AI Sound Expert

Designed an AI-powered sound experience that automatically adjusts equalizer settings based on the user's environment, content type, and listening preferences. The system enhanced user satisfaction by delivering optimized sound in real time, improving both accessibility and immersion.

Overview

This project aimed to enhance personal audio experiences by developing an AI-powered equalizer that adapts to users’ listening environments, content types, and personal preferences in real time.

As a product designer, I conducted user research and scenario-based testing to identify key audio pain points. I then translated these insights into a smart equalizer interface that dynamically adjusts sound settings, delivering an immersive and personalized experience.

Client
Harman

Duration
2weeks

Tools
Figma

Platform
Mobile

Ideation

Background

The demand for listening experiences is increasing, while AI technology is simultaneously entering various niche markets, helping to reduce the cost of professional services.

Key Issues

Users lack the knowledge needed to adjust the equalizer for an improved listening experience.

Possible Solution

Analyzes listening spot, distance, background noise, and user’s sound preferences to recommend the optimal equalizer settings

User Research

This research was conducted to analyze the difficulties users face when using the equalizer and to develop an automated solution to improve the listening experience.

(20 participants, March 21 - March 31, 2025)

Major findings

Many users struggle to find optimized sound due to a lack of expertise in sound field settings.

💡Insights

Users expect an expert to solve this problem for them instead of their becoming expert.

Brain Storming

Based on the user interviews and online survey I started brainstorming on the important features
offer in the app.

User Persona

In developing this persona, I aimed to address a significant segment of users who are not audio enthusiasts but still value a good listening experience. Many consumers use speakers for entertainment at home but lack the knowledge, interest, or patience to manually adjust sound settings.

User Journey Map

I made a visual representation of the user's journey across all touch points of the app to understand where I can improve the user experience.

UX Flow

Wireframe

Final Result

Light mode

Dark mode

Impact & Conclusion

AI Sound Expert reimagined how users interact with sound settings by introducing intelligent audio optimization that adapts to real-world environments.
The design simplified the experience of adjusting equalizer settings, replacing manual controls with seamless automation based on contextual cues like ambient noise and usage patterns.


This helped pave the way for more intuitive sound personalization, particularly benefiting users in unpredictable or shared environments.

Throughout the process, we identified common frustrations with traditional audio tools and proposed a solution that balances user control with intelligent automation.
The design aligned closely with user behaviors and expectations, offering a clear vision for how adaptive audio experiences can enhance everyday listening.

This project highlighted the importance of anticipating user needs in complex contexts and demonstrated how thoughtful design can drive innovation in emerging technologies.
It was a meaningful challenge as a UX designer and a strong example of how user insights can lead to smarter, more human-centered solutions.

Other Works