4 min read

Visualize interfaces interwoven in the fabric of our existence where thoughts execute operations and technology magnifies our intellect.

Transhumanism, the merger of humans and technology designed to surpass our limitations, has stopped being a futuristic dream. It is changing fast, and UX/UI designers are poised to be amid this brain-twisting evolution.

So, what is Transhumanism all about?

Transhumanism is a movement aimed at extending the borders of human capabilities. Consider brain-computer interfaces that enable you to change objects using nothing but thoughts (think Professor X!) , wearable technology that keeps tabs on your health and emotions in real-time, and augmented reality in which the digital and physical dimensions flawlessly merge. Sounds pretty wild ?

Hold on, it gets wilder:

And this is happening right now. For example, consider some of these companies paving the path for yet to grow Brain-Computer Interface (BCI).

However, these are just a window into the wide world of companies that are breaking the boundaries between humans and machines. It is no longer about the future but a present requiring a second design thinking revolution.

What do UX/UI designers have to do with it?

The interfaces we design today will mold the transhuman future, we will make. We owe it to weigh that this future is inclusive, ethical and brings good to all humans. So,

Start learning: Jump into the transhumanism world with some resources you can find in the links below. Comprehend the technology, ethics, and societal issues.

Think outside the box: Dont submit to the tyranny of screens and keyboards. Investigate new technologies and visualize how they could be applied to produce engaging, intuitive, and ethical experiences.

Emphasize empathy: As humans are getting integrated with technology, the understanding of our needs in the emotional domain is gaining even more importance. Develop interfaces that are and will be sensitive to us as we evolve.

Collaborate with other disciplines:This is not a single-handed venture! Develop unique designs in partnership with neuroscientists, ethicists, and other professionals.

So, how is this different from the way we design in the modern times?

Its a paradigm shift! For example, say you are moving from planning for specific smartphone users to creating solutions for augmented humans, who communicate with the world by thought, gesture, or by streaming information directly. The main objective here is to come up with adaptive interfaces that are able to accommodate the unique needs and capacities of every individual which is far outside the one-size-fits-all model.

Think about it: Now we develop software for tracking applications for the fitness trackers which can read our heartbeat. The transhuman future would enable us to create interfaces that directly speak to our nervous system and provide us with personalized health interventions in real-time. It is an all different ball game!We are the authors of our future pattern.

Are you ready to leave the screen and create something for the new human evolution?

References:

Reading Suggestions:

Additional Resources:

The blog post is only the starting point. I suggest you investigate the references and reading lists I have provided to develop your knowledge of transhumanism and its effects on UI/UX design. Please, bear in mind that future is not carved in granite. We have the ability to make it what we want, and with careful design, the transhuman future will be one that is good for all of humanity.

Continued here:
Beyond Clicks and Screens: Designing for the Transhuman Future - Medium