“Computer. Hello computer.” The moment at 1m 9s in this clip comes to mind every time I encounter a new device or UI, or an old familiar one changes. iOS 6 to 7. OS 9 to X. Plastic keyboard to touch screen. The clip represents our recurring expectation that these transitions will not only be easy, but accumulative.
In reality though, on mass, we only know the computers and interfaces of the now. Not the past.
The idea that Scotty, clearly more akin with Siri style interfaces (which we’re nearly there with) will be able to touch type an old beige QWERTY keyboard and navigate a Macintosh Plus, is cute but delusional.
Just look and listen during the adoption of any new UI on iOS or or even Twitter and Facebook. People go mad when buttons change position. But very quickly forget the past, in the adoption of a new now.
The idea that my children will be able to use iOS 6 then, let along a QWERTY keyboard, with any level of proficiency is lovely, but clearly wrong. The expectation that future computers will be easier to use however, looks to becoming scarily true and like a great opportunity for UI and UX designers.
I can see it now… ‘So, Son, you’re a UX Architect for Intergalactic Craft, but what exactly do you do?’
Documenteering 