Our aim was to revolutionize the concept of a dive computer and enhance the experience of being a diver. In order to truly understand our target audience, we immersed ourselves in the diving community, actively engaging with divers and gaining first-hand insight into their needs and preferences. The design research was to dive deep into the needs and pain points of divers while exploring new opportunities.
GALACTIQ Dive Computer UI
Designing the Interface of Deepblu’s Next Flagship Product
Produced at
Deepblu
Time frame
Q1 – Q3 2020
Stage
Development-ready
My role
I was the sole lead designer to develop a new flagship dive computer from the ground up. Our goal was to reimagine dive computers using past experience and new technology. To create a seamless hardware-software experience, I designed the User Interface and Industrial Design simultaneously. For the industrial design of this product, click here.
Collaborators (5+)
Dive expert, external developers, in-house developer, general manager, CEO
Define.
During the Define phase, we conducted extensive secondary user and market research to uncover pain points and identify product opportunities. Based on our findings, we developed personas, use scenarios, and a comprehensive user experience strategy. We collaborated with an expert diving instructor to validate our insights and ensure their practicality. This phase also served as a foundation for our hardware design process.
Ideate & prototype.
Using the user flow and information architecture from the previous phase, I iteratively drafted and refined numerous wireframe versions. Once a satisfactory wireframe was achieved, I sketched and blocked out rough layouts using the Sketch app. To ensure legibility, the layouts were loaded onto a smartwatch with the same screen resolution for testing. Quick prototypes were created using InVision to evaluate the usability of the flows. These prototypes were easily shared with our diving experts for feedback and validation. Throughout this process, concepts were generated and continuously refined.
UI Design.
The GALACTIQ user interface design elements were carefully crafted using the Sketch app. Typography, symbols, and over 200 layouts were thoughtfully designed. Typography was chosen for readability in outdoor diving conditions. Symbols and components visually represented functions and matched the Industrial design of the Dive computer. The layouts corresponded to the physical buttons and included icon indications for intuitive navigation. The design elements ensured a cohesive and user-friendly experience for GALACTIQ users.
UI wireflows.
Although InVision prototypes are useful for demonstrating transitions and providing some realism, the developers I worked with still preferred to have a UI wireflow with the final screen layouts. However, these wireflows can sometimes be overwhelming and difficult to read. To make the wireflow more digestible, I broke it down into pages and structured it hierarchically. The main menu contains a list of primary functions, while diving functions lead to a dedicated page that is further divided into three diving types.
User interface
Dive modes.
Hardware & software
Seamless integration.
Simultaneously designing the hardware and software of GALACTIQ allowed me to create a seamless user experience. The software was developed to work smoothly with the selected components, including the logic board, 1.39″ AMOLED touch display, and three buttons. During dives, the interface is divided into three zones – top, middle, and bottom – each controlled by the corresponding button. An icon is displayed beside each button to indicate its current function.
Dive planner
Plan on the go.
The touchscreen display makes planning a non-decompression (NDL) or decompression (Deco) dive on-the-go quick and effortless. The NDL chart is provided using your current dive settings. For planning a Deco dive, simply input the start time, duration, depth, and air consumption rate (RMV) in a few taps.
Integrated hardware
GPS & compass navigation.
GALACTIQ takes advantage of its GPS module to automatically record the entry and exit locations of dives, as well as a digital compass module for navigation above and below the water’s surface. The device’s hardware and software work seamlessly in the background, allowing divers to concentrate on their dives without distractions.
Dive logging
Your logbook.
GALACTIQ’s high-resolution touchscreen and onboard memory enable divers to easily review their past dive logs directly on their wrists. With the Deepblu App available for iOS and Android, divers can effortlessly upload all their dive logs to the cloud via Bluetooth. Additionally, they can tag their buddies, share their experiences, and relive their memories anytime and anywhere.
User Interface
Easy to understand.
Diving is a demanding activity, both physically and mentally. Having constant warnings during a dive can be overwhelming. To avoid this, we designed GALACTIQ’s user interface to be easy to understand and easy on the eyes. The concise and futuristic UI adds an extra dimension to your dive experience.
User interface
Beyond diving.
Run with it.
GALACTIQ isn’t just for diving; it can help you lead a healthier, more active lifestyle. Whether you’re on a treadmill or a trail, GALACTIQ tracks your progress and provides feedback to help you improve your running technique. It alerts you if you need to speed up or slow down to reach your goals.
Swim with it.
With its 100m (300ft) water resistance rating, GALACTIQ is perfect for swimming. It tracks your strokes, speed, distance, calories burned, and even your heart rate while you swim. GALACTIQ gives you the insights you need to refine your technique and become a better swimmer.
Ride with it.
Whether you’re cycling on the road or an exercise bike, GALACTIQ can help you improve over time. It tracks your speed, distance, duration, heart rate, calories burned, and altitude climbed. With a battery life of up to 30 hours, you can cycle long distances without worrying about running out of power.
Dive computer. Reimagined.
We recognize that many divers have lives beyond the underwater world. GALACTIQ doubles as a smartwatch that can be worn above the surface. It includes standard watch features like alarms and timers, as well as notifications, weather forecasts, and more. GALACTIQ offers applications that simplify your life both in and out of the water.
GALACTIQ
The ultimate dive computer & smartwatch.
GALACTIQ is a state-of-the-art dive computer that goes beyond the limits of traditional dive computers. Designed with seamless hardware and software integration, GALACTIQ offers a unique user experience that provides essential information and features during dives. It also promotes a healthy and active lifestyle outside of diving, with capabilities to track running, swimming, and cycling activities. With its smartwatch functions, GALACTIQ seamlessly transitions between your daily activities, ensuring you never miss a beat. And with a variety of customizable watch faces, you can always find the perfect match for your style. From its sleek and futuristic design to its advanced features and capabilities, GALACTIQ is the ultimate dive companion for any adventurer.
