The hottest User Experience Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

IINA Settings for a Better Experience

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 24 Feb 26
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Configure playback to pause when media opens and when the window loses focus, auto-play when entering full screen, and black out other monitors so you don’t miss or get distracted by video.
  2. Simplify the UI and controls by placing the on-screen controller at the bottom, disabling auto-resize, emptying the toolbar, preventing the scroll wheel from changing volume, enabling pinch-to-fullscreen, and using single-click to pause/resume for consistent interactions.
  3. Save screenshots to the Desktop in JPEG XL and copy them to the clipboard for easy use, and enable chapter markers in the progress bar so you can seek by story sections instead of timestamps.

An Interview With Heather Flanagan

ciamweekly • 0 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. CIAM helps create smooth and secure customer experiences online. It reduces password use and allows for modern authentication methods like passkeys and multi-factor authentication.
  2. A big challenge in CIAM is balancing security with user experience. Organizations often struggle to keep systems safe while also making them easy for users to navigate.
  3. The future of CIAM is promising with new technologies like biometrics and better standards. These advancements could lead to safer, more personalized interactions for customers.

20241208

Curious futures (KGhosh) • 0 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Talking to yourself can help you stay motivated and clear-minded. It's like having your own brainstorming session without others judging you.
  2. Creating digital tools to share knowledge can go wrong if not managed carefully. What starts as helpful can quickly turn into misinformation.
  3. In a world filled with uncertainty, a little humor and self-awareness can help you cope. Embracing the strange aspects of life might make it easier to tackle challenges.

You finally did it, Apple

The Rectangle • 0 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Apple Watch used to let users control the macOS Music app, which was a convenient feature for managing music at home. Now, that feature is gone, and many users are unhappy about it.
  2. Apple's recent updates prioritize iPhone users over Mac users, reflecting a shift in the company's focus. This makes Mac users feel left out and frustrated with the changes.
  3. Changes in technology can be hard to accept, especially when they remove features people love. Losing the ability to control music from the Apple Watch feels like a significant loss.

Volkswagen Taigun / Skoda Kushaq: Performance over Comfort

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Volkswagen Taigun and Skoda Kushaq are great for those who prioritize speed and performance, but they sacrifice comfort and digital features. They're not ideal for everyone.
  2. While the Taigun/Kushaq can reach high speeds, many buyers will be better off with cars like the Creta or Seltos, which offer more comfort and balance.
  3. Overall, if you want a car with fun driving experiences and can overlook some comfort issues, the Taigun/Kushaq might be for you, especially if you choose the 1.5-liter engine version.
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The 2024 Creta is Perfection

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The 2024 Creta is very comfortable and spacious. It offers a high seating position, plenty of legroom, and smooth suspension, making drives feel enjoyable without bumps.
  2. Driving the Creta is effortless and fun. Its powerful turbo engine and light steering make it easy to handle, even in heavy traffic, and it feels stable at high speeds.
  3. The car has great digital features like wired CarPlay and a premium sound system. However, some tech issues exist, like non-multitouch screens and limited app functionalities.

Which Windows versions were #1?

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Windows versions like 95, XP, and 10 became very popular mainly because they offered a better user experience and stability compared to older versions.
  2. Many users were slow to upgrade, often sticking to older versions even when better options were available, showing how people can be resistant to change.
  3. Microsoft's investment in the NT family was important because it eventually led to more reliable and modern versions of Windows, helping them catch up to competitors like macOS.

Announcement: Hand Crafted Forum

Hasen Judi • 0 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. There is a lack of good forums available, so creating a new one can help fill that gap. It’s something many people are familiar with.
  2. The development of this forum will focus on straightforward programming, using simple data and functions without complex structures. This makes it easier for more people to understand and contribute.
  3. The project will grow over time, starting with basic features and improving the user experience gradually. The aim is to make it simple to set up and use from the beginning.

🐿️ The Optimised Optometrist - The Insanely Profitable Tech Newsletter

Squirrel Squadron Substack • 0 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Getting your eyes checked is more than just a routine; it includes numerous tests and trying on different lenses to find the best fit.
  2. Using advanced tools like a phoropter can help opticians quickly assess vision and find the right glasses.
  3. It's possible to create a more efficient optometry business that focuses on precise measurements and designs for better-fitting eyewear.

The Journey of Veri: How Anttoni Aniebonam’s Vision for Metabolic Health Led to an Acquisition by Oura

The Healthtech Initiative • 0 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🏥 Health & Wellness User Experience
  1. Anttoni Aniebonam started Veri to help improve metabolic health after facing personal health challenges from a sports injury. His journey turned into entrepreneurship as he sought solutions for himself and others.
  2. Veri grew rapidly, reaching over 50,000 users and logging millions of meals and glucose levels. Their quick success led to a partnership with Oura, driven by user requests for data integration.
  3. After the acquisition, Veri aims to create similar health features within the Oura platform to continue supporting metabolic health. The goal for both companies is to help people live healthier, longer lives.

