The following was a two-week concept exploration for a flagship smartphone, developed in 2016 while working on accessories. The goal was to push the boundaries of comfort, form, and visual identity for a premium device.
GENEVA
A key focus during the design process was to create a device that felt comfortable to hold. Many smartphones at the time had sharp edges and flat backs that made them unpleasant in hand. Through soft curves and refined contours, the concept aimed to offer a more ergonomic and inviting user experience.
THE BEGINNING
The concept aimed to blend two main shapes in a puzzle-like (double-U) structure. The goal was to simplify the assembly, with two material blocks: metal and glass, where the aluminium frame intertwines with the curved glass front / back. Other key elements were the latch detail to release the back panel, the dual camera setup and the machined details on the frame. The idea was to create a device that felt like a piece of jewelry, with a focus on craftsmanship and attention to detail.
EVOLUTION
Throughout the process, the metal frame and overall thickness were carefully reduced. This approach helped the phone appear slimmer and more refined, enhancing its visual elegance. At the same time, a slimmer profile made the design more practical from a manufacturing standpoint, improving feasibility and simplifying the assembly process.
DETAILING
Another detail was the chamfer on the metal frame, designed to catch light and subtly highlight the edges. This feature enhanced the overall aesthetic by adding a refined touch, while also serving a functional role. By breaking up the profile, the chamfer helped reduce the visual weight of the device, making it feel lighter.
