Need to Know
13 : 05 : 20

Japan – Synesthesia X1 is an experiential and holistic device created to make listeners feel fully absorbed in sound.

Incorporating two speakers and 44 haptic actuators, the reclined-chair device allows users to ‘see sounds’ and ‘hear colours’. With vibrations and light-focused technologies creating a multi-sensory experience, users are able to feel fully immersed in ‘a sensory musical experience where your body becomes the medium and your consciousness is honed,' according to its designers.

Encased within a giant cube, it invites people to discover heightened sound sensations as part of a whole body experience. With consumers increasingly prioritising experiences that focus on self-discovery over shared spectacles, Synesthesia X1 raises the bar for hyper personal, high tech listening experiences. For more, read our macrotrend on Enlightened States.

Canada – Native Shoes is expanding its 'waste-to-wellness' footwear line with the launch of Rise by Bloom, a new range of slip on shoes made from algae.

With consumers becoming increasingly aware of the environmental impact of fashion, the need for more Sustainable Footwear is especially front of mind. As such, the brand’s new collection is formulated with a two-fold process in which toxic algae is swept from lakes and freshwater ecosystems and transformed into a high-performance material for their functional footwear.

To further their sustainable mission, Native Shoes have also integrated Bloom-based technology in their Jefferson Kids range. Created as part of a wider eco-initiative, the brand has a goal of giving 100% of their shoes an end of life solution by 2023.

According to a new report by Technavio, the men’s skincare market is set to grow by £803m ($1bn, €915m) during 2020-2024.

Overall, the CAGR is expected to progress at about 3% during the forecast period. The research also shows that 52% of the men’s skincare demand between 2020 and 2024 will originate in the APAC area, with a key driver being the growth of anti-pollution skincare products for men. Technavio reports that rapid increase in urbanisation, industrialisation and pollution has led to the deterioration of air quality – and therefore a major impact on skincare needs.

With people living in cities increasingly impacted by Smog Life, anti-pollution skincare is becoming essential for consumers.