Dabai: Revolutionizing Communication with Emoji

An Innovative Design by Cheng Xiangsheng

Dabai is an extended design based on traditional emojis, with a twist. Cheng Xiangsheng added popular internet symbols and terms, making the emojis more lively and interesting. This unique addition has resulted in a wide range of downloads and transmissions, setting it apart from the traditional yellow emojis. Dabai has gained popularity with its character and the incorporation of spicy internet language, making it a breakthrough in the internet trend.

Creating emojis involves designing expressions and body language based on the character of the cartoon image. The primary principle is to increase their frequency of use in chat, ensuring they become an integral part of our conversations. The main image of Dabai is sized at 240 pixels * 240 pixels, with a 2-pixel white stroke, making it suitable for various chat backgrounds. The thumbnail size is 120 pixels * 120 pixels, allowing for easy preview and selection.

Integrating Dabai into your chat software is simple. Just add the emojis to your chat, and during a conversation, you can preview the effect by clicking on the thumbnail. Once satisfied, click to send, and your message will be enhanced with the expressive power of Dabai.

The Dabai project was initiated in June 2017 and divided into three series. The two series displayed were completed on July 24 and August 5, 2017, respectively, and were released on the emoji platform of WeChat. Since its launch, Dabai has received a total of 104,460 downloads and 1,994,885 shipments, demonstrating its immense popularity and impact on communication in China.

Cheng Xiangsheng's research on emoji design aimed to revolutionize the way we communicate. Emojis offer a wide range of expressions, from graphic creations to real expressions and pure text designs. The design process can involve hand-drawing, computer production, or even shooting. Emoji design is not just a change in communication; it enriches the content and scenes of chat, representing a reform in language art.

Overcoming challenges in emoji design requires careful attention to the boundary between text and body language, avoiding societal taboos, and ensuring copyright protection. Continuous output is also crucial to maintaining a complete and contemporary design.

Dabai's success is evident in its numerous downloads and shipments. It has become a testament to the changing communication methods in China, where people's lifestyles have quickly transitioned into the internet era. Dabai aims to convey more content and emotions, surpassing the limitations of simple words. It has expanded the boundaries of communication and exemplifies the transformative power of emojis.

Cheng Xiangsheng's remarkable design has been recognized with the Bronze A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2021. This prestigious award celebrates designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and a commitment to improving the quality of life through art, science, design, and technology.