iA

Japan Stationery of the Year

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Lifestyle Week Tokyo, a major trade fair, showcased the iA Notebook, which received strong international acclaim and won multiple design awards. In Japan, where the stationery market is highly discerning, the product's debut drew enthusiastic responses from visitors, earning the 2025 Japan Stationery of the Year ISOT Award. This recognition underscores the product's quality and design amidst tough scrutiny from a culture known for its excellence in paper goods. The journey from a small internal project to a notable item on the market demonstrates its significant impact.

https://ia.net/topics/japan-stationery-of-the-year

Apple Design Award Finalist After 15 Years

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iA Writer, launched in 2010, is an Apple Design Award finalist after 15 years in the App Store, highlighting lasting design quality. Unlike typical awards focusing on novelty, this recognition emphasizes enduring design excellence. iA Writer, known for its minimalist approach, evolved without feature bloating, prioritizing user focus and functionality. The nomination celebrates dedication and character in design, showcasing iA Writer's resilience in a trend-driven industry while maintaining its core principles.

https://ia.net/topics/apple-design-award-2025

“What We Make Stands Testament to Who We Are.”

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Jony Ive's recent Stripe Sessions 2025 masterclass emphasized the deep connection between design and philosophy, showcasing insights on identity linked to creation. He argued that true understanding comes from making, aligning his thoughts with philosophers like Vico and Aristotle. While he sees himself as a craftsman, he critiques design's economic constraints and emphasizes the spiritual aspect of caring in design. He advocates for valuing ideas over mere opinions, highlights the significance of effective collaboration, and acknowledges the pain of change in design processes. Ultimately, Ive's philosophy intertwines creativity with careful thought, stressing the importance of principles and the nuanced nature of ideas.

https://ia.net/topics/what-we-make-stands-testament-to-who-we-are

Tokyo Focus Tracks

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iA created Tokyo Focus Tracks, ambient soundscapes inspired by Tokyo's train lines, promoting focus and creativity. Notable lines include the Keihin Tohoku (busy commuter line), Yamanote (iconic loop), and Narita Sky Access (airport link). These tracks enhance concentration, blending sound and visuals, celebrating typography's connection to trains. More auditory explorations of Tokyo are forthcoming.

https://ia.net/topics/tokyo-focus-tracks

Maker’s Knowledge

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Vico's “Maker’s Knowledge” (Verum Factum) suggests we only fully understand what we create. As skills improve, interest in the creation process grows. The separation of theory and practice in education is criticized, arguing hands-on learning enhances understanding. Combining philosophy and design could foster better thinkers and creators. Ultimately, better knowledge is achieved through action, reinforcing the need for practical, hands-on experiences in learning.

https://ia.net/topics/makers-knowledge

Markdown and the Slow Fade of the Formatting Fetish

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Markdown is gradually replacing traditional document formats like .docx and .pdf due to its simplicity and focus on content over formatting. It enhances clarity and readability, empowering users to concentrate on communication rather than visual design. Although many still rely on Microsoft formats due to familiarity and educational norms, Markdown's adoption is rising, especially among younger users and in various digital platforms. It encourages better writing habits by minimizing distractions and promoting structured thought. Ultimately, Markdown may transform how we write and share ideas, steering away from the complexities of proprietary formats that often prioritize appearance over substance.

https://ia.net/topics/markdown-and-the-slow-fade-of-the-formatting-fetish

NYC Midnight: Screenwriting Challenge 2025

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iA sponsors NYC Midnight's 2025 Screenwriting Challenge, offering prizes like iA Writer and iA Notebook. The competition involves three rounds of screenplay writing with feedback and retains participant rights. It's designed to build a writing habit and connect writers. Registration ends February 20, 2025, with the challenge running from February 21 to August 6. Notably, AI use is banned in submissions.

https://ia.net/topics/nyc-midnight-screenwriting-challenge-2025

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