Balancing Design language with user experience

The OOBE was designed with a focus on the initial startup process and gesture communication, as well as product reveal. I explored a wide range of options with different experiential strategies. The top concepts were tested with users in partnership with internal research teams, and the final product aligns our Surface Packaging Language with user needs.

THE IMPORTANCE OF PROTOTYPING

The earbuds had novel features and a setup experience relying solely on audio and an app. It was important that the unboxing experience set users up for success.

I moved quickly from rough sketches to renderings to physical prototypes. Testing the physical experience was an important component to the process - it helped highlight pain points and user realities so we could ensure a successful first moment.

COncept 1: Product proud

The Beauty: Exciting first moment

The Challenges: product protection and where to put instructional materials

COncept 2: Product Recess

The Beauty: Product is cozy and well-protected. You sort of see it in the first moment…

The Challenges: Lifting product out of pulp requires cover & tab. Not as exciting of a first moment. Instructional materials are hidden.

COncept 3: INSTRUCTIONAL

The Beauty: Make users interact with instructional elements first. Hypothesis was they would be more likely to scan the QR code.

The Challenges: Product is hidden at first moment. Sunken product requires cover & tab to lift.