ShareWe may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more Tony WareFew upgrades have the same kind of tangible effect on your homes experience as a tankless water heater. These appliances provide a constant stream of hot water without relying on a bulky, problem-prone tank. That typically translates into less maintenance, fewer floods, and no more running out of hot water mid-shower. Weve chosen the Rinnai RU199iN Tankless Water Heater as our best overall pick for its versatility, efficiency, and sparkling reputation with pro installers. Keep reading for the rest of our picks to match just about any space or budget.Best overall: Rinnai RU199iN Tankless Water HeaterBest value: Ecosmart ECO 24 Tankless Water HeaterBest electric: Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water HeaterBest gas: Rheem Prestige Tankless Water HeaterBest propane: Rinnai V53DeP Tankless Water HeaterHow we chose the best tankless water heatersSelecting the best tankless water heaters required extensive research into a variety of products before paring down the list to these top tankless water heaters. It was necessary to scrutinize each potential option by considering the key factors important for a tankless water heater, including the fuel type, size, flow rate, and the number of fixtures each product can supply simultaneously.Gas tankless water heaters offer the most power but tend to be the most expensive to purchase and install. However, electric water heaters will typically cost more in energy bills, so there is some tradeoff over time. With this in mind, the list includes natural gas, propane, and electric models to offer a variety of top options. Flow rate, when compared to temperature rise, was another key consideration.While many manufacturers state the maximum flow rate, this specification is really only useful in areas with the highest groundwater temperature. Instead, it was necessary to note the maximum and minimum flow rates based on the potential groundwater temperatures to compare products accurately. Only after researching and comparing these product specifications was it possible to create this list of the best tankless water heaters.The best tankless water heaters: Reviews & RecommendationsThis list was compiled after extensive research into the fuel type, flow rate, size, and the number of fixtures to which each tankless water heater can supply hot water simultaneously. Look at this list of the best tankless water heaters to find an appliance suitable for the home.Best overall: Rinnai RU199iN Tankless Water HeaterRinnai ProsCan be paired with a WiFi module or an external pump for enhanced operationHigh maximum output of 11 gallons per minuteCapable of supplying up to seven fixtures simultaneouslyDurable design can last for 20 yearsConsWiFi module and the external pump for recirculation are sold separatelyWhy it made the cut: The powerful 11 GPM flow rate is more than enough for most four- to six-person families.SpecsFuel Type: Natural gasMax flow rate: 11 GPMMin flow rate: 7 GPMDimensions: 14.76Dx22.05Wx33.86HNumber of fixtures: 2 to 7Price: $1,384Natural gas tankless water heaters are generally considered the best option for medium- to large-size families because these appliances typically have a higher heat output, allowing them to heat more water at a faster rate. For instance, this tankless water heater by Rinnai can heat 11 gallons of water per minute, making it an ideal option for big families or areas with low groundwater temperatures, like Montanna or Minnesota.The tankless water is compatible with Rinnais WiFi module, making it easier for users to closely monitor the temperature, power output, and energy consumption. This product can also connect to an external pump to reduce the wait time for hot water through scheduled or on-demand recirculation. However, its necessary to note that both the WiFi module and the external pump are sold separately, so these features are only available with an additional purchase.Even without the WiFi module or external pump, this tankless water heater can simultaneously supply hot water to up to seven fixtures, ensuring everyone gets ready on time during the morning rush to school and work. Additionally, this tankless heater by Rinnai can last up to 20 years with proper inspection and maintenance before the homeowner needs to consider replacing or upgrading the appliance.Best value: Ecosmart ECO 24 Tankless Water HeaterProsCompact size doesnt take up a lot of spaceAffordable purchase priceIdeal for small homes with one or two peopleFlow sensor modulates energy consumption to meet hot water demandsConsRequires three 40-amp double pole breakersOnly supplies