The problem
the challenge
Most of us use our phones all day, but users with sound sensitivity face a constant challenge when engaging with online content. Whether it's videos on YouTube, reels on Instagram, or unexpected ads, these auditory elements can disrupt the experience for individuals with sound sensitivity. Recognizing that white noise is a crucial coping mechanism for many, the lack of a dedicated solution to filter out unwanted sounds creates a significant barrier to a peaceful and enjoyable online experience for this user group.
white noise as a coping mechanism
White noise is a consistent, soothing sound that encompasses all audible frequencies, providing a steady auditory background. It serves as a neutral audio signal, often used to drown out or mask other sounds, promoting a sense of calm and focus.
Misophonia community has been praising this feature!
Apple provides a seamless user experience for playing background sounds on iPhone. Users can choose calming sounds like ocean or rain to mask unwanted environmental noise, aiding focus or relaxation. It allows users to customize sound types, adjust volume, and even control when the background sounds play, ensuring a smooth and personalized experience that complements other activities on the device.
What about the Android apps though?
Contrary to our expectations, the Android app market lacked a comprehensive solution for background sounds that fulfilled essential requirements. Our exploration revealed a void where other apps struggled to provide a seamless experience, particularly in playing background sounds alongside other media. Issues such as outdated UI and poor user experience further emphasized the need for an alternative.
the functionalities
1. Play on Top of Other Media: Enable the app to seamlessly play background sounds concurrently with other media on the device.
2. Smooth Functionality through Notification Bar: Facilitate easy control of sound playback or pause directly from the notification bar for quick and convenient access.
3. Widget for Fast Access: Implement a widget feature for users to swiftly access various background sounds without opening the app.
4. Simple and Soothing Visual Language: Draft a visual language that is both simple and soothing, creating a safe and comfortable environment for users.
5. Small Collection of Sounds: Curate a concise yet diverse collection of sounds to accommodate individual preferences and provide a personalized auditory experience.
the content
White Noise
Calming and constant, ideal for focus and sleep.
Pink Noise
Gentle and balanced, promoting relaxation and creativity.
Brown Noise
Soothing and deep, aids concentration and masks noise.
Black Noise
Mellow and immersive, perfect for meditation and relaxation.
the philophonia brand
Building on the established PhiloPhonia brand, we seamlessly extended our identity to PhiloPhonia Noise. While ensuring brand continuity, I made subtle logo adjustments to maintain distinctiveness. The color palette was thoughtfully preserved, creating a harmonious and familiar visual language for our users.
The logo
the colours
Simplicity is at the heart of PhiloPhonia Noise. Through multiple UI iterations, we opted for a dark mode to ensure a non-intrusive experience during media consumption. The app, currently a single screen, prioritizes user convenience. Our emphasis on a well-crafted widget in two sizes enhances accessibility and ensures seamless functionality.
final screens of the live app
