This series is an attempt to discuss the advantages and disadvantages to the 3 major mobile device input methods. Apple is purporting that the one-finger interface is better than the traditional stylus interface and the more popular hardware thumboard interface. So let’s see how it goes…

Finger-oriented interface…

Pros:

- You don’t have to pull out a stylus

- The device can be smaller and have a larger screen since it doesn’t need room for hardware buttons

- On-screen keyboard will only appear when needed

- Larger buttons means a simplified interface

- Can be used with one hand

Cons:

- You can’t feel any buttons since they’re software based and flush with the screen

- You have to look at the screen to navigate the device (Not safe to be used while driving, running, bicycling, etc.)

- Buttons need to be larger and will take up more screen real-estate meaning there will either have to be more sub-pages for other commands, or less available commands/features overall

- Cannot develop motor-memory since there’s no tactile feedback

- Screen will likely be very washed-out and difficult to see when outdoors. Since the interface depends on the screen being visible, this will make the device much more difficult to use

- Fingers have pores that release oils onto the skin, and this will cause smudges on the screen which will impair the visibility of the user interface