Evaluating Human Augmentation Technology Acceptance Using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)

Human augmentation technologies (HATs) enhance, support, or extend physical, cognitive, sensory, or psychological capabilities through body-worn or body-integrated systems. Unlike conventional information technologies, HATs are physically integrated with users and may be highly visible to others. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) explains user acceptance through perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, but may not fully capture willingness to adopt HATs. To examine TAM’s applicability, four HAT devices were evaluated using data from 294 participants. Partial least squares structural equation modeling supported the applicability of TAM’s core constructs across devices with varying forms and functions. However, the remaining unexplained variance suggests that additional factors, particularly comfort, embodiment, enjoyment, and social acceptability, may improve HAT acceptance models. These findings support TAM as a useful foundational framework for examining initial HAT acceptance while underscoring the need for extensions that better account for the distinctive characteristics of emerging augmentation technologies.