Context

Kuaishou, one of China’s leading short-video apps and a key competitor to TikTok, aimed to tap into the rising trend of audio-first consumption (music, podcasts, audiobooks). The company introduced Background Play, allowing users to listen to video audio while minimizing the app or locking their screens.

However, the initial audio feature, Background Play, resulted in a low adoption rate of just 21%.

Research

I conducted an online survey with 80+ users with a researcher to uncover key issues:

Ideate

To identify UX gaps and align the team around user needs, I created a user journey map based on research insights, shaping MVP feature hypotheses:

Feature Discovery

A clear, non-intrusive introduction will reduce drop-off, making the feature more accessible to new users.

Audio Mode UI Redesign

A simplified, intuitive interface will align with user mental models and drive adoption.

Personalized Content

With no budget for an algorithm, curated playlists for commuting and bedtime could be a strong alternative to boost engagement.

Prioritization & Alignment for Audio Mode Functionalities

To balance user needs and development constraints, I facilitated an Impact-Effort Matrix workshop with the PM and engineers. This helped us define a clear roadmap for the MVP, aligning on the core features for the audio mode main interface:

• Basic information
• Like & bookmark
• Playback control
• Auto-off timer

Iterate

1. Feature Discovery: Making Audio Mode Visible

Lightweight Onboarding Prompt

Introduced a subtle, non-intrusive bubble prompt while users watched videos, encouraging them to try Audio Mode without disrupting their experience.

Optimized Entry Point

Moved it from a confusing headphone icon to the long-press menu, where 80% of users already interacted with content actions.

2. Designing the First: Ever Audio Mode UI

Intuitive and Easy-to-Understand Interface Layout

I tested three designs: TikTok-style mini video, traditional audio layout, and immersive audio cover. While the PM preferred the TikTok-style, secondary user research showed it was confusing. I led the team to adopt the traditional design, which better matched user expectations and boosted engagement.

To distinguish between individual audio tracks and collections, I added subtle edges to cover art and included icons and episode numbers. This improved usability. I used the design system to create all hi-fi screens, ensuring consistency.

Scalable Playback Controls, and Auto-Off Timer

Instead of cluttering the main screen, I placed essential controls (play, pause, skip, timer) in a popup panel, ensuring scalability for future updates.

3. Personalized Playlists: Aligning with Audio-First Behavior

Seamless Recommendations

Instead of a separate recommendation page, I designed a half-screen playlist overlay, based on the usability testing results, allowing users to browse recommendations while staying immersed in the audio experience.

Design

I created the hi-fi screen using the Kuaishou Design System; however, since some components and icons were unavailable, I developed those based on our current design patterns.

Highlighted Features

Audio Mode Onboarding

Using lightweight notifications to guide users in discovering new features.

Audio Mode Entry Point

Placing the feature entry in the long-press menu allows users to easily discover and access it, reducing barriers to finding and using the feature.

Episode Navigation

• To align with their mental model of swiping up and down for short videos, we applied the same interaction pattern to audio mode.

• We implemented left and right swipes to switch between episodes, inspired by the familiar driving mode interaction to provide a seamless and intuitive experience.

Recommendation Playlist

• Explore preset playlists for users who find certain video resources unsuitable for listening. Currently, we offer three playlists: one for sleep aid and two for entertainment.

• This new recommendation system laid the foundation for potential algorithm-driven personalization, ensuring long-term adaptability.