It’s evident that mobile phones have evolved significantly since their inception. However, despite the impressive capabilities of modern smartphones, they lack the charm of the sturdy, classic models from the past. Fortunately, there’s an opportunity to revisit those nostalgic times with the newly launched Nokia Design Archive.
A Glimpse into Nokia’s Past
This online collection, led by Aalto University in Finland, compiles sketches, photographs, interviews, and videos that document Nokia’s design evolution from the mid-1990s to 2017. The archive boasts over 700 curated entries from this period, which include sketches, photos, and product presentations. Additionally, there exists an extensive uncurated repository containing a remarkable 20,000 items alongside 959GB of digital files!
A Treasure Trove of Nostalgia
For those who fondly remember having a Nokia phone, this archive serves as a treasure trove of nostalgia. It showcases early design sketches, mood boards, and product presentations, providing a glimpse into how some of the most recognizable mobile devices were developed. This exploration goes beyond simply reminiscing about the 3310 or the N-Gage; it delves into how user habits and technological advancements influenced these designs.
Reflections on Design and Society
“In the early days of Nokia, there was a true desire to understand people—their lifestyles and motivations,” stated Professor Anna Valtonen, who is leading the research behind this initiative. “Today, we find ourselves at a similar crossroads with the rise of AI. While we haven’t fully defined what it means yet, it’s crucial to engage people in thinking about the possibilities.”
Browsing through the archive feels like navigating through a dynamic timeline of Nokia’s design heritage. It encompasses themes like Mobile Games and Gaming, shedding light on the origins of the iconic Snake game, as well as Phones, Fashion, and Accessories. Users can explore the collection by filtering it according to products, aesthetics, design methodologies, and strategies, or they can choose to focus on specific years to witness the evolution of Nokia’s vision.
