UX Awards

The Premier Awards for Exceptional Digital Experience

NuWave Details

NuWave-by-Virginia-Tech

View Case Study


Millions of Americans are affected by hearing loss as a result of a traumatic brain injury. The daily frustrations associated with hearing impairment only escalate the social anxiety experienced by teenagers.



Millions of Americans are affected by hearing loss as a result of a traumatic brain injury. The daily frustrations associated with hearing impairment only escalate the social anxiety experienced by teenagers. Studies show that the hearing impaired may wait up to eight years before purchasing their first hearing aid device. Through research, we've learned about bone conduction technology, which transfers sound to the inner ear through the bones. There are hearing aids on the market which utilize this technology, but the stigma attached to these external devices is negative. We considered creating a better “headphone,” but desire a product that would not necessarily attract attention to the ears. Eyeglasses are a great solution. They have become trendy and are an appropriate accessory which can be worn constantly. A smartphone application is used to control the bone conduction glasses through Bluetooth technology. The simple icons allow the user to easily navigate through the app. This makes altering settings quick and effective.



Why this project is worthy of a UX Award:



Submitted By: Virginia Tech

See More 2013 Submissions >>