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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

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