Is Generative AI a Form of "Graphical User Interface?"

It is unclear how widespread use of artificial intelligence, including large or small language models or generative AI might affect the human-machine interface, but in the past, a major shift in device usage has driven key changes, such as the shift from “web pages” to “mobile apps” as the primary internet access interface.

For many users, generative AI might arguably provide most value as a form of automation that enables us do things faster or better. Not often do we think of Gen AI as a form of machine interface, but that it is.

If a major shift from smartphones to other form factors (pins, watches, pendants, flexible devices) occurs, then a shift from apps to “voice interface” could happen. And that might also affect the primacy of the mobile app as well, if AI systems are able to respond without a user having to specify a particular app for use. 

User experience requirements have been crucial. Web pages designed for desktops were cumbersome on smaller mobile screens, so mobile-optimized apps offered a user-friendly interface, optimized for touch interaction with buttons, menus, and content specifically designed for the smaller screen that is assumed to be “always with the user” and available “on the go.”

Also, some app functions can be conducted without internet access, something not possible with web pages. 

Apps additionally can send real-time updates and alerts directly to users, a feature less easily supported on traditional web pages.

Designed primarily for smartphones, apps can leverage features including  GPS, camera, microphone, and sensors. And apps are tailored for specific operating systems, allowing faster performance. 

Apps also can store data locally on the device, reducing the need to constantly download information from the internet, allowing faster performance. 

App stores also allowed developers to create lighter-weight and tailored apps that might resemble “extensions” on a PC operating system.

The point is that once user engagement time shifted from the PC to the smartphone, apps became the preferred human interface. 

New device form factors without screens will offer another evolution, though perhaps not directly related to the advent of AI or generative AI capabilities. 

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