Establishing Design Direction: A Reasonable and Attractive MP3 Player

VOKA Media aimed to develop an MP3 player at the lowest possible cost. However, the challenge was how to align the product with market trends while keeping costs low, as the MP3 player market was moving toward multifunctional, high-end devices.

To explore potential opportunities beyond this high-end trend, I conducted both online and offline consumer preference research in collaboration with VOKA Media’s marketing team. The target consumer group—defined by the marketing team based on business direction—was individuals from their mid-teens to mid-twenties.

The research revealed an interesting insight: most of the target consumers rarely used the additional multifunctional features of MP3 players, such as voice recording or various sound effect modes. They also mentioned that while having a display to view information about the currently playing music was nice, it wasn’t essential. For them, price was a more important factor than features, as most were students and MP3 player prices were increasing due to the multifunctional, high-end trend.

Based on these findings, I defined the design direction as a reasonable yet attractive MP3 player, and the design development process proceeded according to this approach.

Less, but Reasonable

The VOKA Mini MP3 player was designed with a focus on the core function of an MP3 player: playing music.

The approach prioritized simplicity—making it as small, lightweight, and portable as possible—while minimizing features. Instead of high-end multifunctionality, the goal was to allow users to enjoy music anytime and anywhere, free from environmental, spatial, or cost constraints.

The Mini’s minimal and simple form naturally integrates into users’ daily lives, harmonizing effortlessly with everyday belongings. Additionally, its rear clip allows users to easily attach the device wherever they like, matching their lifestyle and usage needs.

An intuitive, integrated main navigation button maximizes usability by enabling full control with a single button.

A smooth, rounded bottom surface provides a softer, more comfortable grip during use.

Though minimal in features and design, the Mini offers maximum casual usability at minimal cost, delivering a product that is both reasonable and accessible.