2023 IF Design award review & 2024 IF schedule
We will be reviewing the 2023 IF Design Award winners today. There are a total of six categories to review, and you’ll get to see the standout award-winning designs. We will also introduce the 2024 IF schedule.
2023 IF – INDUSTRY –
1. Home Panel Portable Home Energy Storage System
Concept
Home Panel is an SBV home energy storage controller. In appearance, the design style of the Home Panel continues the style of the SBV home energy storage system. The transparent flip cover plays a protective role and allows the user to intuitively see the working state of the circuit. The magnetic suction design brings a better experience to the user. Functionally, the Home Panel supports charging two EVs at the same time. Used in conjunction with the SBV home energy storage system, the capacity can be expanded to 64kwh and the power can reach 7200W. Combining grid and photovoltaic use to achieve flexible energy storage.
designed by Zendure USA Inc.
2. MAKSIMO HPM800 5-Axis CNC Machine
Concept
Maksimo HPM 800 is a 5-axis CNC milling machine that creates a strong bond by focusing on human needs by combining functionality, ergonomics and the advantages of the product with aesthetics. With its flawless production, it captures the tone of premium communication that establishes an emotional connection with the product in the target audience. Designed on basic principles, taking into account the user experience. It gives a status message as if it’s making the machine talk by adding integrity with the lights on. It produces precision parts in machinery sectors such as automotive, aerospace, defense, machine manufacturing, mold making.
designed by Arman Design & Development
3. GS-S ONE Robot Cleaner
Concept
GS-S ONE is an “all-in-one” commercial floor cleaning robot specially designed for small and medium-sized facilities, particulary large office spaces. It integrates functions of sweeping, scrubbing, mopping, vacuuming, sanitizing and scenting. It is a completely new category of cleaning robot that delivers next-level intelligence to the market, and integrates all kinds of the latest innovations and technology breakthroughs in fields like SLAM, machine learning, cloud computing.
designed by Shanghai Gaussian Automation Technology Development Co., Ltd
4. SINAMICS G220 IP20
Concept
The SINAMICS G220 IP20 is a multifunctional converter family. Its optics exude professional performance in industrial environments and the design elements are uniform across all converter ratings. The modularity of the elements follows the strategy of using identical parts – saving valuable resources and costs. Device cabling is protected behind a flap. The operating plane is located behind a dark transparent cover through which the most important status information can be read, while also providing protection against operator errors. Users can easily access these areas as result of the intuitive grip and control elements.
designed by Siemens AG & at-design
2023 IF – Bicycle –
1.FARO Smart Helmet
Concept
The FARO Smart Helmet combines style & safety in an unprecedented manner. FARO can detect a hard fall and call for help if the rider is unresponsive. Built-in powerful lights – make the rider more visible at night. A second light array hidden beneath a unique fabric, only visible when powered on, keeps the helmet clean. This ‘Hidden Light’ can display animations, change color and even display Turn Signals that the rider controls through a handlebar-mounted Remote.
Designed by Unit 1 Gear
2.GRAPHENpads®
Concept
The new era of confidence inspiring Bicycle disc brake pads Bicycle disc brake pads are the single most important part of the bike, which determines how confidently you can descend. The key element to their optimum performance is to keep the temperature of the brake pads and the rotor as low as possible (ideally <400C), especially on longer descends GRAPHENpads® are a completely new benchmark for the braking pad industry thanks to our unique approach to the design of backplate cooling fins, bespoke backplate coating with graphene as well as a completely new friction compound, which uses specially modified graphene instead of toxic copper.
Designed by absoluteBLACK
3.Fuel EXe
Concept
The Fuel EXe miniaturizes and most importantly naturalizes the electric assist of an eMTB. It provides almost imperceptible assistance in a way that responds to a rider’s natural style, all in a package that feels like a high-quality, regular mountain bike. This bike brings the fun and feel of traditional mountain biking back into the eMTB category. And with the increased control when connected with the Trek Central app the rider is empowered to get the best experience out of their bike every ride.