Complexity-quality Matrix

Andrew's Substack • 0 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. It's important to keep software simple and high quality. Try to do the easiest thing that still meets user needs.
  2. Building complex systems can lead to more problems, so focus on making things manageable first.
  3. You can always improve and expand later. Start with what provides value right away.

Mahindra XUV 700 Review: Cramped and Cheap

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 26 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Mahindra XUV 700 feels cramped and cheap, making it uncomfortable to drive. It's missing many features that are expected in this type of car.
  2. The interior has a lot of plastic and it lacks good quality finishes compared to other cars. It also doesn't offer some convenient features like auto wipers or a 360-degree camera.
  3. For better options, consider the Creta for a 2-row version or the Carens for a 3-row setup. They might be more comfortable and have better features.

Maruti Wagon R: The Best Car for 9 Lakh

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Maruti Wagon R is a great car for those on a budget of 9 lakhs. It balances space, comfort, and decent features, making it a solid choice.
  2. While the Wagon R has strengths like good visibility and spaciousness, it lacks some advanced features like climate control and has issues with engine noise and performance.
  3. The car offers a unique blend of practicality and affordability, although it may not be ideal for spirited driving. It's well-suited for everyday commuting.

M.G. Hector: A Worse Creta at a Higher Price

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 22 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The M.G. Hector is expensive at 29 lakh but doesn't offer better value than the cheaper Creta and Seltos, which are priced at 26 lakh.
  2. It has some modern features like a 14-inch touchscreen and ventilated seats, but lacks certain practical aspects like good legroom and a USB-C port.
  3. Safety features are present, but the warning systems are confusing and could distract the driver, making it less user-friendly.

Mahindra 3XO: Cramped and Buggy

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Mahindra 3XO feels cramped and uncomfortable for passengers, with low seating and insufficient legroom. Options to adjust the seats don’t solve the problem, making it hard to find a comfortable position.
  2. The car has a lot of digital issues, like problems with Bluetooth and CarPlay that make it unreliable. It also lacks modern features such as USB-C ports in the front, which is disappointing.
  3. Although the car has some safety features and performs well in acceleration, the confusing naming for driving modes and overall buggy experience makes it hard to recommend.

The Toyota Hyryder / Grand Vitara is actually a Mediocre Vitara

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Toyota Hyryder and Grand Vitara have poor comfort and driving features compared to competitors like the Creta and Seltos. Many aspects like seat comfort and engine sound were disappointing.
  2. The car has some good features like various cameras and a remote AC start, but it lacks important safety features like side airbags and lane departure warning. This makes it feel incomplete for the price.
  3. Overall, both the Hyryder and Grand Vitara feel similar but offer limited benefits. Buyers may find better options in other cars for the same price.

Ola S1 Pro Electric Scooter: Don't Buy

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Ola S1 Pro scooter has a problem with its user interface; it can be unresponsive and sometimes fails to load. This can make it frustrating to use.
  2. Customer service seems to be lacking, as the support staff may not help with issues and can dismiss complaints. People have shared negative experiences with getting assistance.
  3. There have also been reports of safety issues with the scooters, such as fires and general dissatisfaction, which makes it a risky choice for buyers.

Vida V1 Pro: Crappy Scooter from a Crappy Company

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Vida V1 Pro scooter has major design flaws, like mirrors that can't be adjusted properly and a poorly made handlebar.
  2. It has practical issues too, like the motor not stopping when braking and turn indicators that don’t function correctly.
  3. Customer service from the company was not good, suggesting that support might be worse after buying the scooter.

An Interview With Hannah Sutor

ciamweekly • 0 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Customer Identity and Access Management (CIAM) is crucial for protecting valuable information while also providing a smooth user experience. Businesses need both security and ease of access for their users.
  2. Many challenges exist with CIAM, especially around the variety of credentials like tokens and keys. It's important to find ways to manage these different types safely and effectively.
  3. The future of CIAM looks promising with innovations that balance security and usability. There's hope for better management of roles and permissions across different systems.

Why Aren’t APIs Using Code on Demand?

The API Changelog • 0 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. APIs could improve user experience by using code-on-demand, similar to how web browsers run JavaScript. This would allow APIs to deliver more interactive and efficient services.
  2. The lack of a standardized client for REST APIs makes implementing code-on-demand challenging. New formats like HyperMap are being developed to help change that.
  3. Concerns about security hold back the adoption of code-on-demand in APIs, but the potential benefits suggest it could lead to better features and functionality.

