SIM.PL

I set out to design a simpler, more functional, and more elegant solutions to modern communication? SIM.PL is a case study into what that solution might look like. A phone that brings back some of that basic retro functionality that we are missing in phones today. It focuses on providing a more tactile interaction that helps reduce phone and screen size while providing a larger screen when needed.

Through workshops and survey we uncovered that participants lacked enthusiasm towards newer phone models. This led us to explore solutions that revived user interest. We noticed an over-indexing on the user interface with almost no consideration for touch and physical interaction.

My design exploration set out to uncover what types of interactions made people more engage with the phone on a physical level. We wanted to understand what size and shape really made sense. Considering average hand size, pocket size and screen real estate. Our team engaged in secondary research, cross referencing industry exemplars for inspiration, then designed around some key interactions to test our hypothesis in real space. I wanted to learn more about the best shape and size, while learning how this would couple with potential user interface interactions.

SIM.PL is made to be durable. Design with a rigid internal shell that protects the electronics from damage, taking away to need to purchase an additional protective case.

The result is a mobile device that provides a more removed screen experience but creates a more engaging and robust tactile experience. The phone focuses on mechanical movements, color, material, and durability, without 3rd party purchases.