Noto
A concept that reimagines interaction with notifications. In a world full of digital distractions, Noto creates a structured, controllable environment for digital engagement. By implementing Calm Tech principles into the home, Noto empowers users to decide when and where to interact with the digital world, thereby reducing stress in daily life.
Problem
The average person checks their phone 144 times a day, driven by the fear of missing out. Notifications disrupt focus, both at work and during relaxation, often distracting from what truly matters.
Mailboxes & localization
With Noto, create personalized mailboxes and assign them to rooms in your home. In each room, message stations serve as hubs to store and manage notifications, establishing clear boundaries for your digital space and fostering a focused environment.
Store & fetch messages
When a station is activated, it grows with each notification. To focus on your messages, simply press the top to transfer them to your devices. Rotate to deactivate the station when you want messages delivered directly instead of stored.
Digital foundation
Notifications are categorized with a swipe. An intelligent system learns from your interactions and organizes future notifications automatically. This gives peace of mind, knowing messages can be retrieved at the right time and place. Notifications on the lock screen are grouped by mailboxes for clarity.
Prototype
A fully functional prototype was created using Arduino and 3D printing. ProtoPie enabled haptic testing, such as pressing and rotating Noto. The prototype was presented at the PUSH UX Conference in 2023.
Physical Integration
The message station is subtle, without unnecessary lights or displays. Its status is visible at a glance, with height indicating stored notifications. The tactile interface allows intuitive actions: press to clear, twist to open or close.
My Role
Research, Ideation
Team
Malte Fial, Johannes Rothkegel, Leon Burg & me