HCIs in indust

Examples of

uses of HCIs

in different industries

discover!

Click to explore

Banking

Entertainment

Retail

Fitness

Home appliances

Embedded systems

back

How are

HCIs

used in banking?

discover!

HCIs in Banking

Online Banking

ATMS

Wearables

Mobile banking

DigitalAssistants

disadvantages

advantages

Advantages of HCIs in banking

Improved User Experience

Convenience and Accessibility

Enhanced Security

Faster Transactions

back

Disdvantages of HCIs in banking

Technical Issues and Downtime

Security Risks

Privacy Concerns

Exclusion

Cost

back

How are

HCIs

used in entertainment?

discover!

HCIs in entertainment

Gaming

Smart TVs

Streaming

Music & Audio

AR & VR

disadvantages

advantages

Advantages of HCIs in entertainment

Improved User Experience

Increased accessibility

Personalisation

Convenience

back

Disdvantages of HCIs in entertainment

Technical Issues

Complexity

Privacy and security

Cost

back

How are

HCIs

used in retail?

discover!

HCIs in retail

Self Service kiosks

PoS systems

Apps & websites

Feedback

Stock control

disadvantages

advantages

Advantages of HCIs in retail

Improved User Experience

Real-Time Inventory Management

Personalisation

Faster Checkout Process

back

Disdvantages of HCIs in retail

Technical Issues

Complexity

Privacy and security

Cost

back

How are

HCIs

used in the fitness industry?

discover!

HCIs in fitness

Smart equipment

Wearables

Fitness apps

VR & AR

disadvantages

advantages

Advantages of HCIs in fitness

Efficiency

Increased motivation

Personalisation

Convenience

back

Disdvantages of HCIs in retail

Technical Issues

Complexity

Privacy and security

Cost

back

How are

HCIs

used in home appliances?

discover!

HCIs in home appliances

Smart thermostats

Smart fridges

Home security

Smart ovens

Other smart devices

Smart lighting

disadvantages

advantages

Advantages of HCIs in the home

Efficiency

Increased safety

Accessibility

Convenience

back

Disdvantages of HCIs in the home

Technical Issues

Complexity

Privacy and security

Cost

Environmental impact

back

How are

HCIs

used in embedded systems?

discover!

HCIs in embedded systems

Touch interfaces

GUIs

Voice interface

What is an embedded system?

Healthcare

Cars

Electronics

disadvantages

advantages

Advantages of HCIs in embedded systems

Better for users

Efficiency

Accessibility

back

Disdvantages of HCIs in embedded systems

Resources

Longer development time

Privacy and security

Cost

back

Music and Audio

Voice-controlled Assistants

Devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple's Siri allow us ers to play music, request songs, and control volume using voice commands.

Real-time tracking of stock

Retail staff can use HCIs like handheld devices and barcode scanners to track stock levels in real time, reducing the risk of overstocking or running out of popular items.

Mobile Banking Apps:

Touch-based interaction

Biometric Authentication:

• Many apps integrate fingerprint or facial recognition for secure, easy access, enhancing both usability and security. This is an advanced form of HCI, replacing traditional passwords with biometric input

Chatbots & digtial assistants

Text-based and voice input

Chatbots in banking apps or websites allow customers to interact with the bank by asking questions or executing basic commands (e.g., transferring money, checking balances).

Data collection

Digital banking systems collect large amounts of user data. Some customers may be uncomfortable with how their personal information is stored, used, or shared, raising privacy concerns.

System Failures

HCIs rely heavily on software and hardware, which may encounter bugs, lag, or connectivity issues. This can disrupt the user experience

Increased accessibility

HCIs, such as voice recognition and touchscreens, make entertainment more accessible for a wider range of users, including those with disabilities. For example, voice-activated systems allow visually impaired users to navigate content.

Stock control

Warehouse Management Systems

In retail warehouses, workers use handheld devices with touchscreens to manage stock control tasks, such as receiving goods, checking stock levels, and picking orders. These devices are directly connected to the central stock control system, keeping data up to date.

