Books

The speed at which technology is currently advancing has made the creation of electronic products one of the most prolific and fascinating areas of contemporary design. Product styling, too, is increasingly innovative, even fun; the "black box" is finally a thing of the past as manufacturers vie to make their products more appealing to style-conscious consumers.

This book brings together over one hundred examples of the latest, most sophisticated electronic devices, including domestic appliances, televisions, computers, telephones, cameras, sound equipment, timepieces, and the latest in wearable technology. The products are drawn from manufacturers and designers internationally and are described with full technical detail and clearly illustrated by color photography and annotated drawings. Products featured range from a robotic lawnmower to the thinnest wall-mounted television monitor; from a combined wristwatch and MP3 player, to a household internet device that allows comunication between kitchen appliances. As well as products already in mass production, a number of concept models are included, revealing designers' future visions for microwave ovens, communication devices, and even a humanoid robot.

On/Off provides a fascinating review of the cutting edge of contemporary product-design thinking for professional designers, students, and anyone intrigued by high-tech gadgetry and new technology.