soon …

Lenovo’s modular concept is the two-screen laptop of my dreams

Lenovo’s modular concept is the two-screen laptop of my dreams

Published by skeptic

Have you heard of Framework, the tech company aiming to increase sustainability and repairability amongst categories like laptops? If so, you’ll know that modular laptops have been around for quite some time, but have failed to achieve the mainstream uptake that would force all laptop makers to consider the category. Yet, Lenovo may have the answer with a new concept device it showed off at MWC 2026. The aptly-named ThinkBook Modular PC concept is the best implementation of modularity I’ve seen on a laptop, and it shares the same hallmarks and characteristics as many of Lenovo’s best laptops. It’s also the most refined modular laptop concept I’ve seen in years, with tons of swappable parts that actually blew me away. This would make it the ideal product for many people — especially those who travel — if it were ever made into a commercial product. Here’s why I’m so excited. Related Why people are still buying this 2018 laptop in 2025 It’s the dream combination for so many reasons. Two screens for more than twice …

Fender Mix Headphones Review: Modular Over-Ears

Fender Mix Headphones Review: Modular Over-Ears

Published by skeptic

Unlike the Fairbuds XL, which can be almost completely disassembled in nine parts, the Mix are composed of four main ingredients: the headband, the ear cups, the ear cushions, and the battery. While repairability is clearly a benefit, Fender’s main focus is on the ability to mix and match the parts—hence the name. Eventually, each part will be available in five different colors, and some parts, like the ear cushions, will come in different materials for warmer or cooler climates. My 10-day stint with the Mix wasn’t nearly enough time to evaluate whether the USB-C-based connections between the ear cups and the headband (an element they share with the Fairbuds XL) will prove sturdy enough for long-term use, but they didn’t show any obvious signs of weakness. In fact, I was impressed at how solidly the parts clicked together, and just how well built these cans feel in general. Holding them or wearing them, you’d never guess they could be pulled apart with a tug. Photograph: Simon Cohen I found the Mix comfy to wear, …

I tried Tecno’s modular phone concept at MWC – and it quickly got weird

I tried Tecno’s modular phone concept at MWC – and it quickly got weird

Published by skeptic

Adam Doud/ZDNET Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. ZDNET’s key takeaways Tecno’s magnetic modular phone is a proof of concept without a release date.  It’s thin and light, and the modular battery design is cool. The magnets aren’t strong enough, and the camera modules need some work. Tecno is always a delightful visit during MWC, the brand has a history of bringing interesting concepts to bear. This year, there are a pair of them, including a tri-fold phone I couldn’t dive into, as a security device prevented me from even closing it on the showroom floor. This concept is different from the Z-shaped foldable phone it showed last year. Instead, it folds twice to the center, like the Samsung Trifold, with the outside screen on one of the wings. But the other concept was the one that caught my attention: a magnetic modular phone.  Also: What to expect at MWC 2026: Best phones I’m anticipating from Xiaomi, Honor, and more Modular phones are seemingly the dream among phone enthusiasts. Who wouldn’t want to …

Everything Lenovo announced at MWC 2026, including foldables and modular laptops

Everything Lenovo announced at MWC 2026, including foldables and modular laptops

Published by skeptic

I’m a big gamer, so I’m always looking for new ways to enjoy my favorite hobby. It’s for that reason that the Legion Go Fold Concept immediately caught my attention. It builds on the Legion Go, but introduces a foldable POLED touchscreen that expands from 7.7 inches to 11.6 inches. It aims to deliver something close to a whole at-home gaming rig in a portable form factor. Just like the Legion Go, the side controllers are detachable, and you can use the right-side peripheral as a computer mouse. Also: Is Lenovo’s new SteamOS handheld worth the hype? I tested it, here’s my verdict The handheld supports multiple usage modes, such as Vertical Split Screen, which lets you game on one half of the display while playing a walkthrough on the other. There’s also Expanded Desktop Mode. This enables you to pair a wireless keyboard so you can browse and even get some light work done. Under the hood, the Lenovo Go Fold runs on an Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor with up to 32GB …

I tried Lenovo’s modular ThinkBook laptop, and it’s a concept I’d actually root for

I tried Lenovo’s modular ThinkBook laptop, and it’s a concept I’d actually root for

Published by skeptic

Kerry Wan/ZDNET Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. ZDNET’s key takeaways Lenovo unveiled a modular proof of concept ThinkBook at Mobile World Congress 2026.  It features a detachable dual screen and keyboard, and swappable ports.  While it’s still in development, it feels like Lenovo is close to a completed product.  Lenovo has been flexing some serious conceptual muscle with its proof of concept PCs. Last year, I tested the ThinkBook Plus Gen 6 rollable and found it’s 17-inch rollable screen surprisingly practical — if not perfectly polished. Also: Best of MWC 2026: We found the biggest news from Lenovo, Xiaomi, Honor, more Now at Mobile World Congress, Lenovo just unveiled a concept that’s even more ambitious: the ThinkBook Modular AI PC, a dual-screen laptop with a detachable display, keyboard, and mix-and-match I/O ports for a fully customizable workstation that shapeshifts into a number of configurations. Lenovo has been inching toward a truly modular laptop over the last few years, but this model might be the most serious commitment to the idea yet with a …