i just saw WWDC08 &...

[SFStateStudent]

Well, I'm not trying to go back and forth with you, but we're talking about texting so your point is moot...I'm sure there are some valid reasons somewhere as to why there isn't horizontal texting, but I've never seen one on these boards. And the fact that there are a few, like you, who wouldn't use it is a pointless argument, because no one would force you to.

No, Ben, I'm sorry if you misunderstand my predicament, but while I'm on the internet (not texting), I'm utilizing the university email via the campus intranet (same situation at UC Berkeley and San Francisco State), thereby allowing me to view my university email. While I type using the landscape view, the screen will automatically push upwards while the keyboard moves into position, thereby shifting the entire screen out of position, now I'm unable to view what I'm typing and by trying to get the screen back to where I can view what I've typed, it gets even more difficult trying to view about 1/4" of the screen. When I press "done" it goes back to a small screen that requires me to do the "unpinch" move or the "double-tap" and sometimes I accidently press "SEND" and my receiver gets the unfinished and non-spell checked document. I'm already in the landscape view, since I would like to view my email in a larger screen view. So, it's not moot; for it to be moot, there would have to be complete disinterest in what I'm saying. A glitch definitely exists and that's the reason I feel Apple Developers have not addressed landscape view while texting, since it's evident there remains a few major problems that need correcting. I would like to be able to use my iPhone as I see fit, and not what others would ask. IMHO

 

[benmrii]

No no... that's a great point. Your point is only moot, I think, because we're talking about texting, not typing in the web browser. In other words, wrong thread.

I'll be the first to say that there should be a preference, both in Safari and texting (were it to be offered), to disable landscape typing. I'll also be the first to agree with you that the manner of typing in Safari in landscape iPhone can be downright annoying). My personal opinion, however, is that texting, particularly because the area in which you are typing is considerably less 'involved' than in Safari, would likely be ideal because of the larger keyboard that many of us prefer.

For example:

This is just my opinion, but I believe it is shared by many and would be by many more were it offered: between those two options - and again, you would certainly continue to have the vertical option - the difference in the display of text is minimal while the difference in the keyboard size and usability is huge.

 

[i.maverick]

Well, I'm one of those that remains on the other side of the debate regarding landscape texting. First, the keyboard becomes a new monster, in that it takes on a whole new dimension, by becoming this bohemith-like keyboard that remains unnavigable with just my two god-given thumbs (I attempt to emulate my son and all of his friends lightning speed texting mannerisms); stretching here and there, striking the next door neighbors of the "y" or "t" keys. Second, the text screen or email screen tends to move above the keyboard and sometimes out of sight; this is most devastating to "hunt and pick" typists because now they can't see what they are texting or typing. God-forbid they should accidently send out a partially constructed email or text message, as might be the case in the landscape mode. IMHO.

ya.. so you can use the default orientation.. you just have to not tilt it...!! but for those who want it.. can it not be an option?