The hidden technology infiltrating the workplace

Pesi’s On The Surface collection makes use of flat charging surfaces

Technology is an integral partof the modern-day workplace. With new software constantly emerging to tackle the everyday problems of the office, investing in the latest gadgets and cutting-edge products brings many advantages to the workflow – be it employee efficiency, or unlimited storage and a streamlined means of sharing. 

Yet, despite these benefits, the way we viewtechnology has evolved. Although welcomedas a key player in our customary routines, our perception of it has shifted towards one that’s slightly more apprehensive. Tainted by the rise of AI and the general influx of almost-too-smart automation flooding our existence, technology today needs to be discreet to counteract this anxiety. No longer does the modern worker want cables hanging loose or over-mounted plugs; people don’t want tobe reminded how often they’re surrounded by machines, and are instead opting for products or materials that mimic something more natural, gravitating towards hidden and integrated technologies.

The idea of integrating technology into a product or material is something that brands and designers have adopted only fairly recently – a fine example of this can be seen in the new On The Surface collection by South Korean design studio Pesi. 

Crafted as part of Samsung’s Creative Square competition, which tasked young design companies with creating new mobile environments, the collection comprises a range of furniture and homeware products, each incorporating wireless charging technology to liberate smartphone users from those pesky wires and cables. The detachable wireless charging module is hidden at the bottom of the product – its alignment allowing the item to remain completely versatile, even when it’s not being used as a charger – the collection includes a container, clock, speaker, mirror, and tray. 

“We think the wireless charging system is a natural technology, because of the method and the way it’s used. It does not require anything else except for a mobile device being placed on it, just like you would put it on a table – meaning it was very easy to integrate the wireless charging system,” explains Byounghwi Jeon, co-founder of Pesi. 

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