Paywalls that convert without killing the experience
Helium is an AI-powered research assistant that helps users find, analyse, and synthesise information faster. They needed paywall screens that communicate premium value without interrupting the user's research flow.
We designed a suite of paywall UI screens - from onboarding upgrade flows to contextual feature-gated prompts - all built around a dark, premium aesthetic that matches Helium's brand identity. Every screen is optimised for conversion while respecting the intelligence of the user.
10+
Paywall Screens
iOS
Platform
Dark
Theme UI
AI
Research App
A paywall should feel like a doorway to something better, not a wall. We designed every screen to make upgrading feel like the obvious next step.
Designed in Figma
A complete paywall design system - from onboarding flows to contextual upgrade prompts - built to maximise conversion without compromising user experience.
Conversion-first hierarchy
Every screen is structured to guide the eye from value proposition to pricing to CTA - minimising friction and maximising upgrade intent.
Dark, premium aesthetic
A dark-themed UI with vibrant gradient accents communicates the sophistication of a pro-tier research tool - the paywall feels like a reward, not a barrier.
Multiple paywall patterns
We explored feature-gated, plan-comparison, and soft-paywall approaches - giving Helium flexibility to A/B test what converts best for their audience.
What we designed
Every screen crafted to balance premium perception with frictionless upgrade paths.
Plan Selection Screens
Clean plan comparison layouts with toggle between monthly and yearly billing, highlighting savings and most popular options.
Feature-Gated Paywalls
Contextual upgrade prompts that appear when users hit premium features - showing exactly what they unlock by subscribing.
Onboarding Paywalls
First-launch paywall flows integrated into the onboarding experience, converting free users before they form free-tier habits.
Unlock Premium Modals
Overlay-style premium prompts with benefit lists, trust signals, and clear CTAs designed to minimise dismissal rates.
Visual Data Previews
Blurred or teaser previews of premium content (charts, analysis, citations) that create desire before asking for commitment.
Gradient & Motion Design
Rich gradient backgrounds and subtle motion cues that elevate the perceived value of the premium tier.