In the dynamic world of industrial design, where creativity and functionality collide, one trend is making waves: see-through surfaces. This eye-catching design concept gives users a sneak peek inside, revealing the inner mechanics of a product in all its glory. It’s not just a cool visual – it’s a nod to transparency, both literally and metaphorically, that has taken the tech world by storm. Take the Nothing Phone for example – its transparent back has wowed users and sparked a renewed love for designs that let us see the magic behind the scenes. But this trend isn’t just limited to tech; it’s spreading across various industries, transforming the way we perceive everyday products.
In this article, we’ll dive into the rise of see-through surfaces, what’s driving their popularity, and why they’re not going anywhere anytime soon. Plus, we’ll showcase 10 amazing examples of this trend in action, offering a glimpse into how see-through surfaces are shaping the future of industrial design. Buckle up—it’s going to be a fun ride!
The Beginning of See-Through Surfaces
The idea of see-through surfaces in electronics might feel like a modern trend, but it’s a throwback to the ’90s when gadgets dared to bare all. Think of the iconic Apple iMac G3 and Nintendo Game Boy Color—these trailblazers weren’t just functional; they were transparent, both in design and in spirit. It was as if they were saying, “Hey, look at what makes me tick!” And we couldn’t help but be fascinated. The iMac G3 bring vibrant colours to the typically dull world of computers and it lets you peek inside through its semi-transparent shell, turning tech into something fun and approachable.
And who could forget the Game Boy Colour? Its transparent design allowed kids (and adults) to catch a glimpse of the circuit boards and battery compartments, transforming it into more than just a gaming device. It became a window into the magic of how it all worked. These designs made technology feel more personal, less mysterious, and way cooler. It was this sense of wonder that made people connect with their gadgets in a whole new way, setting the stage for today’s transparent tech revolution!
What Made It Popular?
Fast forward to the 2020s, and see-through surfaces have made a stylish comeback, but this time, it’s not just a nostalgic nod to the past. Today, it’s all about embracing a wider cultural shift towards transparency and authenticity—something that modern consumers crave in almost every aspect of life, from the food they eat to the products they buy. In an era where users are more informed, curious, and connected with the things they own, brands are feeling the pressure to show what’s under the hood—literally.
That’s where the Nothing Phone comes in. Designed by the startup Nothing, this smartphone launched in 2021 and instantly turned heads. Why? Because its standout feature is a see-through back panel that gives users a clear, unapologetic view of the internal components—everything from the charging coil and screws to the circuits that make it all tick. It’s as if the phone is proudly saying, “Here’s what I’m made of, take a look!” And people are loving it.
But the Nothing Phone’s transparent design isn’t just about satisfying tech curiosity. It taps into something deeper—a modern consumer demand for minimalism and functional beauty. In a world saturated with devices that all look the same, the Nothing Phone is a breath of fresh air. The internal components are arranged in a way that makes even the inside of the phone aesthetically pleasing. It’s as if the designers said, “We’re going to make every part of this phone, even the hidden bits, look good.”
The Nothing Phone celebrates what makes it work, rather than hiding it behind flashy exteriors. This approach doesn’t just build intrigue, it builds trust. When you can see the parts that make your phone run, it feels honest and approachable, something that resonates with today’s tech-savvy users who value transparency, both in design and in the brands they support.
This return to see-through surfaces is more than just a design trend; it’s part of a larger movement. Consumers today are no longer satisfied with being passive users. They want to know the story behind the products they invest in, from how they’re made to what materials are used. And brands that embrace this ethos—brands like Nothing—are setting themselves apart in a very big way. By choosing transparency, they’re not just selling products; they’re creating connections. So, why is this trend resonating so much in today’s world? Simple: it’s about trust. In an age where information is more accessible than ever, people want brands to be open and authentic. The Nothing Phone’s design does exactly that. It says, “We’ve got nothing to hide,” and that’s a powerful message. It’s a product that invites users to understand its inner workings, fostering a deeper connection between consumer and product.
