What does 'ubiquitous' mean in the context of product design?

In the context of product design, 'ubiquitous' refers to a product that can be found almost everywhere. This term highlights the widespread presence and availability of certain designs or technologies in various environments and markets. Ubiquitous products often become essential to daily life due to their accessibility and convenience, and they can shape consumer expectations and experiences.

For instance, smartphones and laptops can be considered ubiquitous products, as they are commonly used and easily accessible in many parts of the world. This concept is important for designers as they seek to create products that meet the pervasive needs of users, focusing on functionality and user-centered design principles that enhance usability across different contexts. Understanding ubiquity in product design encourages designers to think about how their products will fit into everyday life and the environments where users will interact with them.