Chatspot

Reimagining Togetherness

Chatspot is an unobtrusive desk accessory designed to subtly evoke that sense of togetherness lost in the virtual space. A simple, modern design is unified by a smooth matte finish, neutral color, and a rounded silhouette that discreetly encapsulates light and speaker elements. With effortless functionality, two parts are integrated by a single spine, allowing users to simply pull up or push down the top component to turn the device on or off.

Creating Rhythm & Routine

Chatspot's lamp softly projects an ambiance and hue that self-adjusts to reflect the day's natural light cycle, as well as the color temperature throughout a typical workday. The light ring at the top of the base indicates, in hue and brightness, the number of people "in the office." Early risers begin the day with a faint orange glow that intensifies as more colleagues trickle in, and fades again at lunchtime and the day's end. It's intentionally subtle yet remarkably effective in conveying a sense of togetherness, no microphone or camera required.

Connecting Physical, Digital & Social.

Maximizing the opportunity with Chatspot required digital integration, too. We merged thoughtful industrial and user experience design to replicate the office in a virtual blueprint, optionally laid out across your desktop's background, with spaces designated for specific social contexts. Lamp on, you're in the office—a straightforward, intuitive UI—where you can drag and drop into an open or closed door space. Again, mic and camera aren't necessary, just a profile photo, but if you stroll into a common area (signaling that you're open to conversation), you can use Chatspot's audio feature to communicate with other colleagues there, visible by their profile bubbles. Virtual rooms can be added and customized, too, like "shared music" or "passion projects."

A New Approach to Office Hours.

To leave the office, just push down on the top of the lamp to shut it off. There's no chance you left a camera rolling or that people can hear you scolding your kids. And even if you're still working and don't want to be bothered, Chatspot shows that you're officially gone. That's it. No more chatter.