Designed by Trek Bicycle, Trek BicycleTQ E-mobility Group
4.”BENLOCK” FOLDABLE U-LOCK
Concept
As the name suggests, the U-shaped lock is a cycle lock shaped like the letter “U” in the alphabet. While conventional U-shaped locks are known for their high security, many people have said that while they are sturdy, they are heavy and large, making them difficult to carry around. For this reason, we developed BENLOCK in order to maintain the sturdiness that is the greatest feature of U-shaped locks, while making it easy to carry. BENLOCK is the industry’s first foldable U-shaped lock, which was developed based on our original idea and technology cultivated through the development of various types of locks.
Designed by CROPS. Co., Ltd.
5. Gazelle Eclipse C380 HMB
Concept
The Gazelle Eclipse is designed for adventure. A long range and an ergonomically well-designed rigid and strong frame are important features for tackling every adventure without any worries. Bikes often boast one of these elements (capacity, geometry, rigidity), but the unique Eclipse frame with the additional tube under the integrated battery combines all three. We’re the first manufacturer to have succeeded in fitting the highest-capacity battery in the frame without compromising on our distinctive comfortable riding position (we were able to keep the length of the bike the same), stability or appeal of the design.
Designed by Koninklijke Gazelle
2023 IF – Outdoor –
1. Oyster Tempo
CONCEPT
Oyster Tempo features a patented integrated vacuum insulation system, constructed with recyclable aluminum and chemical free Silica, it delivers three times the internal space at nearly half the external size and stays three times colder for longer to deliver food-safe temperatures. Whether you’re looking to keep snacks and drinks cold on your weekend adventures or preserve groceries at a safe temperature in your vehicle on days your schedule doesn’t allow you to transport them straight to the fridge, the ground-breaking performance of the Oyster Tempo expands the usage possibilities of a traditional cooler to fit every lifestyle.
Designed by WORK
2.Torched Paper-Size Foldable Fire Pit
CONCEPT
Torched is a portable fire pit that can be folded flat into a tablet size. It is made for hikers who want to have a campfire for ambiance while ensuring the principles of safety and leaving no trace to the nature. The product is inspired by children’s puzzle games. Assembling and dissembling take only seconds. Three identical pieces of metal sheets interlock with each other to create a fire pit that can hold enough firewood for 1-4 people. Each metal sheet is the same width and height as standard US Letter-Size paper. It is constructed with lightweight metal alloy, this fire pit weighs only a little under 1 kg, perfect for backpackers.
Designed by Yinan Liu
3.flippingCup
CONCEPT
The ultimate all-in-one insulated cup that will elevate your daily routine! Say adios to leaky tumblers, tough-to-clean water bottles, and shakers with poor mixing. flippingCup is designed for all types of beverages without hassles. It blends smoothly in seconds, never leaks, and is easy to clean with a detachable bottom. Sip 32oz with ease at your desired temperature until the last drop. Crafted with premium marine-grade stainless steel 18-10 (316), it provides enhanced corrosion resistance and no more metallic taste in your beverages. From gym sessions to outdoor adventures to office work or home, flippingCup is perfect for any occasion.
Designed by FIZZING COOL LTD.
4.MIFA WILD CAMPING
CONCEPT
MIFA WILD CAMPING functions as both an outdoor speaker and a camping light, which is absolutely a unique gadget in the industry. It adopts an integrated design of wireless speakers and camping lights. Speakers and camping lights share components including cabinets, batteries, and PCBs, which access to save material resources well; the integrated design saves purchase costs in addition to being portable; It can be used outdoors in harsh environments of -15°C to 45°C and it’s also equipped with high-grade dustproof and IP67 strong waterproof functions, the electronic design that over-temperature protection on the battery and other safety guaran
Designed by Shenzhen See Me Here Electronic Co., Ltd
5.FUJINON TECHNO-STABI TS-X1440 Color Variation
CONCEPT
Building on a 20-year legacy of high performance, these advanced anti-vibration binoculars leverage proprietary technology for unparalleled vibration correction of ±6°, eliminating shaking on vehicles. Renowned for reliable performance, they are the latest iteration on a series chosen by professionals when failure is not an option. Beyond pro users, its design features and color variations bring advanced capabilities to the general public for various leisure pursuits on land or at sea. Maximizing grip even with gloves or wet hands and featuring an impact-resistant body that floats in water, the TS-X1440 gives users peace of mind at all times.