Inventory Dashboards

Retail managers and staff use inventory management dashboards, which are graphical interfaces that show real-time stock levels, sales trends, and alerts when products are low in stock. These interfaces help managers make informed decisions about reordering and stock placement.

Biometric Authentication:

Features like fingerprint scanning and facial recognition used in banking apps provide an extra layer of security, ensuring only authorised users can access accounts.

Encryption and Two-Factor Authentication (2FA):

Online and mobile banking platforms integrate secure login processes, such as 2FA, making it safer for users to interact with their banking data.

Convenience

HCIs like contactless payments, mobile apps, and self-checkout systems help streamline the checkout process, minimizing long queues and improving the overall shopping experience.

Mobile apps and online websites

Retailers develop mobile apps with user-friendly HCIs, allowing customers to browse products, check stock levels, or make purchases from their smartphones. Features like touch navigation and voice search improve the overall shopping experience.

Privacy and security

Voice-controlled systems and other connected devices in entertainment (e.g., smart speakers, voice assistants) often collect user data, raising concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of personal information.

Online Banking Platforms:

Web and mobile interfaces:

HCIs in online banking allow customers to :

• log in,
• view account details,
• transfer money,
• pay bills using a web browser or phone app

The design of online banking platforms focuses on ease of use, security, and accessibility, ensuring customers can quickly navigate to what they need.

System Failures

Online banking platforms, ATMs, or mobile apps may experience technical issues, crashes, or downtime, preventing customers from accessing their accounts or completing transactions.

Dependence on Internet

Online and mobile banking rely on a stable internet connection. Without it, users may find themselves unable to access banking services, especially in rural or low-connectivity areas.

Complexity for non-techy people

Some HCIs, especially advanced systems like VR headsets or gesture-based controls, can be complicated for users who are not comfortable with technology, leading to frustration and reduced accessibility.

Personalisation

HCIs enable personalized recommendations through data-driven interfaces, enhancing the shopping experience by suggesting products based on customer preferences and previous purchases.

Better experience

HCIs provide intuitive interaction with devices, allowing users to easily control content and services, such as navigating streaming platforms or interacting with video games.

Automation:

Automated systems like ATMs, online banking platforms, and chatbots allow for quicker transactions, such as bill payments, transfers, and deposits, reducing wait times and reliance on bank staff.

Self-service:

Customers can perform banking tasks independently, such as checking balances, paying bills, or depositing checks, saving time compared to visiting a branch.

Point of Sale systems

At checkout counters, cashiers use POS systems that are equipped with touchscreens, barcode scanners, and sometimes voice input to process payments and manage sales. These interfaces streamline the transaction process for both the customer and the retailer.

Smart TVs and Home Entertainment Systems

Remote controls and smart apps

HCIs enable viewers to control entertainment systems via remote controls, smartphone apps, or even gestures.

Voice Recognition

Many smart TVs now come with voice recognition systems that allow users to search for shows, change channels, or adjust settings without touching a button.

Expensive to create and maintain

Devices that use advanced HCIs, such as virtual reality systems or motion-sensing gaming consoles, can be expensive to purchase and maintain, limiting their accessibility to a broader audience

Controller Input

HCIs allow players to interact with video games through controllers, keyboards, and mouse inputs. Advanced HCIs like motion sensors (e.g., Wii, PlayStation Move) and virtual reality (VR) headsets enable more immersive gameplay.

Touch screen input

Mobile games use touch-based HCIs, letting players interact directly with the game on smartphones and tablets.

Voice input

Gamers can use voice input to control characters or trigger actions (e.g., "Xbox, start game").

Expensive to create and maintain

Developing secure, user-friendly digital interfaces like mobile apps or online platforms requires significant investment in technology and talent. Maintaining these systems also has high ongoing costs.

Wearable devices

Smartwatches:

Banks are also enabling customers to check balances or receive notifications through apps on smartwatches, offering more flexibility and real-time interaction through tiny screens.

Tap-to-pay:

Wearable devices with NFC technology, like smartwatches, allow for contactless payments. This is an HCI interaction where users simply tap their wearable on a payment terminal.

Ease of Use:

HCIs like touchscreen ATMs, mobile apps, and online banking platforms are designed to be user-friendly, allowing customers to perform complex banking tasks easily and quickly.

