It was the simple action of unlocking a mobile device that inspired KalimaLock (Kalima means 'Word' in Arabic). Through this mobile app, we were able to redesign the dots on Samsung’s native lock screen into a new pattern of dots that formed an Arabic word. So now, by simply following a predefined pattern of dots, a child will be able to learn how to read and write a new Arabic word (randomly selected from a library of words), every time the device is unlocked.

The idea behind using the lock screen as a learning tool was that it was a familiar interface that Arab children were already used to. This made it easier to integrate learning Arabic into their daily mobile experience and use the games and apps they love as an incentive to improve their Arabic literacy skills.

As KalimaLock was designed for young Arab children, we wanted to keep their user journey and experience simple yet educational. By rearranging the dots on Samsung's native lock screen to form an Arabic word, this made it easy for children to connect the dots and practice writing in Arabic. In doing so, they would unlock the device, learn the meaning of the word and gain access their much-loved games and apps. KalimaLock was also easy for parents/teachers to set-up. They simply had to create a 4-digit pin, activate the app and set the difficulty level. Once the settings were saved, parents/teachers could be assured that the child is constantly learning Arabic as long as he/she is using the Galaxy Smartphone/Tablet. On Arabic Literacy Day, 8th of January 2016, KalimaLock was launched in Google Play and Galaxy Apps across the GCC and the Middle East.

Launched on Arabic Literacy Day, 8th January 2016, KalimaLock received widespread publicity from over 27 major publications in the UAE, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar– generating a total of 12,132,528 impressions in just the first week.

To date, we have achieved over 5,500 downloads from the public on Google Play Store and Galaxy Apps. KalimaLock has also gained the attention of GEMS Education, the largest education provider in the region, who is looking to implement the app in all of its 44 schools to improve the Arabic literacy skills of over 104,000 of its students.

Last but not least, the social and cultural impact of KalimaLock in the Middle East can only be measured over time. It is hoped that through long-term adoption, the daily usage and exposure to Arabic will not only change behaviours and attitudes towards learning, but also contribute to the preservation of the language for future generations.