Increase UX with Audio UI

A new and unappreciative feature in a lot of UI I come across is fun sound and haptics. Now listen, I know a lot of us have our phones sound turned off so we do not hear a ring or text tone every 3 minutes - but imagine an app where you can explore the depths of and enjoy the deep ui the creators made?!

Recently I have been exploring sound and how to intergrate it in my UI. Like said before it is rare we have our sound on because we are at work, in public, or just don't need to listen to our phones. I have came across a couple apps with great audio and haptic feedback that makes me want to play with that certain feature for even longer even if I have no purpose to be doing so (??).

Here are some ways and reasonings I have thought of/found in app design recently:

Microinteractions: Adding that Charm and Personality

• Imagine clicking on a button and hearing a satisfying "pop" or receiving a gentle "ping" when a notification arrives. These microinteractions add charm and personality to the user experience, making interactions feel more tangible and rewarding.
• You can create a cohesive and immersive auditory environment that complements the visual elements of the interface.

Loading Screens: Turning Waiting into an Experience

• Loading screens don't have to be boring! Incorporating sound and haptic feedback can transform moments of waiting into engaging experiences.
• Consider using soothing tones or playful melodies to accompany loading animations, providing users with auditory cues that their request is being processed and encouraging them to remain patient and engaged.

Scroll Feedback: Guiding Users Through Navigation

• As users scroll through content, subtle sound effects can provide feedback and guidance, enhancing the navigation experience.
• Incorporating sound and haptic feedback when reaching the end of a page or section can signal users to continue scrolling or indicate that they've reached the end of the content, improving usability and reducing frustration.

Accessibility: Enhancing User Engagement

• Sound can also play a crucial role in accessibility, providing auditory cues and feedback for users with visual impairments or disabilities.
• By designing interfaces with inclusive sound options and alternatives, designers can ensure that all users have equal access to information and functionality, creating a more inclusive and equitable user experience.

Emotional Connection: Allowing Feelings With Sound

• Sound has the power to evoke emotions and create memorable experiences for users.
• By leveraging sound design principles such as rhythm, tempo, and pitch, designers can evoke specific feelings and associations, strengthening the emotional connection between users and the interface.

There is a growing amount of new inspiration on social media. Creators are taking big leaps in improving UI and making it fun again! Please don't hesitate in creating something new or experimenting with new UI elements.