The smartphone market is incredibly competitive, and the ZTE Hawkeye shows that sometimes the best way to stand out isn't to try to surprise consumers but to ask them for inspiration directly. The new smartphone's features are the result of a crowdsourcing campaign hosted by the Chinese tech company, where users were invited to submit ideas for how the phone should look and the different types functions it should have.
There are two key ideas that came out of the crowdsourcing campaign. The first is the one that inspires the phone's name: eye-tracking software that uses the front-facing camera to see where users are looking and make the screen respond appropriately. The second idea is an adhesive backing that lets consumers stick their phone to different surfaces so they can use it hands free.
Crowdsourced Smartphone Concepts
The ZTE Hawkeye's Features Ideas Submitted Through Kickstarter
Trend Themes
1. Crowdsourcing Innovation - The ZTE Hawkeye demonstrates the trend of crowdsourcing innovation in the smartphone market by directly involving consumers in the design and functionality of the product.
2. User-driven Design - The ZTE Hawkeye reflects the trend of user-driven design by incorporating ideas suggested by users for the phone's features and appearance.
3. Personalization and Customization - The ZTE Hawkeye taps into the trend of personalization and customization in smartphones by allowing users to determine how the phone should look and function.
Industry Implications
1. Smartphone Manufacturing - The ZTE Hawkeye's crowdsourcing campaign highlights an opportunity for smartphone manufacturers to involve consumers in the design process and create products tailored to their preferences.
2. Tech Innovation - The ZTE Hawkeye presents an opportunity for tech companies to embrace user ideas and integrate them into the development of new smartphones, fostering innovation and consumer engagement.
3. Adhesive Materials - The ZTE Hawkeye's adhesive backing opens up opportunities in the adhesive materials industry, enabling the creation of innovative and versatile smartphone accessories and attachments.