The power of the button (Changelog Interviews #623)
Jan 9, 2025
auto_awesome
Rachel Plotnick, an associate professor of cinema and media studies at Indiana University, shares insights from her book "Power Button". She delves into the psychology of buttons, their tactile resurgence in a touchscreen-dominated world, and their significant role in user experience. The discussion also covers her upcoming book "License to Spill", exploring the cultural impact of energy drinks in gaming and their marketing dynamics. Prepare for a fascinating journey through technology, control, and our love-hate relationship with buttons!
Buttons have evolved from democratizing technology to becoming essential in maintaining reliability, especially as touchscreens face limitations.
The issue of planned obsolescence raises financial and ethical concerns, pushing consumers towards frequent replacements instead of repairs.
The resurgence of analog controls reflects a desire for tactile feedback and practicality, particularly in situations requiring quick responses and focus.
Deep dives
The Evolution and Appeal of Buttons
Buttons have a rich history that dates back to the Industrial Revolution, where they emerged as a practical solution for controlling machines with ease and accessibility. Initially, buttons were seen as a way to democratize technology, allowing even children and women to operate complex devices effortlessly. Over time, however, the rise of touchscreens led to a perception that buttons were becoming obsolete, with the belief that sleek interfaces could solve all issues. Yet, as the limitations of touchscreens become apparent, there is a growing recognition of the unique advantages that physical buttons offer, particularly in situations that demand simplicity and reliability.
The Penalty of Obsolescence Culture
In contemporary society, the phenomenon of planned obsolescence is prevalent in technology, leading consumers to frequently replace devices due to minor failures like a button malfunction. Many products are designed in a way that one small issue, such as a broken touchscreen or button, can render the entire device useless, pushing users to purchase new models rather than seek repairs. This culture not only burdens consumers financially but also raises ethical concerns about waste and environmental impact. The prevalence of such practices calls into question the longevity and sustainability of our technology-focused lifestyles.
The Reburgeoning of Analog Controls
Amid the dominance of touchscreens, there has been a marked resurgence in the use of analog controls like buttons and knobs in various technologies, particularly in automobiles and household devices. This shift is driven by a desire for tactile feedback, convenience, and safety in situations where focus and quick responses are crucial, such as driving. The integration of buttons in modern devices often aims to enhance user experience by reducing the cognitive load associated with navigating complex touchscreen menus. Ultimately, the return to physical buttons represents a broader understanding of the need for practical design in our daily interactions with technology.
Media Hygiene and Device Care
As technology becomes more integrated into daily life, the concept of media hygiene — the maintenance and care of devices against spills, dirt, and damage — has gained importance. This paradigm shift comes in light of the increasing reliance on digital devices, calls for proper care to prevent irreversible damage due to accidents like liquid spills. Information about maintaining devices, such as appropriate cleaning methods, underscores the tension between technological advancements and natural wear and tear. Proper media hygiene practices are essential for extending the lifespan of our various gadgets, inspiring a holistic approach to device usage in the modern age.
The Impact of Energy Drinks on Gaming Culture
The cultural norm around gaming has evolved with the rise of energy drinks that promise to enhance focus, endurance, and performance during long gaming sessions. The strategic marketing of these beverages has tied them closely to gaming culture, positioning them as essential for the 'all-nighter' experience and promoting the idea of peak performance through consumption. However, this reflects broader societal trends where health implications and lifestyle choices related to these products come under scrutiny. An examination of this relationship reveals critical concerns about consumption patterns, physical health, and the psychological effects of maintaining prolonged periods of gaming-induced exhaustion.
Rachel Plotnick joins us for the first show of 2025 to discuss her book “Power Button” and the research she did, and why we love/hate buttons so much. We also discuss her upcoming book “License to Spill” as well as the research she’s doing on energy drinks.
Changelog++ members save 9 minutes on this episode because they made the ads disappear. Join today!
Sponsors:
Sentry – Use the code CHANGELOG when you sign up to get $100 off the team plan.
Notion – Notion is a place where any team can write, plan, organize, and rediscover the joy of play. It’s a workspace designed not just for making progress, but getting inspired. Notion is for everyone — whether you’re a Fortune 500 company or freelance designer, starting a new startup or a student juggling classes and clubs.
DeleteMe – Text CHANGELOG to 64000 to join DeleteMe. They make it quick, easy, and safe to remove your personal data online.