Accessibility

HCIs provide multiple ways for customers to interact with banking services, such as voice commands, touch gestures, or traditional keypads, making it accessible for different types of users, including those with disabilities.

ATMs

Touchscreen Interfaces:

Most modern ATMs use intuitive touchscreen interfaces to allow users to withdraw cash, check balances, or make deposits. The design is simple and user-friendly, guiding users step-by-step.

Physical Buttons:

Some ATMs still use physical keypads alongside screens, providing easy navigation through options.

Augmented and virtual reality

Immersive Experiences

VR headsets (like Oculus Rift) use HCIs to transport users into virtual worlds, where they can interact with the environment in real time.

AR applications

Devices like smartphones or AR glasses (e.g., Microsoft HoloLens) overlay digital elements onto the real world, allowing users to interact with augmented environments in entertainment, from gaming to virtual concerts.

Streaming

Interactive menus

Platforms like Netflix or Disney+ use HCIs in their user interfaces to let viewers browse, select, and control media playback easily through remotes, mobile apps, or smart TVs.

Personalisation

HCIs help users create playlists, save favorites, and get personalised recommendations based on their viewing habits.

Personalisation

HCIs enable personalised experiences by learning user preferences and behaviors. For example, streaming platforms use personalised recommendations based on past interactions, while gaming systems can customise gameplay settings.

24/7 Availability:

With mobile and online banking, customers can access their accounts and perform transactions anytime, anywhere, without needing to visit a physical bank branch.

Mobile and Remote Access:

HCIs allow users to access banking services through smartphones, tablets, and wearables, providing more flexibility and freedom to manage finances on the go.

Better experience

User-friendly HCIs, like touchscreens and interactive digital displays, make it easier for customers to browse products, access information, and complete purchases, leading to higher customer satisfaction.

Digital Divide

Not everyone is comfortable using digital interfaces, particularly the elderly or those who are not tech-savvy. These users may struggle with mobile apps, ATMs, or online platforms, making them feel excluded from essential banking services.

Customer Feedback Systems

HCIs like touch-based feedback stations are placed in stores for customers to leave reviews, rate their experience, or report issues, helping retailers improve their services.

Convenience

Devices like smart TVs, mobile apps, and smart speakers with voice control allow users to easily switch between content, play music, or control systems without complex steps or additional hardware.

Cyber security threats

While HCIs have enhanced security features, they are still vulnerable to cyberattacks, hacking, phishing, and data breaches. This can lead to financial loss or personal data theft for users.

Self service kiosks

Many retail stores use self-service kiosks where customers can place orders, make payments, or search for products without needing assistance from store staff. These kiosks often use touchscreens, making it easy for customers to interact with the system.

System Failures

HCIs like self-service kiosks, POS systems, or interactive displays can experience technical glitches, system failures, or slow responses, which can disrupt the customer experience and lead to frustration.

Privacy and security

With the increasing use of digital interfaces in retail, there are higher risks of cyberattacks, data breaches, and unauthorised access to sensitive customer and transaction data, requiring robust security measures.

Learning curve for employees

Staff may need training to operate new systems efficiently. The introduction of HCIs in retail environments can come with a learning curve, potentially affecting work during the training period.

Exclusion of some groups

Some customers, particularly older individuals or those unfamiliar with technology, may find it difficult to use advanced HCIs such as self-checkouts or mobile apps, potentially excluding certain user groups.

Expensive to create and maintain

Implementing HCI technologies such as self-checkout systems, interactive displays, or automated inventory management systems can require a significant upfront investment in hardware, software, and maintenance.

VR & AR

VR and AR are becoming popular in fitness environments. VR-based workouts allow users to exercise in immersive environments, while AR apps can guide users through exercises by overlaying instructions onto their real-world surroundings via a mobile device or headset.

Wearable fitness trackers

Devices like fitness trackers and smartwatches use touchscreens or voice-activated interfaces to monitor physical activity, heart rate, and other health metrics. Users interact with these devices to track their daily fitness goals, receive notifications, and adjust their routines.

