Mobile Interfaces What is different – Users are on the go Attention often needs to be paid to surroundings (walking, driving, etc.) rather than the interface – Devices tend to be smaller Smaller displays, less power, etc. Design implications – Do not use the standard keyboard/mouse interaction Touch screens, speech – Incorporate alternative modes of feedback (audio cues, vibrate/tactile)
Common Applications Travel support – Maps, traffic, turn-by-turn guidance Local information – Service availability & ratings, etc. Coordination among users – Locating and meeting others, synchronizing distributed activity
Issues Systems and interfaces must assume – Reduced network connectivity (gaps in coverage and limited bandwidth) – Variance in precision of location information