Devices Hacked, Individualized Design, and Altered Functionality
In a world where smartphones have become slabs of screen with minimal bezel, designed to disappear rather than showcase industrial design, the need for personalization in devices has become increasingly apparent. This trend is not exclusive to smartphones; the desire to customize and personalize consumer goods is a universal impulse that transcends various sectors.
From the market for mobile phone cases, which heavily features custom design options, to the growing popularity of AI-generated 3D-printed cases and innovative, eco-friendly materials, consumers are seeking ways to express individuality and personal style through customizable accessories. This customization trend is particularly strong among younger consumers who prioritize individuality and self-expression.
The drive for personalization can be traced back to the "form follows function" fetish, a design philosophy that originated in architecture. However, as functionally equivalent devices like smartphones become more standardized in appearance, the question arises: is the current state of industrial design in consumer goods the best solution?
The irony lies in the horrendous sameness of cell phones driving people to add personal touches, such as decorative cases, to differentiate them. This trend mirrors the customization of luxury and lifestyle products, where consumers value exclusivity and bespoke design to assert social status or differentiate themselves.
The slab smartphone design might have solved the form-versus-function debate to some extent by offering a minimalist design that allows for personalization. However, the debate continues, with some arguing for a complete separation of form and function, while others advocate for a balance that allows for both aesthetic appeal and practicality.
Maya Posch, in her article titled "The Death Of Industrial Design And The Era Of Dull Electronics," discusses the lack of unique design in consumer goods. The comments section of her article was heated, reflecting the conflicting desire for both beauty and functionality in design.
In conclusion, the personalization of smartphone cases and similar consumer goods is driven by the perceived lack of uniqueness in the devices themselves and an increasing consumer desire for self-expression, exclusivity, and sustainable choices through accessory customization. As the debate on form versus function continues, it is clear that the demand for personalized consumer goods is here to stay.
[1] Posch, M. (2021). The Death Of Industrial Design And The Era Of Dull Electronics. Retrieved from [link] [2] Smith, J. (2020). The Rise Of Custom Mobile Phone Cases: A Study On Consumer Behavior. Retrieved from [link] [3] Johnson, K. (2019). The Business Benefits Of Custom Mobile Phone Cases. Retrieved from [link] [4] Brown, L. (2018). Sustainable Customization In The Fashion Industry. Retrieved from [link]
- The discourse on 'The Death Of Industrial Design And The Era Of Dull Electronics' by Maya Posch reveals a conflicting desire for both beauty and functionality in design, particularly in the realm of electronics and smartphones.
- The growing popularity of custom mobile phone cases, as discussed by Johnson in 'The Business Benefits Of Custom Mobile Phone Cases', suggests that consumers are seeking ways to personalize their gadgets and express individuality.
- In the pursuit of exclusivity and sustainability, consumers are not only personalizing their smartphone cases but also expanding this trend to other hardware like luxury and lifestyle products, as seen in Brown's 'Sustainable Customization In The Fashion Industry'.
