Pocket Buddy is an innovative mobile application that allows users to bring their beloved characters to life in the real world. This app allows users to interact and spend time with their favorite characters, take photos and videos of them in different settings, and even upload and share their own custom-designed characters with the community for others to download and enjoy.
Project
Product Design
UI/UX Design
Time
4 months
Research Insight
Before diving into the concept, it's essential to recognize the significance of animated characters in various industries, such as gaming, advertising, and entertainment. These characters have the power to attract audiences and create engaging experiences that feel personalized and immersive.
Creating Memorable and Personalized Experiences
Increasing Brand Awareness and Recognition
Engaging and Attracting Audiences
Providing Interactive Content
Breaking Language and Cultural Barriers
Enriching Topics and Products
3D Model by SeafoamBoy
https://sketchfab.com/seafoam/models
User Interviews
After that, I want to understand how people react and feel when they see a virtual character come to life in the real world. I also want to know about their experiences with interacting with virtual characters.
Identifying the Problems
Feature 1
Download a new character from the community place, make it your favorite, and set it as your title screen wallpaper
Explore different characters, and download the one they like
Check out details info about each character and make their decision to download
Access their characters in their own character library
Mark your character as your favorite
Share and take pictures
Title screen wallpaper
Feature 2
Take a picture with your character using the AR camera
Access the character selection screen
Adjust different character settings
Take a picture or video
Turn on/off the AR camera
Takeaway
1. Expanding the Scope
Initially, the project was only aimed at users interested in and passionate about anime culture. However, during my research, I discovered platforms with free or paid animated characters published by various creators. This surprising find highlighted the potential to raise awareness for these creators through the project.
2. AR Design Challenges
Incorporating AR to create realistic animated characters was a challenge. Through exploration and experimentation, the final design achieved lively characters, showcasing the excitement of creative prototyping within the platform.