In the future, we’re likely to see even more brands hopping on this transparency train, whether it’s through design or through openly sharing the materials and processes behind their products. See-through surfaces are more than just a cool aesthetic; they’re a reflection of the times we’re living in—a time when people want to see what’s really going on, both literally and figuratively. And in a world full of sleek, black boxes, a phone with nothing to hide feels refreshingly real.
10 awesome examples of See-Through surfaces across industries
While the Nothing Phone may be grabbing attention for its see-through look, transparent design is popping up across various industries, proving it’s more than just a smartphone trend. Let’s dive into 10 cool examples of transparent design from different industries that show just how versatile and engaging this concept can be!
Apple iMac G3 (1998)
The iMac G3 wasn’t just another computer—it was a revolution in how we thought about personal tech. With its translucent, candy-coloured shell, this computer didn’t just perform well, it looked exciting. It gave users a glimpse into the heart of the machine, turning what was once hidden away into a bold design feature. Apple’s decision to let us peek inside played right into the consumer’s curiosity, making tech feel more accessible and, dare we say it, fun. It was the iMac G3 that made us realize computers didn’t have to be boring beige boxes—they could be statements of personality and design.
Nintendo Game Boy Color (1998)
The Nintendo Game Boy Color was already a major hit, but the see-through version cranked up the cool factor. This pocket-sized device lets gamers get a peek into the circuitry that powered their favourite games, making it feel like you have a tiny tech masterpiece in your hands. It wasn’t just about functionality; it was about connecting with the device in a new way, almost as if you were part of its inner workings. For many, this see-through Game Boy became a collectable treasure, combining nostalgia with a timeless design that still excites retro gamers today.
Nothing Ear (1) (2021)
The Nothing Ear (1) earbuds took transparency to a new level. With a sleek, semi-transparent design, these wireless earbuds didn’t just rest on their audio quality; they let you see the tech that makes the magic happen. From the see-through charging case to the clear sections of the earbuds themselves, every detail was thoughtfully revealed. It’s this transparency that has helped Nothing carve out a distinct identity in a crowded audio market, turning what could be just another pair of wireless earbuds into a visual and technological statement.
Casio G-Shock Skeleton Series (2020)
The G-Shock Skeleton Series by Casio is a perfect example of how see-through design can highlight durability and toughness. Known for their robust, shock-resistant builds, G-Shock watches have long been celebrated for their reliability. But with the Skeleton Series, Casio gave us a deeper look into that rugged engineering. The transparent cases allow wearers to admire the intricate mechanics inside, transforming a purely functional accessory into something stylish and eye-catching. Whether you’re diving, hiking, or just want a cool conversation starter, these watches offer a glimpse into the machinery that keeps them ticking.
Xiaomi Mi 9 Explorer Edition (2019)
Xiaomi’s Mi 9 Explorer Edition took smartphone design up a notch with its clever transparent back cover. While it doesn’t fully reveal the phone’s actual components, the design gives an illusion of transparency that lets users feel like they’re seeing the heart of their device. It’s a smart blend of style and function, showing that sometimes, it’s not about completely baring it all but creating a perception of openness that draws users in. This design move added an element of intrigue, setting it apart from other smartphones and appealing to those who crave a bit of tech mystery.
Dyson V10 Cordless Vacuum (2018)
Who knew vacuums could be so fascinating? With the Dyson V10, the company didn’t just innovate in terms of power and efficiency—they made the mechanics visible. The transparent dust bin lets users see exactly when it’s time to empty it, but it’s the clear areas showcasing Dyson’s powerful motor that really steal the show. By revealing the inner workings, Dyson turns a household chore into a mini-engineering lesson. It’s practical, functional, and a subtle way of showing off the company’s impressive engineering without hiding it behind opaque materials.
Swatch Jellyfish (1983)
The Swatch Jellyfish was one of the pioneers of transparent design. Launched in the 1980s, this fully see-through watch was a game-changer in the fashion and watch industries. Swatch’s decision to make the entire case transparent let wearers watch time tick by in real-time, with a playful design that was ahead of its time. The Jellyfish wasn’t just a watch—it was a statement piece that stood out from the crowd and reflected the wearer’s personality. Swatch has continued to experiment with transparent designs over the years, but the Jellyfish remains a beloved classic.
