Contextual animations

Contextual animations

Contextual animations

Aug 20, 2025

Contextual animations help UI controls change purpose the moment a user’s intent changes.

Using Framer I designed and built this component in three parts (left actions, text input, right action).

Icons fade/slide in 👉 and the input bar smoothly expands outward then contracts ↔️ on a soft ease-in-out when empty — smooth, no snaps or bounces 🚫. Motion also makes the component highly adaptable.


I'm planning to explore new and richer variants of this composer, perhaps a spring loaded fly out menu for the add button.


Where this pattern shines
  • Chat & AI assistants: attachments → compose → send, all in one control without modal jumps.

  • Search bars: idle affordances (voice, history) collapse once the user types; the primary action becomes submit.

  • Comment/composer UIs: attachment tools up front; convert to “Post/Send” as soon as text appears.

  • Multi-mode inputs (photo/voice/text): keep options visible when idle; prioritize the typed action when engaged.

  • Mobile and kiosk contexts: large hit targets, minimal travel, clear “now do this” guidance.


Live Demo

Try it out yourself