These Keycap-Inspired Rectangular Headphones Make Nothing's Design Look Boring - Yanko Design

"We knew Nothing was launching headphones this year, most of us imagined glyphs on them, but Nothing pulled a fast one by choosing a different design direction to stand out amongst a sea of headphones. Instead of the conventional circular or capsule-shaped cups, they unveiled rectangular headphones that took the world by surprise. A lot of us (me included) had reservations on the design, but if anything, the rectangular format was unique enough to really make an impact."

"Now, if we're designing headphones that are just meant to be different, these keycap-inspired headphones really take the cake. Designer Tougou Daciqeng calls it "Cross-border integration of tactile design and auditory technology", which is just fancy designspeak for 'we drew a parallel between two senses - touch, and sound'. The result is a pair of headphones that welcome your ears, but also your eyes and hands. That keycap-inspired can on the outside just begs your fingers to touch touch it, sometimes even attempt pressing it."

"The result is a fun design language that I don't attribute to Nothing, but I definitely do to a brand like Teenage Engineering. Fun, funky designs, vibrant and subdued color options, and a silhouette that feels unmistakable. Teenage Engineering doesn't lean into hyper-ergonomics, everything they make has this industrial, engineering-driven touch, resulting in very soft curves that often punctuate otherwise straight lines and geometric forms."

Rectangular keycap-inspired headphones present an unconventional cup shape that prioritizes visual and tactile distinction over traditional forms. The design draws a parallel between touch and sound, inviting physical interaction with a keycap-like exterior that encourages pressing and exploration. The designer, Tougou Daciqeng, frames the concept as cross-border integration of tactile design and auditory technology. The aesthetic aligns more with brands like Teenage Engineering, emphasizing industrial, engineering-driven touches and soft curves within geometric forms. The concept emphasizes appearance and tactile appeal rather than sonic characteristics, featuring rectangular earcups with elliptical cutouts for a snug fit.

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