one to two fixtures simultaneouslyWhy it made the cut: Homeowners on a budget can still upgrade from an old tank-style water heater with this affordable appliance by Ecosmart.SpecsFuel Type: ElectricMax flow rate: 5 GPMMin flow rate: 2 GPMDimensions: 3.75Dx17Wx17HNumber of fixtures: 1 to 2Price: $528One of the first decisions to make when deciding on a new tankless water heater is whether it would be best to have a gas, propane, or electric model. This electric tankless water heater by Ecosmart is a great option for homeowners who want to switch from an old tank-style water heater but may not have a large enough budget to afford a gas tankless water heater.Beyond the affordable price, this tankless water heater has a built-in flow sensor that will automatically modulate the energy consumption to ensure the water doesnt get cold in the middle of a shower.Its a good choice for individuals who live independently or in homes with two people, though it does not have a high enough flow rate for medium- to large-size families. Also, the electric tankless water heater requires three 40-amp double pole breakers for installation, so its recommended to consult with an electrician to ensure the home is equipped for this appliance.Best electric: Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water HeaterProsAdvanced Flow Control optimizes output for ideal heatingSelf-modulation technology ensures the least amount of energy is used for operationEasy-to-read digital control panelNear-silent operationConsNot intended for homes with four or more peopleWhy it made the cut: Equipped with flow control and self-modulation technology, this tankless water heater offers superior user convenience and high energy efficiency.SpecsFuel Type: ElectricMax flow rate: 7 GPMMin flow rate: 3.8 GPMDimensions: 4.63Dx16.63Wx14.5HNumber of fixtures: 1 to 3Price: $675Electric tankless water heaters, like this high-efficiency model by Stiebel Eltron, operate at a near-silent noise level, so they can be installed close to a common area without disrupting social gatherings. This tankless water heater comes equipped with Stiebel Eltrons Advanced Flow Control technology, allowing it to automatically reduce the water pressure if it detects that the demand is greater than it can handle. This allows the water heater to ensure the water temperature remains the same despite the high demand.The tankless water heater also features a simple, easy-to-use digital control panel and built-in self-modulation technology. The self-modulation feature allows the tankless water heater to control the energy output so that the tankless water heater operates as efficiently as possible. Just remember that this unit is unsuitable for larger families due to the low max flow rate.Best gas: Rheem Prestige Tankless Water HeaterProsSpace-saving designSuitable for small- to medium-size familiesBuilt-in water and gas leak detection systemDigital remote thermostat for easy operationConsRequires venting to the outside of the homeWhy it made the cut: This tankless water heater is designed with a built-in water and gas leak detection system to help protect the home in the case of an emergency.SpecsFuel Type: Natural gasMax flow rate: 8.4 GPMMin flow rate: 3 GPMDimensions: 9.8Dx18.5Wx27.5HNumber of fixtures: 2 to 5Price: $1,366Investing in a gas tankless water heater is a good idea that can help save on energy bills and cut down on wasteful spending. Instead of relying on a tank-style water heater that will continuously heat the contents of the tank, regardless of whether the water is in use, homeowners can switch to this tankless model, which heats up to 8.4 GPM of water on demand.This Rheem Prestige tankless water heater runs on natural gas, so during the initial installation, the plumber will need to run venting to the outside to ensure that the exhaust does not build up inside the home. After installing the unit, the built-in water and gas leak detection system will monitor the tankless water heater and shut down the unit if it detects a leak. Additionally, the system will display an error code to indicate the problem so the homeowner can take the necessary steps to resolve the issue.Best propane: Rinnai V53DeP Tankless Water HeaterProsDesigned for installation outdoorsDurable construction can last for up to 20 yearsEnhanced scale detection feature reduces the risk of internal damageOutdoor installation does not require ventingConsOnly supplies one to two fixtures simultaneouslyWhy it made the cut: Install this propane tankless water heater outside for the pool, spa, or even an outdoor kitchen.SpecsFuel Type: PropaneMax flow rate: 5.6 GPMMin flow rate: 3 GPMDimensions: 7.9Dx14Wx19.8HNumber