Android haptics

Haptics enhance interactions and convey useful information to users through the sense of touch.


Usage

Haptics refers to the sensation delivered to users through a touch UI. Haptics can enhance the overall user experience by conveying and reinforcing information. They are frequently combined with audio and visual elements to complement interactions.

When to use

Haptics provide touch feedback using: Haptics provide signals using:

Touch feedback

Haptics provide touch feedback using:

  • Tap and click
  • Long press

Attention cues

Haptics provide signals using:

  • Alarms and reminders
  • Notifications
  • Incoming calls
  • Error and success states

Haptics with audio and video

Haptics can be paired with other audio and visual elements, or used alone. For example, haptics can be the only method of feedback when a...

Haptics can be paired with other audio and visual elements, or used alone. For example, haptics can be the only method of feedback when a device has the sound turned off.

When paired with other elements, haptics should be synchronized to create powerful and delightful expressions.


Implementation

Haptics can be implemented in multiple ways. One way is through the commonly used motor-controlled vibration available on mobile devices. Haptics may be constrained by...

Haptics can be implemented in multiple ways. One way is through the commonly used motor-controlled vibration available on mobile devices.

Haptics may be constrained by technological and device limitations.


Principles

Haptics should be used thoughtfully. If haptics are overused, it can be bothersome and could potentially cause user discomfort. Only perform haptic feedback if the user has enabled haptics in their system’s settings.

Follow system patterns

Apply haptics consistently by adhering to platform patterns (such as Android Haptic Feedback Constants).

Focus on user need

The number of new and unique haptics produced should be limited, and only used when system patterns are not defined.

Design holistically

Select patterns that fit the interaction, context, and environment in which a pattern is used.

Combine haptics with audio and visual

Haptics communicate simpler information, and shouldn’t be used to convey complex information.

Avoid unpleasant haptics

Use simple haptic patterns, avoiding long or jarring vibrations if alternative haptic designs are possible.

Use patterns predictably

Use standard patterns in the ways they were intended, so users don’t get confused.

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