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# Playfully Colorful Tech Hardware
Pentagram and Map Give Graphcore a Whimsical and Fun Identity

By Kalin Ned | Published 2018-11-26 | Tech
Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/colorful-tech
References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2018/11/26/graphcore-pentagram-map-computer-hardware-ai/) & [pentagram](https://www.pentagram.com/)

London-based design agencies [Pentagram](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/corporate-identity) and Map embark on a quest to show the playful side of computer hardware with a [colorful tech product identity](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lexon-x-pantone-collection) for machine-learning start-up Graphcore. The task was to foster a design-forward identity for the client's [AI chip system](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/fika-design) which consists of an intelligent processing unit and its container.

Pentagram produces a whimsical and colorful tech design that features a pixilated typeface — an appropriate nod to the industry in question. In addition, the company creates a "bespoke software tool called Quadtree that is used to generate unique geometric patterns." Map, on the other hand, assists in bringing the colorful tech concept to a physical manifestation. As a result, the design makes for a strong contrast with traditional computer hardware systems that are perceived as grey and cold.

## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter)

- Score: 3.9/10
- Popularity: 61% | Activity: 48% | Freshness: 8%
- Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women
- Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X
- Top markets: Europe

## Categories

[Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Tech](https://www.trendhunter.com/tech) > [Computers](https://www.trendhunter.com/computers)

## Key Themes

### Why This Trend Is Growing

- **Whimsical Tech Hardware:** There is an opportunity for tech companies to differentiate themselves by adopting a playful and unconventional design approach for their hardware.
- **Bespoke Design Tools:** Design agencies can explore creating custom software tools that enable the creation of unique and complex patterns to be used in their product designs.
- **Colorful AI Products:** The AI industry could benefit from incorporating bright and bold colors into their product identities, straying away from the traditional bland designs.

### Industries Being Reshaped

- **Tech Hardware:** Tech hardware manufacturers could consider adopting a more fun and playful design direction, separating themselves from the traditional design conventions.
- **Design Agencies:** There is an opportunity for design agencies to create unique software tools and partner with tech companies to design whimsical and unconventional product identities.
- **AI:** The AI industry could explore playful design identities and see how it affects product adoption and market appeal.

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