I found a great article in The Economist this week summarizing “augmented cognition” otherwise known as “aug cog.” It is a technology that is being used by the armed services to reduce cognitive overload. It allows the computer to judge the users cognitive status of the user and adjust the incoming stimuli to reduce overload. For example, fighter pilots helmets can be equipped with sensors to distinguish when the brain is becoming overloaded which will then dim the interface, or lower the volume of incoming messages. It can also be seen on your computer, the computer will judge incoming material and decide whether it is appropriate to interrupt your current activity for an alert. “Aug Cog” is also used in video games to ensure that the player’s difficult rating stays elevated (ensuring an enjoyable experience) but avoids becoming overwhelming or cognitively overloading.