Designed by FUJIFILM Corporation
2023 IF – CAMERAS –
1. FUJIFILM X-T5
CONCEPT
The X-T5 is the fifth generation of the flagship series of “single digit” X-T mirrorless digital cameras. Fitted with a next-generation sensor and processor, it brings photographers an unrivalled combination of image quality and compactness in a camera with a timeless design. Its unique blend of portability and high-performance make the X-T5 the perfect companion for capturing incredible images in genres ranging from snapshots to landscape photography and portraits. With enhanced performance, refined operability and improved grip, this iconic camera leaves photographers free to create with confidence and focus on crafting every shot.
Designed by FUJIFILM Corporation
2. Golden Eye (AN-VC22PR)
CONCEPET
This product anticipates the growth of telemedicine in the future, where the emergence of new strains of COVID, MERS, SARS, and other viruses becomes increasingly likely. This product overcomes the limitations of many existing remote videoconferencing systems. It works with various environments and TVs and is designed for easy connection and use. The system can display basic high-definition UHD (4K) images on a TV. The sharp, precise camera smart sensing technology detects when the patient falls or leaves the designated area and promptly notifies the guardian and doctor about the emergency to prevent a more dangerous situation.
Designed by LG Electronics
3. Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition
CONCEPT
Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition is a 6K 360 camera with dual 1-inch sensors, representing our best ever resolution and image quality in a compact camera. It is also the first ever 360 camera to be co-engineered with Leica, bringing their expertise to this product category for the first time. The 1-inch sensors deliver unparalleled imaging with excellent dynamic range, even in low light. And the dual-lens design enables 360° shooting, with the invisible selfie stick effect for impossible third-person shots. RS 1-Inch 360 Edition also features a unique interchangeable lens design, allowing users to attach other lenses from the “RS series”.
Designed by Arashi Vision Inc.
4. Camera Rota-Strap and Accompanying Accessories
CONCEPT
Camera strap has been existed for a very long time but never been improved. We design a new way to carry camera that covers all the needs in different scenarios. Rota-Strap is a cut-resistant strap to keep the camera safe, and the rope-shape strap connects to the camera with a 360-degree rotatable connector. This solves the problem of camera strap being flipped and twisted. Rota-Lock accessories can easily transform the Rota-Strap into a hand strap or a wrist strap in a second. It can also attach the strap to the backpack and divert the loading away to make a camera become much lighter. This is a game changing camera strap like never before.
Designed by Tienchi Hu
5. XLINK XL25
CONCEPT
XLINK XL25 is a handheld large-screen thermal imager that features a modular design. It is typically used for looking for companions and detecting dangerous animals in complex outdoor scenarios, especially at night. Its flexible modular design enables the product to cope with different conditions and meet users’ individual needs. The device can be installed on a helmet for night riding. It also supports connecting to different smartphones for imaging.
Designed by InfiRay Technologies Co., Ltd.
2023 IF – Luggage&bag –
1. Albula Bag
CONCEPT
The new Albula Multibags does what all bags do – it makes sure you can carry your things. But, with its simple lines and appealing colors, Albula Multibag does it a little bit better! The fact that the product is made from 100% recycled material and is fully recyclable with a 20-year guarantee, helps the customer make a conscious choice at an accessible price – without compromising on design and functionality.
Designed by Rotho Kunststoff AG
2.LEVEL8 Gravity Luggage
CONCEPT
It’s a Symbol of Quality and Identity There are some products that always impress people and think they represent a certain identity.Like B&O , it’s quality always reminds us of the owner’s taste and style.We want to reflect this feeling on our products.So that the products and the owner’s temperament complemrnt each other.
Designed by XIAMEN SPARK SPORTS GOODS CO., LTD.
3.VALLEY – The do-it-all backpack
CONCEPT
This project was about designing a product to easily carry all of our daily tech and lifestyle must-haves in one backpack.
Designed by Lúcid Design Agency
4.Tic Tac Toe Bag
CONCEPT
A fun bag that allows you to play games by combining circle and X parts in a mini-sized tote bag. The circle and X parts are pin badge type, so you can put them on and take them off wherever you like. circle and X With 5 pin badge type figure parts each.
