Design + Web Development
Thumbsy: AI Powered Product Recommendations
Get products recommended to you based on your taste profile.
Process Highlights
Overview
Overview
Over the winter break, I built Thumbsy. Thumbsy is an AI product recommendation tool, which understands your taste profile and suggests products we think you’ll like.
It was a great side project which tested my design thinking using AI tools and my web development capabilities. You can check it out here.
The problem
Finding reliable product recommendations online is difficult.
Existing sites (Wirecutter, CNET) often have biases or limited scope.
For niche recommendations, users must sift through forums like Reddit, which is time-consuming.
Currently, no service compiles all sources conveniently in one place.
An Opportunity to Use AI for Product Recommendations
What if an AI tool aggregated diverse recommendation sources?
Could we leverage personal taste profiles for recommendations?
Opportunity to simplify the complex shopping decision process.
Our solution
Thumbsy, an AI-driven product recommendation platform.
Aggregates multiple trustworthy sources into one unified experience.
Generates personalized recommendations based on individual taste profiles and preferences.
Try it!
Research
Initial Insights
Other Products
Explored existing AI-driven shopping tools; identified gaps in comprehensive recommendations.
Products like Perplexity Shop and OpenAI lacked specificity and personalization.
Clear opportunity for a focused, tailored solution.
User Insights
Users strongly value unbiased, trustworthy recommendations.
Users prefer simple comparison tools to quickly evaluate options.
We almost always have to go to multiple sources before we trust a review and buy a product.
AI Recommendations - Perplexity
Traditional Sources - Wirecutter
1
Lack of tailored personalization
2
Difficulty in comparing products
3
Bias present in static reviews
4
Other AI solutions were uncomprehensive
Development
Ideation and Iteration #1
The Product Search Function
Implement a dynamic search experience with real-time results.
Include customizable price-range selectors for flexible budgeting.
Provide tailored filters specific to each product category (e.g., battery life for electronics, fabric type for apparel).
Clearly differentiate and label recommendation sources - professional reviews vs. niche community forums.
The Product Recommendation
Aggregate concise, trustworthy reviews from multiple verified sources.
Provide a clear, brief description highlighting key product features.
Explain transparently why a product is recommended (e.g., highest ratings, best value).
Highlight personalized benefits explicitly connected to user’s taste profile and preferences.
The simplest user journey, no AI yet.
Search
Filters
Recommendations
Comparison
The search page, very similar to other AI tools
Home
Thumbsy
About us
Results page, showing all the products
Home
Thumbsy
About us
Expanded results, offering more information
Home
Thumbsy
About us
$229
JJJound x Adidas
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
The first iteration
The first iteration was heavily inspired by other AI tools.
Slowly, we began to realize that recommending products needs to have a whole new shift in thinking.
The UI could not simply be a copy and paste of other existing AI products.
The search page. Inspired heavily by other AI tools
Home
Thumbsy
About us
$100 - $200
Small Business
Trendy
Local Brands
High Quality
Get a recommendation list tailored to you.
Search for a product
Thumbsy learns what you like as you use it. Like products to develop a taste profile.
Filters so users can have more control
Search for a product
Thumbsy learns what you like as you use it. Like products to develop a taste profile.
Get a recommendation list tailored to you.
Search for products and get tailored recommendations
Like products and to get tailored recommendations based on your taste profile
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Thumbsy
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Price
Characteristics
Brands
$200
$620
High quality
Trendy
Colorful
Design focused
Small business
Local
Eco-friendly
American m
Tech reviews
Online forums
Newspapers
American m
Review sources
Experiment testing if recommending products on the homepage would help people better understand the product. We eventually decided against it.
Search for a product
Thumbsy learns what you like as you use it. Like products to develop a taste profile.
Most like products
Trending products
Get a recommendation list tailored to you.
Search for products and get tailored recommendations
Like products and to get tailored recommendations based on your taste profile
Home
Thumbsy
About us
Sign up
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Page view
$100 - $200
Small Business
Trendy
Local Brands
High Quality
The best sneakers in 2025 for men
The best sneakers in 2025 for men
We chose the best sneakers based on local brands, that were trendy and high quality.
Bode x Nike Astro Grabber
$229
$229
$229
$229
$229
$229
Nina Chanel x Nike
Nina Chanel Abney x Air Jordan 3
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
JJJound x Adidas
Bode x Nike
Our recommended products:
Price
Name
Home
Thumbsy
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Expanded results
$100 - $200
Small Business
Trendy
Local Brands
High Quality
The best sneakers in 2025 for men
The best sneakers in 2025 for men
We chose the best sneakers based on local brands, that were trendy and high quality.
