Human machine interfaces work best if humans can interact with technology in an
intuitive way. Companion systems are most likely to be helpful in supporting our
cognitive processes if the communication does not require humans to adapt to the
requirements of the companion. For a new technology to function in an intuitive way, it
has to satisfy requirements that apply to all humans. As a next step towards
individualisation, differential requirements of different user groups (people of different
genders, age, education, ethnicitiy, …) should be taken into consideration. For many
processes, this level of individualisation might suffice to meet user requirements and to
guarantee user satisfaction. Taking the last step towards individualised companion
systems gives rise to privacy issues. Therefore, the degree to which technologies have
to be personalised to ensure optimal functioning has to be considered carefully.
Evolutionary theory provides a solid basis for the understanding of human perception,
cognition and behavior. Consequently, it can be useful in advising the development of
technology, especially of the human-machine-interfaces. In this talk, I aim to identify
areas where reasoning based on evolutionary theory may serve to optimise companion
systems.