Auditory icons

Auditory icons are sounds that represent real-life objects or actions, helping us understand or navigate the environment. Think of the sound of a trash bin being emptied or the chime of a doorbell. These sounds convey specific meanings or cues without needing visuals. In technology, auditory icons enhance user experience by providing recognizable audio feedback, making interactions more intuitive. For example, a notification sound might resemble a bell, which draws on our familiarity with bells signaling an important event. Overall, auditory icons utilize familiar sounds to improve communication and understanding in various contexts.