Join sound design experts Billy Sorrentino, Hugo Verweij, and Kelly Jacklin from Apple as they reveal the magic behind iconic sounds like the Tritone alert. They discuss the blend of historical influences and modern techniques in crafting immersive soundscapes. The team also dives into the intriguing evolution of Apple's notification sounds, exploring user emotions and creativity behind each tone. Uncover the whimsical journey of sound design at Apple, where each beep and chirp is meticulously crafted to enhance the user experience.
Apple's sound design integrates closely with visual elements, creating a cohesive user experience through collaboration among multidisciplinary teams.
The design team draws historical inspiration, such as minute repeaters, to evoke nostalgia in modern products like the Apple Watch.
Deep dives
The Importance of Sound Design at Apple
Sound design is an integral part of Apple's product development process, often initiated alongside visual design. The sound design team, consisting of audio engineers, composers, and interaction designers, collaborates closely to create a unified user experience. This multidisciplinary approach allows for a seamless integration of audio with hardware and user interface elements, enhancing the overall feel of the devices. By involving sound designers from the very start, Apple ensures that sound becomes an intrinsic aspect of the product rather than an afterthought.
Drawing Inspiration from Tradition
When developing sounds for the Apple Watch, the design team sought historical inspiration, particularly from traditional watchmaking. They were influenced by minute repeaters, which use chimes to indicate time, leading them to replicate similar acoustic qualities in their devices. By tapping on metal casings of the watch and capturing the resonant sounds, the team created familiar audio cues that evoke nostalgia while introducing users to new technology. This approach aims to comfort users by making innovative devices feel more recognizable and accessible.
Revamping Classic Sounds for Modern Use
Apple's sound design philosophy also includes renewing and revisiting older sounds to retain user nostalgia while updating for contemporary usage. For example, the iconic Tritone alert sound was created using a digital tool to generate musical notes, blending traditional musical elements with new technology. This sound, which has become synonymous with receiving messages on the iPhone, exemplifies the balance between simplicity and memorability. As Apple introduced new sounds with each iteration of iOS, they maintained a commitment to crafting experiences that resonate emotionally with users.
Over the last few decades, Apple has produced some of the most recognizable sounds ever made. In this episode, the Apple design team pulls back the curtain on their sound design philosophy and process, from the evolution of the classic “Tritone” alert, to the surprising origins of the Apple Watch sounds, to the inspiration behind the latest notification tones. Featuring Billy Sorrentino, Hugo Verweij and Kelly Jacklin.