Based on materials from blog.htc.com
It's time to talk again about design and designers. Today – a small conversation with the chief industrial designer HTC Katherine Kim.
So the phone was named “Desire EYE.” Was it like this from the beginning? Where did this name come from?
Katherine Kim: Peter Chow suggested a name for the machine, and we thought it echoed well with the design. I am sure that EYE is the first device in the Desire line with a centered camera, it was a very significant moment.
What was the concept behind this?
Catherine: The concept was formed around the possibility of video conferencing, so it's more than just taking pictures. Apps like Hangouts and Skype rely on the front-facing camera, so we've equipped the device with a 13MP wide-angle lens with dual LED flash. This combination of elements is the best thing to offer for a group in the frame during a video chat.
In terms of form factor, Desire phones should be appealing. The EYE case is created using the same dual-molding technology as the Desire 820 to create a color block effect. This is a powerful trend this year, and it will not become less relevant in the fall.
When you look at the phone from any angle, you see a wide variety of color transitions. This gives the apparatus as an object more volume. We have received positive feedback from customers for the color schemes. They really like the way colors play.
What tasks did you have to solve in this project?
Catherine: One of the key features of the Desire EYE is its water resistance. It has an IPX7 protection class, you can submerge it under water for up to 30 minutes without causing harm to the device.
This was one of the important tasks that had to be solved. Seals and plugs must be added to make the unit water resistant, and this can cause an increase in size. It is already one of our largest devices with its 5.2-inch screen, and luckily, having achieved the goal, we were able to keep the size.
What made you waterproof your phone?
Katherine: If you look at the users of our Desire phones, you will see that they are different but equally adventurous. You can find them on the beach, in a bar, or on a walk. They like to have fun and break stereotypes, they need a waterproof phone.
Let's talk about you, have you always wanted to be a designer?
Catherine: Of course. I started out in the field of art. I really enjoy drawing and creating things, and when I was in college I started to master industrial design and was literally fascinated by it. There was no turning back. I am currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Industrial Design and User Experience Integration and it helps to go beyond design itself.
What was your job?
Catherine: I think the first thing you learn is to think in 3D. I think this is the main thing. As you develop, you begin to understand users. Then the environment in which the products will be used becomes important. Design is not art, it is a lifestyle. He has a purpose and problems that he solves.
Yes, a kind of guesswork. You are talking about a master's degree – where did you study?
Katherine: At the University of Cincinnati. I really liked the program.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Catherine: I love to run. In fact, I combine running and traveling. When I find a country where I want to go, I look for where the marathon is held. I run a marathon and watch the country.
And what was the last marathon?
Katherine: Iceland last October. A completely different world with a different nature, different houses.
Already planning your next adventure?
Katherine: There are a couple of places where I would like to compete. A couple of races in Asia and many in the US. I would like to see more of Europe.
Do you ever stop to take a shot during a run?
Catherine: Hmm, not really. When I run, I try to beat my personal records. But now I have an RE, so it's much easier to have a camera with me. I think I will have time during the next marathon.
Thank you for giving us some insight into what was behind the design of the Desire EYE. We had a great conversation, we are sure that people are eager to see what you and your team will create next.