Bode x Nike Astro Grabber
$229
$229
Nina Chanel Abney x Air Jordan 3
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
$229
Versatile to wear
Limited edition collaboration
Low top sneaker
High resale value
Speaking of Wales Bonner’s Sambas: the British label’s beloved partnership with Adidas is still going strong. But if we had to choose the single best iteration on the Samba this year, that title would have to go to the deceptively luxe spin from JJJJound. Rather than dress the iconic soccer shoe up with any new bells and whistles, the Montreal design studio decided to simply master the basics.
See comparison table
Learn more
$229
4.5
JJJound x Adidas
Thumbsy users liked this.
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
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Development
Iteration #2
A medium that lends itself to reviews
We had run into problems.
The design was unintuitive and testing it with users we saw that they NEVER used the filters. Why? Because they were hidden.
We also found that the way the products were presented stopped people from exploring more. They thought they were static cards.
Our changes following the first iteration
More intuitive design for using filters
Better layout of the products in reccomendations
How can we get people to explore more about the product?
How can we get people to explore more about the product?
Solution? The Vertical Search Bar
The vertical search bar, used in Google Maps and other products, makes sure people use filters. It presents all of the information in a clear, hierarchical manner,.
Recommendations search
Search for a product
Get recommendations generated, tailored for you
Product name
Sneakers...
Who’s it for?
For me...
Price Range
$200
$620
Characteristics
Small business
Small business
Small business
Small business
Small business
Search for a product
Demographics
We found that when including demographics in the model for its product search, the results were drastically better. It made much more sense. “Shoes” but for whom?
But a new problem
The characteristics were static. How could we make sure that this information was dynamic to the user’s search? It would need to be instant.
Moreover, the demographics was time consuming to type in. We wanted to minimize the amount of clicks.
Why the vertical works
You clearly get to work down through the search, providing more information on the way to the search button. It makes sure you engage with all the filters.
We needed a solution to make the data dynamic.
Using small AI models to dynamically provide filters
What if we used LLAMA 8b to dynamically introduce filters into the search?
Whatever the user typed, it could recommend demographics and characteristics depending on the context.
We loved this idea, and felt it was the future of search.
Search filters that dynamically adapt
AI generated characteristics and demographics
Demographics (1)
Men
Women
Outdoor Enthusiasts
Fitness & Excercise
Fashion
Streetwear
Characteristics (1)
Low-top sneakers
Trendy in 2024
Formal
Boots
Running shoes
High-top sneakers
Product name
Sneakers...
Using LLAMA
Development
Iteration #3
Redesigning the product cards
We knew the product cards were unnatural in their current format since we now had a vertical search bar.
So we redesigned them to be in a list view, which also lent itself to having more information provided.
Adding an “Add to search” after user testing
We gave the product to a couple of our friends to watch how they used it. We realized that most people shop by adding a current product they like, and writing “find me product similar to X”.
So we included an “add to search” function.
A list search of the current products
The new product card design
The best for everyday wear
Add to taste profile
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
JJJound x Adidas
The Bulova Classic Automatic features a stunning stainless steel case and a refined automatic movement, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Its elegant dial is complemented by luminous markers and hands, ensuring readability in any light. The watch embodies timeless sophistication with its sleek design, making it a perfect accessory for both formal and casual occasions.
Why its special
The Bulova Classic Automatic features a stunning stainless steel case and a refined automatic movement, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Its elegant dial is complemented by luminous markers and hands, ensuring readability in any light. The watch embodies timeless sophistication with its sleek design, making it a perfect accessory for both formal and casual occasions.
JJJound x Adidas
The Bulova Classic Automatic features a stunning stainless steel case and a refined automatic movement, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Its elegant dial is complemented by luminous markers and hands, ensuring readability in any light. The watch embodies timeless sophistication with its sleek design, making it a perfect accessory for both formal and casual occasions.
$299 from StockX
Adjective
Descriptor of the product
Adjective
Descriptor of the product
Adjective
Descriptor of the product
Adjective
Descriptor of the product
Specs
Reviews
Awards
Add to search
We experimenting placing the button in many places, but found it was best viewed on the list view.
Find a product on the list.
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
JJJound x Adidas
Add to taste profile
Speaking of Wales Bonner’s Sambas: the British label’s beloved partnership with Adidas is still going strong. But if we had to choose the single best iteration on the Samba this year, that title would have to go to the deceptively luxe spin from JJJJound.
$299 from StockX
Learn more
+
Add it to search
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
JJJound x Adidas
Add to taste profile
Speaking of Wales Bonner’s Sambas: the British label’s beloved partnership with Adidas is still going strong. But if we had to choose the single best iteration on the Samba this year, that title would have to go to the deceptively luxe spin from JJJJound.
$299 from StockX
Learn more
+
Add to search
See it appear in the search bar
Product name
Sneakers...
Development
Final Designs
User feedback to changes
We had worked through our problems with the user flow by talking to users throughout.
We had found ways to minimize the number of clicks by using AI.
Building a small landing page
We also wanted to create a landing page that emphasized what Thumbsy was, without explaining it directly.