Fitness Apps

Many fitness apps feature intuitive interfaces on smartphones or tablets, allowing users to follow workout routines, monitor their progress, and receive feedback on their performance. These apps often include visualizations of data, exercise instructions, and personalized workout plans.

Smart fitness equipment

Modern gym equipment such as treadmills, exercise bikes, and rowing machines often have touchscreens or other interactive interfaces. These allow users to set workout preferences, track progress, and interact with virtual training programs or simulations.

Improved motivation

Many HCIs incorporate gamification elements, challenges, and rewards, which help keep users motivated. Features like progress tracking, virtual rewards, and social sharing make fitness more engaging and fun.

Convenience

HCIs in fitness apps and wearable devices make it easy for users to exercise anywhere, at any time, without the need for a gym or a personal trainer. This flexibility is especially beneficial for people with busy schedules or those who prefer at-home workouts.

Personalisation

HCIs allow for highly customised workout routines based on individual fitness levels, goals, and preferences. This includes personalised fitness plans, heart rate monitoring, and recommendations for exercises tailored to the user.

Real-time feedback

Devices like fitness trackers, smartwatches, and interactive gym equipment provide users with real-time data on performance, such as heart rate, calories burned, distance covered, and more. This helps users adjust their workouts immediately for better results.

Efficiency

HCIs analyse data over time, allowing users to track long-term progress and see trends in their fitness journeys. This helps in making informed decisions on improving workouts or identifying areas that need more focus.

System Failures

HCIs can experience software bugs, hardware malfunctions, or connectivity problems, which can disrupt the user experience and cause frustration during workouts.

Expensive to buy or subscribe to

Advanced fitness devices and apps can be expensive. Not everyone can afford the latest wearables, smart gym equipment, or subscription services for fitness apps.

Learning curve and exclusion

Some users, particularly those who are not tech-savvy, may find it challenging to navigate complex interfaces or features of fitness devices and apps. This can discourage them from using the technology effectively.

Privacy and security

Many fitness devices and apps collect sensitive health and activity data, raising concerns about data privacy and security. Users may worry about how their data is stored, shared, or used.

Smart fridges

These refrigerators often feature touchscreens that display recipes, the contents of the fridge and shopping lists. Some even have cameras inside, allowing users to view contents remotely via an app.

Smart home security

Modern security systems feature user-friendly apps that enable remote monitoring of cameras, door locks, and alarms. Users can receive notifications and control the system from their smartphones.

Smart lighting

Users can control smart lights through apps, voice commands, or smart switches, allowing for scheduling, dimming, and color changes based on preference or time of day.

Smart thermostats

Users can interact with smart thermostats through touchscreens, mobile apps, or voice commands. They can adjust temperature settings, set schedules, and monitor energy usage remotely.

Improved safety

Monitoring and alerts

Smart home appliances can send alerts to users in case of malfunction or safety issues (e.g., smoke detectors, security cameras), enhancing home safety.

Automatic shutdowns

HCIs can include safety features like automatic shut-off for appliances, reducing the risk of accidents.

Accessibility

HCIs can accommodate users with disabilities or older adults by providing alternative ways to interact with appliances (e.g., voice control, simplified interfaces).

Remote access

Family members can monitor and control appliances remotely, helping care for elderly or disabled individuals.

Energy Efficiency

Smart Features: Many HCIs include energy-saving modes, scheduling options, and monitoring capabilities, helping users optimise energy use and reduce energy bills.

Remote Monitoring: Users can track energy use and receive alerts about excessive use, encouraging more efficient behavior.

Remote Control

Users can manage appliances from anywhere using smartphones or voice assistants, making it easier to operate devices without being physically present.

Hands-free control

Voice-activated HCIs allow users to control appliances while multitasking, such as cooking or cleaning.

Learning curve and exclusion

Some users may find smart interfaces and features complicated to navigate, especially if they are not tech-savvy, which can lead to frustration.

Overwhelming Features

The amount of options and settings may overwhelm users, making it difficult to use the appliance effectively.

High costs

Smart appliances with advanced HCIs are often more expensive than traditional appliances, which may not be feasible for all consumers. Smart appliances may require more frequent updates or specialized service, leading to additional expenses over time.

