Cool Stuff
Substitute Phone Hopes to Help Overcome Smartphone Addiction
Vienna-based designer Klemens Schillinger has created a set of therapeutic phone-like objects, to help smartphone “addicts” cope with being away from their devices. Now, the designers has created a series of five Substitute Phones, which use stone beads to imitate the different motions used for smart devices, such as scrolling, zooming, and swiping.
By replacing digital functions with the stone beads, Schillinger aims to create a set of therapeutic tools that can help frequent smartphone users cope with withdrawal symptoms, by providing physical stimulation as a substitute for phone usage.
“The touchscreen smartphone has made it possible to ‘escape’ into social media,” he he said. “We check emails and messages not only on public transport but also in social situations, for example when having drinks with friends. More and more often one feels the urge to check their phone, even if you are not expecting a specific message or call. These observations inspired the idea of making a tool that would help stop this ‘checking’ behaviour.”
When researching his project, Schillinger was inspired by a documentary featuring the Italian writer and philosopher Umberto Eco – who was trying to give up smoking by substituting his pipe with a wooden stick.
“It was the same thing, but without the nicotine, just the physical stimulation,” he said. “I remembered this and thought to make phones that would provide the physical stimulation but not the connectivity.”
With a marble-like appearance, each set of beads have been made using the natural stone Howlith. These were then set into a body made from black polyoxymethylene (POM) plastic – also known as acetal. As this kind of plastic is relatively heavy, the substitute phone also replicates the weight of an ordinary smartphone – making the imitation more convincing.
“Some of these finger movements – like zooming in, or moving up and down – were born with the smartphone,” the designer said. “The Substitute Phones allow these movements to be felt by scrolling on the marbles that are integrated into the case, something which is a clear differentiation from fidget spinners or fidget cubes.”
This is the second project by Schillinger that aims to discourage people from using their mobile devices. His Offline Lamp only lights up once the user is willing to surrender their smartphone, urging them to concentrate on more worthwhile activities – like reading or working. Both of the projects were created for an exhibition called #Offline – Design for the (Good Old) Real World, which took place at this year’s Vienna Design Week from 29 September until 8 October 2017.

Cars
LEGO and Formula 1 Team Up to Deliver Motorsport Thrills to Fans

The LEGO Group has partnered with Formula 1 to bring the excitement of motorsport to LEGO fans worldwide. As part of the partnership, LEGO Certified Stores has launched these must-have sets for every Formula 1 and LEGO fan in the region. From exciting at-race activities, digital content and experiences in retail, the 2025 Formula 1 Season will build the thrill for families and fans across an action-packed season.
At-Race Experiences
Fun experiences are coming to fans and families at 13 key Formula 1 races across 2025 including Bahrain, Qatar and Abu Dubai in the Middle East. At the new LEGO Fan Zones in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, fans can enjoy:
- Exclusive Make and Take builds
- Photo opportunities
- A chance to see the entire LEGO Group and F1 product range featuring all 10 F1 teams for the first time
Pop-Up LEGO Stores
At Bahrain, Qatar and Abu Dhabi races, the LEGO Pit Shops will give fans an opportunity to purchase the full product line featuring all ten F1 teams across LEGO Speed Champions, LEGO City, LEGO DUPLO and LEGO Collectibles.
In-store Experiences
Select LEGO Certified Stores in Bahrain, Qatar and UAE will offer racing-themed experiences, including:
- A Racing Ramp play experience
- A cool LEGO sticker giveaway
Online Experiences
There will be plenty of chances to celebrate the 2025 FORMULA 1 season on www.LEGO.me too, with a range of cool experiences and content, such as a LEGO F1 game on https://www.lego.me/about-f1, which will put kids through their paces in a fun LEGO world, to test their racing skills.
Whether you’re a die-hard supporter of a legendary F1 team or a LEGO enthusiast seeking high-speed thrills, now there is a brick set built just for you. As fans in the region head to the upcoming FORMULA 1 BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX 2025 SAKHIR race, LEGO Certified Stores has launched an exciting range that pays tribute to motorsport.
Do not miss the two Icons display sets featuring Ayrton Senna’s MP4/4 and Nigel Mansell’s Williams FW14B – a true collectible for fans. From iconic cars to pit stop adventures, here’s your turbocharged LEGO lineup for fans of every team.
Racing Royalty McLaren
McLaren fans know the thrill of bold innovation and racing heritage. Celebrate this iconic team with sets that capture both their rich past and dynamic present.
LEGO Icons: McLaren MP4/4 & Ayrton Senna
A premium LEGO building project. Craft a meticulously detailed model of the iconic McLaren MP4/4 driven by Ayrton Senna.
Price: BHD 41.0 / AED 369 / QAR 379 / KWD 31.0
LEGO Technic: McLaren Formula 1 Race Car
This model features a V6 cylinder engine with moving pistons, suspension, steering, and differential for precision cornering.