of fixtures: 1 to 2Price: $602When most people invest in a tankless water heater, they tend to go with either a natural gas or an electric model, but there are also propane tankless water heaters, like this product from Rinnai. The tankless water heater can connect to a -inch propane line for fuel and is designed for outdoor installation, making it a great option to get hot water to the pool, spa, or outdoor kitchen.This tankless water heater has a durable body and internal components that can last 20 years with proper maintenance. Rinnai has included an enhanced scale detection system to protect further the unit that indicates when limescale begins to build inside the appliance. This notification allows users to contact a plumber to flush the system and keep it functioning for years to come. However, its important to note that the tankless water heater can only supply one to two fixtures simultaneously, so its not the best option for larger households.What to consider when buying the best tankless water heatersBefore purchasing a new tankless water heater for the home, its recommended to familiarize yourself with some of the more important product factors, including the type of fuel, the size, and the flow rate. Its also a good idea to learn how temperature rise can affect the units performance.Fuel typeThere are three types of tankless water heaters, differentiated from each other based on the fuel or energy source:Electric tankless water heaters are generally the least expensive option to purchase and install, though electricity costs are higher than natural gas or propane. This type of tankless water heater is typically used for homes with small- to medium-sized families that dont require a high flow rate.Natural gas tankless water heaters are the most common option for medium- to large-size families because they tend to have a higher flow rate, allowing these appliances to supply several fixtures with hot water simultaneously. However, natural gas tankless water heaters cost more upfront and typically require venting, which increases the installation cost.Propane tankless water heaters are less common than electric or natural gas units, but these appliances can be effective for small homes or point-of-use installations. The drawback with propane units is that the homeowner or user needs to purchase or refill propane tanks for operation regularly.But, hey, if youve got one of the best propane grills, this isnt a new phenomenon for you.SizeOne of the main benefits of having a tankless water heater is that they are significantly smaller than traditional tank-style water heaters. However, its still important to consider each units depth, width, and height to ensure that the tankless water heater will fit in the planned space. Electric tankless water heaters tend to take up less room than natural gas or propane products, so they are generally the best choice for smaller homes without a lot of free space.However, its worth noting that some tankless water heaters can be installed outside, so it may be more beneficial to opt for an outdoor installation if there isnt a lot of space inside. Just make sure that the tankless water heater isnt too bulky or too heavy to mount in the designated location, and leave space for water lines, electrical connections, and gas vents.Flow rateThe flow rate of the tankless water heater refers to the amount of water the appliance can heat within a specific amount of time. Generally, the flow rate is measured in gallons per minute (GPM). Powerful gas tankless water heaters can often produce over 10 gallons of hot water each minute of operation, though this may not be required for smaller homes.To determine the most suitable flow rate for the household, you will need to consider the various fixtures and appliances that may require hot water. Faucets typically require about 0.5 GPM, dishwashers require 1 GPM, washing machines need 1.5 GPM, and showers need 2 to 2.5 GPM. If you want to run the washing machine while in the shower, the tankless water heater will need a flow rate of at least 4 GPM.Temperature riseAn aspect often overlooked when researching tankless water heaters is that the flow rate depends on the local groundwaters temperature. The colder the groundwater, the more energy the tankless water heater requires to heat the water to the desired temperature. Temperature rise is the term used to indicate the difference between local groundwater temperatures and the desired hot water temperature.Large temperature rises, such as 40 degrees to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, will require more time and energy than a smaller temperature rise of 70 degrees