Speculative Worldbuilding ✦ Product Design
Timeline
February - April 2025
Role
UIUX Designer
Tools/Programs
Figma
In a future plagued by sound pollution, even 40 dB (the volume of a quiet library) can cause hearing loss and permanent deafness. In this world, humans found the answer in nature and Mossbuds was founded. Mossbuds are bio-inspired earbuds that don't just cancel noise—they curate it.
Inspired by how moss filters the air, these buds filter and soften the acoustic environment around you based on your unique sensitivity. MossBuds empower people to curate their soundscapes - not cancel them.
Solutions for protecting the now fragile human ears remain reactive and isolating. There is a need for a proactive, curating tool that lets people curate healthier soundscapes.
To give users intuitive tools to curate their hearing and create healthier soundscapes, we designed Mossbuds, a wearable biomaterial device and an open source library to encourage accessibility.
Inspired by vintage reference books and music playlist apps, the Mossbuds app guides users through maintaining the devices, sharing customized sound presets to improve open access to safe hearing levels. Intuitive screens, haptic feedback, and easy sound curation ensures clarity and comfort at every step, leading users smoothly to use the app for daily purposes.
The mossbuds app contains an open source library of curated soundscapes that anyone can use. Search filtering via tags and playlists allow users to easily save and customize preexisting soundscapes.
Track the wellbeing of your Moss Buds and receive gentle reminders for routine maintenance and hygiene. Inspired by plantcare apps, the Care tab emphasizes the longevity of the devices if they were properly cared for as living beings rather than as something to be used and discarded.
TO BE CONTINUED...