Price: BHD 86.9 / AED 799 / QAR 829 / KWD 67.0
The passion and power of Ferrari
Ferrari’s rich legacy of speed and style comes to life in these exciting LEGO sets. Channel your inner Tifosi and bring the Italian stallion’s spirit home.
LEGO Technic: Ferrari SF-24 F1 Car
Emblazoned with the legendary Scuderia Ferrari livery, this detailed model is a love letter to Ferrari’s SF-24.
Price: BHD 129.0 / AED 1099 / QAR 1099 / KWD 99.0
LEGO City: F1 Pit Stop & Pit Crew with Ferrari Car
Complete with a toy Formula 1 Ferrari race car, this set is ideal for racing enthusiasts and perfect for high-speed pit lane action.
Price: BHD 13.0 / AED 129 / QAR 129 / KWD 10.5
Williams Racing brings grit and glory in blue
Williams Racing fans know that true champions rise from adversity. Pay tribute to this storied team with intricate builds showcasing their fearless pursuit of victory.
LEGO Icons: Williams Racing FW14B & Nigel Mansell
Shift your creativity up a gear! Craft a replica of the Williams Racing FW14B car, complete with details inspired by Nigel Mansell’s racing history.
Price: BHD 41.5 / AED 359 / QAR 349 / KWD 30.5
LEGO Speed Champions: Williams Racing FW46 F1 Race Car
Capture the modern power of Williams Racing with this sleek, race-ready FW46 model — a must-have for loyal supporters.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0
Precision Engineering of Mercedes
The Silver Arrows are all about speed and perfection. These Mercedes LEGO sets offer masterful engineering and turbocharged excitement.
LEGO Technic: Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance
A Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance model car with precise detailing that reflects the team’s engineering brilliance.
Price: BHD 115.0 / AED 1029 / QAR 1039 / KWD 94.0
LEGO City: F1 Garage & Mercedes-AMG & Alpine Car
Step into the pit lane and take charge with this dynamic garage set featuring both Mercedes and Alpine race cars, because teamwork drives success!
Price: BHD 37.0 / AED 349 / QAR 349 / KWD 29.0
Oracle Red Bull Racing Redefines Speed
Power, precision, and record-breaking performances dominate when Red Bull Racing is on the track. Fuel your fandom with these epic builds.
LEGO Technic: Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 Car
Channel the power of Max Verstappen’s winning machine with this intricate Red Bull RB20 build — designed for champions.
Price: BHD 129.0 / AED 1099 / QAR 1099 / KWD 99.0
LEGO Speed Champions: Oracle Red Bull Racing RB20 F1 Race Car
Perfect for younger fans, this compact yet detailed model brings the RB20’s speed to your shelves.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0
The sophistication of Aston Martin
Where sleek design meets racing grit, Aston Martin delivers power with poise. Celebrate the British powerhouse with this detailed LEGO tribute.
LEGO Speed Champions: Aston Martin Aramco F1 AMR24 Race Car
Aston Martin’s AMR24 model combines elegance with aerodynamic excellence. Build it, race it, and let British engineering shine.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0
For the all-out F1 Fan
Can’t pick a favourite team? These LEGO sets combine various F1 teams and are perfect for those who love the sport in its entirety.
LEGO Speed Champions: BWT Alpine F1 Team A524 Race Car
Add some Alpine magic to your LEGO lineup with this vibrant, high-speed racer — built for the track and your display shelf.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0
LEGO Speed Champions: MoneyGram Haas F1 Team VF-24 Race Car
Celebrate Haas’ relentless spirit with this sleek VF-24 set, perfect for collectors who admire underdog energy.
Price: BHD 12.0 / AED 109 / QAR 109 / KWD 9.0
Cool Stuff
NARUTO THE GALLERY Experience Makes its Middle East Debut in Dubai

Celebrating over 20 years of the global anime sensation NARUTO, fans in the Middle East will have a rare opportunity to experience the iconic world of their favourite ninja, as NARUTO THE GALLERY experience makes its debut outside of Japan, for the first time in Dubai. This unique experience, direct from Tokyo, will run from January 31 to April 6, 2025, at The Concourse Convention Center, near the Dubai Outlet Mall, marking the first time outside East Asia that the beloved anime’s legacy will be celebrated on this scale.
Created to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the NARUTO anime’s debut in Japan, this immersive experience takes fans on a journey through the series’ iconic moments, themes, and characters. Featuring vivid life-size installations and exclusive artwork from the animation, NARUTO THE GALLERY offers an opportunity to step into Naruto Uzumaki’s world, including rare behind-the-scenes content from the series’ origins. From the vibrant landscapes of Konoha (Hidden Leaf Village) to unforgettable battles and intimate character portrayals, visitors can relive every pivotal moment of the beloved anime.
Experience Includes:
- Authentic Artifacts and Original Artwork: View never-before-seen concept art and materials used in creating the series, transported directly from Japan
- Interactive Displays: Fans can engage with iconic scenes and immerse themselves into the universe of NARUTO through dynamic video presentations on large screens and multiple monitors.
