Imaginary Interface
Also known as: Spatial Memory Interface, Empty-Handed Interaction
An interaction paradigm where users interact with a virtual interface mapped to empty space or their own body, without any physical device in the interaction area. Users transfer their spatial memory of familiar device layouts (like a smartphone screen) to their palm or mid-air, enabling eyes-free input. Imaginary interfaces are particularly promising for nonvisual accessibility because they leverage proprioception and do not require visual confirmation of touch targets.
Category: interaction design · human-computer interaction · mobile accessibility · wearable technology
Related: On-Body Interaction · Proprioception · Nonvisual Interaction · Gesture Recognition · Spatial Cognition