HeartBeats: A Speculative Proposal For Ritualization of Digital Objects

In this paper we propose HeartBeats, a speculative design proposal that embodies digital immortality. Based on previous research and user studies, HeartBeats addresses a growing need for design to support ritualization of digital data in the context of bereavement. Our aim is to stimulate discussion about digital immortality and afterlife. By challenging perceived characteristics and qualities of inherited data, we hope to open design spaces to better enable ritualization of digital objects in bereavement.