✨ New concept
Been a While 👋
Wipe the dust off an old photo, flip through memories, play "Still true?" and read the note they've waited too long to get. It ends with an easy way to say hi back.
✨ Concept card · design assignment
For the friend you never stopped caring about, just stopped texting.
Been a While is an interactive card for someone you've drifted away from. Your shared memories break the ice, so saying hi after a long time feels warm instead of awkward.
Takes about 5 minutes · Works on any phone · One private link
The concept
Meet Been a While
KoiKoi's cards each start with a feeling. This concept explores one their range doesn't cover yet: missing someone you've lost touch with.
Start with people
Why this card
I surveyed 7 people aged 18 to 32 about what they leave unsaid, then checked the patterns against published research.
5 of 7
said an old friend they've drifted away from is the hardest person to express feelings to. It was the top answer.
My survey, October 20265 of 7
held back because a text felt too small for what they wanted to say. 4 of 7 didn't know the right words.
My survey, October 2026~1 in 3
people actually sent a message to an old friend, even after writing it and wanting to reconnect.
University of Sussex & Simon Fraser University, 2024"Hey, it's been a while since we spoke… Just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you."A survey answer to "what did you want to say but didn't?"
Easy to make
How it works for the sender
Built for the 1:30 AM "I should really message them" moment. No design skills, no long writing.
📷
Your photos, or none
Upload photos of you two, or pick an illustrated mood if you don't have any.
🎞️
Up to 3 memories
Pick a prompt like an inside joke or a place only you two know, then add one line.
🤔
"Still true?"
Three things you remember about them, plus your own funny answers if you like. Their replies start your next conversation.
✍️
Say it your way
Starter lines if you're stuck, your own handwriting, a voice note, and the song that's yours.