Deweydecimal Goodair Nosebuds

Finalist
Credits
  • Pou Auaha / Creative Director
    Chris Thomson
  • Pou Rautaki / Strategic Leads
    Kerri McMaster, David White
  • Ringatoi Matua / Design Director
    Daniel To
  • Ngā Kaimahi / Team Members
    Iain Henderson, Justin Rolfe-Vyson
  • Kaitautoko / Contributors
    Danielle Kooge, Bianca Cornford, Arron Judson, Joshua Lindsay, Nathan Chong, Sarah Morse
  • Client
    My Better Breathing
Description:

Goodair Nosebuds are a breakthrough in wearable wellness technology, a discreet, drug-free solution to one of the world’s most common yet under-addressed issues: nasal congestion.

The Nosebuds are designed to provide relief from nasal congestion, sinus pain, and allergy symptoms by stimulating cilia and nitric oxide production through gentle airway vibration.

Born from cutting-edge research into nitric oxide production, Nosebuds work by delivering high/low-pressure pulsation to the nasal cavity, encouraging natural decongestion through the body’s own mechanisms. The product evolved from academic study into a refined consumer device thanks to an ambitious collaboration between design consultancy Deweydecimal and wellness startup My Better Breathing.

The design challenges were immense: miniaturisation, battery life, pressure performance, sealing, comfort, and fit. Over multiple iterations, user testing, and technical problem-solving, the team arrived at a high-performance wearable that feels less like a medical device and more like a daily wellness tool. It's compact, intuitive, and non-intimidating.

A key decision was to keep the product fully standalone. Rather than rely on apps or complex interfaces, Nosebuds use a simple button and LED indicator. A familiar charging case, like those used for earbuds, further enhances the user experience. Internally, the system operates brushless motors with precise speed control, without an MCU, a rare technical achievement that significantly reduced cost while preserving performance.

From a user perspective, this product is about taking back control. For many, nasal congestion limits sleep, concentration, and quality of life. Nosebuds offer immediate relief, greater comfort, and a return to normalcy, without reliance on pharmaceuticals.

The launch has been met with enthusiasm by users. Fit testing and performance validation showed that users not only accepted the product, but they also embraced it. Many preferred it over antihistamines or steroid sprays and found it easier to integrate into their lives than expected.

As a product, Goodair Nosebuds bridges the gap between science and self-care. It redefines what's possible in personal wellness and creates new rituals for healthier, easier breathing.