These Tiny Batteries Are the Most Portable Phone Chargers Yet

Katelan Cunningham
Nov 21, 2014

Smartphone batteries are definitely NOT keeping up with all the things we do on our phones. In one morning, we’ve listened to an episode of Serial, checked the weather, scanned our social media accounts and used Waze to beat the commute, all before the work day even starts. If our phones could talk… well, they probably wouldn’t, because they’d be so drained.

The batteries would come in a perforated sheet, possibly with the option to buy one or many. You could buy two, four or six hour charges depending on what kind of a battery bind you’re in.

To be honest, the first thing we thought when we read the words, “disposable battery,” was how we are definitely not supposed to just throw out batteries with the rest of our garbage. How are these different? They’re not. While the exterior is made of cardboard and is biodegradable, the batteries are intended to be recycled at a convenience store that carries them rather than just tossed out.

Until batteries themselves are more easily disposable without harming the environment, this is a really clever backup plan for when you’re in an emergency (not an Instagram emergency) without a portable charger and your phone is on its last limb. We’re really hoping to see this design come to fruition, especially after its Red Dot Award win this year. It would be great to know that in case of emergencies, we could grab an extra charge-up in the same place that we grab our emergency beef jerky.

When’s the last time you could have really used Mini Power? Let us know in the comments!

(h/t Design Taxi)

The 25 Happiest Countries In The World Just Dropped For 2025!

The World Happiness Report for 2025 is officially here, and there's a LOT to take away from it — including the happiest countries around the world that you can visit and live in this year. Whether there's better healthcare, more community, and everything in between, some places really are just happier than others. So, without further ado, these are officially the most happy countries in the world for 2025!

Scroll to see what the happiest countries in the world are for 2025!

When did the 2025 World Happiness Report come out?

Yan Krukau

The 2025 World Happiness Report was aptly released on March 20, the International Day of Happiness!

What does the World Happiness Report measure?

FbyF Studio

Published by the Wellbeing Research Centre at the University of Oxford, the report is based on data from the Gallup World Poll, which surveys individuals in over 140 countries. It ranks nations by happiness using the average life evaluations over the past three years, specifically from 2022 to 2024.

Participants in the survey rate their overall life satisfaction, and these self-assessments determine the rankings. To better understand the factors influencing happiness, the report examines six key indicators: GDP per capita, healthy life expectancy, social support, generosity, personal freedom, and perceptions of corruption.

What rank is USA in World Happiness Report?

Samson Katt

This year, the United States isn't faring so well. This year, our nation dropped to its lowest ranking ever: number 24.

According to Illana Ron-Levey, Gallup's managing director, some of the United States' decline in happiness was "at least partly attributable to Americans younger than age 30 feeling worse about their lives."

Why would some people be less happy in 2025?

Vlada Karpovich

"Today's young people report feeling less supported by friends and family, less free to make life choices, and less optimistic about their living standards," she added.

The good news is that the research shows people are generally kinder than we assume, and recognizing this could boost our happiness and transform how we perceive those around us.

Moreover, there are plenty of extremely happy countries that make desirable travel destinations. Here are some that topped the list in satisfaction.

Paul Theodor Oja

2025's Happiest Countries In The World

It may not come as a shock that Finland has taken first place for the eighth year in a row. The nation boasts many beneficial policies and initiatives, such as universal health care, as well as a strong social support and education infrastructure. It also has a very low crime rate.

Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, too, from soaking up the northern lights under the Arctic sky to hiking in one of Finland's 41 national parks, seeing breathtaking architecture, experiencing Midsummer, a celebration of the summer solstice, and, of course, trying Finnish food.

The runners-up to Finland include Denmark, Iceland, and Sweden in second, third, and fourth place, respectively. Just like Finland, these three countries held onto their global happiness ranking from 2024.

Damir K

Those hoping to visit Denmark can explore its capital city, Copenhagen, which is rich in museums and other cultural experiences, learn about the fascinating history of Vikings, and dine at Michelin award-winning restaurants.