to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Due to the higher energy cost, tankless water heaters will have a lower flow rate in areas with low groundwater temperatures. Before purchasing a tankless water heater, check the average groundwater temperature in the area to ensure you purchase a model with a high enough flow rate to overcome the temperature rise.FAQsQ: What size tankless water heater do I need for a family of 4? To ensure that there is enough hot water for multiple fixtures to operate normally at the same time, its recommended for a family of four to have a tankless water heater with a flow rate that falls between six to eight gallons per minute. Q: How long can you run a tankless water heater? As long as the demand for hot water does not exceed the maximum flow rate of the tankless water heater, you can hypothetically run it for an indefinite period. Just keep in mind that the more fixtures simultaneously using water, the less effective the tankless water heater will be. Q: How long do tankless water heaters last? When a tankless water heater is properly inspected and maintained throughout its life, it can last for up to 20 years, while a standard tank-style water heater will typically only last between eight to 12 years. Final thoughts on the best tankless water heatersBest overall: Rinnai RU199iN Tankless Water HeaterBest value: Ecosmart ECO 24 Tankless Water HeaterBest electric: Stiebel Eltron Tankless Water HeaterBest gas: Rheem Prestige Tankless Water HeaterBest propane: Rinnai V53DeP Tankless Water HeaterReplacing an old tank-style water heater with a new tankless model is one of the most straightforward ways to cut down on energy costs because the tankless water heater will only operate when there is a need for hot water. When the water is not in use, the unit only uses enough electricity to remain on, reducing the energy consumption for the household.However, its important to consider the number of people in the home, as well as the geographic location, to find a tankless water heater with a high enough flow rate to ensure that there will always be hot water on demand. With this in mind, carefully consider product specifications and use this information to find the best tankless water heater for your home.

Nature, Published online: 15 January 2025; doi:10.1038/s41586-024-08361-5A conserved gene regulatory network involving SOX4, SOX11 and TFAP2D shapes the development of excitatory neurons in ventrolateral pallium and their connectivity with the prefrontal cortex.

The FDA will no longer allow red dye No. 3 in foods or ingested drugs, citing evidence that high doses of the dye can cause cancer in male rats. There is no evidence it's carcinogenic in humans.

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Madden NFL is touted as having new and exciting presentation elements with every new installment in the series. These elements, such as commentary, field-level camera work, and halftime shows, are inconsistent at best and tend to leave a lot to be desired, especially when you compare them to the same aspects of games like NBA 2K and MLB The Show. But the latest presentation gaffe in Madden 25 feels like a strangely unforced error.In the most recent patch, the EA Orlando team introduced the Team Pass, a new battle pass-like cosmetic rewards tree that offers both free and paid unlockables that amount to player banner customization options. You can unlock things like profile pictures, backgrounds, and borders, just like you can in Call of Duty or many other games. These cosmetics are all centered around one particular team of a player's choosing and are meant to be proudly displayed in-game.In practice, this means the scorebug in any game replaces the logo of the team you're playing as with imagery based on the team you chose in the Team Pass. This is a reasonably innocuous feature for game modes like the arcadey Superstar Showdown and the fantasy-sports-inspired Ultimate Team (MUT). However, forcing this cosmetic change in Franchise mode quickly becomes an eyesore given players are tied to the hip with one particular team--and not necessarily the same team as that in their Team Pass--and are much more likely to be interested in simulating the product they see on TV.Continue Reading at GameSpot

Monster Hunter Wilds is looking to raise the bar for delicious-looking in-game food, according to two of the top members of its development team. Food in Monster Hunter Wilds will consist of a wide array of meat, fish, and vegetable dishes, and the developers have been putting a lot of effort into making them as savory-looking as possible, even going beyond what's realistic to do so.

