Stuff Gadget Awards 2012 – Design of the Year winner
A cynic would argue that, as a form factor, the sphere has been around for about 13 billion years. Not like this, though
Google Nexus Q
£tba, google.com
A cynic would argue that, as a form factor, the sphere has been around for about 13 billion years (since the birth of an unnamed planet at the heart of the M4 star cluster some 5600 light-years away). So how can a globe-shaped media streamer unveiled in 2012 be your Design of the Year? It probably has something to do with the way you twist the top to change the volume of the song or movie you’re streaming from your Android phone or tablet. Or perhaps it’s because it looks like a spherical version of the monolith in Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. Whatever it is, though, the fact that it’s been delayed while Google adds extra functionality merely makes the Nexus Q all the more mysterious and appealing.
Runners-up…
Nokia Lumia 800
Ample proof that not all smartphones need dull, monochrome designs.
Renault Twizy
The car of the future (preferably where it doesn’t rain) that you can buy today.
Microsoft Surface
Thin yet functional tab with a keyboard built right into the case. Is this the iPad killer?
Microsoft Windows 8 ‘Metro’
Although it has now lost its ‘Metro’ moniker, this tile-based interface for W8 desktops and tablets could be the best of both worlds.
Lenovo IdeaCentre A720
Looking something akin to an anglepoise lamp crossed with a computer, Lenovo’s stylish all-in-one PC is a real head-turner.
AlphaSphere
This ball-shaped MIDI controller with pressure-sensitive pads could be the future of music.
Symbol Audio Modern Record Console
A retro-futurist spin-or-stream musical sideboard with built-in tube amp and turntable.
Also nominated…
LG ND8520
Chord Chordette Index
