Texture Metaphors and Tangible Interaction: No Smooth Relationship?

Conceptual Metaphor Theory is able to predict how physical object properties can trigger associated abstract content. Based on prior research on texture metaphors, we hypothesised that even incidental sensations of texture can influence the subjective evaluation of user experience and the interpretation of an ambiguous social situation. In three studies users interacted with smooth and rough versions of cases of mobile devices (Study 1), trackpads (Study 2) and tangibles for interactive gameplay (Study 3). Despite convincing evidence collected in earlier studies, the results confirmed none of the hypotheses in any of the three studies. Possible reasons and their relevance for the use of metaphors in HCI and tangible interfaces are discussed and conclusions for further applications of rough/smooth metaphors are drawn.