My game is about a necromancer using his minions to escape a labyrinth he is entumbed, so far I can't come up with any good underground cave style puzzles except easy and predictable puzzles like levers to open doors and such. Any ideas usable in a underground cave especially magical ideas would be great. Thank you any who respond

The HP Omen Transcend gaming monitor is practically the dictionary definition of extra. Boasting a 4K resolution and a 240Hz refresh rate, this 32-inch flat panel monitor is currently on sale at Best Buy for just $899.99 (was $1,299.99). In addition to its remarkable fidelity, the Transcend also features a response time of just .03ms, is compatible with both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia G-Sync, and includes a litany of other quality-of-life features that are difficult to match at a similar price. The Transcend features extensive connectivity options, including a pair of HDMI 2.1 ports, a 2.1 Display port, three USB-A ports for peripherals, and a 3.5 mm audio jack for headphones. Youll also find a trio of USB-C ports: Two are capable of handling data throughput, while the third can deliver up to 140W of power, and is reserved for displays or laptops.Perhaps the coolest feature of the Transcend, however, is its ability to display two sources simultaneously with its picture-in-picture mode, effectively giving you two screens at once and allowing you to seamlessly swap between them. Oh, and the back of the monitor has built-in RGB lighting, in case you needed to make an even bigger statement.The included stand is height, tilt, and swivel adjustable, but it can also rotate 90 degrees into a portrait orientation. However, if you prefer to use a hydraulic arm or similar mounting solution, the monitor features a 100 x 100 VESA mount. While the list of included features are impressive, just note that unless your desktop is pushing the latest hardware or youve scaled down the resolution of whatever youre playing, its unlikely youll be able to actually hit 240 frames per second. But if you need a monitor that can do it all and then some, you could do a lot worse than the HP Omen Transcend, especially at this price.

Make-or-break moments. The first interaction with an AI systemwhether its a website, landing page, or demoshapes the mental model of the system. This, in turn, determines whether it will be adopted or not. Are these decisions driven by emotion or logic? Heres how Technology Adoption Theory unpacks the mechanisms of technology acceptance, with insights applied to AIsystems.By Katie Metz,sourceIt takes only 10 seconds for someone to decide whether a website is worth their time or not. And while there is a wealth of resources on designing user-centered products, far fewer focus on how to communicate their value during those pivotal first momentsthe initial touchpoints that shape a users mental model of the system. This challenge is especially true for AI systems, which are often technically complex and hard to simplify. Ive seen talented teams build extraordinary, user-focused solutions, only to struggle with conveying their true value in a way thats clear, engaging, and instantly meaningful.This article delves into the psychological barriers to accepting and adopting new technologies, offering insights on how to highlight your products value and transform first impressions into lasting connections.New tech, oldhabitsHave you heard of Khanmigo? Its an AI-driven teaching assistant from Khan Academy, designed to guide students through their learning journey with engaging, conversational interactions. Its empathetic, engaging, and patient. Make a mistake? No problem. Itll gently explain what went wrong and how to fix it, creating a learning experience that feels less like being corrected and more like growing together. Its a glimpse into how AI can reinvent old patterns, making interactions more personal, more flexible, and, dare I say, morehuman.Source: KhanmigoOf course, kids are a relatively easy audience for Khanmigo, as they are naturally open to such innovations. They dont carry years of learning fatigue, forged by sitting through endless lectures and associating study time with boredom. AI meets them where they are, unspoiled andeager.Now imagine a different scenario: a car equipped with AI that tracks your facial expressions and eyelid movements to detect when youre too tired to drive safely. It suggests, perhaps with a subtle alarm, that you pull over for a rest. Tell that to my grandpa, though, and hed probably chuckle at the idea that a camera could know better than he does when he needs a break. There will always be early adoptersthose eager to embrace the new and excitingand those who resist, for reasons that may be logical or deeply personal. For instance, some might worry that AI will take their job, while others may mistrust the technology purely because it feels unfamiliar or intrusive. Understanding and addressing these perspectives is the first step towards designing AI systems that can bridge the gap between skepticism and acceptance.The good news? This isnt a new challenge. Humanity has faced it during every industrial revolution, each time adapting its thinking to a new normal. While I wont delve into