Navigating the AI Jungle – Audio

Erik Explores • 0 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. There are many AI tools for audio, like those that can turn speech into text or create sounds from descriptions. You can even ask AI to make music based on what you tell it.
  2. Google Cloud has advanced AI for speech but can be hard to use. It’s better for developers, while tools like ElevenLabs are more user-friendly and focused on audio.
  3. ElevenLabs offers tools to create voices, turn speech into text, and make sound effects. It allows users to easily create and modify audio content.

Randomness, dodging phone bans & astrological strategies

The Strategy Toolkit • 0 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. People expect randomness to seem chaotic, but true randomness can appear ordered. This misunderstanding affects how we perceive things like music playlists.
  2. Users often complain about problems with shuffle algorithms, thinking they should never see clusters of songs from the same artist. But statistically, that can happen and is actually normal.
  3. Our brains are wired to look for patterns, making us think randomness should behave in a way that fits our expectations, rather than how it actually works.

Honda City: A Fallen Hero

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Honda City has many disappointing features compared to its competitors, especially the Verna. Its performance, comfort, and technology don't meet expectations.
  2. The car's design is flawed in several areas, like awkward storage spaces and poor seat adjustments. Some important details, like warnings and features, seem neglected.
  3. Overall, the Honda City feels outdated and lacks many modern comforts and performance enhancements, making it less appealing compared to other options in the market.

BMW X3 Review: Buggy and Overpriced

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 30 May 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The BMW X3 isn't worth the extra money, as it's only slightly better than a much cheaper Creta.
  2. The X3 has serious bugs, like seat adjustments malfunctioning and trouble connecting to features like CarPlay.
  3. Overall, for its high price, the BMW X3 has too many issues. It should be more reliable and luxury-like for the cost.

I'm Happier Without an iPad

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 16 May 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Switching from an iPad to a TV for watching videos made the experience much better. The TV offers a more immersive viewing experience, which makes it more enjoyable.
  2. Without the iPad, I have better sleep because I'm not staring at a screen before bed. I find that I can relax more and even fall asleep faster.
  3. Not using an iPad has encouraged me to read more books. I feel more engaged with what I read, and it's a much more rewarding experience than mindlessly scrolling or watching videos.

The Personalization of Software

Digital Native • 0 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. People want to customize software just like they used to with MySpace. After Facebook's rise, many apps lost that personal touch.
  2. AI is changing the game by helping create software that's more personal and easier to build. Now, even people with no tech skills can create their own apps quickly.
  3. Many existing software products aren't very good but companies like Helium are working on making them better. They're using automation to help software improve itself over time.

🐿️ Hardening - The IPT Newsletter

Squirrel Squadron Substack • 0 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
💼 Business User Experience
  1. Fixing problems quickly makes a strong impression on customers. If a hotel or service handles issues well, people remember that positively.
  2. Customers are often less upset about mistakes if they see prompt and effective solutions. It's more about how you respond to problems than the problems themselves.
  3. In today's tech world, many people face constant bugs and bad user experiences. If you can help them easily, you'll stand out and earn their loyalty.

9 Feet Is the Ideal TV Viewing Distance

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 16 Jul 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The best distance to watch a 55-inch TV is about 9 feet. Being too close can make the picture look awkward and jerky.
  2. If you sit too far away, the experience feels flat and you won't be as engaged with what's happening on screen.
  3. When buying a TV, stick to 55 inches if you have 8 feet of space or more. Going too big or too small can ruin the cinematic experience.

BE 6 Review: Flawed in Multiple Ways

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. The Mahindra BE 6 has a limited range of 178 km at high speeds, making it less suitable for long trips.
  2. The ride comfort is poor due to a firm suspension, and the seating is cramped, making it feel more like a single-seater vehicle.
  3. Some features like the cooling system and digital connectivity options are lacking, which may disappoint buyers looking for modern conveniences.

An Interview With Alex Ward

ciamweekly • 0 implied HN points • 21 Jul 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. CIAM helps companies manage how customers log in securely. It organizes complex authentication methods and allows for easier account management across different platforms.
  2. The adoption of passkeys and digital credentials presents challenges in safety and fairness. There needs to be care in how these are implemented to protect privacy and reduce risks of discrimination.
  3. There is excitement for a future with safer login methods like passkeys, and better tools for companies managing both business-to-business and business-to-consumer interactions.

File Open/Save Dialog Boxes Should Integrate with Shoebox Apps

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 19 Jul 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. File Open and Save dialogs should connect with shoebox apps like Apple Photos or Notes. This would make it easier to save and attach files without extra steps.
  2. When using these dialogs, you could see your apps listed directly, allowing for quick saves or attachments. This saves time and helps avoid confusion about where your files are.
  3. If there's a file format issue, the system should warn you. You can then decide to accept the change or save it the old-fashioned way.

