The color extraction algorithm that we used was jointly developed by Pavel and myself through several iterations (and I should note is a work in progress). Pattern Imagery from Firefox OS Visual Concept Color Extraction This was a natural starting point for the type of imagery that we would generate from the colors extracted from an image. We used it to create pattern imagery that would underpin the visuals for the entire OS. On the visual side, we were exploring a new design language inspired by the pixel, a kind of playful homage to our engineering culture. This tool could eventually be a responsive web app or become integrated as part of the OS settings app. We envisioned that we could take a user-selected photo and use it to create OS imagery such as wallpaper, as well as customize their ui colors.

Something we’ve always wanted was to give users of all levels of comfort with technology the ability to theme their Firefox OS experience with a single action: by simply selecting an image from their library. As part of that exploration, I collaborated with front-end engineer Pavel Ivanov to see what we could do with user customization. Earlier this year, I had the privilege of working on concepting the future of Firefox OS visual design with a small team.

Firefox os x force refresh