all of these transformative erasor the ongoing Fourth Industrial RevolutionId like to focus on the most recent completed one. Lets rewind to the Third Industrial Revolutionthe dawn of the computer and internet age in the late 20th centuryand explore its key ideas of facilitating system adoption.When computers methumanityThe 1980s marked a significant turning point in the study of technology adoption, spurred by the rapid rise of personal computers and the challenge of integrating these new tools into everyday life. Researchers quickly recognized the need to focus on factors like user involvement in the design and implementation of information systems. This emphasis acknowledged a simple truth: technology is only as effective as its ability to meet the needs of the people who useit.1983, sourceOn the practical side, industry practitioners concentrated on developing and refining system designs, aiming to make them more user-friendly and effective. My favorite example is research at Xerox PARC (Palo Alto Research Center), where researchers closely observed office workers behaviors and workflows. Their insights led to the creation of the desktop metaphor, introducing familiar concepts like files, folders, and a workspace that mirrored physical desks. This innovation revolutionized graphical user interfaces (GUIs), laying the foundation for systems like Apples Macintosh and Microsoft Windows. The Dream Machine by M. Mitchell Waldrop or Dealers of Lightning by Michael Hiltzik share more details about history and impact of XeroxPARC.These parallel effortsacademic research and hands-on developmentled to the creation of numerous theories and frameworks to better understand and guide technology adoption. Among these frameworks, the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) stands out as one of the most influential.Technology Acceptance ModelBack in 1986, Fred Davis created it to answer a simple but pivotal question: why do some people adopt new technology while others resist? TAM was designed to measure this adoption process by focusing on customer attitudesspecifically, whether the technology feels useful and easy to use. These two factors form the foundation of the model, offering a lens to understand how people decide to embrace (or avoid) new tools andsystems.The first factor, perceived usefulnessis how much a user believes the technology will improve their performance or productivity. Its outcome-oriented, zeroing in on whether the tool helps users achieve their goals, complete tasks faster, or deliver betterresults.The second factor of TAM is perceived ease of usethe belief that using the technology will be simple and free of unnecessary effort. While usefulness might get a users attention, ease of use determines whether theyll stick with it. If a system feels complicated, clunky, or overly technical, even its benefits might not be enough to win users over. People naturally gravitate toward tools that feel intuitive.Adapted from the Technology Acceptance Model (Davis, 1986),sourceIn 2000, Venkatesh and Davis expanded the original TAM model to dig deeper into what shapes Perceived Usefulness and peoples intentions to use technology. They introduced two key influences: social influencehow the opinions of others and societal norms impact adoptionand cognitive instrumental processes, which focus on how users mentally evaluate and connect with a system. Lets unpack these factors and explore how they can help shape a mental model of an AI system that fosters adoption.Perceived UsefulnessPerceived Usefulness doesnt exist in a vacuum. One of the social factors is subjective norm, or the pressure we feel from others to use (or not use) a particular technology. This ties closely to image, the way adopting a tool might enhance someones status or reputationthink of design influencers after attending Config, dissecting the latest features and showcasing their expertise.But subjective norm doesnt impact everyone the same way. Experience can dull its influence. For those just starting with a new system, social pressure often holds more weightunsure of their footing, they look to others for guidance. As they grow more comfortable, though, external opinions start to matter less, and their own evaluation takes over. Voluntariness also changes the game. When adoption is a choice, users are less swayed by others opinions. But when its requiredwhether by a workplace mandate or social obligationsubjective norm has a much strongerpull.On the cognitive side, job relevance plays a big role. Users ask, Does this technology actually help me in my specific role? If the answer is no, its unlikely theyll see it as useful. Similarly, output qualitywhether the system delivers results that meet or exceed expectationsreinforces its value. Finally, theres result demonstrability, or how clearly the benefits of the technology can be observed and communicated. The easier it is to see and measure the impact, the more likely users are to view it asuseful.Adapted from Technology Acceptance Model (TAM 2) by Venkatesh and Davis, 2000.sourceWhile product design cant directly influence subjective norm, it often plays a role in shaping imagehow people perceive themselves or imagine others will see them when