Goals
- Modernize UI to iOS 26 (Liquid Glass)
- Convert constrllations from 2D to 3D
- Introduce AI-powered guidance
- Improve clarity & interaction
My Role
- UX & UI
- Liquid Glass Adaptation
- 3D Constellation Creation
- Design System
Challenge
Blend a fresh iOS 26 aesthetic while keeping the experience familiar for millions of long-time users.
Owning the design process end-to-end, I began with deep immersion into Apple’s new Liquid Glass design philosophy, focusing on its principles of fluidity, translucency, and depth.
- Keep existing navigation structure
- Maintain recognisable UI patterns
- Align redesign with Apple iOS26 guidelines
My process was highly collaborative, working directly with stakeholder and developer to ensure feasibility and a shared vision.
Visual Direction
Liquid Glass
Cosmic Minimalism
Deep Space Palette
3D Constellations
To foster a deeper connection with the cosmos, I re-envisioned the constellations as fully interactive 3D models. Replacing the original 2D maps, this feature allows users to zoom, rotate, and scroll through the stars, offering an immersive and exploratory way to learn.
New AI Feature
Designed to guide users through the cosmos with contextual insights, constellation explanations, and interactive learning.
Launched Aura, a compelling AI guide that provides a clear, marketable advantage and a strong value proposition for the premium tier.
Color Palette
Introduced a deeper, more immersive color palette with dynamic gradients that elegantly reflect light, complementing the live Sky View.
Visual Direction
Clearer hierarchy
Smoother animations
More readable dark mode
The refined hierarchy and smother interactions have created a more intuitive and enjoyable user journey from onboarding to deep exploration.
UX improvements
- Improved hierarchy & readability
- Updated color palette
- Smoother interactions
- Better integration with iOS 26
- Clearer navigation
- Reduced cognitive load
Results & Impact
- Increase in upgrade intent
- Higher engagement on 3D screens
- Improved perceived clarity
This project was a masterclass in holistic product design. It required a delicate balance: respecting the app’s established strengths while boldly pushing it into the future.
Website Redesign
Updated Night Sky’s company site to reflect the new iOS 26 identity.
Through fluid animations and responsive micro-interactions, the site captures the same modern, dynamic feel, bridging the gap between marketing and the product experience.
