Ato approached us to rethink their AI-powered voice assistant for older adults. Designed to offer proactive support and companionship, the device encourages conversation while allowing families to set reminders and share messages with their loved ones.
Over several months, we worked across strategy, design exploration and prototyping, continuously testing and refining the product until every detail felt considered.
One of the main challenges was finding the right balance between technology and familiarity. Through form, materials, textures and finishes, we looked back at objects that have been present in people’s homes for generations -radios, record players and televisions- and explored how their warmth and familiarity could inspire a contemporary product.
The new Ato was designed to house its technology without making technology its defining feature. Instead, we wanted it to feel warm, approachable and naturally at home in the spaces where people live, while subtly recalling objects and moments from the past.
“Our grandparents can use technology too.”
Over several months, we worked across strategy, design exploration and prototyping, continuously testing and refining the product until every detail felt considered.
One of the main challenges was finding the right balance between technology and familiarity. Through form, materials, textures and finishes, we looked back at objects that have been present in people’s homes for generations -radios, record players and televisions- and explored how their warmth and familiarity could inspire a contemporary product.
The new Ato was designed to house its technology without making technology its defining feature. Instead, we wanted it to feel warm, approachable and naturally at home in the spaces where people live, while subtly recalling objects and moments from the past.
“Our grandparents can use technology too.”
Client: Ato
Year: 2026
