I was a UX Designer on this project, working on hardware components focused on privacy and on-screen display software. The project goal was to improve the work-from-home experience. We designed a smart monitor with a built in camera, microphone and speaker components. Our objective was to simplify workflow, minimize workspace and limit the need for accessories.
Nearly 30% of work is happening from home
We first did a full market scan of both traditional and smart monitors, focusing on design, user experience and price point. This allowed us to see gaps in the market that we could try and improve. Microphone performance often was mediocre and did not have easy privacy controls. Integrated cameras were low quality for the most part, often leaving the lens open when the camera is off.
We have some ideas - let's get some feedback!
We started with concept testing and interviewed 15 people for 60 minutes each. We focused on participants who work remotely or on a hybrid basis. Our questions centered around their existing workflow as well as likes and dislikes about products they use. From our market research, we had some initial ideas on how we could build a high-end monitor that would help users work more efficiently.
Privacy was a top concern and was brought up repeatedly by participants. Multiple people experienced fumbling around looking for the mute button on their monitor. Some mentioned covering webcams with tape, paper or a 3rd party privacy slider.
"When I'm presenting at work, I need to be able to quickly turn my mic on and off"
I'm currently using an external webcam on top of a monitor. It works ok, but it's bulky and I don't like the way it looks.
I work from home and I need to make sure my kids can't access my computer.
My workspace is pretty small and I want to keep it as minimal as possible.
THE CHALLENGE Integrated camera focused on privacy
Physical Slider
Built-in Camera Cover
Light indicators when camera switched on/off
Camera cover is visible when closed
During our research phase, we found that people do not like having exposed cameras on monitors. Our first iteration had an external magnetic slider for users to manually block the camera when not in use. The concept was to move the slider on a hidden rail, so users could not misplace the item. There were mechanical limitations that prevented this from being implemented.
Our final design simplifies the built-in camera. The physical camera slider on top of the monitor allows users to manually turn the camera off. There is also an option of turning the camera off using the OSD software.
"Am I really, really sure my camera is off?"
Users repeatedly expressed the need of having 100% confidence in camera status. We added a status light that displays for 3 seconds after the camera slider is closed. This received positive feedback from the majority of participants, however, some did not like having this light on at all and thought it would be distracting. Users wanted full control over their settings and the final design allows users to disable the light completely.
Mute without interrupting workflow
The mute button was a critical concern for users. Some users mentioned needing to quickly mute but having to spend a few seconds searching for the mute button on the application. Confidence and transparency were clear needs that needed to be addressed. When the user clicks "mute", they wanted to be sure it mutes every microphone in the UX (monitor, laptop, O/S). "Am I really muted" was mentioned by multiple users.
What's the quickest way to mute?
ON STAND
Tap base of monitor and light appears
ON BACK
Press large button on back
ON FRONT
Tap button and LED light appears
There was strong interest in having a physical button for the microphone. We explored having the buttons on the stand. There were pros and cons to this approach. The stand needed to be larger and bulkier to accommodate the buttons. The engineer team determined this approach would add development time and delay the project and manufacturing costs would increase.Having a button on the back of the monitor for quick access did not test well. Users were concerned they would be fumbling around trying to find the button.
Having a physical button on the front of the monitor was the best option. Users could quickly tap the button to mute or unmute. There would also be a visible light on when the microphone was on, and a visual notification when turned off.
Quick controls with only the essentials
Users have the option of having on-screen pop-ups that appear for 3 seconds each time the camera and microphone state are changed. This can be disabled in settings. While we designed a comprehensive OSD, we realized most users need basic settings, easily accessible.
Easy access to additional ports
There was strong interest in minimizing accessories and in turn, reducing cords. Multiple participants expressed frustration with the placement and difficulty accessing ports. We explored adding ports most often used to the side but this wasn't doable unless the monitor was thicker. We opted for adding ports to the bottom of the monitor that could be easily accessed by pivoting the monitor.
Can we save time and add some privacy?
Wake-On-Approach increases speed and Walk-Away-Lock increases privacy. 60% of participants were interested in this feature. There wasfrustration at having to wait a few seconds to turn on external monitors and this could help speed up the process. This was another area that was important for users to have full control in activating or deactivating Face ID as well as adjusting the timer for each setting individually.
On-Screen Display that gives users full control
For more advanced controls, we designed a comprehensive On-Screen-Display. Following our research, including surveys and interviews, we determined which features to prioritize. There was a fine line between providing advanced controls and making the OSD feel overwhelming.
What problems are we trying to solve?
There were various use cases that we started mapping out. Our focus remained on productivity and ease of use.How can we simplify the hybrid work experience?
What people are saying about this product?
75%
Increased Productivity
83%
Minimized Workspace
91%
Increased Privacy
83%
Reduced Accessories
12 users tested the smart monitor over a 2 week period. Overall feedback was positive but we had some critical issues to address. The OSD did not have enough advanced controls according to users. We later added in options for auto-framing and the ability to easily pivot the camera in any direction.
What's next for this project?
We're looking to create a hybrid smart monitor that doubles as a tablet. When talking to users about simplifying their workspaces, there was often frustration around having too many devices and accessories.
Top