Tag Archives: innovation

2025, AI, AI & Machine Learning, Ai Art, Gadget Man, Gadget Man Projects, Matt Porter

From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle

Leave a comment

From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle

There’s something oddly thrilling about letting technology take creative control. I’ve spent years testing gadgets, reviewing innovations, and exploring the limits of artificial intelligence — but this time, I let the tech get a little more personal.

A few weeks ago, I asked Midjourney — my go-to AI image generator — a simple question:
“What would The Gadget Man look like with a fresh new hairstyle?”

The result was, quite frankly, impressive. The AI produced a series of strikingly realistic portraits featuring a textured, platinum-blonde cut that looked part cyberpunk, part 21st-century rockstar. I loved it. The catch? It wasn’t real… yet.

The AI Concept

Armed with a few reference prompts and an experimental mindset, I spent an evening fine-tuning the digital version of myself. Midjourney, in its infinite wisdom, decided that bleached hair and choppy texture were the future of The Gadget Man brand.

At first, it was just a bit of fun. But the more I looked at the AI render, the more I realised — this was something I could actually pull off. So, I decided to make it happen.

Turning AI Into Reality

I booked an appointment with my stylist and brought along the AI images on my phone — full 360-degree green-screen shots of the “digital me.” It’s not every day you walk into a salon and say, “I’d like this look, please — it was designed by artificial intelligence.”

To their credit, they didn’t flinch. Instead, we broke it down into human-achievable steps:

  • The Cut: Short, faded sides with plenty of texture on top.
  • The Style: Tousled and natural, with enough lift to keep things casual.
  • The Colour: A cool, silver-white platinum tone — bold but clean.

The Result

Wait and see!!!

AI as a Creative Partner

This little experiment isn’t just about hair — it’s about what happens when AI moves from the screen into the real world. Whether it’s designing products, testing ideas, or in this case, reinventing a hairstyle, AI has become a kind of creative partner.

From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle

 

From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle
From Pixels to Platinum: When AI Designed My New Hairstyle

Coming soon: a behind-the-scenes video of the full transformation — from my original hairstyle to the final platinum reveal. Keep an eye on The Gadget Man socials for the big unveil.

#TheGadgetMan #AIstyle #MidjourneyToReality #TechMeetsHuman #FromPixelsToPlatinum

2025, additive manufacturing, formnext, Gadget Man

Formnext 2025: Tickets Now Open for the World’s Leading 3D Printing Expo

Leave a comment

Frankfurt is getting ready to host the world’s largest 3D printing and Additive Manufacturing (AM) event once again. From 18–21 November 2025, Formnext will transform the Messe Frankfurt exhibition halls into a showcase of innovation, collaboration, and real-world applications across industries.

This year promises over 800 exhibitors, including some of the biggest names in the AM world alongside a healthy mix of start-ups and research groups. Expect plenty of world premieres, live demonstrations, and a packed programme across aviation, aerospace, engineering, jewellery, watches, and more.

Spain takes centre stage as the partner country for 2025, bringing around 30 companies to Frankfurt. The Spanish AM sector has been growing rapidly and plays an interesting role as a link between Europe and Latin America, particularly strong in systems, materials, and research.

The Gadget Man will be attending formnext
The Gadget Man will be attending formnext

The supporting programme looks just as impressive as the show floor itself. Three stages will run throughout the event, each with a different focus: industry trends, real-world applications, and the latest technologies. Seminars, talks, and showcases will cover everything from large-format 3D printing to data-driven design and construction AM. Add to that the Formnext Awards, start-up pitches, career opportunities, and networking events, and it’s clear this isn’t just an exhibition – it’s the meeting point for the global AM community.

I’ll be there on Tuesday 18 November for the Press Breakfast and then I’m looking forward to catching up with many of the 800 companies, checking out the latest announcements and exploring the halls. It’s always fascinating to see how far the technology has come, and this year looks set to offer plenty of inspiration.

Tickets are available now from formnext.com/visitors, with an early-bird discount running until 21 October.