Designed by ALrT.TOKYO LLP
5.2 sided electric griddle IRISOHYAMA (K)DPOL-W31
CONCEPT
This product is an electric griddle that allows multiple people to sit around the dining table and enjoy meals while cooking. The biggest feature is that the main body can be folded, and as a result, it has two iron plates.Since the two plates can be adjusted independently, it is possible to cook two dishes with different cooking temperatures at the same time.In addition, the design that becomes compact by folding can solve the problem of storage space, which tends to be a problem especially in areas like Japan where there are many small houses.Then, it can also be used in the camping scene that is popular in Japan these days.
Designed by IRIS OHYAMA INC.
– 2023 IF AUDIO –
1.AK PA10
CONCEPT
AK PA10 is a portable class A AMP designed in Astell & Kern’s formative language. The slope face on the aluminum octagonal column body is Astell&Kern’s design identity and helps the device stay in your hand when holding it. The volume wheel distinguished between the control unit and the volume-checking part. This prevents unintended volume wheel operation and allows the user to visually check the output strength while adjusting the volume. The rubber pad on the front with Astell&Kern’s logo pattern help the two instruments push without slipping when tying the player and AMP.
Designed by Dreamus Company Astell&Kern
2.Sonos Ray
CONCEPT
Sonos Ray is the new wireless compact soundbar designed to upgrade your TV, music, and gaming experiences. It can be controlled using the Sonos app, Apple AirPlay 2, your favorite music service app, or even your existing TV remote. It is the most compact soundbar Sonos has created to date, allowing users to easily put it in a credenza, under a TV, or mounted to a wall. While compact, Ray delivers a rich, detailed sound that fills the entire room. With its minimal and understated design, Ray blends into your living space and yet creates a powerful sound experience for all your entertainment needs.
Designed by Sonos, Inc.
3.WH-1000XM5
CONCEPT
With the WH-1000XM5 headphones, Sony took its industry-leading* noise canceling technology to a new level while updating the sound quality design to reproduce the original sound with high fidelity. These headphones let the users immerse themselves deep in the world of music. The internal structure was thoroughly revamped to create a noiseless design with a matte, high-quality texture befitting a product boasting unprecedented noise canceling quality. *As of January 1, 2022. According to research by Sony Corporation, measured using JEITA-compliant guidelines. In headband-style of wireless noise canceling headphones market.
Designed by Sony Group Corporation
4.Catchbox Plus
CONCEPT
Catchbox Plus is a professional wireless microphone system featuring the world’s first throwable mic and customizable lavalier mic. With the unique Cube throwable mic and Clip lavalier mic, the system was designed for capturing discussion from anywhere in the room. From plug&play to networked installations, the Catchbox Plus offers versatile connectivity options while keeping things simple and engaging for the end-user. With the Catchbox Plus system, we strive to break the ever-lasting industry stereotype that professional equals complicated. We at Catchbox believe that professional audio can be made simple and engaging for the user.
Designed by Catchbox SIA
5. JBL Authentics
CONCPET
A new range of JBL Wi-Fi speakers – the JBL Authentics in which Design and Sound performance are the 2 key pillars. The range is inspired by JBL’s Professional division sound experience and visual aesthetics of JBL’s most recognizable speakers from the 60s and 70s. Touch of modern technology like WiFi connectivity goes hand in hand with a tactile physical interface. Iconic design elements like the JBL Quadrex grille were reimagined to fulfill the expectations of modern consumers yet keep the timeless styling intact. The sculpted metal frame and cruelty-free leather elements elevate the craftsmanship and perception of high quality.
Designed by Harman International
– 2023 IF MUSICAL INSTRUMENT –
1. Privia PX-S7000
CONCPET
As flagship model of the Privia piano brand, the PX-S7000 is a revolutionary and wholly reimagined digital piano for new playing experience untethered to traditional constraints. Its modern and classy styling with high musical performance such as authentic acoustics and keyboard touch makes this piano effortlessly fit into an everyday setting and divorced from the solemnity of conventional uprights, contributing to a liberal and fulfilling music life freed from the piano-as-training instrument stereotype.
Designed by CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD.