they adopt the technology. Its not so much about the product itself, but what using it says about the individual. By focusing on the right narrative from the very first touchpoint, some applications make it easy for users to see how adopting the tool reflects positively onthem.Take folk.app, for instance. Instead of just listing features, it focuses on solving specific pain points, framing the app as a tool for staying organized and professional. The messages feels personal and practical. For example, a section title like Sales research, done for you suggests that without any additional effort, users will have valuable insights at their fingertips. Its not just about solving a problem; its about positioning the user as more prepared, professional, and efficient.Folk.app, sourceBraintrust takes a different angle. They highlight glowing media endorsements, signaling that the platform is widely recognised. Its not just about saying that app works; its about creating a sense that using it puts you on the cutting edge, part of a forward-thinking community. This builds image, making users feel like adopting the technology aligns with innovation andsuccess.Braintrust, sourcePerceived Ease ofUseIf perceived usefulness answers the question, Will this technology help me?, then perceived ease of use asks an equally important question: Will it be easy to figure out? Research shows that this perception is influenced by two main groups of factorsanchors and adjustments.Anchors serve as the starting point for a users judgment of ease. They include internal traits and predispositions, such as computer self-efficacya users confidence in their ability to use technologyand perceptions of external control, or the belief that support and resources are available if needed. Another anchor is computer playfulness, which reflects a users natural tendency to explore and experiment with technology. This sense of curiosity can make systems feel more approachable, even when theyre complex. On the flip side, computer anxiety, or a fear of engaging with technology, can act as a barrier, making systems seem more difficult than they really are. When applying these principles to AI systems, we see a new form of apprehension emerging: AIanxiety.Once users begin interacting with a system, adjustments come into play. Unlike anchors, which are deeply rooted in a users pre-existing traits and beliefs, adjustments are dynamicthey refine or reshape initial perceptions of ease of use based on real-world experience with thesystem.One key adjustment is perceived enjoyment, which asks whether the act of using the system is inherently satisfying or even delightful. This concept is closely tied to User delight, where interactions go beyond pure functionality to create moments of joy or surprise. Have you ever searched for cat in Google and noticed a yellow button with a paw? Thats delight. Its unexpected, playful, and entirely unnecessary for functionalitybut it sticks withyou.Another adjustment is objective usabilitythe systems actual performance as observed during use. Before interacting with the system, a user might assume it will be complex or difficult. But as they engage with the AI, accurate and intuitive responses can shift this perception, reinforcing the idea that the system is not only functional but easy touse.Adapted from Technology Acceptance Model (TAM 3) by Venkatesh and Bala,2008.Computer self-efficacya users confidence in their ability to use technologycant be controlled directly, but it can definitely be nudged in the right direction. The secret lies in making the application feel approachable, so users believe theyre capable of mastering it.One way to do this is by showcasing the experiences of others. Highlighting user reviews or testimonials isnt just about marketingit taps into the idea of Banduras Social Cognitive Theory. When people see others successfully using a tool, they start to think, If they can handle it, why cant I? Its not just about proof; its about planting the seed of possibility.Contra, sourceAnother approach is helping users form a mental map of how the technology works. GitBook, for example, pairs feature descriptions with skeleton-state interface snippetsclean, minimalist snapshots that give users just enough information to understand the basics without overwhelming them. Animations guide their focus, while interactive elements bring in a subtle gamification layer, making learning feel less like a chore and more like discovery. Its user-centric design done righta confidence boost, one step at atime.GitBook, sourceSlite provides an example of how the job relevance factor can make a product introduction resonate right from the first page. One of the challenges in introducing a knowledge base is resistance to sharing information. Studies reveal that 60% of employees struggle to obtain critical information from colleagues, often due to a phenomenon known as knowledge hidingthe deliberate withholding or concealing of information. This behavior stems from fears like losing status or job security, creating barriers to collaboration and productivity.Slite tackles this challenge head-on with a playful, relatable touch, wrapping it in humor: The knowledge base even [Name] from [one of 6 