2025, 5G, Space Exploration

European Space-Based 5G Takes Flight: CTO and ESA Team Up for Low Earth Orbit Connectivity Revolution

Leave a comment

Imagine a world where high-speed 5G doesn’t stop at the end of a fibre line, but continues seamlessly across mountains, oceans, and rural blackspots—delivered straight from space. That’s the vision behind a new partnership between Constellation Technologies & Operations (CTO) and the European Space Agency (ESA), who are set to trial Europe’s first 5G mmWave payload in low Earth orbit.

The Mission: Making 5G Truly Universal

In an agreement signed this May at ESA HQ in Paris, CTO and ESA have announced a joint effort to launch a “regenerative” 5G payload aboard a satellite scheduled for June 2025. This Early Test represents Europe’s first real-world demonstration of a 5G infrastructure designed and built on the continent.

Unlike conventional satellite relays, this payload will process signals directly in orbit. The result? Reduced latency, increased efficiency, and seamless interoperability with ground-based 5G networks. Think of it as a space-based extension of mobile infrastructure.

Why This Matters

Space-based connectivity is currently dominated by American and Chinese ventures. CTO offers a credible European alternative: a neutral, shared, and independently operated satellite network that empowers telecom operators to extend their services without surrendering control or investing in expensive infrastructure.

The potential impact is enormous. This technology could bring fast, reliable internet to remote communities, disaster zones, and other underserved areas—complementing terrestrial networks and filling in the gaps where traditional infrastructure falls short.

How It Works

The test payload will operate using telecom operators’ 5G FR2 mmWave spectrum. CTO’s future constellation, planned for Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO), is designed for high-speed, low-latency communication. Working with ESA’s ECSAT facility in Oxfordshire, this trial is a crucial step in proving Europe’s capability to lead in next-generation satellite communications.

CTO’s model allows telecom operators to leverage their existing 5G spectrum in space, offering a scalable solution that complements fibre and mobile networks without the need for ground-based towers in hard-to-reach areas.

What They Said

Charles Delfieux, CEO of CTO, commented: “This alliance with ESA reflects a shared ambition: to build a competitive European sovereignty in space connectivity, powered by bold technology designed and developed in Europe. We’re proving that it’s possible to compete on a global scale without compromise—giving telecom operators back control over their future in space.”

Laurent Jaffart, Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications at ESA, added: “This agreement aligns with ESA’s strategy to support the rise of innovative European players and jointly build resilient connectivity. The upcoming tests with CTO will pave the way for new hybrid use cases at the intersection of terrestrial and space networks.”

Images courtesy of ESA / CTO
Images courtesy of ESA / CTO

What’s Next

The satellite launch planned for June 2025 marks just the beginning. CTO and ESA are already collaborating on future in-orbit testing campaigns and knowledge sharing to maximise the impact of this project.

A European Vision, Global Potential

With its bold approach to hybrid connectivity, CTO aims to reshape the telecommunications landscape. This is more than just a technical trial—it’s a strategic move to establish European leadership in space-based internet services and offer a compelling global alternative to today’s dominant players.

Stay tuned to The Gadget Man as we follow this pioneering initiative. With space now firmly on the telecom agenda, the future of connectivity is looking skyward.

More Information:
www.constellation.global
www.esa.int

Images courtesy of ESA / CTO

Backpack, STM

STM Goods BagPack – Big Innovation in a Compact Package

Leave a comment

As someone who’s perpetually on the move—juggling gadgets, reviewing tech, and travelling from event to event—I’m always on the lookout for gear that can keep up with my lifestyle. So when STM Goods announced their BagPack, I was intrigued. A backpack with an inflatable air cushion for your laptop? That’s the kind of clever thinking I love. And after a few weeks of using it, I can confidently say this is no gimmick—it’s a genuinely smart piece of kit.

STM Goods BagPack – Big Innovation in a Compact Package
STM Goods BagPack – Big Innovation in a Compact Package

Let’s start with the headline feature: the inflatable airbag. With a single breath, it turns a featherweight backpack into a structured, laptop-protecting companion. It’s a novel yet highly practical concept—offering cushioning for your tech and support for your back. I tested it with my 16-inch MacBook Pro, and it cradled the laptop with impressive stability, absorbing bumps during travel far better than most padded compartments I’ve seen.

