Ubuntu is an open source platform that runs on desktops. The operating system upgrade confirm its present in all mobile devices, from the smartphone, the tablet and the phablet.

RESULT

As part of Canonical’s vision for a unified mobile experience, we designed a native communication suite that served as a central hub for voice, messaging, contacts, and notifications. By enabling seamless navigation between these apps and integrating social media and third-party platforms, we delivered a cohesive and simplified experience that put users, not channels, at the center of communication.

The project was guided by mobile-first principles, but carefully considered scalability across devices. This attention to responsive behaviours ensured that core communication tasks remained accessible and intuitive regardless of screen size, creating a fluid, adaptable experience across mobile and tablet formats.

The result was a set of apps that felt purpose-built yet harmoniously connected, scalable, consistent, and deeply aligned with Ubuntu’s user-centered design philosophy.

RESPONSABILITIES

As a member of Canonical’s design team, I took the lead on designing and integrating the communication suite for Ubuntu’s mobile operating system. This included the voice, messaging, and contact apps, along with a unified notification system, all designed to work together as a seamless, centralised hub.

Beyond individual apps, I contributed to the definition of core UI patterns and behaviors across the OS. Regular team reviews and close design collaboration were essential to shaping a consistent experience and building the foundation of Ubuntu’s design toolkit.

Working within an agile, forward-thinking team, I balanced the needs of modularity and system-level cohesion, ensuring that each app stood strong on its own while contributing to a unified whole. This work played a critical role in defining Ubuntu’s mobile identity and set a standard for consistency and scalability across the platform.

OVERVIEW

Agency: Canonical

Year: 2012

Role: 
Senior UX designer

Design team: 
Senior UX designer, visual designer, 4 developers, program manager

Deliverables: 
Heuristic evaluation, user journey wireframes

Highlights: 
Unique native patterns, Scrum methodology, remote working team, multi-platform

Tools: 
Omnigraffle, Google collaboration tools, Trello (Scrum tool)