Sanctuary VR
Toward the end of 2023, I was tasked with creating a high-fidelity design concept for a VR app using the Apple Vision Pro's technology and design library. Given the freedom to choose any concept, I was inspired by the Vision Pro's immersive 3D audio and environmental scanning technology to design Sanctuary VR, a relaxation app.
I was responsible for conducting research to determine the user's desired experience, leveraging the Apple Vision Pro design library, and creating high-fidelity mockups that would showcase the app's most notable features.
"What would a hypothetical VR meditation app be designed like on the Apple Vision Pro? What features would users want, and would make the best use out of the unique qualities of the headset?"
The goal of this app would be to help people find comfort anywhere in the world through the power of VR. It aims to be a simple yet usable mental health app that can provide tranquil environments for any who are stressed, tired, homesick, or in need of repreve. It could also be used to help those suffering from anxiety, depression, intrusive thoughts, and other mental health disorders.
Users ages 15 and up with basic tech skills, who own and use a VR headset, but primarily for practical purposes like work, education, and communication. These users are stressed, tired, overwhelmed, or homesick, and seeking a mental reprieve.
For Sanctuary VR, I began with focused research on meditation apps, VR relaxation experiences, and the Apple Vision Pro's immersive 3D audio and environmental scanning capabilities. I then conducted user interviews to gain direct insight on the user's preferences and features they would expect from an app concept like this.
After the research, I began the iterative process of creating concept screens, planing mechanics, wireframing, and designing high-fidelity mockups that blend minimalist design with accessibility. Through testing and feedback, the final interface was refined to be relaxing, easy to navigate, and comforting for users.
Once I understood the users' needs, I began the design process with concept sketches and exploring the Vision Pro's design library, focusing on how users would interact with the mechanics in a VR space. Since navigating the UI would be the app's core function, the goal was to ensure the interface was simple and intuitive to users in VR.
Throughout the design process, additional user testing was conducted with a blind test group, providing valuable feedback for design iteration. Various mechanics and interfaces were refined and expanded upon to address users' pain points and enhance overall cohesion.
As the designs were iterated on and developed, the interface was refined to take advantage of the Apple Vision Pro's technology and to expand upon the app's mechanics.
After a month of research and development, the final concept showcases a sleek interface and a variety of relaxation options. It offers users a variety of environments and accessibility features to craft their ideal VR relaxation experience, from a sunny beach to their own bedroom.
While remaining a concept, the final design paints the picture of a high quality mental health app rich with quality of life features, perfect for the Apple Vision Pro. Its immersive 3D audio and environments offer a tranquil escape, while the headset's environmental scanning technology allows users to capture and store any environment, ensuring they’re never too far from home. The accessibility and customization features would streamline the experience, helping with motion sickness, entertainment, and relaxation.
Anyone from an overworked office worker to an anxious flyer can have their own private sanctuary in Sanctuary VR.
Although the project didn't progress beyond the high-fidelity mockup phase, it showcases my skills in user research, utilizing a design library, and designing beyond traditional screen formats. It's one of my favorite projects; I'm proud of the results!