STM Goods BagPack – Big Innovation in a Compact Package
STM Goods BagPack – Big Innovation in a Compact Package

The ultra-lightweight build (just over half a kilo) and 210D nylon fabric mean the BagPack is tough but doesn’t weigh you down. Perfect for commuters, festival-goers, and anyone who travels light but still needs dependable gear. One of the standout features is how it folds into itself, collapsing into a self-contained pouch small enough to stash in your suitcase or glovebox.

STM Goods BagPack – Big Innovation in a Compact Package
STM Goods BagPack – Big Innovation in a Compact Package

Despite the compact form factor, the BagPack still manages to offer 15 litres of space—enough for your daily essentials: tablet, charger, water bottle, headphones, and even a jacket. The contoured straps are comfortable, and the minimalist design keeps things stylish without screaming “tech nerd” (even if, like me, you secretly are one).

While it’s not fully waterproof, it shrugged off light drizzle during a walk through Stotfold with no issues. You’ll want a rain cover for a proper storm, but for everyday use, it holds up beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The STM BagPack 2023 is a triumph of practical innovation. Lightweight, protective, compact, and stylish—it’s the sort of bag that makes you wonder why nobody thought of this before.

Check it out on the official STM Goods site

Anycubic, Kobra 3 V2

Introducing the Kobra 3 V2 Combo – A Vibrant New Chapter in 3D Printing! Super Early Bird Pricing Announced

Leave a comment

I’m always excited to bring you news of cutting-edge tech that blends innovation with affordability – and today is no exception. If you’re into 3D printing or thinking about diving into the world of filament fabrication, this announcement is for you!

Say hello to the Anycubic Kobra 3 V2 Combo – a machine that promises to be Vibrant, Versatile, and Visionary. Developed with creators in mind, this latest printer from Anycubic is loaded with features that make it perfect for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Introducing the Kobra 3 V2 Combo – A Vibrant New Chapter in 3D Printing! Super Early Bird Pricing Announced
Introducing the Kobra 3 V2 Combo – A Vibrant New Chapter in 3D Printing! Super Early Bird Pricing Announced

Super Early Bird Price – Just £359!

From 15th to 18th May, you can grab the Kobra 3 V2 Combo at a stunning £110 off the retail price – just £359 instead of £469! But you’ll have to be quick: this Super Early Bird offer is available for a limited time only.

Here’s the full pricing rollout:

  • £359 – Super Early Bird (15–18 May)

  • £379 – Early Bird (19–29 May)

  • £399 – Pre-sale (30 May–15 June)

  • £419 – Regular Price (from 16 July)

Click here to secure yours now!

Unlock £100+ Worth of Perks!

Early adopters aren’t just saving money – they’re unlocking exclusive perks worth over £100, including:

  • 50% OFF all filament packs (PLA Special, PLA Metal, High Speed, and even random bundles)

  • £10–£30 Gift Cards (500 winners up for grabs!)

  • FREE 8-Colour Hub – When purchasing the 8-colour kit version (exclusive to the Kobra 3 V2 Combo)

  • Mystery Box – Who doesn’t love a surprise?

  • Free Access to Premium Quality Models to kickstart your print library

This makes it one of the best value 3D printer launches we’ve seen all year.

Colourful, Creative and Capable

The Kobra 3 V2 Combo is designed for multicolour printing straight out of the box. With its smart automatic material station and easy-to-use touchscreen interface, it’s a dream machine whether you’re printing functional parts or jaw-dropping figurines.

Combine that with high-speed capabilities and robust build quality, and you’ve got a machine that’s ready to keep up with your creative demands.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re upgrading your current printer or taking your first step into the world of multicolour 3D printing, the Kobra 3 V2 Combo is a no-brainer – especially at the early bird price.

Click here to order yours through my affiliate link and help support The Gadget Man while snagging one of the hottest 3D printers of the year.

Stay creative, stay curious – and I’ll see you in the next print run!

2025, Drones, Electric Vehicles, EV, Flying Vehicles, Gadget Man, Star Wars Day, Technology, The Gadget Man

UPDATED – Volonaut’s Real-Life Speeder Bike Set To Take Flight on Star Wars Day! Video attached!!!

Leave a comment

If you ever dreamed of flying through the trees of Endor like an Imperial Scout Trooper, that dream just took a huge leap toward reality.