Rudy Kirchner

Over in Iceland, experience unbelievable 24-hour daylight from mid-May to late July, go whale watching, take a diving tour or guided snorkeling trip at Thingvellir National Park, traverse glaciers, relax in geothermal spas, and walk along beautiful black sand beaches.

Shvets Anna

Finally, in Sweden, there are various vibrant cities to check out, like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Pop fans must visit the ABBA museum, while culinary connoisseurs need to try authentic Swedish meatballs, and nature lovers can take in all the natural beauty that Sweden is renowned for.

Aside from the Nordic countries, which are dominating the globe in terms of happiness, two Latin American countries also made it into the top 10 for the very first time. Costa Rica ranked at number six, and Mexico at number 10.

Diego Madrigal

If you travel to Costa Rica, you can embark on all kinds of adventures, from hiking and zip-lining to surfing and river rafting.

Bryan Martinez

Or, in Mexico, see the archaeological site Chichen Itza, take a delicious food tour, and sit back on the sand of some stunning beaches.

What's the full list of the happiest countries in the world for 2025?

Kristoffer Brink Jonsson

  1. Finland
  2. Denmark
  3. Iceland
  4. Sweden
  5. Netherlands
  6. Costa Rica
  7. Norway
  8. Israel
  9. Luxembourg
  10. Mexico
  11. Australia
  12. New Zealand
  13. Switzerland
  14. Belgium
  15. Ireland
  16. Lithuania
  17. Austria
  18. Canada
  19. Slovenia
  20. Czechia
  21. United Arab Emirates
  22. Germany
  23. United Kingdom
  24. United States
  25. Belize

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Why The ACOTAR TV Show Cancellation Is Actually A Good Thing

While I love seeing BookTok-viral novels get turned into movies (hello It Ends With Us!), it's just as fun to see them get turned into TV shows, like Fourth Wing — which is why I had such high hopes for A Court of Thorns and Roses at Hulu...before it got canceled. But believe it or not, the fantasy series cancellation could actually a good thing.

Here's the latest update on the A Court of Thorns and Roses show.

Is the ACOTAR TV show still happening?

KoolShooters/Pexels

A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show has officially be scrapped at Disney’s 20th Television, according to Variety. But ACOTAR fans, don't give up hope! Sarah J. Maas was working with Outlander creator Ronald D. Moore, but now Variety's sources say that after the rights expire at Disney, SJM will be shopping the rights to an ACOTAR show to a different studio and platform.

Honestly, I'm totally here for this because a platform like Prime or Max would provide a different kind of edge and aesthetic to the series that would serve it in a different way. And if we have to wait a little longer for a platform SJM feels most aligned with, I'm willing to stick it out!

On February 27, 2024, Sarah J. Maas reportedly went out to coffee with Margot Robbie. Margot's production company (LuckyChap) has backed projects like I, Tonya, Promising Young Woman, Saltburn. Everything Margot touches turns to gold so I really hope she eventually ends up on the creative team for A Court of Thorns and Roses!

Who plays Rhysand in ACOTAR?

Jared Subia/Unsplash

We never got an official cast announcement, but there are plenty of ACOTAR fancasts.

Hannah Dodd, who plays Francesca in Netflix's hit series Bridgerton, would be the PERFECT addition to the cast, whether she plays Elain or Feyre. And now, I honestly don't know if I'll be satisfied with anyone else ;). "She is ELAIN," one TikTok user comments. "Literally copy paste from my brain Elain."

Deuxmoi (via Marie Claire Australia) revealed some potential actors who could be in the running, like Thomas Doherty, Theo James, and Katherine Langford. Actress Brec Bassigner expressed that she'd love to be considered for a role. "I emailed my team, and I was like, ‘Listen, I don’t care if I have one line. I have to be a part of this,'" she says in an interview with TV Line.

Is ACOTAR getting a 6th book?

Amazon

Yes, ACOTAR book 6 is on the way! We don't know who the new book will focus on, but Sarah J. Maas did say she's excited to bring it to us.