- Fans can engage with iconic scenes and participate in interactive exhibits that immerse them in the universe of NARUTO
- Exclusive Merchandise: Limited-edition NARUTO memorabilia and exclusive merchandise, making it a must-visit for any anime fan
As a landmark event for regional anime fans, NARUTO THE GALLERY reflects the global influence of Japanese anime and its cultural crossover appeal. With Dubai known as a bridge between East and West, this event reinforces the city’s position as a hub for innovative and world-class entertainment experiences.
This is a ticketed event, with tickets starting at AED 60 per person. Tickets can be purchased online through Platinumlist or at the venue itself. The exhibition will be held in The Concourse Convention Center, which is seamlessly connected to the Dubai Outlet Mall.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with NARUTO THE GALLERY Executive Committee to bring such an authentic and original experience to Dubai,” said Ahmad Khalifa, CEO, Akiba. “Al Ahli Group and Akiba are committed to growing the pop-culture scene in the region, spanning from West Asia to Africa, and introducing year-long, themed experiences and events, celebrating various iconic properties. And kicking off our series of events with NARUTO THE GALLERY, is extra special, as we celebrate NARUTO’s 20-year legacy by creating an incredible experience for anime fans in the region to connect with the series on a personal level.”
“We are truly honoured to bring NARUTO THE GALLERY to Dubai as its next destination. Through this exhibition, we hope to provide as many fans as possible with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and legacy of NARUTO,” said the NARUTO THE GALLERY Executive Committee.
Cool Stuff
Dubai International Baja is Now Underway

After months of preparation, the final event in the international off-road rallying season is underway. Crews have completed the spectacular Qualifying Stage in the Hatta Suhaila Area and the Ceremonial Start at Dubai Festival Bay and are now focusing on the 359km of driving in Dubai’s daunting Al Qudra Desert that will make up Saturday’s Al-Futtaim Toyota Stage 2 of the event.
Lucas Moraes took victory on the first stage in Hatta by the narrowest of margins over his Toyota Gazoo Racing teammate Seth Quintero. Just 0.2s separated the Brazilian and his Spanish codriver Armand Monelon from the US star Quintero and his German co-driver Dennis Zenz in their Toyota Hilux machines.
12-time event winner and reigning champion Nasser Al Attiyah got to within 1.4s of the leading pairing on his one-off outing with his team in his Taurus T3 Max while his team-mate Khalifa Al Attiyah was fourth, less than 10 seconds from the leading crew. Father/daughter combination Lionel and Lucie Baud were a fine fifth at the end of their first stage of rallying in Dubai with their Mini JCW Rally.
It was a tough start to the weekend for a couple of pre-event favourites Khalid Aljalfa and Eduard Pons who were 2m28s and 2m40s down after the stage after delays. However, they retain every chance of vying for honours in their battle for T3 class honours in the FIA World Cup Baja series. Poland’s Konrad Dabrowski took the early bragging rights among the two-wheel entry, the 23-year-old steering his Duust Rally Team KTM 450 to the fastest time in the 3.4km timed run at Hatta.
That was 25 seconds faster than Rafic Eid of Lebanon on his Gasgas and 28.2 seconds quicker than Pedro Bianchi Prata on his Honda CRF. Leading Quad rider on the Yamaha Raptors in the opening test was local man Abdulaziz Ahli, who had just under ten seconds in hand over Abdulaziz Al Atawi with the Saudi’s fellow countryman third Hani Al Noumesi third.
Following the stage in Hatta, the crews made their way back to the Service Park in Dubai Festival City for the tactically important Start Selection Ceremony. The competitors were then flagged away at Ceremonial Start in front of the fans in Dubai Festival City by His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council in the company of His Excellency Mohammed Ahmed ben Sulayem, President of the FIA, Omar Abdullah Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and CEO of the Al Futtaim Group and His Excellency Dr Amer Al Zarooni Chief Executive Officer of the Al Jalila Foundation.
The crews then turned their attention to the challenges of Al-Futtaim Toyota Stage 2. In total there are 395km of timed ‘selective’ sections across the weekend and, with the untimed sections, the crews are facing a total of 867km of driving and riding until the champions of Dubai International Baja 2024 are crowned.
This year’s innovative use of the rugged landscape around Hatta means that gravel/dirt tracks make up 20% of the total route terrain on the selective sections. The rest is made up of open desert (35%) and 45% on the daunting dunes of Dubai which have made this rally so famous and popular with crews the world over.
Al-Futtaim Toyota Stage 2 begins at 8 am (Saturday 30th November) with the first crews expected to complete the selective sections from 11.30 am onwards, after which the teams will return to the Service Park in Dubai Festival Mall where they will be on view to spectators throughout the day. Now in its eighth edition under the Baja format, the event draws top competitors from around the globe to tackle the challenging dunes of Dubai.
Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and organised by the Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO) in collaboration with the Dubai Sports Council, the Baja is supported by Official Automotive Partner Al-Futtaim Toyota, Energy Partner ENOC, and the strategic collaboration of the Dubai Government and its entities, including the Dubai Police, RTA and Dubai Municipality.