Jony Ive Unveils $4,800 Lantern as Apple’s Former Design Chief

Key Takeaways

1. Jonathan Ive and Marc Newson founded a design studio called LoveFrom in 2019 after leaving Apple.
2. The LoveFrom Sailing Lantern combines classic sailing lantern design with modern features, including LED lighting and a stainless steel casing.
3. The lantern has an IP67 rating, making it water-resistant and easier to recycle due to its materials.
4. It offers up to 150 hours of battery life on the lowest setting, with charging via USB-C.
5. Limited to 1,000 pieces, the lantern is priced at $4,800 and will start shipping in March 2026.

In 2019, Jonathan Ive and Marc Newson joined forces to start a design studio named LoveFrom, after leaving Apple where they both worked for over twenty years. Now, the designer reveals a new take on a modern sailing lantern where the cost is not the main focus. This lantern, created in partnership with the Japanese electronics firm Balmuda, combines the classic style of sailing lanterns with contemporary design elements.

Modern Features

Using LEDs, the lantern manages to retain the cozy glow typical of a Fresnel lantern. Its casing is crafted from stainless steel, promising resistance to rust, while the IP67 rating ensures that it can withstand being submerged in water. The combination of stainless steel and glass is intended to make recycling easier once the product is no longer usable. According to Balmuda, repairs are straightforward, which should contribute to a longer lifespan for the lantern.

Battery and Specifications

The built-in battery reportedly offers up to 150 hours of use on the lowest brightness setting, but only four hours on the highest. Charging is done through a USB-C connection with around 8 watts of power. The lantern’s dimensions are 11.4 x 11.4 x 17.5 centimeters, and it weighs in at 1.54 kilograms. Despite the steep price tag, the LoveFrom Sailing Lantern is produced in China.

The LoveFrom Sailing Lantern will be available in a limited run of 1,000 pieces and can be pre-ordered through Balmuda. Shipping is anticipated to start in March 2026. The price for this lantern is set at $4,800, not including shipping fees, import taxes, and customs duties.

Balmuda’s design is sure to attract attention from those who value both aesthetics and functionality.

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