target industries] wants to use. This subtle nod to targeted pain points highlights its key differentiators: beautiful documentation, hassle-free adoption, and AI-powered search from day one, emphasizing perceived enjoymentafter all, who doesnt love beautiful, effortless solutions?Its not just about functionality; its about creating a product so intuitive and engaging that it minimizes resistance and inspires adoption, transforming apprehension into enthusiasm.Slite, sourceFinal thoughtsThe Technology Acceptance Model, while valuable, is not a universal solution but rather a frameworka lens through which we can examine and interpret the dynamics of technology adoption. Since its introduction over a quarter-century ago, it has illuminated patterns in how users perceive and engage with technology. However, it can also risk being overly generalizable, glossing over the nuanced and context-specific factors that shape user behavior. Rooted in the psychological theories of reasoned action and planned behavior, TAM serves as a navigatorhelping us better understand and adapt to the complexities of human affective reasoning. By recognizing its strengths and limitations, it can be used as a guide to create technology experiences truly resonate with the people they are designed toserve.Additional resources:Get Your Product Used: Adoption and Appropriation is a course from IxDF by Alan Dix, one of the authors of my work Bible, Human-Computer Interaction.How To Measure Product Adoption (Metrics & Tools) provides a solid overview of metrics that can help grasp the current state of productadoptionIncreasing the Adoption of UX and the Products You Design (Parts 1 and 2) are articles by Chris Kiess that provide a breakdown of the Diffusion of Innovations theory and Coopers Model of User Distribution, and relevance of Jakob Nielsens 5 components of usability.Have ideas, thoughts, or experiences to share? Leave your insights in the comments!Shaping minds: how first impressions drive AI adoption was originally published in UX Collective on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.

Are you one of the many reconsidering their relationship with Meta's Instagram? If you're looking for another outlet to share your photos, Pixelfed, an open source photo-sharing alternative without ads or tracking, has officially launched mobile apps for Android and iPhone. These apps, which allow you to upload photos and videos directly from your phone, arrive just a few days after Meta blocked users from sharing links to the service (prompting a few days of unprecidented levels of traffic in backlash).Pixelfed, like Mastodon, is part of the Fediverse, meaning people on Mastodon can follow accounts on Pixelfed, and vice-versa. It also means that signing up can be a little confusing to Fediverse neophytes: When getting set up, you will need to choose a server in order to share photos and follow other users. The biggest server, pixelfed.social, is currently lagging due to a large influx of new users, so it's worth considering the other options presented in the app itself (or browse this directory).Remember when Instagram was fun?Decentralization is interesting and laudable, sure, but the thing I like best about Pixelfed is that it feels like a return to Instagram's glory days. As you might recall, Instagram used to be a photo sharing service. Yes, you technically can still share photos on Instagram, but it's been a long time since that was the primary focus of the application. Your timeline, once filled with photos from people you follow, is these days dominated by ads and "recommended" videos from celebrities and strangers. Despite some recent changes to give you back a little more control, Insta is also ruled by the algorithm, which means that when you post a photo, there's less of a chance that your friends will actually see it. Because of this, the people you care about are probably posting fewer photos than they used to, which in turn frees up the algorithm to put more random videos in your timeline. It's enough to make you wonder why anyone still uses the serviceit's certainly not for the reasons they signed up for it.The Pixelfed mobile app, in contrast to Instagram's current incarnation, is simple. You can scroll through the photos posted by people you've chosen to follow. You can see the most popular photos on your server, or the entire Fediverse. Or you can upload photos. These new applications technically aren't the first Pixelfed appsthere were plenty of third party applications that could access it, and those still exist. But now there's also an official app, and it works pretty well. Credit: Justin Pot Another thing that's missing from Pixelfed: ads and any kind of tracking. The developer team promises those "features" are never coming. In a Mastodon post, developer Daniel Supernault said "Pixelfed is a lot of things, but one thing it is not, is an opportunity for VC or others to ruin the vibe," adding that he turned down VC funding and plans to never add ads. "Pixelfed is for the people, period."I'm not the kind of tech journalist who likes to make predictions about which applications will "win." I will say, though, that the internet would be a better place if that mentality were more common.