Starbucks debuts a coffeehouse utilizing 3D printing technology
Breaking News:
A 130 sq. m establishment, known as a concrete coffee shop, is now operational in Brownsville, Texas. Offering only pickup and delivery, this unique spot marks the culmination of a project initiated by German company Peri 3D Construction at the end of 2024.
The architectural marvel was constructed using Cobod Bod2, a 3D printer specializing in cement-like materials. The coffee shop, despite its small size, was built by this innovative robot, beaming with walls and roof that showcase the technology's capabilities.
Despite the smooth exterior, imperfections do exist, as observed by journalists from Tom's Hardware. Flaws such as drips and crooked joints are more noticeable in larger projects, stemming from the layered application of material by Cobod Bod2.
However, controversy doesn't seem to deter Cobod, with over 50 Bod2 printers sold worldwide in the last three years. These machines have found their way into the construction of various commercial and educational facilities across the globe.
Meanwhile, the technology world buzzes with excitement over fresh insights about Apple's first foldable smartphone, tentatively named the iPhone Fold or iPhone Flip.
Equipped with a book-style design, this device boasts a 7.8-inch crease-free inner display, similar to older iPad mini models, and a smaller 5.5-inch outer display for unfolded use.
The device, when folded, is expected to have a thickness of approximately 9–9.5 mm, thinning to 4.5–4.8 mm when unfolded. Other notable features include dual rear cameras, a single front-facing camera, and an integrated Touch ID power button, marking the demise of Face ID for space-saving purposes.
The iPhone Fold is rumored to cost around $2,100–$2,300, positioning it as a high-end device. Production is slated for late 2026, with a potential release later that year or in 2027.
In a competitive foldable market, Apple aims to stand out with creased-free displays (reportedly sourced from Samsung) and iOS optimizations. The device's battery life and durability are said to be at the forefront of Apple's development priorities.
Some analysts suggest Apple is also working on a larger 20-inch foldable iPad/Mac hybrid. The iPhone Fold's software, iOS 19, may not include foldable-specific features, with further updates planned closer to launch to address UI/UX needs.
- I have read about the projected release of a foldable smartphone by Apple, tentatively named the iPhone Fold or iPhone Flip, which is rumored to hit the market in late 2026 or 2027.
- Despite the controversies surrounding the 3D printed concrete coffee shop in Brownsville, Texas, which showcases noticeable flaws like drips and crooked joints, Cobod has reportedly sold over 50 Bod2 printers worldwide since 2021, with these machines contributing to the construction of various commercial and educational facilities globally.
- In the year 2024, I expect to witness innovative technology when I visit the concrete coffee shop in Brownsville, Texas, as it was built by Cobod Bod2, a 3D printer that specializes in cement-like materials.
