Plantronics 24h Audio
As part of the Minor Allround Design program, I collaborated with a team to develop an innovative wearable audio device for Plantronics, a leader in audio technology. The project, which spanned several months, culminated in the creation of Cymba, a fully personalized, all-day wearable audio device.
Project Overview
Our challenge was to design a future-forward wearable audio solution that users could wear throughout the day, integrating seamlessly into their lives. To achieve this, our team conducted extensive desktop research, developed a broad range of concepts, and tested them through consumer research. The final product needed to balance functionality, comfort, and personalization.
The project kicked off with an in-depth analysis of wearable technology trends, focusing on the user needs for 24/7 audio devices. From there, we identified core criteria such as ergonomics, subtlety in design, and personalization, which guided the development of multiple concepts. We explored questions like “What features will users expect in a wearable audio device seven years from now?” and “How can we ensure that the product fits comfortably and doesn’t isolate the wearer from their surroundings?”
Concept Development
Then a large array of ideas were sketches out which were captured in a large poster providing an overview. Then we conducted a selection procedure, scoring the ideas on the following criteria whihc were derived from the desktop research: Exist allready? Subtle Design? Subtle Controls? Personal Controls? Personalizable? Entertainment? Ergonomic? Logical Wearing? Doesnt Block Surrounding sound? Based on this selection each teammember selected two concepts which were worked out and for which then a qualitative and quantitative consumer research was conducted, interviewing individuals across different demographics. The goal was to understand their interaction with audio devices and their opinions on wearable technology. We identified that personalization and subtlety were highly valued by users. Based on this research, we selected two primary concepts for further exploration. One of my concepts, stood out for its ergonomic and intuitive design, which users favored for its comfort and personalizability.
The final round of quantitative testing reached 60 participants, providing data that confirmed the concepts appeal. The feedback influenced the final design iteration, enhancing features like intuitive controls and modular customization. This research was instrumental in evolving the concept into the eventual product design that users would find practical and enjoyable to wear throughout their day.
Concepts
Final Design
The final form was a moldable in-ear device made from a special material that can be reformed by the user to ensure a perfect fit. This ensured maximum comfort for long-term wear while retaining the core functionalities of controlling music, making calls, and accessing a variety of smartphone features through simple voice commands.
The Cymba also came with a charging case that doubled as a phone charger, speaker and digital desktop clock, extending its usability and enhancing its portability. The concept envisioned Bluetooth and NFC connections to ensure seamless integration with smartphones, allowing users to control their audio and receive notifications in a streamlined manner.
Reflection
Working on this project with Plantronics challenged me to think deeply about the intersection of technology and user experience. By combining ergonomic research with innovative materials and real-world consumer feedback, I was able to design a product that not only met but exceeded user expectations for a wearable audio device.
Through this process, I honed my skills in user-centered design, prototyping, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Cymba represents my commitment to creating functional, personalized products that seamlessly integrate into the user’s daily life.