MiNonna was inspired by a very simple problem: video calling is easy for most of us, but it can still feel unnecessarily complicated for older adults.
Too many apps assume that every user is comfortable navigating contacts, notifications, menus and multiple call controls.
For someone who rarely uses a smartphone, even starting a video call can become frustrating.
Families often end up providing instructions repeatedly, while the person they want to stay connected with may avoid calling altogether.
We wanted to create a much simpler experience: a single tap connects grandma (or grandpa) to a default contact. And just like that, they're now able to make a videocall!
The idea evolved significantly while building it. Initially, we focused mainly on simplifying the interface. Over time, we realised that simplicity is not just about using larger buttons or removing features. It also means reducing uncertainty, preventing accidental actions, simplifying onboarding and designing every screen around what the least technical user needs to understand.
MiNonna gradually became a focused alternative to general-purpose communication apps: not another social network or messaging platform, but a private, straightforward way for families to stay connected through video calls.
The goal has remained the same throughout the process: make technology disappear as much as possible, so that the conversation becomes the only thing that matters.