On May 1st, 2025, Volonaut officially unveiled their jaw-dropping personal flight machine: the Airbike. Described as a cross between a superbike and a starfighter, the Airbike is a jet-propelled, single-seat hoverbike that looks like it’s been ripped straight out of a sci-fi film—specifically, Star Wars.

Here’s the video below!!

This groundbreaking vehicle is the brainchild of Tomasz Patan, the visionary engineer behind the Jetson ONE. The Airbike, however, ditches propellers in favour of compact jet engines, creating a safer, sleeker, and incredibly futuristic flying experience. It’s built using carbon fibre and 3D-printed parts, making it exceptionally light—seven times lighter than a conventional motorcycle. With speeds topping 200 km/h, it’s no surprise the internet has lit up with excitement.

But Volonaut didn’t stop at just launching a revolutionary vehicle. They’ve timed their big reveal to coincide with the biggest unofficial sci-fi holiday of them all: Star Wars Day.

Over the past few days, Volonaut has been teasing a special video drop scheduled for Sunday, May 4th—Star Wars Day—with a tantalising image of a rider dressed in full Imperial Scout Trooper gear standing next to the Airbike. The promise? A recreation of the unforgettable speeder bike chase from Return of the Jedi, shot through dense woodland, but this time with a real flying machine.

It’s not every day that technology catches up with our childhood imagination, but this might just be one of those times. As a long-time lover of gadgets, sci-fi, and anything that pushes boundaries, I’ll be watching this premiere with popcorn in hand and a big grin on my face.

Video Credit: YouTube / Volonaut

Star Wars Scout Trooper crounching next to the Volonaut Airbike ready for Star Wars Day on May the Forth
Star Wars Scout Trooper crounching next to the Volonaut Airbike ready for Star Wars Day on May the Forth – Image Credit: LinkedIn / Volonaut

May the 4th be with us!

2025, Cars, Electric Car, Electric Cars, Gadget Man, Nissan

93-Year-Old Comedy Writer Says Nissan’s Self-Driving Cars Are the Future of Independent Motoring

Leave a comment

Brad Ashton, a lively 93-year-old grandfather and former comedy scriptwriter, recently experienced what he enthusiastically calls “the future of motoring” after taking a spin in Nissan’s autonomous driving car. Marking the successful conclusion of Nissan’s groundbreaking evolvAD project, Brad’s ride around the rural roads of Bedfordshire offered a glimpse into how self-driving vehicles could significantly improve the quality of life for older drivers.

93-Year-Old Comedy Writer Says Nissan's Self-Driving Cars Are the Future of Independent Motoring
93-Year-Old Comedy Writer Says Nissan’s Self-Driving Cars Are the Future of Independent Motoring
Photo credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep

As someone who’s been behind the wheel since 1947, Brad relies heavily on his car—a trusty Nissan Micra—to maintain independence, run errands, and care for his wife, Valerie. His recent ride in the autonomous Nissan highlighted the potential for driverless technology to offer independence to older people, especially those living in rural areas with limited public transport.

Reflecting on his experience, Brad noted, “Cars were different back in 1947 – you had to crank them up – so I’ve always wondered what the cars of the future would be like, and this is it. I felt safe and relaxed throughout the experience. Tech like this could help many of us stay in touch with friends and family, reducing feelings of isolation.”

93-Year-Old Comedy Writer Says Nissan's Self-Driving Cars Are the Future of Independent Motoring
93-Year-Old Comedy Writer Says Nissan’s Self-Driving Cars Are the Future of Independent Motoring
Photo credit: Simon Jacobs/PinPep

Brad’s thoughts align closely with recent research commissioned by Nissan and conducted by OnePoll, involving 1,000 participants aged over 70. The survey revealed a significant demand for technologies that support independence in later life:

  • 64% of respondents expressed interest in future technologies like autonomous vehicles to help maintain their independence.
  • 63% indicated discomfort at the prospect of relying on others for everyday tasks such as shopping and transport.
  • Around a third (36%) of elderly individuals in rural areas admitted feeling socially isolated due to limited driving ability.

Moreover, a considerable portion (21%) emphasised the importance of face-to-face communication, expressing a preference for personal interaction over online alternatives. This highlights the critical role that accessible transportation plays in maintaining social connections.