Transparent Speaker by Transparent Sound (2017)
Minimalist design at its finest, the Transparent Speaker by Swedish brand Transparent Sound is a masterpiece of clear, clean design. With its glass sides revealing the inner speakers and wiring, it combines high-end audio quality with a modern, industrial aesthetic. It’s not just about hearing music—it’s about seeing the craftsmanship behind the sound. This speaker proves that transparency can be both functional and artistic, giving you a product that’s as much a statement piece in your home as it is a powerhouse for your playlists.
Sony PlayStation 4 Crystal Controllers (2015)
The Crystal DualShock 4 controllers for the PlayStation 4 gave gamers a peek into the inner mechanics of their most beloved tool—the game controller. Sony took an otherwise standard gaming accessory and turned it into something visually engaging, with transparent plastic revealing the circuitry and buttons inside. It wasn’t just about the gameplay—it was about the experience of holding something that looked as complex as the worlds gamers were exploring. This added layer of intrigue made gaming feel even more immersive and personal.
Renault Trezor Concept (2016)
In the automotive world, the Renault Trezor Concept took transparent design to a bold new level. With a futuristic look, the Trezor features a transparent hood that reveals its electric motor, celebrating the car’s innovative technology instead of hiding it away. This design choice is as symbolic as it is aesthetic—emphasizing Renault’s commitment to electric vehicle innovation while giving the car a sleek, sci-fi appearance. It’s not just about the car’s performance; it’s about showcasing the technology driving the future of automotive design.
The future of See-Through design
The future of see-through design is looking clearer than ever—literally! As technology keeps evolving and consumers become even more invested in the gadgets they use, the demand for products that are transparent in both design and manufacturing is set to soar.
One exciting direction is the intersection of sustainability and transparency. Imagine companies using transparent surfaces to proudly show off their eco-friendly practices. Instead of hiding behind a sleek exterior, products could flaunt their recycled materials or innovative, green manufacturing processes. Transparency could become the ultimate flex, with brands saying, “Look at how responsibly we’re made!” It’s not just about seeing the inner workings anymore—it’s about storytelling, giving consumers a window into how their favourite devices are making the world a little greener.
But that’s not all—customization and modularity could take transparent designs to the next level. Picture this: you’ve got a device that not only looks amazing with its see-through casing, but it also lets you swap out parts, upgrade components, or even make repairs easily. No more tossing out electronics at the first sign of trouble. Instead, transparent products could empower users to extend the life of their devices, helping reduce e-waste and giving us more control over the tech we love. It’s all about making things personal—and practical.
And here’s where it gets even cooler: augmented reality (AR) could be the ultimate sidekick to see-through surfaces. Imagine a smartphone or a wearable where you can not only see the inner components but also have AR visuals overlaid on top, giving you real-time info or enhanced interactions with your device. Your phone’s transparent back could come to life, showing you digital overlays while letting you geek out over the tech behind it. It’s like having one foot in the physical world and the other in a futuristic, AR-enhanced reality.
Our take on See-Through Surfaces
See-through surfaces have come a long way since their 90s debut, evolving from a fun nostalgic throwback into a full-blown design revolution! From gadgets like the Nothing Phone to transparent vacuums and beyond, this trend is no longer just about showing off—it’s about celebrating authenticity, craftsmanship, and innovation in ways that truly connect with consumers.
As we move forward, get ready to see transparency take over even more of your favourite products. Whether it’s your smartphone, your watch, or even your coffee machine, transparent designs are offering us something more than just a cool look—they’re giving us a sneak peek into the future of design itself. And let’s be real, who wouldn’t want to see that? In this era of openness, see-through surfaces are more than just a trend—they’re a clear window into a future where what’s inside truly matters just as much as what’s outside. If you’re as pumped as we are about how more brands will jump on this transparent design trend, don’t keep it to yourself! Share the excitement with your friends and fellow design enthusiasts. Let’s spread the love for see-through surfaces and watch how this trend takes over the design world together!