Machine learning (ML) is one of the most important technologies of the last decade, and it shows no signs of slowing down. This technology can gather vast amounts of data and then identify patterns in that data, thereby providing valuable insights for businesses.
ML also plays a key role in the design of user interfaces (UI) for mobile apps. In fact, Netflix saves $1 billion a year thanks to the way machine learning has helped them refine their UI. By leveraging machine learning algorithms that learn the preferences of subscribers, the company can personalize display screens to meet each user’s interests.
Clearly, using machine learning in the UI design process can reap major rewards. Here are the top four ways to leverage this technology in order to craft the perfect user interface.
#1: Content Personalization
Machine learning can program a computer or application to learn data that it can use to customize the user experience (UX). As a result, users will spend less time searching for what they’re looking for and more time engaged in what interests them.
For example, consider a user who browses classic rock vinyls and recently bought a surfboard. With machine learning at work, their app homepage could display items such as vinyl player speakers or a surfboard stand. Our user may realize that they do, in fact, want one of these items. The likes of Amazon and eBay use machine learning in this manner, constantly adjusting their homepages according to browsing and purchasing history.
Machine learning can automate the process of personalizing and optimizing a user interface. The result will be an improved UX, as users can get more relevant recommendations and feel as though their specific interests are being catered to.
#2: An Adaptive User Interface
Developers can also use machine learning to customize the look of a mobile app, meaning that the UI design may vary depending on which elements appeal to a particular user. Adaptive user interfaces, as they are called, use machine learning to detect the device, operating system and platform that a person is using and adapt accordingly.
Furthermore, the algorithm examines the stylistic and visual preferences of a user by asking them questions via a survey or by requesting feedback. This information is used to further customize the UI design.
In short, machine learning is helping to create user interfaces that more accurately represent a user’s unique personality and needs. By making users feel right at home with your app, you increase the chances of them remaining loyal to your brand.
#3: Image-Recognition Technology
Image-recognition technology allows software to identify objects, places, people and other images quickly and accurately. It’s similar to how the human brain looks for a pattern, color, texture or size to identify an object. Thanks to machine learning, mobile apps can leverage this technology in order to recognize objects in the real world.
The technology can be especially useful in the retail industry. For example, a mobile app could identify different items that users can scan with their mobile devices and add to their cart for a faster shopping experience. Companies in a range of industries could use this technology to make the shopping experience more streamlined and intuitive.
#4: Voice-User Interfaces
Voice-user interfaces may be the most popular advancement in machine learning and UI in recent years. The technology uses speech recognition technology to allow users to interact with smart devices and software simply by talking. It is commonly employed in virtual assistants such as Siri and Alexa, which can perform thousands of tasks in response to voice commands. Many people like voice-user interfaces because these assistants seem to have their own unique personalities.
These pieces of software also make it more efficient and convenient for users to complete various tasks. Now, all it takes is a voice command in order to achieve a number of goals. By using machine learning to integrate virtual assistants into your app, you can create a more organic exchange between users and the application, which can improve the overall user experience.
Using Machine Learning in UI Design
The goal of machine learning in user interface design is to create a more personalized, comfortable and efficient user experience. Adding a touch of sophistication to a UI can be the difference between converting and retaining a customer or losing them to a competitor. Machine learning technology helps you present your brand in the best possible light while catering to the needs of your users.
Of course, you will need to find a developer capable of leveraging machine learning technology when designing your user interface. Fortunately, that’s precisely what we do at 7T. Custom app development, machine learning, and UI/UX design are all areas we specialize in. Plus, we are experts in emerging technologies such as augmented reality, virtual reality, artificial intelligence, blockchain and natural language processing.
Although 7T is headquartered in Dallas, we also work with customers in Austin, Houston, and beyond. We invite you to contact us today to discuss your project.