Nissan’s evolvAD research project has impressively navigated more than 16,000 autonomous miles across diverse UK roads, from busy urban centres to quiet rural lanes, without any accidents. This achievement underscores the technology’s potential to dramatically enhance road safety and offer new mobility solutions for individuals who may otherwise struggle to get around independently.

David Moss, Nissan’s Senior Vice President of Research & Development for the AMIEO region, shared his optimism about the future, stating, “Our talented team at Nissan Technical Centre Europe in Cranfield will continue developing this exciting technology. Autonomous driving offers safer, cleaner, and more inclusive mobility, bringing huge benefits to older generations and individuals in rural locations.”

With pioneers like Brad Ashton advocating its benefits, the future of autonomous driving promises to help older adults maintain independence and connectivity, transforming their golden years into an era of continued adventure and social interaction.

Stay tuned to The Gadget Man for more updates on how innovative automotive technologies are shaping our future on the roads.

2025, Bedfordshire, Investment, Soccer, Universal Studios Theme Park

Billionaire Backing for Bedfordshire: Winklevoss Twins Invest in Real Bedford and Universal Studios Plans Major Theme Park

Leave a comment

Bedfordshire is fast becoming a hub for major investment, with two game-changing projects poised to raise the county’s global profile. The recent £3.6 million investment by cryptocurrency billionaires Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss into Real Bedford FC, alongside Universal Studios’ proposal to build its first European theme park in Bedford, signals a new era of economic growth and opportunity for the region.

As a Bedfordshire-based platform, The Gadget Man is at the heart of these exciting developments, keeping a close eye on how technology, business, and entertainment are shaping the future of the county. Additionally, The Gadget Man has close ties with the University of Bedfordshire and the Bettany Centre for Entrepreneurship at Cranfield University, further strengthening its connection to innovation and business growth in the region.

The Winklevoss Investment in Real Bedford FC

Real Bedford FC, owned by entrepreneur and Bitcoin advocate Peter McCormack, has already been making waves in the footballing world with its Bitcoin-powered financial model. Now, with the backing of the Winklevoss twins—who have taken a 45% stake in the club—the ambition is to take Bedford football to new heights.

This investment isn’t just about money; it’s about infrastructure, growth, and sustainability. The funds will be used to develop a training centre, launch a talent academy, and expand youth football initiatives, reinforcing Real Bedford’s long-term ambitions to climb the football pyramid.

A Merger on the Horizon?

In another groundbreaking development, Real Bedford FC and Bedford Town FC have announced talks regarding a potential merger. Bedford Town FC, with its rich history and established supporter base, has long been a key part of the town’s sporting identity. The idea behind the merger is to combine Real Bedford’s commercial and digital success with Bedford Town’s loyal fanbase and strong foundations.

If successful, the merger could create a powerhouse club with greater resources, enhanced community engagement, and a stronger competitive edge. Peter McCormack would serve as chairman, while Bedford Town’s Jon Taylor and Ben Banks would remain as non-executive directors to ensure continuity and tradition.

Universal Studios Eyes Bedford for Its First UK Theme Park

While Real Bedford’s transformation is capturing the attention of sports fans, Universal Studios has set its sights on Bedfordshire as the location for its first theme park and resort in Europe. The entertainment giant has confirmed the purchase of a 476-acre parcel of land near Bedford and is currently exploring the feasibility of building a world-class attraction.

The proposed park would be a major tourist destination, bringing in millions of visitors each year and generating thousands of jobs. The economic ripple effect would extend beyond the park, benefiting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure development. Universal Studios is currently engaging with local stakeholders to gather feedback on how the project can best integrate with the community.

Bedfordshire on the Global Stage

With both the Winklevoss-backed football revolution and Universal Studios’ ambitious plans, Bedfordshire is quickly emerging as a region of major investment and growth. The combination of sports, technology, and entertainment investments will not only reshape the local economy but also put the county on the map for global audiences.

For fans, entrepreneurs, and investors, these developments present an unprecedented opportunity to witness and participate in the transformation of Bedfordshire. Whether you’re into football, theme parks, or the intersection of technology and entertainment, there’s no doubt that exciting times lie ahead for the region.

As always, The Gadget Man will be following these stories closely, bringing you updates on how these major investments are transforming our home county.

Tech news and reviews, on air and online