The attention toward Natural User Interface as the next big fascination is passé in my opinion. Don’t get me wrong this is something we should work toward, although so far it’s been under delivered.

Years ago we realized the continuation of increasing computational power, sophisticated software, and the miniaturization of mechanics would bring great advancements. With these developments we envisioned sensors and other tech embedded in everyday things bridging the gap between the digital and physical worlds, and the promise of NUI as we interacted. It was wonderful to ponder and discuss all its potential.

So far however in terms of NUI today, we humans are doing the majority of adapting.

Sure we currently have gesture, touch, and voice control, but they’re within certain parameters. We’re still either walking up to a screen or pulling one out of our pockets to do the interacting. Sure Google’s Glass has the potential for bringing us one step closer.  But we’re still going to have to adapt to them as people stare at us with a range of expressions from wide eyed curiosity and contempt.

Continued pumping of NUI’s promise in light of where we are today feels like putting lipstick on a pig.