TLDR DESIGN 2025-04-09

Read the case study for all the juicy technical details + results

IOS 19 DESIGN LEAK: ROUNDED ICONS, NEW TAB BARS, AND A "GLASS-LIKE" INTERFACE

Among the key updates in iOS 19 are a sleeker, more transparent “glass-like” interface, rounder app icons, and a newly styled pill-shaped tab bar. Users can also expect redesigned elements such as rounded corners, thinner toggles, and a refreshed Settings app and keyboard to enhance ease of use. A subtle light effect will add extra shine to the interface, giving it a more modern feel.

EPIC GAMES ACQUIRES LOCI TO INTRODUCE AUTOMATED 3D TAGGING

Epic Games has acquired Loci, an AI platform that automates 3D asset tagging and detects potential IP violations. The technology will streamline content management and protect creators, especially in tools like Unreal Editor for Fortnite and Fab. This integration addresses past copyright issues and enhances asset discoverability across Epic's ecosystem.

TOWARDS A NEW MEDIA ECOSYSTEM WITH WORLD SIMULATORS

Runway has secured over $300M in Series D funding to expand its AI film studio and advance world simulator technology. With Gen-4, it can now enable consistent, AI-generated media content. The investment supports continued research, original productions, and hiring, pushing forward a new media ecosystem built on advanced AI models simulating realistic worlds.

UNDERSTANDING HOW TO PRIORITIZE MAKES YOU A MORE EFFECTIVE DESIGNER

Designers often struggle with prioritization, fearing wrong decisions or deferring to others. However, when everything's urgent, nothing gets done. Focusing on key users, tailoring communication to decision-makers, and offering thoughtful recommendations—even with options—helps drive action. Prioritization isn't optional - it's essential for impactful design in today's constrained, business-driven environment.

WE CAN STILL LEARN A LOT FROM THE OLDER DESIGN GENERATION

Despite being pioneers in design, many older designers are now dismissed as “irrelevant.” Yet their experience, adaptability, and honesty still offer valuable insights. Diverse leadership is crucial, but sidelining veterans risks losing industry-shaping wisdom.

PINTEREST DESIGNER VICKI TAN'S MISSION TO IMPROVE OUR DECISION-MAKING

Pinterest designer Vicki Tan's new book, "Ask This Book A Question," explores the complexities of decision-making and how to make more intentional choices. Tan, who has a background in behavioral science, argues that decisions are influenced by emotions, habits, and cognitive biases rather than just logic. She aims to "redesign" how we think about decision-making, making it more intuitive and engaging.

ELIMINATE THE SURVIVAL BIAS IN YOUR DESIGN DECISIONS

Thumb Zone is a feedback tool that uses user personas, interactions, and emotions to deliver clear insights, helping researchers and designers make smarter decisions.

TURN YOUR LONG-FORM VIDEOS INTO SHORT CLIPS

WUI.AI uses AI to turn your long-form videos into viral short video clips. It's ideal for channels like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, and more.

DESIGNSTUDIO CREATES IDENTITY FOR THE RENAMED ROYAL BALLET AND OPERA

The Royal Opera House has been renamed the Royal Ballet and Opera (RBO) as part of a comprehensive rebranding effort by DesignStudio. The new identity aims to balance the organization's physical and digital presence with a focus on accessibility, friendliness, and welcomingness. It features a new wordmark based on a traditional letterpress typeface, a bespoke ampersand, and two custom typefaces. The extended color palette includes a range of vibrant colors that can be adapted for different contexts, including social media.

TAXI STUDIO: THE BRISTOL AGENCY PROVING WORLD-CLASS DESIGN DOESN'T NEED A LONDON POSTCODE

Taxi Studio, a Bristol-based agency founded in 2002, has grown into a globally recognized powerhouse without ever trading its South West roots for a London postcode. The studio's success is rooted in its commitment to great design, independence, and a deep respect for the industry. With a focus on strategic design thinking and challenging the brief, Taxi Studio has built long-lasting relationships with clients and produced award-winning work.

THE SOUND OF INNOVATION: HOW AUDIO DESIGNERS ARE REDEFINING DIGITAL EXPERIENCES

Sound design shapes how we experience technology, guiding emotions and interactions. At Microsoft, audio teams craft immersive, meaningful soundscapes that connect users, enhance usability, and reflect brand identity. From iconic tones to voice design and the Figma Sound Library, their work elevates sound as a core element of digital design.

MARVEL WINS BACK FANS WITH SLICK RETRO-INSPIRED FANTASTIC FOUR POSTER

Its minimalist style and graphic depth mark a refreshing return to thoughtful film poster design.

"IS GRAPHIC DESIGN DEAD?": DESIGNERS SHARE THEIR HONEST THOUGHTS ON AI IN HEATED DISCUSSION

Despite AI-driven fears, many believe human creativity, problem-solving, and strategy will keep designers relevant alongside evolving AI tools.

IKEA JUST DESIGNED ITS NEW BATHROOM PRODUCTS TO MAKE LIFE EASIER FOR EVERYONE

Known for its flat-pack furniture and modern design, Ikea has launched a new line of AI-powered planning tools to help customers visualize and customize their home spaces.