World’s first self-cooling beverage can unveiled

Delta H Innovations, a London-based startup, has created the world’s first self-cooling aluminium can, dubbed the ‘Cool Can’. Designed to chill drinks without a fridge, it can cool its contents to 6–7°C (42.8–44.6°F) within 10 minutes and keep them cold for up to 45 minutes.

The can looks like a standard beverage can, but with a button on the bottom. When pressed, water from a hidden compartment mixes with special salts between the can’s double walls, triggering a cooling reaction. A snowflake symbol on the can turns blue when the drink is ready.

Founder James Vyse says the ‘Cool Can’ is still patent-pending and, before marketing, it will be tested at music festivals this summer. While the can holds only 70% of a regular 500ml drink due to its cooling mechanism, it’s fully recyclable and could eliminate the need for refrigeration.

Mountain resort installs escalators for easy hiking

A mountain resort in Jianxi, China, has invested millions in a vast network of outdoor escalators to offer a “painless hiking experience.”

The Lingshan Scenic Area, which previously required a two-hour climb to reach its 1,500-metre peak, will soon feature dozens of escalators to transport visitors from the base to the summit in minutes. This project, set for completion next month, follows similar escalator installations in other Chinese mountain areas, such as Tanyu Mountain in Zhejiang.

While some applaud the accessibility for elderly and disabled visitors, others feel it diminishes the challenge of hiking.

Street sweeper’s luck launches modelling career

Noppajit “Meen” Somboonsate, a 28-year-old street sweeper in Bangkok, became an overnight sensation after being spotted by Russian photographer Semyon Rezchikov.

He photographed her while she was working and posted it on TikTok, where it quickly went viral. Meen’s natural beauty caught the attention of media and modelling agencies, leading to several high-profile opportunities.

After a makeover by famous Thai makeup artist Nong Chat, Meen’s photos went viral again. She has since modelled for top brands and recently quit her job as a street sweeper to focus on modelling.

Published in Dawn, Young World, May 3rd, 2025