2.Musician KIT
CONCPET
Musician KIT is the world’s first modular design of music workstation. With specially designed musical accessories like metronome, musical stand lighting, extended boards, and musical accessory case, users can freely combine and adapt to different scenarios. The metal stand and retractable adjustment ensure the stability and safety of the stand, while the foldable design makes it greatly reduce the space occupied when transporting and storing. The all accessories in the Musician KIT can be used independently, and be combined flexibly, meeting the diverse needs of users to play and the emotional resonance of professional music accessories.
Designed by RITKIT PTE. LTD. & LKK Design Shenzhen Co., Ltd.
3.AIRA Compact T-8 / J-6 / E-4
CONCPET
AIRA Compact is a family of portable instruments packed with innovative features and signature sound that can be enjoyed even by those with no experience in music production. The T-8 Beat Machine, J-6 Chord Synth, and E-4 Vocal Tweaker each embody a unique creative experience – from making rhythm tracks, to creating intricate chord changes, to performing vocal-based jams. With intuitive workflow, the user can enjoy full-fledged sound anywhere with instruments that condense Roland’s 50 years of electronic music technology development into a petite but powerful package.
Designed by Roland Corporation & H.D.Studio, inc.
4. Smart Drum
CONCPET
This is an electronic drum with an intelligent teaching system. Through the original and easy-to-understand lighting interactive simulation teaching method, you can quickly master the drumming skills with the light rhythm. The internal hidden cable design solves the pain points that users encounter in the use of line disorder and wrong connection; the installation of modular accessories realizes quick disassembly and assembly and reduces maintenance costs; the innovative design of the quick folding bracket saves the use space and greatly improves the user’s mobility. Convenience.
Designed by Guangzhou Rantion Technology Co., Ltd.
5.Blue Sona
CONCPET
Blue Sona Active Dynamic XLR Broadcast Microphone with ClearAmp
Designed by Logitech Design Team Americas
2024 IF Entry Guide
Entry Requirements
From global corporations to local businesses, startups, well-known brands, designers, architects, and experts from various fields – you are eligible to participate in the iF Design Award regardless of the scale and background of the product, project, or service you are currently working on.
Participation or awards in other design competitions or contests are entirely unrelated to iF Design Award participation.
You can submit multiple works or projects to different categories (Duplication in the same category is not allowed).
You can submit an entire product series/set or multiple components applying the same design language as one entry.
Virtual products/projects/concepts developed for competitions or concept projects by current university students are not eligible for submission.
iF does not accept paid submissions from students; student concepts can be submitted to iF Student Design Award, which is entirely free.
Entry Categories
Product, Packaging, Communication, Interior Architecture, Service Design, Architecture, User Experience (UX), User Interface (UI) Categories:
Products/Services/Projects that have been released or completed within 2 years from the registration date or are scheduled for release and implementation in 2024.
Professional Concept Category:
Futuristic concepts or professional design research/development projects planned for commercialization after 2025.
Judging Criteria
The judges of the iF DESIGN AWARD evaluate the entries based on five key criteria (Idea, Form, Function, Differentiation, Impact) and assign scores for each criterion. Each entry receives an iF Scorecard, including evaluation scores and results for each judge.
Describe how your entry addresses each of the five criteria. These questions are provided as example questions to help you understand what to include in your description, and you do not need to answer them directly.
Keep your descriptions clear and concise. You can use short sentences or bullet points if it helps.
Example: “- Diverse combinations of recyclable materials”
Please note that the text you write about the judging criteria will be used for judging purposes only and will not be publicly disclosed.
Entry Steps: Description
Idea (Including spaces, up to 650 characters in English)
Task: What are the main challenges of this project? How did you address these challenges through design?
Relevance: What is the design concept, motif, theme, and meaning of the project?
Fit for purpose: How well does the project align with the target audience or purpose?
Form (Including spaces, up to 650 characters in English)
Aesthetics: Why does the final result visually look the way it does?
Emotional appeal: How do the visual elements impact consumers or users?
Execution: What was the process or method used to achieve the finish and completeness of the result?
Function (Including spaces, up to 650 characters in English)
Usability: How did you optimize or improve user convenience and usability?
Efficiency: Where is the product efficient, and how are you maximizing efficiency?
User benefit: What service, added value, or benefits does the product offer to users?
