The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds are a bold exploration of wearable technology, blending cutting-edge functionality with artistic self-expression. This project was a close collaboration between Bose’s in-house industrial design team, Reed Art Department (RAD)—led by Design Director Brandon Washington (Founder: Jeff Staple)—and myself, Berk Ilhan, alongside strategic work from Henry Kaye.

As part of the industrial design process, I contributed to exploring how the earbuds could transcend their role as technology and become a canvas for individuality. Collaborating with the talented teams at RAD and Bose, we took inspiration from jewelry, sculpture, and contemporary art to create a product that harmonizes form, function, and personal style.

Grounded in persona-driven strategies and an iterative design process, the result is an earbud that delivers innovative open-ear technology while doubling as a statement piece. It’s a testament to what happens when technology, strategy, and design come together to reimagine how wearables connect to people’s lives.

Agency: Reed Art Department (RAD)
RAD Design Director: Brandon Washington
Strategy: Henry Kaye
Industrial Design: Bose in-house industrial design team, Berk Ilhan