Orion Messaging
Meta · design engineering · UI lead · 2022–24
I worked on Messenger and WhatsApp for Orion, Meta’s AR glasses, through most of the project’s development. I started by implementing product designs as they evolved, while independently prototyping new ways messaging could work in AR. Over time, I began leading UI development across both apps, working closely with designers and PMs and taking responsibility for the quality and consistency of the experience.
Orion AR Glasses (opens in a new tab)
AR Explorations
Alongside production work, I designed and implemented prototypes exploring how messaging could use AR rather than reproduce a rectangular app window.
Beyond the rectangular window
I explored how messaging could feel native to the glasses and not like a conventional app window floating in space.
D-pad control
Orion’s EMG wristband supports directional gestures and clicks. I prototyped a version of Messenger that could be opened and navigated entirely through d-pad input, without relying on gaze.
Spatial navigation
I used depth to communicate navigation hierarchy. Opening a thread pushed the current surface toward the wearer while the conversation emerged from behind it, creating a sense of moving deeper into the app.
Production UI
As the product direction solidified, I led UI development across Messenger and WhatsApp, working closely with design and product to keep interactions and visual details consistent. I also started a dedicated polish workstream to identify, prioritise, and fix inconsistencies across both apps.
Voice messages
Recording and playback states used motion and feedback designed for the constraints of the AR input.
Compose bar
The compact compose bar supported dictation and typing, including the transition between them.
Deck mode
I implemented Deck mode for the messaging apps, which collapsed the active app into a compact surface when the wearer started moving.
About Orion
Orion was publicly demonstrated in 2024 as a limited working prototype of Meta’s AR glasses. This official Meta overview shows the broader system and product context.