Opal was preparing to launch their new product, the Tadpole camera. The product is much smaller than their previous generation, and they wanted to emphasize its mobility and ease of use. The same rule applied to their packaging brief. We aimed to create something compact, made entirely of paper materials. A major challenge was to manage the flexible cable and allow it to nest inside the packaging as well as ensure a stress-free unboxing experience. The resulting paper pulp packaging is minimal, protective, and most importantly, simple to unbox so that customers can start using their Opal immediately.

We started by creating a 2-layer construction that hides the excess cable underneath the main tray, which showcases the product in its best light. The molded pulp trays, while perfect for a providing a one-to-one form cavity to house the product, have their limitations in creating complex channels and thin slits for the cable. Zenpack created a special die-cut tool for the narrow channels and created an "under tunnel" beneath the pulp tray that opens a pathway. This pathway not only facilitates streamlined kitting at fulfillment, but also makes it much easier for the customer when unboxing the Opal.

Due to an inherent production draft angle, it is difficult to achieve a snug fit with the molded pulp casings. Zenpack created a simple locking feature by folding a small paper structure that allows the lid to catch onto the bottom, creating a "clicking" feedback. The vibrant branding is primarily focused on the paper belly band, which remains secure in transit, then slides off with one smooth motion. Once the product is open, the paper pulp tray serves as the rightful pedestal for a game-changing laptop camera. We created a visually simple and intuitive packaging experience, but the work that goes on behind the scenes was quite complex and refined. In keeping with the Opal Tadpole material composition, the packaging is fully recyclable and plastic-free.