8 Industrial Design trends to look out for in 2024

In the world of industrial design, 2024 promises to be a year of innovation and creativity, marked by groundbreaking projects that push the boundaries of traditional design thinking. From sustainability to inclusive and accessible design, professionals and students alike are embracing a multitude of themes that address pressing global challenges while paving the way for a more efficient and aesthetically pleasing future. From social initiatives to professional endeavors, the trends of 2024 paint a vibrant picture of an industry committed to shaping a better future for all. At Analogy, we celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of such designers and innovators around the world.

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1. Metaverse immersive experiences

The metaverse is reshaping industrial design, particularly in AR/VR applications for prototype testing and virtual design exploration. Much like Zaha Hadid's Metropia project, that exemplifies the transformative potential of immersive experiences in design. This intersection of technology and creativity heralds a new era where virtual environments play a pivotal role in shaping the future of design exploration.

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2. AI x IoT

The synergy of IoT and AI in industrial design is giving rise to innovative smart home devices and furniture, exemplified by projects like Vox Aeris, which is a unique initiative that uses music to purify the air. This blend of technology and design extends further into robotics and wearable tech, underscoring the industry’s dedication to infusing intelligence into everyday objects.

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3. Wearable tech

Advancements in wearable tech outshines traditional health monitoring, as seen in the wearable painkiller, Kineon’s MOVE+Pro, which employs a dual-light therapy to help reduce chronic pain. This innovation fuses technology, cutting-edge materials, and health-centric features, marking a paradigm shift in wearable technology. 

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4. Biomimetics

This prolonged trend focuses on emulating nature's patterns, processes, and strategies to solve interesting design challenges. The X-Fly drone, Designed by Edwin Van Ruymbeke, made to soar mimicking a bird, epitomizes the fusion of IoT integration and nature-inspired design. In parallel with technological progress, industrial designers leverage touchscreens, gesture controls, and voice-activated systems, enhancing user experiences, as demonstrated by the innovative drone project.

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5. Sustainable product upgrades

Customization and upgradability lead design trends, as seen in innovations like the ‘Show That Grows for Kids’, designed by Kenton Lee for his NGO. Emphasizing ease of repairability showcases a dedicated effort to minimize waste and promote sustainable consumption. This commitment aligns with a broader industry focus on creating products with lasting impact and lifecycle.

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6. Inclusive and accessible design

Inclusivity is becoming a key theme, with designers emphasizing on developing products and interfaces that accommodate a diverse range of abilities, ensuring that the principles of accessibility are integrated seamlessly into the very fabric of design. With projects like the Playstation accessibility controller unveiled at CES 2024, the commitment to inclusivity reflects a broader industry-wide recognition. Sony wants to make it easier for everyone to enjoy games on the Playstation 5 by making it truly accessible to all individuals, regardless of their physical capabilities.

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7. Computation-powered design

Computation design is rapidly gaining significance in industrial design, using algorithms to elevate creativity, streamline manufacturing, and minimize the reliance on extensive prototyping. Zellerfeld’s 3D printed shoe serves as a prime example of this progressive approach, marking the industry’s pivot towards more efficient and forward-thinking methodologies.

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8. Metamaterials

Metamaterials open avenues for creating lightweight, durable, and high-performance products, pushing the boundaries of innovation across various applications. A prime example of its potential is seen in the engineered wooden seed carriers, designed by Lining Yao mirroring the behaviour of self-burying seeds. this exemplifies the intersection of technology and creativity, propelling design solutions into a new era of possibilities.

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As detailed out, 2024 looks promising for industrial design. With the influx of advanced tech, designers and leaders are posed with exciting challenges to embrace these shifts to create product for the future.