KeyTunes

Overview

KeyTunes is an NFC-enabled keychain that transforms digital sharing into a physical exchange. It lets you share your favorite song, artist, album, or playlist with a simple tap, serving as both a commemorative item and a conversation starter.

Need Statement

Music enthusiasts need tangible ways to share their favorite songs and connect with others in person, beyond digital playlists and streaming algorithms.

Process

Interviews with music enthusiasts revealed a strong desire for shared musical experiences in an era dominated by isolated streaming. The team explored concepts ranging from modular speakers to shareable earbuds before converging on NFC technology as the most accessible solution. Iterative prototyping tested different form factors, NFC placement and limits, and attachment methods for everyday carry. Continuous user testing with music venue managers, local bands, and concert-goers shaped key design decisions, with refinements focusing on tap precision, hand-feel, and durability.

Outcome

The final artifact took the form of a cassette-shaped key chain, prioritizing affordability, portability, and personalization. KeyTunes bridges the gap between digital music sharing and in-person conversation, facilitating community building through genuine human interaction. It offers a tangible, memorable way to answer the question "What's your taste in music?", shifting passive streaming into active discovery and connection.