BeatDrop

Amazon Music Challenge Winner ✨

Reimagining social music experiences through human curation and AI-powered mixing.

Timeline

Jan - Mar 2025

Role

Lead UX Designer

Team

4 designers & researchers

D's Delights Jewelry Showcase

Project Challenge

Streaming platforms excel at personalization but often miss the social joy of music. So my team and I set out to figure out how might we create shared music experiences that foster connection and discovery among friends?

Problem Statement

“Music streaming has become efficient but lost its social soul.”

The Magic Moment

Imagine arriving at a party where a song triggers nostalgia. You scan a QR code, add a track, and within moments the AI mixes it seamlessly. Everyone lights up, sharing recognition and connection. This collective joy is the heart of BeatDrop.

BeatDrop Cover Image

Introducing BeatDrop

BeatDrop transforms individual selections into collaborative DJ mixes by allowing friends to contribute tracks that are seamlessly mixed by AI, creating shared experiences that enhance music discovery and social bonds.

Feature 1
Hosts start a BeatDrop mix and invites friends via QR code
Feature 1
Guests join via QR code, add songs, and influence the vibe
Feature 1
AI mixes contributions in real-time, creating a dynamic shared playlist

The Big Picture: BeatDrop isn't just a feature—it's a new way to experience music together. In an era where algorithms increasingly isolate us in preference bubbles, BeatDrop brings back the joy of shared musical discovery. By transforming individual selections into collaborative journeys.

Research & Insights

Through desk and Voice of Customer research we realized that none of the current streaming platforms effectively capture the magic of creating music experiences together. In our user research we found:

80%
Miss social context in music
80%
Feel platforms are too individual
30%
Would upgrade subscription models for social FOMO ("fear of missing out")
  • Streaming isolates users in algorithmic bubbles.
  • Collaborative aspects of music are under-served.
  • Users crave meaningful shared experiences.

User Journeys

Our research revealed four key personas that shaped our solution: the Host, the Music Enthusiast, the Casual Listener, and the New Subscriber.

BeatDrop Cover Image
Host Journey
The Host starts a BeatDrop mix and invites friends via QR code. Music enthusiasts can add songs or change the vibe of the beat. Casual listeners can like or dislike at any moment, sharing their feedback casually.
User Journey
All guests can join via QR code, allowing for easy access without app downloads. Even new subscribers can join the fun.
After Party Mix View
After the party, users can revisit the shared mix in their library, reliving the experience and discovering new favorites added by friends.
Mix Stats
Mix Stats provide insights into the most added songs, top contributors, and overall vibe, enhancing the social aspect and encouraging future participation.
Notifications
Smart notifications nudge users to revisit mixes, share with friends, and stay engaged with the BeatDrop community.

"If I was hosting a party I would absolutely quickly create and share this to offload the responsibility"

— User Quote

"I would save the playlist from my friend's party. Those songs would mean something special to our group"

— User Quote

"Usually one person controls the aux cord and everyone else just has to deal with it. This actually lets everyone have a voice without turning into musical chaos."

— User Quote

Beyond Audio

BeatDrop goes further with visuals, lighting sync, and Echo integration. With cues like "Alexa play the next song" or "Alexa brighten up the mood" users can keep the vibe going without interrupting the flow.

BeatDrop Goes Beyond Audio

Impact Metrics

BeatDrop grows through authentic social moments. This creates an acquisition model based on meaningful connections rather than advertising.

Longer Session Duration
Paid Conversions
Active Listeners
BeatDrop Impact Metrics

Next Steps & Key Learnings

Future Opportunities

BeatDrop can expand by integrating with Twitch for optional visual components like live DJ cams or crowd reactions. There are also opportunities for physical merchandise to enhance the experience, such as: BeatDrop records or vinyls of personal mixes or branded party kits with themed decorations and playlists.

Key Learnings

  • Social context creates stronger bonds than personalization alone.
  • AI can reduce friction and empower inclusivity.
  • Designing for group dynamics shifts platform value.