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Apple Watch Packaging Redesign

case study

UX Researcher + Designer — 10-week capstone, team of 4 at University of Washington

UX ResearchPhysical PrototypingSustainabilityHCDE @ UW

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Original packaging analysis
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Original packaging analysis

01

the problem

At 376g, Apple Watch packaging weighs more than 12x the watch itself. Most users discard it immediately — massive material and environmental cost for a box that serves no lasting purpose.

02

the process

For a 10-week sustainable design capstone at UW, we asked: what if the packaging became part of the product experience? We ran 27 surveys and 8 moderated interviews, then designed, prototyped, and tested a redesigned concept.

03

the solution

A single compact box that doubles as a charging dock and display stand. 54% lighter, QR-code instructions, designed for the 51% of users who already keep their Apple packaging.

timeline

1
KickoffJan 2022
2
ResearchJan-Feb 2022
3
IdeationFeb 2022
4
PrototypeMar 2022
5
PresentedMar 2022

key features

27 surveys + 8 moderated interviews
54% weight reduction — 376g to 173g
Multi-use box doubles as charging dock and display stand
QR code replaces paper manuals
3 usability tests — assembled in under 3 minutes
~58.48M kg CO2e saved annually at Apple scale