News 10.10.2024

Need to Know

Google releases open-source keyboard designed for collaborative typing, insights from Walpole’s State of London Luxury report and why older shoppers spend more on resale platforms.

Google unveils double-sided Gboard for collaborative typing

Gboard Double-Sided Version by Google, Japan

Japan – Google Japan’s Gboard team has introduced an innovative double-sided, twisted keyboard designed for collaborative typing and coding. Unlike last year’s single-row version, which became excessively long, the new design allows multiple users to type simultaneously, addressing the issue of not being able to type when the keyboard is upside down. 

With 208 keys on both sides and the ability to custom place commands, the double-sided Gboard is currently a project rather than a commercial product. However, it is available as open-source, enabling users to create their own versions using 3D printing. 

Fun alternate uses include creating oversized bracelets or festive decorations. Weighing approximately ‘20.8 donuts’, the Gboard connects via USB-C. The design is reminiscent of a Möbius strip, promising to alleviate ‘the stress of not being able to input data’.

To keep your finger on the pulse of what’s new and next in hardware, head to our Technology sector page.

Strategic opportunity

Explore the development of collaborative, multiuser hardware solutions to support hybrid and remote teams. This could include reimagined workstations or keyboards designed for simultaneous multiuser input, boosting real-time collaboration across teams

Biodesign fuses Pacific Islander craft with living materials

Lucid Life/Marama Ora by Christopher Bellamy, UK Lucid Life/Marama Ora by Christopher Bellamy, UK
Lucid Life/Marama Ora by Christopher Bellamy, UK Lucid Life/Marama Ora by Christopher Bellamy, UK

UK – Lucid Life (known as Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a groundbreaking biodesign project that blends modern biotechnology with traditional Pacific Islander craftsmanship. This innovative collaboration, led by designer Christopher Bellamy and a team of artisans from Mo’orea, French Polynesia – including Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari, Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, Hinatea and Moé Colombani, and Naumi ‘Mamie’ Tapi – creates luminous objects infused with living, bioluminescent micro-algae that glow when touched.

The bioluminescent material, which follows a daily cycle of eight hours of sleep and 12 hours of daylight, can survive for up to six months. Developed during Bellamy’s master’s degree at Central Saint Martins in London, the project features a variety of creations, including a drum, swimsuit and neckpiece, each made from ocean-sourced materials and microorganisms native to the waters around French Polynesia.

This collaboration highlights the convergence of ancestral knowledge and cutting-edge scientific innovation, demonstrating how biotechnological advancements can extend beyond the lab to connect people with the natural world.

For more insights on neo-materials, head to our Biofabricated Futures design direction.

Strategic opportunity

Position yourself as a champion of cultural preservation by supporting innovative projects that merge traditional craft with modern technology

London luxury resilient despite economic hurdles

UK – Walpole, the non-profit organised focused on British luxury, has released its latest State of London Luxury report. Produced in association with Cadogan, it highlights London’s robust luxury ecosystem which is driven by a thriving high-net-worth population and luxury tourism. The city now boasts more than 227,000 high-net-worth individuals, making it the wealthiest city in Europe. Property market data reveals a staggering 137% increase in new-build apartment deals priced over £15m ($20m, €18m) in 2023.

Luxury tourism remains a key pillar of the economy, fuelled by London’s cultural appeal, world-renowned events and iconic retail destinations. However, the removal of tax-free shopping for international visitors has negatively impacted high-end international spending, which continues to lag behind other European capitals.

Despite these challenges, the UK’s global soft power has strengthened, with it now ranking second worldwide in the Brand Finance Soft Power Index. Luxury plays a significant role by combining culture, hospitality and retail to attract high-spending international visitors.

Overall, London’s unique blend of wealth, culture and heritage secures its position as a resilient luxury capital, maintaining its appeal to affluent residents and visitors alike. You can unlock more insights in Walpole British Luxury Summit 2024: Strategies for Uncertainty and our Luxury sector.

Carolina Carballo for The Future Laboratory

Strategic opportunity

Consider establishing partnerships with museums, galleries and theatres to create exclusive events or promotions that enhance the cultural appeal of luxury offerings, attracting high-spending tourists

Stat: Resale platforms see surge in spending among older shoppers

Selling on Depop, US Selling on Depop, US

UK – Spending among UK shoppers aged 55 or older on resale platforms such as Depop, Vinted and eBay has surged by 12% in the last year, according to recent data from finance app Revolut. Interestingly, the oldest age group, those aged 75 or above, reported a notable 19% increase in spending, while the youngest cohort, aged 18–24, saw a 13% rise.

Historically, online resale platforms have been more popular with younger demographics, largely driven by their desire for sustainable fashion choices and bargain deals. However, recent trends suggest older generations are also gravitating towards second-hand purchases, motivated by rising concerns about sustainability and the cost of living crisis.

In a surprising shift eBay, which typically serves an older customer base, recorded a staggering 95% increase in spending among shoppers aged 25–34. In response to mounting competition, the platform recently announced it would eliminate fees for both buyers and sellers. ‘Removing selling fees is designed to give buyers greater access to inventory while creating a streamlined experience for sellers,’ said Kirsty Keoghan, general manager of eBay UK.

This growing interest in second-hand shopping aligns with predictions made in our Future Five: Sustainability report, where in 2024 we forecasted that the fashion industry could emerge as a significant ESG (environmental, social and governance) champion.

Strategic opportunity

Develop tailored marketing campaigns aimed at the 55+ demographic. Highlight ease of use, sustainability and the financial benefits of resale platforms to attract this growing audience

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