What is ASH?

Finh Studio presents an intriguing concept in the realm of minimalist electronic encyclopedias, called ASH. The dedicated product team aspires to craft an interactive interface that’s effortlessly navigable even for children, enabling them to immerse themselves in the content without distraction. It reminds me of the captivating world of Pokémon, where you capture the essence of your surroundings in a playful manner, except here, you gain knowledge by simply snapping a photo. It turns out Pokémon is also the team’s inspiration for the product.

How does ASH suit kids?

Such tools for exploration may have charmed us as a novel way of learning a couple of decades ago. However, it’s worth noting that the generation born after 2010 is inherently entrenched in the mobile digital age. They’re not only well-acquainted with smartphones but also quick to adapt, often surpassing the app knowledge of their elders. In some instances, it’s astonishing how adept young ones are with the latest applications.

While I appreciate ASH’s commitment to designing exploration tools for children that strip away superfluous information, focusing solely on scanning and reading functions, the reality is that, once they move beyond ASH, they will re-enter an environment brimming with other smart devices like touch screens. For them, a smartphone or tablet app may suffice.

How about seniors?

For senior users who haven’t grown up in the era of pervasive online networks, ASH could represent a more comfortable alternative to information-laden smartphones. Its traditional physical buttons and user-friendly interface offer a fresh take on smart products, presenting usage instructions and precautions in a clear and straightforward manner. There’s no need for us to navigate the labyrinth of Google searches, sifting through answers one by one; instead, ASH simplifies the process, making it accessible to a wider audience.

I like these joking comments on x.com, “Is this an advertisement to have kids, just so you can buy them this Pokedex.” and, “I think it’s legal to buy Ash for yourself.”