The Poken is a communication and social networking device that uses a proprietary wireless technology which enables the user to instantly exchange information with any other Poken device that it physically touches.

Working closely with our client, our challenge was to develop a design that informed the user how to use the product. Our solution was to create a small generic physical character with an exaggerated hand - the hand being the contact point between two devices. We then helped the client develop the symbol of the hand and the action of touching the hands so that they became synonymous with the Poken brand.

The body of the character was designed so that it could be personalised through graphic designs being overprinted onto different coloured bodies. This allowed the client flexibility to produce a range of designs from a single product.

In addition to the product and interaction design we also developed the mechanical design, helping the client integrate the electronic parts and optimise the device for production in Asia.