Thinking back to when I was a child and watching too much TV was supposed to give you square eyes, its very interesting to notice how the number of digital screen interface products and their use has increased over the last 20 years.
How many people now own a TV, computer, tablet and a smartphone and what percentage of every day is spent focusing into a screen instead of the physical world that surrounds us? Increasingly surrounded by screens, people are even finding ways to use computer tablets and smartphones when camping, or scuba cave diving.
But is our greater use of these information windows creating an unhealthy condition of human confinement, or a gateway to a richer life experience? Is it further removing us from the natural environment and an appreciation for human nature, or are we learning more and becoming more aware?
Consider new screen interfaces already in their final phases of development such as Google Glass with GPS applications and face recognition systems.
And the Microsoft (Microsoft Windows) Magic Window that will virtually bring remote study or work environments to you anywhere in the world.
“eyes are windows to the soul”
The window is becoming an increasingly important philosophical metaphor and figure in the human subconscious. Is it a reflection of a deep-rooted human need for understanding and information, or a means of escape. How will such an extensive use of windows hard-wire the human brain and change our culture? I think its too early to tell.
Like a cigarette habit, most of us probably read and engage with our smartphone first thing in the morning and last thing at night…will future phones come with a SURGEON GENERAL’S WARNING against cancer, or eye damage?
Both consumers and companies alike have the responsibility to use all these new information window tools in positive and healthy ways.
As a designer and specifically to product, I think information windows coupled with the internet will encourage more information sharing and greater understanding and transparency of product and design services. Additional communication that every company should begin preparing, creating the right image to stay relevant with future consumers and clients.
Recognizing the role of the internet as the most effective channel of information and communication is critical. Leveraging its opportunities for positive information to be spread to millions of screens and consumers worldwide at the click of a mouse button, but also find ways to reduce the impact to your personal health.
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