Ooma: AirDial
The Ooma AirDial is a wireless solution designed to help businesses transition their critical devices, like elevators and alarm systems, from outdated copper phone lines to a reliable LTE network. As traditional copper phone lines disappear nationwide, businesses must keep their critical device systems online. Developed in close partnership with Acorn Product Development, the AirDial reflects a seamless integration of engineering and design expertise to deliver a reliable, simple, and turkey LTE replacement. With an intuitive LCD screen, robust hardware, and fast installation, the Ooma Airdial bridges legacy systems with modern connectivity, ensuring compliance and peace of mind.
Capabilites
Industrial Design
User Experience Design
Mechanical Engineering
Our Approach
Industrial Design
In approaching the design of AirDial, Acorn’s focus was on communicating both robustness and simplicity, aligning with Ooma’s clean aesthetic while emphasizing the utilitarian nature of the device. The device needed to perform seamlessly in a range of environments from a home desktop to the industrial walls of a business setting, so adaptability was key. Including DFM early in the design process was key to ensuring a seamless transition from concept to manufacturing. The industrial design featured a clean silhouette, subtle curves, and thoughtfully allocated space for the UI to convey the product’s functionality and reliability without unnecessary embellishment. Every design decision reinforced durability, ease of use, and visual clarity, ensuring that AirDial was both practical and approachable in any setting.
Mechanical Engineering
Acorn’s mechanical engineers also played a key role in the design and development of Ooma’s AirDial. Mechanical engineering focused on ensuring durability, reliability, and seamless integration with industrial design. Every internal component was carefully positioned and secured to withstand daily use, vibrations, and minor impacts, ensuring consistent performance over time. The chassis was engineered for ease of assembly and maintenance, while structural reinforcements were added where necessary to protect critical electronics. Precision in mechanical tolerances ensured that buttons, ports, and moving parts felt solid, responsive, and durable. By marrying form and function, mechanical engineering supports both the device’s robust physical presence and its user-friendly operation.
User Interface
The AirDial's 320×240 LCD display offers a balanced combination of clarity and compactness, ensuring critical information is easily accessible without overwhelming the interface. By stripping away unnecessary visual elements and placing the display prominently on the face of the device, the design reinforces the theme of simplicity and function.
Conclusion
The Ooma AirDial exemplifies Acorn’s integrated expertise in mechanical engineering, industrial design, and user interface. Through a holistic design approach, these disciplines came together to create a device that is both robust and intuitive. The thoughtfully crafted enclosure, precise mechanical construction, and clear LCD interface ensure durability, reliability, and ease of use across diverse environments—from home desks to busy offices. Every decision, from materials to form, was guided by the principles of simplicity, utility, and adaptability. AirDial demonstrates how thoughtful design and engineering can transform a functional device into a seamless, dependable, and approachable user experience.