The Feed & The Thread - January 19, 2026
S01:E08

The Feed & The Thread - January 19, 2026

Episode description

This episode covers the importance of W3C design tokens for consistent design systems and Dan Brown’s analysis on how modern tech amplifies disinformation through betting apps. It also touches on emotional design in user experience. The community chatter includes discussions on Apple’s inconsistent corner radius trends, Intuit’s navigation issues, and quirky “Confidant” chairs. Additionally, it highlights UX Camp Winter, an online event on February 21st featuring real-world UX presentations for just $13.

Show Notes

In This Episode

  • Adoption of W3C design token standards for enhancing visual consistency across platforms
  • The role of disinformation techniques in modern media and their implications on truth reporting
  • Emotional design as a critical element in creating meaningful user interactions

Articles Mentioned

  • [“Design tokens with confidence”] by Lukas Oppermann (UX Design.cc)
  • [“Betting on the truth”] by Dan Brown (Spilling Ink Newsletter)
  • [“Feelings are the new features”] by Vadym Grin (UX Design.cc)

Community Discussions

  • r/UXDesign - Discussion on Apple’s inconsistent corner radius trends in Mac OS design.
  • r/UXDesign - Rant about Intuit’s user navigation issue where the use of “www” is not allowed, making the site less intuitive.
  • r/Design - Excitement over unique “Confidant” Chairs from Las Sillas Confidentes for their cozy vibes and distinctive shape.
  • r/UXDesign - Advice on handling a challenging work environment with inexperienced managers and high-pressure output demands.
  • r/webdesign - Development of a real-time design-to-code mapping tool that streamlines workflow without relying on AI.

Announcement

UX Camp Winter by Chicago Camps

  • Date: Saturday, February 21st
  • Format: Entirely online, accessible globally
  • Tickets: $13.50; Pay-What-You-Can tickets and free passes available for those in need.
  • Details & Ticket Purchase: ChicagoCamps.org
  • Speakers can still submit their ideas to present at the event.

Enjoy the episode, and feel free to explore more articles and discussions mentioned!

About The Feed & The Thread

The Feed & The Thread is a daily summary of UX articles found in the industry and some light-touch updates from the UX Community found in online forums. It’s brief, and meant as a light-touch overview of what’s happening across UX.

0:00Introduction
0:39The Feed
1:58The Thread
3:28Announcement
4:07Closing
4:22Outro