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As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, its role in physical, real-world environments is becoming more tangible—and more transformative—than ever before. No longer confined to screens or simulations, AI is stepping into our sports arenas, creative studios, and everyday routines with tools designed to elevate human performance, safeguard wellbeing, and enhance sustainability. A new generation of AI-powered devices is emerging—blending intelligent design with purposeful innovation. These products don’t just use AI; they embody it, marking a pivotal shift in how we interact with technology across work, play, and creativity.

In the landscape of AI-powered devices, where innovation often unfolds in digital simulations or virtual opponents, Tenniix, developed by T-Apex, offers a refreshingly tangible breakthrough. Touted as the world’s first vision-based AI tennis ball machine, Tenniix represents a bold fusion of robotics, design thinking, and artificial intelligence—breaking out of the screen and onto the court. Rather than simply mimicking gameplay, Tenniix acts as a responsive, mobile training partner, embodying the precision and adaptability of a human coach while offering the consistency of an automated system. It’s a significant leap forward in how AI is integrated into physical, performance-driven sports.

From a design perspective, Tenniix balances form and function with elegant minimalism. It retains the footprint of a traditional ball machine but introduces a lightweight chassis, intuitive folding mechanisms, and portability features like wheels and a handle. More than just machinery, Tenniix functions as smart equipment that blends seamlessly into an athlete’s routine. Its 1080p AI-powered camera and screen interface act as the device’s “eyes and mind,” dynamically tracking, learning, and adapting to the user’s playing style in real time—even mimicking the shot patterns of pro tennis legends. The experience is further elevated through gesture control and voice commands, enabled by a companion wristband that makes the system feel intuitive and responsive.

What truly distinguishes Tenniix is how it fosters sustainable, data-driven performance. By replacing repetitive, energy-intensive drills with targeted AI-guided routines, it democratizes access to quality training while minimizing waste. Its modular battery system and compact, long-lasting build reflect thoughtful environmental design. Moreover, the ability to analyze gameplay and deliver personalized feedback through its companion app establishes a continuous learning loop—one that supports both skill development and responsible product use. This intersection of AI, design, and sustainability points toward a more efficient and equitable future for sports training.

As AI continues reshaping athletic performance, another breakthrough device—iXi, the world’s first self-driving golf trolley—further illustrates the power of AI in transforming traditional sports equipment.

Designed by Belgium-based strategic innovation agency Futurewave, in collaboration with software company Botronics to mimic the role of a caddie, iXi autonomously follows players around the course, intelligently positioning itself to support gameplay. Weighing just 10 kilograms and featuring a lightweight, foldable aluminum frame, the trolley offers easy transport and storage. Its advanced AI enables navigation while tracking real-time performance, analyzing the player’s movements, and offering insights and advice to help improve gameplay. ​

The development of iXi took Futurewave and Botronics two years of research and innovation. The trolley features the patented iXi latch™ 1-click folding system, offering compact storage. By tracking key metrics like swing patterns and distances, the device provides personalized feedback, giving golfers the tools to enhance their performance. In addition to its cutting-edge technology, iXi delivers a user-friendly design. The intuitive controls allow golfers to focus entirely on their game, while the trolley takes care of transporting their equipment. This hands-free operation brings a new level of convenience to the course, making it easier for players to concentrate on their technique without the distraction of handling their trolley. ​

iXi’s integration of AI and autonomous movement represents a significant step forward in the evolution of golf equipment. By combining functionality with innovation, iXi not only enhances the golfing experience but also sets a new standard for smart sports equipment. Its ability to provide real-time performance insights and personalized feedback positions it as a valuable tool for golfers seeking to improve their game. With its sleek design and advanced technology, iXi exemplifies the future of golf equipment. ​

This convergence of AI, automation, and user-centered design sets a new precedent for smart sports gear—one echoed in a different domain by Ambient One, a device that brings intelligent monitoring to the creative workspace. Designed by Ambient Works with makers and creatives in mind, Ambient One uses AI not just to collect air quality data but to interpret it in context. It links environmental changes to specific tasks like 3D printing or spray painting, translating invisible threats into actionable insights. Using machine learning models trained in real maker environments, it offers real-time feedback and long-term trend analysis to help creatives reduce exposure to harmful pollutants—without interrupting their creative flow.

But the AI doesn’t stop at analysis—it adapts. Over time, Ambient One builds a personalized profile of the user’s space and workflow, learning to identify recurring pollution sources and even predicting when ventilation might be needed. This evolving intelligence turns Ambient One into more than a monitoring tool; it becomes a silent collaborator that supports health, sustainability, and focus. By guiding creatives toward safer materials or more efficient practices, it not only protects wellbeing but enhances productivity and clarity in the studio.

In an often-fragmented market of air monitors, Ambient One stands out through its adaptive, user-first design and intelligent feedback system. Developed in partnership with London-based maker communities and guided by real-world data, the device reflects a deep understanding of how creative spaces function. It’s not just collecting numbers—it’s nurturing healthier, more sustainable environments through ambient intelligence. Together with innovations like Tenniix and iXi, Ambient One demonstrates how AI, when applied thoughtfully, can elevate human performance and wellbeing across a spectrum of disciplines.