An experimental concept that blends AI, physical design, and digital wellbeing to encourage more mindful tech use—not by adding new devices, but by reimagining the ones we already have.
Design studio Special Projects, known for using advanced technologies in a measured way to create more human, magical interactions, today unveiled Aperture—a concept that began as an experiment but has since sparked interest from partners who see its potential.
The studio, which works with leading technology companies on confidential projects, has always been drawn to the intersection of physical and digital experiences. Aperture is a natural extension of this thinking, transforming an everyday object into a tool for digital wellbeing.
The concept works through an elegantly simple mechanism: flipping your phone in its case reveals only a small window of screen. This physical action, which requires just enough effort to make it intentional, combines with intelligent interface adaptation to create more mindful interactions.
In use, Aperture adapts to different scenarios: stripping away distractions from recipes, transforming cluttered websites into clean reading experiences, or creating playful social interactions when multiple devices sense each other during gatherings.
Something magical happens when you combine two ordinary objects and create something greater than the sum of its parts. The future of design and AI might not lie in creating more things, but in revealing new possibilities in the things we already have.
Adrian Westaway, Principal of Special Projects
Aperture shows how simple physical interventions combined with intelligent interfaces can create more meaningful digital experiences.
Clara Gaggero Westaway, Principal of Special Projects
This project builds on Special Projects’ track record of reimagining digital wellbeing, including previous work with Google (Envelope, Paper Phone), Sonos, Kings College and Samsung.
Now, the studio is opening up the conversation to hear from people who are excited by Aperture’s potential. With development already underway, Special Projects is keen to gather thoughts, feedback, and reflections from anyone interested in rethinking their relationship with technology.
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