A Global Fortune 500 leader in consumer wearables (smartwatches, fitness trackers, audio devices) aiming to dominate the $50B market but struggling with design limitations.
Challenges Faced
This section outlines the core difficulties and pain points the client was experiencing. It provides context on the hurdles that needed to be overcome before achieving the successful outcome.
Anatomical Diversity:
Generic designs caused discomfort for 40%+ users due to varying ear shapes.
High Return Rates:
15% of returns due to fit issues, hurting profitability and brand reputation.
Activity-Specific Demands:
One-size-fits-all approach failed during workouts, calls, and commutes.
Exclusionary Models:
Narrow anthropometric data alienated diverse demographics.
Akraya’s Strategic Solution
Akraya’s engineering inclusivity and product user research team ensured the right product is designed and has a faster time to market with worldwide acceptance.
3D-scanned 300+ participants across ages, races, and genders to create a comprehensive ear structure database. Activity-based testing (exercise, commuting, Zoom) to evaluate fit stability and comfort.
A/B tested 15+ prototypes (nozzles, tips, wings) to identify universal fit solutions. Introduced swappable tips and stabilizers for personalized customization.
95% user fit rate (vs. 65% pre-launch); 4.9/5 customer satisfaction; media accolades for inclusivity.
Conclusion
Akraya’s human-centric approach turned anatomical diversity into a competitive advantage, delivering global resonance, cost savings, and industry leadership in ethical innovation.
