A computing device can utilize a recognition mode wherein an interface utilizes graphical elements, such as virtual fireflies or other such elements, to indicate objects that are recognized or identified. As objects are recognized, fireflies perform one or more specified actions to indicate recognition. A ribbon or other user-selectable icon is displayed indicates a specific action that the device can perform with respect to the respective object. As additional objects are recognized, additional ribbons are created and older ribbons can be moved off screen and stored for subsequent retrieval or search. The fireflies disperse when the objects are no longer represented in captured sensor data, and can be animated to move towards representations of new objects as features of those objects are identified as potential object features, in order to communicate a level of recognition for a current scene or environment.