A hyperinteractive app for the next generation

NPO Zapp is the youth brand of the Dutch Public Broadcaster (NPO). With a strong presence across TV and online platforms, it focuses on so-called tweens: kids aged roughly 9 to 12 who think, talk and interact in a fully digital-first way. A generation raised on TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, used to the highest UX standards, and constantly seeking new stimuli. To remain relevant, NPO Zapp set out to shift from a traditional broadcaster to an always-on digital platform. Together, we made that shift happen, through a fully reimagined app that puts interaction, personalization and trust at its core.

The app was built with a future-proof, modular frontend that evolves alongside the media behavior of tweens. Interaction, speed, and a dynamic interface were key. To make sure we were building the right product, we included users early. A working prototype was tested with real tweens by our research partner UXkids, and insights from those sessions were integrated directly into the product experience. A final beta round with the extended Zapp community helped polish the details. With the design validated, we moved quickly, delivering a fully functional, high-performing app in just three months, embraced by its audience from day one.

The app marks the beginning of NPO Zapp’s shift from traditional TV channel to 360° media ecosystem. With a strong technical and UX foundation in place, the platform is ready for rapid expansion and long-term growth.