Google Lantern
This project aims to envision a potential future UX ecosystem and create a targeted User Experience for a ‘D-I-Y Voice A.I.’
I explored how a user might interact with voice A.I. in tandem with a particular aspect of one’s daily routine by introducing an amalgamation of Google Home and Light Therapy.
Client: Student Work
Role: Concept, Research, UI/UX Design, Product Design, Speculative Design
Guide: Prof. Santiago Piedrafita
Tools: Adobe Illustrator
Duration: 2 weeks
The Process
Initial Research
I started with researching about the existing features of Google Home.
Concept Development
I envision a Google Home that serves humanity in the long term than simply assisting in completing daily tasks. Mapping the future workflow and scenario of use, I visualized a future version of Google Home, that is more empathetic, understanding and features Light Therapy to lift the mood of the user on a daily basis.
Light Therapy
Light therapy is a way to treat seasonal affective disorder (SAD) by exposure to artificial light. SAD is a type of depression that usually occurs in the fall or winter. It is very common with more than 3 million cases per year in the US.
During light therapy, you sit or work near a device called a light therapy box. The box gives off bright light that mimics natural outdoor light leading to increase in Vitamin D by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain, thereby leading to increase of well being and happiness.
Google Home + Light Therapy
A future Google Home version called ‘Google Lantern’ that has the capability to engage emotionally and sense the anxiety/disorder of the person through a camera, motion sensor and sound. It acts as a guide via sympathetic communication, light therapy and motivation.
Persona
Target Audience
• People with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
• People in tropical regions
• Students/working people
• Old/sick people
• People living alone
New Work Flow
The new work flow depicts how empathetic Google Lantern will be.
Scenario of Use
The below storyboard shows a detailed interaction with the Google Lantern and its impact on the user over time.
New Features
• Desk/Floor lamp
• Screen for time and other uses
• Face recognition
• Motion sensor
• Tracking facial expressions
• Sympathizing with the user
• Light therapy (10000 lux)
• Filters out 99% ultraviolet rays which are harmful to the body
• Motivation
• Responds to unusual sounds
• Emergency call/msg
Modified Design
The modified design is a much advanced version of the Google Home.
