The hottest Substack posts of Product Identity

And their main takeaways
753 implied HN points β€’ 03 Jul 24
  1. Smartphones were supposed to make our lives easier, but now they often feel overwhelming and unhelpful. Many people want to focus on simpler uses for their devices instead of getting caught up in unnecessary features.
  2. There's a trend of 'dumbification' where people are choosing less complicated devices and apps to reduce distractions. Instead of seeking out the latest tech, people want tools that help them focus and connect better.
  3. This movement might not be mainstream yet, but it's growing. Many are looking for ways to minimize their screen time and simplify their digital lives to find more balance.
931 implied HN points β€’ 07 Mar 24
  1. Function is often more important than form in design. A good example of this is Craigslist, which proves that a simple and effective website can succeed despite being visually plain.
  2. Some websites that are considered 'ugly' actually have a unique charm and authenticity. They focus on heavy text and straightforward layouts, showing that simplicity can be powerful.
  3. While aesthetics matter, there is a shift towards appreciating simple designs that prioritize usability over flashy elements. This challenges the trend of over-designed websites.
118 implied HN points β€’ 29 Jul 24
  1. The HΓ…G Capisco chair is unique and has a very different design compared to typical office chairs. It encourages users to change their sitting posture often for better comfort.
  2. This chair, although on the pricier side around $1,000, stands out for its aesthetics and quality. It's not just a piece of furniture but also an art piece that can spark conversations.
  3. Designed with inspiration from horse saddles, the Capisco challenges how we think about office chairs by promoting movement and discouraging sitting still for too long.
59 implied HN points β€’ 21 Aug 24
  1. InVision is shutting down, marking the end of a significant era in design tools. Many people feel nostalgic about what InVision contributed to the design community.
  2. Despite its financial struggles, InVision played an important role in shaping design culture and education. It connected designers and provided valuable resources.
  3. The story of InVision shows that a company can have a lasting impact on its industry even if it doesn't succeed as a product. Building community is often more valuable than just providing tools.
138 implied HN points β€’ 17 Jun 24
  1. AI hardware is still finding its identity and purpose. It's not yet clear how AI will truly enhance our devices.
  2. New gadgets often create high expectations but can lead to disappointment. Companies may hype products that aren't fully developed.
  3. Innovation in hardware often combines old ideas with new technology. It might be better to improve existing devices than to create entirely new ones.
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396 implied HN points β€’ 15 Jan 24
  1. Roam Research went through a hype cycle but faced criticism and decline, leading to a post-mortem of its impact.
  2. Roam Research popularized bi-directional linking in note-taking, inspired by past concepts like the Memex and Project Xanadu.
  3. Roam Research's non-linear workspace challenged traditional software structures, focusing on knowledge graphs and unique design.
257 implied HN points β€’ 21 Feb 24
  1. Niche product design is becoming more popular as people seek unique and authentic designs that stand out from the mainstream. Designers are finding inspiration in smaller, lesser-known projects rather than big tech companies.
  2. As companies grow and aim for larger audiences, they often lose their originality and creativity. Instead of focusing on growth, some businesses are exploring their identities and making products that connect with specific communities.
  3. The internet still offers a lot of space for new and exciting designs. By looking beyond the usual sources, designers can find innovative ideas and embrace a new wave of creativity.
118 implied HN points β€’ 07 May 24
  1. Focusing on one clear purpose can make products stand out and be more appreciated. For example, stores or brands that specialize in a single item often attract loyal customers.
  2. In tech, many products have become complex and cluttered by trying to do too much. This often leads to products losing their original charm and purpose.
  3. Going back to basics and simplifying can bring more joy to experiences, like reading on a Kindle without distractions. It helps us focus on what truly matters.
475 implied HN points β€’ 21 Aug 23
  1. Are.na provides a different social network experience focused on curated content and the creative process.
  2. Are.na is a platform for organizing and saving content, serving as a personal tool for creatives.
  3. Are.na offers a calm and authentic digital space without emphasis on popularity metrics or aggressive algorithms.
198 implied HN points β€’ 07 Dec 23
  1. Telegram is a cloud-based messaging app known for its focus on privacy and security.
  2. Telegram has unique features like supporting large groups and serving as a platform for work/business communication.
  3. The brand identity of Telegram is characterized by its originality, mysterious founder, and strong emphasis on privacy.
178 implied HN points β€’ 14 Sep 23
  1. Whereby is a simple video conferencing tool launched in 2013.
  2. Meetings lack novelty, and people prefer simple ways to have meetings.
  3. Whereby focuses on simplicity and essential communication features, avoiding unnecessary complexity.
59 implied HN points β€’ 14 Feb 24
  1. Business models are crucial for companies and can greatly affect their success. There are many debates about which model is the best, like subscription versus ads.
  2. Telegram's business model is unique because it relies on user subscriptions rather than ads. This approach has helped them gain a large number of paying customers and a positive image.
  3. Different business models create different emotional connections with customers. The way a company charges can reflect its values and how much it cares about its users.
59 implied HN points β€’ 08 Feb 24
  1. Personal finance is important at both micro and macro levels, impacting individuals and global economies.
  2. Wealth management tools like Kubera aim to simplify complex financial tracking and management tasks.
  3. Kubera stands out as a small giant, focusing on product excellence and user experience over rapid growth.
19 implied HN points β€’ 28 Mar 24
  1. Twitter, now called X, is facing an identity crisis after Elon Musk's takeover. Users feel confused about the platform's direction and branding changes.
  2. Despite its challenges, Twitter remains a unique place for short-form content and discussions. Its text-first approach has fostered a special community culture.
  3. The introduction of long-form tweets has changed Twitter's essence, moving it away from its original character limit that defined its identity. This could impact the way users engage with content.
59 implied HN points β€’ 21 Aug 23
  1. Product Identity focuses on highlighting unique brands and products.
  2. The publication provides in-depth insights into various experiences.
  3. Product Identity aims to showcase original and diverse content, moving away from mainstream products.