Teli Tiee: Bridging Generations Through Storytelling Innovation

Multifunctional player fosters intergenerational bonds with AI-powered stories

In an era where intergenerational families are increasingly common, the need for effective communication tools that unite the elderly and children has never been greater. Teli Tiee addresses this gap by serving as a multifunctional story player, purposefully crafted to foster interaction and emotional exchange between these two groups. Drawing inspiration from the elderly’s fondness for reminiscing and children’s love for imaginative tales, the design leverages inclusive principles and artificial intelligence to create a dynamic storytelling platform.

What sets Teli Tiee apart is its innovative use of three distinct story element blocks, allowing users to combine them in various ways to generate colorful, engaging stories. The device offers both system-preset stories and the unique capability for the elderly to share personal narratives or co-create new tales with children. These recorded stories are processed by AI, transforming them into illustrated narratives that can be uploaded and shared, thus preserving memories and sparking creativity.

Constructed from child-safe plastic and wood, Teli Tiee integrates advanced technologies such as NFC, an electronic screen, and Bluetooth modules to ensure both safety and functionality. The device’s user-friendly interface invites users to insert story blocks, triggering the playback of corresponding stories. A simple lever mechanism allows for easy navigation—pull right to switch stories, pull left to record and upload new ones—making the experience accessible for users of all ages and technical backgrounds.

The development of Teli Tiee was grounded in comprehensive research, including interviews and observations within community settings. Insights from both elderly individuals and children informed the design, ensuring it met the distinct needs of each group. The primary challenge lay in balancing the elderly’s desire for self-expression with children’s demand for interactive play, all while integrating AI-driven features in an intuitive manner.

Recognized with the Iron A' Design Award in 2025, Teli Tiee exemplifies best practices in product design, merging practicality with innovation. By transforming personal stories into illustrated adventures, the device not only bridges the generational gap but also enriches the lives of users, offering a platform for education, reminiscence, and shared joy.

Teli Tiee stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in nurturing family bonds, inviting users to create, share, and cherish stories together—one block at a time.