As a statement against our obsession with branding, designer Nick Ross came up with iCover. His motivation? "We don't want to look like all the other sheep!"
We pay for the product, why do we have to be a walking advertisement for the brand?
The iCover discards this unnecessary branding of the distinct iPod earphones, replacing it with coffin covers symbolising the death of the imposed visual branding of the product.
Deep!
Implications - This symbolic design exploits the consumer irritation against large, imposing brands. Companies that acknowledge their customers' woes and design products that appeal to these aggravations will be appreciated and recognized by a large number of consumers looking for an alternative to everyday products.
Anti-Branding Coffin Headphones
iCover
Trend Themes
1. Anti-branding - Designers and brands are exploring ways to reject traditional branding methods and offer products that resonate with individuality and consumer values.
2. Symbolic Design - Designers are using symbolism to convey a message and challenge conventional branding practices, allowing consumers to engage with products on a deeper level.
3. Consumer Empowerment - Consumers are seeking products that align with their values and empower them to express their individuality without being walking advertisements for brands.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - The consumer electronics industry has the opportunity to reimagine product branding, allowing users to express their individuality and avoid being constant brand ambassadors.
2. Fashion and Accessories - Fashion and accessories brands can explore alternative branding methods to cater to consumers who are looking for products that symbolize personal identity and reject the traditional branding approach.
3. Marketing and Advertising - Marketing and advertising agencies can capitalize on the trend towards anti-branding by helping brands develop innovative campaigns that reject traditional branding and focus on engaging with consumers' values and individuality.