Differentiation (Including spaces, up to 650 characters in English)
Innovation: What is innovative about the project? Did it bring new and previously non-existent innovations?
Brand differentiation: Does it connect to the brand, providing unique features and distinctiveness?
Impact (Including spaces, up to 650 characters in English)
Effect: Does it appropriately align with the intended target group? What positive impact does it have on the target audience?
Social benefit: How does the project contribute to society and address issues?
Sustainability: Does it consider sustainability, or in what way does it contribute to sustainability?
If your entry is in the Product category:
How much recycled material was used?
Was there a reduction in energy consumption during production compared to existing products? (Yes/No)
Did the production process follow the International Labor Organization (ILO) standards?
Entry Steps: Details
Target Group
Select the target group for your project. You can also specify subgroups (gender, age, industry, etc.) or enter specific target groups if applicable.
Market Region
Choose the regional market where your project is launched or targeting. You can select multiple regions.
Project Development Time
Select the development and execution period of your project.
Project Launch
Specify when your project is launched in the market or completed. If your project is a conceptual project not yet commercialized, select “2024.”
Degree of Realization
Choose the level of realization of your project, such as concept/rendering images, non-operational prototype, operational prototype, or mass production completed.
Retail Price
Enter the retail price or service fee for your project in EUR (€) if applicable.
Sizing Matrix
Choose an object in the provided image that closely matches the size of your entry. This helps the iF team and judges estimate the approximate size of your product.
Dimensions
Enter the dimensions of your entry, including width, height, and weight, where applicable.
Context Dimensions
Provide specific images that help understand the actual size or dimensions of your product or project, especially if it is challenging to gauge the size from standard images.
Eco Labels
If your entry in the Product category holds any environmental labels, select them from the dropdown menu.
Publishing Restriction
If you cannot publicly disclose your project until a specific date, set a precise date for external publication restrictions. This means your project will not be publicly accessible until that date.
2024 Upcoming Schedule
iF Online Preselection: December 4, 2023 – December 8, 2023
Notification of iF Online Preselection Results: Mid-December 2023
An independent jury of design experts from around the world will assess all entries using the iF Digital Jury Tool©. The top 50% of entries, based on scores, will advance to the iF Final Jury, the second round of judging.
Entries will be scored based on how well they meet the five main judging criteria and related sub-criteria. After judging, all entrants will receive a personalized iF Scorecard with evaluation scores and feedback.
Note that being a Finalist does not mean winning an award or using the iF award logo for promotional purposes.
iF Final Jury Entry Submission (if applicable): Late 2023 – Early 2024
iF Final Jury: Late February 2024
Finalists who pass the iF Online Preselection phase must pay a judging fee to participate in the iF Final Jury. You will receive an invoice for the judging fee after the first round of judging. The fee must be paid within 14 days.
Once your project is selected as a Finalist, it cannot be withdrawn or canceled.
iF Final Jury Physical Submission (if applicable): Mid-December 2023 – Early February 2024 (arrival date)
iF Final Jury: Late February 2024
Finalists have the option to send physical products for evaluation. You will receive detailed guidance via email after the first round of judging.
For entries that require physical submission, use “my iF” to provide shipping information and send your entry to the judging location in Germany.
Announcement of Winners: March 2024 (via email, on the iF Design website, and press releases)
Winners of the iF DESIGN AWARD and iF DESIGN AWARD Gold will be announced after the iF Final Jury.
All iF DESIGN AWARD 2024 winners will receive various awards and benefits, including in-depth feedback, unlimited use of the iF award logo, trophies, certificates, inclusion on the iF Design website, company profiles, iF Top Label, iF ranking points, press kits, social media and media coverage, digital campaign, discounted iF Design Trend Report, and four invitations to the iF Design Award Night ceremony in Berlin.
Award Ceremony: April 2024 (iF Design Award Night ceremony in Berlin)
The award ceremony for the iF DESIGN AWARD 2024 will take place in Berlin, Germany, in April 2024.
Additional Notes
If you’ve submitted entries to IF this year, and if you hear about winning awards, I hope you’ll consider making posts related to the award ceremony. I won two awards at IF last year but couldn’t go to Germany. This time, I hope I can make the trip.