"The next book in that series, I have the ideas and general, vague thoughts. But the nitty gritty of writing and the emotional journeys with the characters — I usually love to go on those journeys with them," she said during an appearance on TODAY.

What is A Court of Thorns and Roses about?

Amazon

A Court of Thorns and Roses follows Feyre, a huntress who's forced to live with the immortal faeries after killing a wolf in the woods. The longer she stays in the Fae's world, the more she begins to love it — and the passionate, alluring faerie Tamlin. But as a dark shadow grows, both their world and Tamlin are put in danger, and it's up to Feyre to save them all.

When did the Court of Thorns and Roses series come out?

Amazon

A Court of Thorns and Roses is the first novel in the series of the same name, and was published in 2015. Sarah J. Maas continued the series with A Court of Mist and Fury in 2016, A Court of Wings and Ruin in 2017, A Court of Frost and Starlight in 2018, and A Court of Silver Flames in 2021.

Are you excited for the A Court of Thorns and Roses TV show? Let us know your dream cast in the comments and on TikTok! And read up on The Only ACOTAR Character Breakdown You Need Before Book 6 Comes Out.

This post has been updated.

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9 “Comfy” Raffia Sandals To Rock Spring’s Hottest Shoe Trend

Raffia sandals are going to be huge for spring fashion this year, and since warmer weather provides the perfect excuse to swap out your heavy boots for something a lil' lighter, it’s time to add a pair of raffia sandals to your wardrobe! Whether you’re dressing up for a cutie spring brunch or keeping it pretty casual on vacation, these comfy raffia sandals will be your go-to for every occasion.

Shop our 9 favorite raffia sandals below!

Target

Wild Fable Elide Raffia Fisherman Platform Heels

With the flair of the fisherman aesthetic, these platform sandals lean a little bit bold to make easy 'fits (like jeans and a white tee or linen pants and a tank) truly stand out.

DSW

Anne Klein Roe Sandals

The heels on these cuties definitely make them a fit for formal occasions. Got an Easter party on the cal? Well, you've officially found your shoe! What we love the most about this pair is the black scalloped accents on the straps that instantly add a playful vibe.

Free People

Jeffrey Campbell Cabo Nights Embellished Sandals

Easy to slip right into, these raffia sandals boast some eye-catching crystals to make any spring outfit feel a lil' bit bougie. Though these do have some height to them in the flatform design, the insole is impressively soft and cushiony for all-day comfort.

Anthropologie

Dolce Vita Wriley Raffia Platform Sandals

With some added visual oomph from the bold black lining, these raffia sandals also come with extra reinforcements around the ankle strap to stabilize your step. This is a great pair to snag if you love the look of raffia sandals but want your shoe game to stand out from more traditional styles!

DSW

Crown Vintage Dylann Sandals

Not all raffia sandals have to be the classic tan color – we adore this stunning orange colorway because it's downright perfect for wearing on spring and summer vacations. If you're jetting off to somewhere beachy soon, this pair would look simply iconic with a flowy white sundress or a tasteful matching set for that epic post-beach dinner.

Nordstrom

Steve Madden Bigmona Raffia Platform Sandals

The chunky platform and wide base on these raffia sandals add to their insane comfort level. What's more is the insoles are super soft to handle step after step! You can also easily adjust the straps on these babies to find your ideal fit. If you're one to get your steps in, you'll undoubtedly enjoy walking in these – no matter where you go!

Anthropologie

SIMONMILLER Cloudy Raffia Platform Slide Sandals

Ooh, the puffy feel of these green raffia sandals make 'em feel so retro (in the best way possible). These are the pair to shop if you tend to like a good pop of color on your feet to balance out more neutral 'fits.

DSW

Crown Vintage Leah Sandals

For a casual look, these low-profile raffia sandals are wonderfully easy to wear. They have a slight wedge heel to make them look more polished, plus dual straps to secure your feet with every stride!

Nordstrom

Dolce Vita Holis Fisherman Sandals

Complete with a chic preppy look, these fisherman-style raffia sandals supply a bit more coverage around the toes, but are still generously breathable for hot days. They're simple to secure, too, thanks to the side buckles.

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