Privacy and security

Smart appliances often collect user data, raising concerns about how this information is stored, shared, and protected.

Hacking risk

Connected appliances can be vulnerable to cyberattacks, which may compromise security and privacy.

System Failures

Relying on technology means that if the system fails (e.g., software glitches, connectivity issues), it can make the appliance unusable until fixed.

Loss of basic skills

Users may become overly reliant on technology, leading to a decline in basic skills (e.g., manual cooking techniques).

Smart ovens

Many smart ovens have touchscreen controls that allow users to select cooking modes, set timers, and monitor cooking progress remotely. Some can even suggest recipes based on ingredients available.

Smart washing machines

Smart washing machines often include touchscreens for selecting cycles, adjusting settings, and scheduling loads. Some models allow for remote start and monitoring through a mobile app.

Smart blinds and curtains

Users can open or close blinds and curtains using apps or voice commands, enabling control of natural light and privacy from anywhere in the home.

Cars and other vehicles

In vehicles, HCIs allow easy interactions with navigation systems, infotainment, and climate control, often combining touch screens, voice commands, and steering wheel controls.

Touch interfaces

Common in smartphones, tablets, and a wide range of household appliances, touch interfaces provide a direct interaction method, allowing users to manipulate on-screen elements with gestures.

Voice-activated interfaces

Increasingly used in smart home devices and cars, voice recognition systems enable hands-free interaction, improving accessibility and convenience.

Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs)

Used in devices with screens, such as smart appliances and medical devices, GUIs allow users to interact visually through icons, buttons, and menus.

Limited processing power

Embedded systems often operate on limited hardware resources (CPU, memory, storage). Adding sophisticated HCIs like graphical interfaces or touchscreens can strain these resources and affect the system's overall performance as well as add to the cost.

Power consumption

HCIs, particularly those with advanced graphical displays, sensors, or backlit screens, can consume significant power, which is a challenge in battery-powered or low-energy environments (e.g., IoT devices or wearable tech).

Development time

Creating a user-friendly interface often requires additional design, testing, and remaking phases, potentially delaying the time-to-market of embedded systems.

Privacy and security

Introducing a sophisticated HCI, especially one connected to the internet, can increase the attack surface for potential cyberattacks.

HCIs that collect user inputs (e.g., touchscreens, voice commands) might collect sensitive personal data. If not handled properly, this could lead to privacy concerns or breaches.

High costs

Designing and developing an effective HCI can be complex and costly. Customising the interface for different user groups, including accessibility features, and ensuring responsiveness require significant resources.

Better for users

HCIs often employ visual and touch elements that make systems more intuitive, allowing users to interact with technology easily.

Real time feedback: Users receive immediate responses to their actions (e.g., sounds, lights, or visual changes), which improves understanding and engagement.

Personalisation: HCIs can be designed to adapt to individual user preferences and behaviours, leading to a more personalised and satisfying experience.

Engagement: A well-designed interface can enhance user engagement and satisfaction, making devices more enjoyable to use.

Efficiency and productivity

HCIs can simplify complex tasks by presenting options clearly and allowing quick navigation, which can lead to increased productivity in both consumer and commercial uses.

Reduction in errors

By providing clear instructions and feedback, HCIs help minimise user errors.

Accessibility

Well-designed HCIs can be used by a wide range of users, including those with disabilities, by including features such as adjustable text sizes, voice commands, and tactile feedback.

Multiple methods of interaction

HCIs can support various input methods (e.g., touch, voice, gesture), making systems usable in different contexts and by different user groups.

Environmental issues

E-waste

The disposal of outdated or broken smart appliances can contribute to electronic waste, posing environmental concerns if not properly managed.

Energy use

Some smart devices may consume more energy than traditional appliances, particularly when constantly connected to the internet or during updates.

An embedded system is a computer that performs one function or set of functions within a larger system.

Consumer electronics

Devices like smart TVs, wearable fitness trackers, and gaming consoles use HCIs to enhance user experience through intuitive navigation and control.

HCIs in healthcare

Medical devices use HCIs to enable healthcare professionals and patients to monitor and control health effectively, often using touchscreens or voice commands.