Haptic or Auditory? Effects of Feedback Mode and Motivation Type on Task Performance in Smart‐Device Interactions

ABSTRACT Consumers frequently encounter auditory feedback (via speakers) or haptic feedback (via vibrations) when interacting with smart devices. However, little is known about how these feedback modes influence sustained effortful task performance. Drawing on self‐determination theory and self‐awareness theory, we propose a motivational alignment perspective, suggesting that feedback effectiveness depends on its match with individuals' motivation type. Across four studies, we show that haptic feedback improves performance under intrinsic motivation, whereas auditory feedback improves performance under extrinsic motivation. This interaction occurs because haptic and auditory feedback differentially heighten private and public self‐awareness, respectively, thereby aligning with corresponding motivational states. Our findings clarify when and why device‐mediated sensory feedback supports sustained effortful task performance and offer implications for the design of interactive technologies.