Haptics refers to the study and technology of touch and tactile sensations, especially in relation to how we interact with devices and environments through our sense of touch. It involves the principles of how physical feedback is provided through devices to simulate the sense of touch, making interactions more immersive and intuitive. For example, haptic feedback allows users to feel vibrations or motions when using smartphones or gaming controllers, enhancing the overall user experience.
The word "haptics" is derived from the Greek word "haptikos," meaning "able to touch or perceive." It emphasizes the connection between touch and sensory perception, underlining its importance in human-computer interaction and various technological applications.