We used principles related to Netflix’s landing page. Show don’t tell.
The list view w/ the vertical search bar
Home
Thumbsy
About us
Sign up
Log in
Recommendations search
Search for a product
Get recommendations generated, tailored for you
Product name
Sneakers...
Price Range
$200
$620
Demographics (1)
Men
Women
Outdoor Enthusiasts
Fitness & Excercise
Fashion
Streetwear
Characteristics (1)
Low-top sneakers
Trendy in 2024
Formal
Boots
Running shoes
High-top sneakers
Generate recommendations
The best sneakers for men
Price range of $100 to $600
Price
Name
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
JJJound x Adidas
Add to taste profile
Speaking of Wales Bonner’s Sambas: the British label’s beloved partnership with Adidas is still going strong. But if we had to choose the single best iteration on the Samba this year, that title would have to go to the deceptively luxe spin from JJJJound.
$299 from StockX
Learn more
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
JJJound x Adidas
Add to taste profile
Speaking of Wales Bonner’s Sambas: the British label’s beloved partnership with Adidas is still going strong. But if we had to choose the single best iteration on the Samba this year, that title would have to go to the deceptively luxe spin from JJJJound.
$299 from StockX
Learn more
Adidas AE1 “With Love”
Adidas
Add to taste profile
Anthony Edwards’ first signature shoe, the AE1 “With Love,” draws inspiration from his Georgia roots. It features a black knit textile upper with an Acid Orange TPU cage and Edwards’ initials on the tongue, blending performance and style seamlessly.
$129 from Amazon
Learn more
Saucony ProGrid Omni 9 Jae Tips’ “To Do List Tan”
Saucony
Add to taste profile
In collaboration with Bronx designer Jae Tips, this vibrant sneaker showcases a mix of pink, red, purple, blue, green, and brown hues. Unique details like Jae Tips’ signature flower and motivational insoles make it a standout choice for bold sneaker enthusiasts.
$189 from Saucony
Learn more
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
JJJound x Adidas
Add to taste profile
Speaking of Wales Bonner’s Sambas: the British label’s beloved partnership with Adidas is still going strong. But if we had to choose the single best iteration on the Samba this year, that title would have to go to the deceptively luxe spin from JJJJound.
$299 from StockX
Learn more
+
Add to search
+
+
+
An expanded product card (overlaid on the product list, with a blurred background)
The best for everyday wear
Add to taste profile
JJJJound x Adidas Samba
JJJound x Adidas
The Bulova Classic Automatic features a stunning stainless steel case and a refined automatic movement, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Its elegant dial is complemented by luminous markers and hands, ensuring readability in any light. The watch embodies timeless sophistication with its sleek design, making it a perfect accessory for both formal and casual occasions.
$299 from StockX
Adjective
Descriptor of the product
Adjective
Descriptor of the product
Adjective
Descriptor of the product
Adjective
Descriptor of the product
Why its special
The Bulova Classic Automatic features a stunning stainless steel case and a refined automatic movement, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Its elegant dial is complemented by luminous markers and hands, ensuring readability in any light. The watch embodies timeless sophistication with its sleek design, making it a perfect accessory for both formal and casual occasions.
JJJound x Adidas
The Bulova Classic Automatic features a stunning stainless steel case and a refined automatic movement, showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Its elegant dial is complemented by luminous markers and hands, ensuring readability in any light. The watch embodies timeless sophistication with its sleek design, making it a perfect accessory for both formal and casual occasions.
Specs
Reviews
Awards
A short onboarding before a user makes a search
Home
Thumbsy
About us
Sign up
Log in
Recommendations search
Search for a product
Get recommendations generated, tailored for you
Product name
Sneakers...
Price Range
$200
$620
Characteristics (1)
Small business
Small business
Small business
Small business
Small business
Generate recommendations
Thumbsy can sometimes make mistakes. Learn more
Product name
Sneakers...
Search for a product
For example “Watches with a leather strap for men”
Select Characteristics
Auto-generated based on your prompt!
Characteristics (1)
Narrow Strap Width
Genuine leather
Pebbled Strap
Quartz Movement
Adjust your price
Customize within your budget.
Price Range
$200
The Thumbsy landing page
Get recommendations and reviews tailored for you.
A whole new way to shop. Based on your tastes.
Home
Thumbsy
About us
Sign up
Log in
Sign up
Learn more
Takeaways
A Very Technical Project
Takeaways
I really learned how to design with AI in this project. I learned that these tools can be used, and will be used, in ways we did not expect.
I am most proud of the vertical search bar and its dynamic use of filters through the small LLM. I cannot wait to see more features like this in the future.
I struggled a lot with the development of this project.
User feedback
Throughout this project we consistently got our friends to try the website and see what they thought.
They often gave us so much valuable feedback which we are immensely grateful for.
This feedback actually led us to another project, called React. More on that soon.