When Better Feels Worse: The ChatGPT 5 Transition

Nano Thoughts • 0 implied HN points • 09 Aug 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. People often resist changes to familiar tools, even if the new version is actually better. It feels more like losing something they loved rather than gaining something new.
  2. Losses hit us harder than gains. Even a small loss can affect our mood significantly, while a win feels good only briefly. This is particularly true when we feel we've lost a feature or aspect we valued.
  3. When systems or tools change suddenly, it can feel overwhelming. Gradual transitions, where both old and new options are available, help people adjust better and keep them feeling comfortable.

In the Costco Era of Software, Design Is the Differentiator

Digital Native • 0 implied HN points • 20 Aug 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. In today's software world, where many products are mass-produced, design is what makes them stand out. Attractive and user-friendly designs draw people in and make them want to use a product.
  2. As the cost of creating software drops, the competition grows. Companies must focus on making their products look good and work well, since good design can win over users even against larger, less agile competitors.
  3. When technology becomes standard and easily accessible, like software is today, companies will have to rely more on taste and design to capture users' attention. Simple and clear design helps users quickly understand how to use a product.

🐿️ Hardening - The IPT Newsletter

Squirrel Squadron Substack • 0 implied HN points • 19 Aug 25
💼 Business User Experience
  1. People remember how problems are fixed more than the problems themselves. Good service during bad experiences leaves a lasting impression.
  2. Quick and effective solutions are more important than just making better products. Customers appreciate when their issues get solved promptly.
  3. It's okay to have flaws, but businesses should focus on helping customers recover from them. Making it easier to fix problems wins customer loyalty.

TVs Aren’t Just Big Monitors — OSs Should Treat Them Differently

Kartick’s Blog • 0 implied HN points • 23 Nov 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. TVs are used differently than monitors, so operating systems should adjust settings accordingly. For example, videos should automatically go full-screen on the TV when it's connected.
  2. Audio and video should sync properly when using a TV to avoid jarring experiences. The TV should be the default for audio, as it usually has better speakers than laptops.
  3. Users should be able to control the TV's volume and playback functions easily, ideally using the TV remote. This would create a smoother experience when switching between devices.

What is Progressive Registration?

ciamweekly • 0 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Ask only the minimum information up front so people can get into your app quickly and with less friction.
  2. Unlock useful features and then ask for specific data as needed — for example, convert an anonymous account, verify an email, collect profile details, or request payment info.
  3. Use analytics and business rules to time these asks and build a glide path that earns user trust, increases account value, and helps you tune and monetize the product.

Scope discipline when AI makes building fast

Bit Byte Bit • 0 implied HN points • 23 Dec 25
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Choose the right tool: build core, domain-specific messaging yourself and use SaaS like PostHog only where it clearly adds value (surveys, A/B tests).
  2. AI makes building fast and encourages scope creep, so keep your MVP narrow, put extras on an ideas list, and only implement features that solve the current problem.
  3. Don’t keep perfectly clean code you don’t need because it creates a maintenance burden. Use simple, flexible patterns (global LiveView hooks and small function-based rules) so you can extend behavior later without heavy rewrites.

Les mocassins de quelqu'un d'autre

Squirrel Squadron Substack • 0 implied HN points • 26 Jan 26
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Automated status messages can be contradictory, for example saying a device is repaired while warning the keyboard or screen may not work, which confuses customers.
  2. If engineers or technicians don’t use and test the system themselves, they won’t notice silly or harmful messages that slip through.
  3. This gap between automation and human oversight can cost time, trust, and business; either update the system or make sure people regularly use and correct it.

The most important part of an AI system is the human in the loop.

Experiments with NLP and GPT-3 • 0 implied HN points • 15 Feb 26
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. LLMs naturally produce plausible-sounding outputs that can be wrong, so treat them like creative, overconfident interns who need checking.
  2. AI should augment human decision-making, not replace it — let AI suggest options while humans review sources, validate logic, and make final calls.
  3. For high-stakes use require traceability, confidence signals, and mandatory human verification (like digital sign-off); without those safeguards you build long-lasting trust debt.

Yes, It Really, Really Is the Phones

Mental Hellth • 120 likes • 15 Oct 24
🕹 Technology User Experience
  1. Using phones too much can make us ignore important issues around us. It's easy to get lost in our screens instead of paying attention to what's happening in the real world.
  2. Phone addiction can lead to negative feelings and habits. People often use their phones to escape discomfort or sadness, but it might just make things worse.
  3. Finding a balance with phone use is important for mental health. Instead of reaching for our phones during tough times, we should try to face our feelings and situations head-on.