Ergonomics of the iPhone 4 a Step Backward for Apple
The new iPhone 4 is arguably the most stunning and important consumer electronic product on the market. Its predecessors clearly changed the way the world interfaces with technology. The materials and design sensibility of the new phone are reminiscent of a fine hand crafted Swiss watch. I loved the new styling - until I held it in my hand.
Ergonomics is the science of interactions between humans and their work, embodying anatomic and other principles and methods of design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance. So, as exquisite and technically advanced as the new iPhone is, based on accepted criteria for ergonomics, the new phone is a step backwards.
Previous models had a bow shaped back which is in continuous contact with your cupped hand. The back of the 3G and 3GS models have an adhesion quality helping to keep it securely in your hand. The stainless steel band and flat glass back of the iPhone 4, however beautiful, are very slippery and do not interface nearly as well with the hand as the earlier models. Unlike the earlier versions where the back of the phone curved up and merged with the top, the iPhone 4 has distinct top, bottom and sides. It feels bigger than its dimensions. In the pocket it forms a slab shape. The tapering of the earlier models minimized pocket bulge and tactilely communicates what side is the front of the phone. Its easier to pick up from a flat surface and is less likely to migrate from vibration.
Apple offers about 110 iPhone cases from $29 to $149 on the website.
I assume most people will find it essential to purchase a case or skin. Apple stores, advertising, and literature never show the phone in a case. Many users, myself included, prefer the pure elegance of the phone. We would prefer not to have to further embellish what is otherwise a perfect product just to keep it securely in hand. Until this is rectified, the new iPhone, as wonderful as it is, is not complete.
There are no protective cases or guards for wrist watches. According to Apple, the new iPhone is made of forged stainless steel and fortified aluminosilicate glass such as used on windshields of helicopters and high-speed trains - certainly enough protection for a phone.
Apple has single handedly created a new and very profitable product fashion category with hip cases, skins and carriers - another example of the genius of the Apple brand.
So why would Apple, with its form follows function and less is more mantra, acquiesce in reducing any of their products attributes? I assume its a combination of several factors, but ultimately the bottom line. Apple has always set the bar high, I hope future iPhones will be designed without reducing the functionality and to be complete without necessitating additional accessories for basic usability.
Jim Marvy
The new iPhone 4 is arguably the most stunning and important consumer electronic product on the market. Its predecessors clearly changed the way the world interfaces with technology. The materials and design sensibility of the new phone are reminiscent of a fine hand crafted Swiss watch. I loved the new styling - until I held it in my hand.
Ergonomics is the science of interactions between humans and their work, embodying anatomic and other principles and methods of design in order to optimize human well-being and overall system performance. So, as exquisite and technically advanced as the new iPhone is, based on accepted criteria for ergonomics, the new phone is a step backwards.
Previous models had a bow shaped back which is in continuous contact with your cupped hand. The back of the 3G and 3GS models have an adhesion quality helping to keep it securely in your hand. The stainless steel band and flat glass back of the iPhone 4, however beautiful, are very slippery and do not interface nearly as well with the hand as the earlier models. Unlike the earlier versions where the back of the phone curved up and merged with the top, the iPhone 4 has distinct top, bottom and sides. It feels bigger than its dimensions. In the pocket it forms a slab shape. The tapering of the earlier models minimized pocket bulge and tactilely communicates what side is the front of the phone. Its easier to pick up from a flat surface and is less likely to migrate from vibration.
Apple offers about 110 iPhone cases from $29 to $149 on the website.
I assume most people will find it essential to purchase a case or skin. Apple stores, advertising, and literature never show the phone in a case. Many users, myself included, prefer the pure elegance of the phone. We would prefer not to have to further embellish what is otherwise a perfect product just to keep it securely in hand. Until this is rectified, the new iPhone, as wonderful as it is, is not complete.
There are no protective cases or guards for wrist watches. According to Apple, the new iPhone is made of forged stainless steel and fortified aluminosilicate glass such as used on windshields of helicopters and high-speed trains - certainly enough protection for a phone.
Apple has single handedly created a new and very profitable product fashion category with hip cases, skins and carriers - another example of the genius of the Apple brand.
So why would Apple, with its form follows function and less is more mantra, acquiesce in reducing any of their products attributes? I assume its a combination of several factors, but ultimately the bottom line. Apple has always set the bar high, I hope future iPhones will be designed without reducing the functionality and to be complete without necessitating additional accessories for basic usability.
Jim Marvy
