The design team behind the Pill-OWS clip-on headphone concentrated on addressing the notable deficiencies in sound quality that are prevalent in existing clip-on headphone models. Recognizing the swift advancements in AI technology, they aimed to create a product that not only enhances acoustic performance but also serves as an engaging everyday item appealing to a broader range of audience beyond traditional headphone users.
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Global Future Design Awards 2025
PILL
Product Design (Built)
Firm
MOONDROP Technology Co.,Ltd
Architect/Designer
Zheng Hanpeng
Design Team
Zheng Hanpeng
Location
China
Country
China
Photographer/Copyright
©MOONDROP Technology Co.,Ltd
Social Media Handles:
Website
N/A
The Pill-OWS distinguishes itself from conventional clip-on headphone, as it is significantly enhanced for voice interaction and sound quality. It features a 13mm dynamic driver with a specially optimized transducer efficiency and f0 positioned closer to the ear canal. It further incorporates a proprietary low-distortion bass enhancement algorithm based on static threshold compression, which outperforms typical bass enhancement algorithms that often introduce high distortion. This combination results in superior sound quality compared to similar products. Its chip includes a built-in NPU module capable of filtering out non-human voice frequencies captured by the microphone through an advanced AI ENC algorithm. This technology provides more precise ambient noise cancellation than traditional ENC methods, ensuring clearer voice reception, which is particularly beneficial for voice calls and AI interactions.
The transparent capsule design is striking and eye-catching, making it readily noticeable. The rotating charging case features a dual interaction method, allowing users to engage it either by hand or through finger rubbing, enhancing the tactile experience. The design of the headphone is harmoniously aligned with the geometric aesthetics of the charging case, featuring a blend of rounded corners, curves, and straight lines. This thoughtful design not only adds an element of fun but also prioritizes ergonomics, ensuring that prolonged wear remains comfortable.
The design team faced a great challenge in reimagining the entire interaction logic due to the distinctive nature of the modeling concept and the integration of AI interaction. This task proved to be particularly demanding across all design segments, as it diverges from the conventional usage logic found in mainstream clip-on headphones currently available in the market.
The charging case, characterized by its capsule shape, features a rotation mechanism for activation and deactivation. Its ends are fitted with four magnets, allowing it to automatically align and levitate when rotated to specific on/off angles, enhancing the user experience with a sense of enjoyment and a futuristic appeal.
The composite shape of the ear armor cavity, paired with a soft silicone elastic beam, ensures that the headphone is comfortable for prolonged wear and maintains a secure fit. Users can conveniently control playback by touching the ear’s back, and a prolonged touch enables the activation of AI and other functions. This method of operation aligns more closely with the subconscious logic of users compared to traditional buttons and taps.
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