Namrata Mandal

From Warmth to Wireless: Rethinking Emotional Connectivity in Long-Distance Relationships Through Mobile Interaction Design

Circle is a mobile app created to help families and friends feel connected, even when separated by distance. The idea began while I was pursuing my master’s abroad. I saw how many people, including myself, were far from home, missing family moments, and wishing for an easier way to stay emotionally close.

Circle brings location sharing, emotional updates, and safety tools together in one place. You can see your “Circles” on a map, whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, and know they’re safe. And yes, you can create multiple circles for your every unique bond. But it’s more than just tracking, you can share moods, send virtual hugs or kisses, and show how you’re feeling without words through emojis.

For safety and wellbeing, Circle connects with smartwatches to share heartbeat and health updates. It can detect sudden motion while driving and alert your trusted contacts in emergencies. And if you ever need privacy, Cocoon Mode lets you hide your location while letting loved ones know you’re taking time for yourself and returning as a “butterfly” when ready.

The app’s design is warm, colourful, and easy to use, making technology feel human. From reminding someone to take their medicine to letting them know you reached home safely, Circle keeps relationships alive in simple, thoughtful ways.

Circle was built on a personal belief I’ve carried since moving abroad: distance should never take away the feeling of closeness.