Hyundai, like many other automakers, has been moving towards all-screen interior designs in their vehicles. However, they are now realizing that this approach may not be the most user-friendly option for drivers.
According to Hyundai Design North America Vice President Ha Hak-soo, people often feel stressed and annoyed when they have to navigate through menus on a touchscreen to access basic features like climate control or volume settings while driving. This can not only be frustrating for drivers but also dangerous as it takes their attention away from the road.
As a result, Hyundai is now reconsidering their all-touchscreen approach and looking to reintroduce physical buttons in their upcoming cars. The facelifted Ioniq 5 already has a redesigned HVAC control panel, and more changes are expected in future models.
The initial push towards touchscreen controls was influenced by Tesla’s large multimedia systems, which had a “wow” factor that many automakers wanted to replicate. However, after conducting focus groups, Hyundai realized that the convenience and ease of use of physical buttons were preferred by consumers.
The shift back to physical buttons is not unique to Hyundai, as other automakers are also making similar changes. The European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) has even mandated that automakers include physical buttons for certain functions in order to receive a five-star safety rating starting in 2026.
While large screens may look impressive and offer a modern aesthetic, the practicality and safety of physical buttons cannot be overlooked. Ultimately, the goal is to provide drivers with a more intuitive and user-friendly experience behind the wheel. Hyundai’s decision to move away from an all-screen approach is a step in the right direction towards achieving that goal. Imagine a world where you can control your devices with just a simple physical button or knob, without the need to look at a screen or navigate through complicated menus. This may sound like a thing of the past, but it is actually a design trend that is making a comeback in the world of technology.
With the rise of touchscreens and haptic surfaces, many people have become accustomed to interacting with their devices through virtual buttons and gestures. While these interfaces may be sleek and modern, they can also be cumbersome and unintuitive, especially for tasks that require quick and precise actions.
This is where the humble physical button or knob comes in. With just a simple press or twist, you can quickly adjust the volume on your music player, switch between radio stations in your car, or even turn off the lights in your home. There is a sense of satisfaction and control that comes with physically interacting with a device, something that is often lacking in today’s touchscreen-dominated world.
But it’s not just about nostalgia or simplicity. Physical buttons and knobs also offer practical advantages. For example, they can be easier to use in certain situations, such as when driving or exercising, where looking at a screen or using touch controls can be distracting or inconvenient. They also provide tactile feedback, allowing you to feel the action you are performing, which can be helpful for those with visual or motor impairments.
Despite the trend towards touchscreens and haptic interfaces, there is still a place for physical buttons and knobs in the world of technology. They offer a straightforward and intuitive way to interact with devices, allowing you to focus on the task at hand without being bogged down by complex menus or virtual controls.
So next time you find yourself struggling to adjust the volume on your smart speaker or navigate through a menu on your smartwatch, consider the simple pleasure of a physical button or knob. With just a press or twist, you can take control of your devices and simplify your interactions in a world that is becoming increasingly digital.