why is the iphone screen so small

[Arelunde]

I agree that the iPhone4 screen is small in comparison with the newer Androids. I had a Droid X before going to the iPhone4 and miss that wonderful screen real estate - even though the retina resolution on the iPhone is spectacular! But that extra space makes all the difference, particularly with web browsing. I, too, hope the next generation iPhone has a larger screen.

I also have an iPad2 and greatly enjoy it. But as one of the other posters noted, it's more a computer than a phone. The iPhone is always with me and used far more than the iPad. Just sayin'...

 

[blairh]

If the next iPhone is simply a spec update, I don't know what I'll do. The only thing keeping me as an iPhone user is the software. iOS is excellent IMO and is only going to get better with iOS 5. But man, that 3.5" screen is tiny. Even if it features sharp text.

Problem is Android is an inferior OS (IMO) and their hardware doesn't impress me much. Plastic builds, capacitive buttons. Just crap IMO.

What drives me crazy is that I have no desire to leave the iPhone but Apple (so far) has not done anything hardware wise in years to make me happy. HOPEFULLY we are getting a larger screen on Oct. 4. Hell even a 3.8" screen would make me happy at this point (but I really hope for 4").

 

[llloyd]

Lol

The sad thing is, all the apple iphone users who say that they are happy with there phone screen size, will all gladly purchase a new iphone model with a larger screen without question, if one was to be released, it’s just how they go on.

They have to wait in the wind for apple to release the next device, and purchase it regardless of its spec. all along not even acknowledging the existence of non apple superior devices.

All in all, quite an odd situation really.

Lloyd

 

[jackc]

If they increase the size of the device, I wouldn't want it any bigger. If they can get rid of some of the bezel, then great.

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The sad thing is, all the apple iphone users who say that they are happy with there phone screen size, will all gladly purchase a new iphone model with a larger screen without question, if one was to be released, it’s just how they go on.

They have to wait in the wind for apple to release the next device, and purchase it regardless of its spec. all along not even acknowledging the existence of non apple superior devices.

All in all, quite an odd situation really.

Lloyd

It's neither sad nor odd. If you like non-apple devices better then buy them. Apple devices aren't perfect, but I like them better.

 

[bandofbrothers]

I find mine just right.

Matter of opinion and what you use the device for.

 

[albusseverus]

The sad thing is, all the apple iphone users who say that they are happy with there phone screen size, will all gladly purchase a new iphone model with a larger screen without question, if one was to be released, it’s just how they go on.

All in all, quite an odd situation really.

Lloyd

Spot on! It's hilarious listening to fans rationalising Apple's spin for why they did one thing, then when Apple flip-flops… of course, this way is better now.

The screen is too small, always was, and too narrow - don't you get tired of those carefully explaining how their thumb almost reaches the whole length of the phone… as if they would be incapable of using a phone bigger than the 4, even though the 3 was and they never complained.

The 3G/S form factor could fit a 5" 16:9 screen, and frankly, Apple really needs to get moving on that. Samsung might not have a clue about a lot of things, but they know how much more useable a bigger screen is.

 

[Kyotoma]

Big screen or not, I use iOS for the ecosystem and the ease of which everything can be achieved. For that, Android has never really appealed to me. iOS just works. And that's why I love it. iPhone and iPad proud.

I will say however that I would welcome a bigger screen. It doesn't need a bigger screen, as the current setup is near-perfect in my eyes(sans glass back).

 

[ChrisTX]

Originally 3.5" was a large display.

However, sadly, Apple is behind the times and resistant to change. Even considering the rumor they may increase the size. It will still be on the small size.

Apple claims they innovate but actually they are a conservative company. Since the average high end Android is 4.3" Apple will refuse to use that size since they cannot claim exclusivity. Therefore they will likely cap the size at only 4.0"

Keeping in mind that had it not been for the iPhone in the first place, the Blackberry would still be considered "cutting edge". The screen doesn't necessarily make the phone better or worse, it's all about the OS, and right now iOS > Android.

 

[SR45]

Can you please direct me towards a current Android device with a 5" screen? Let alone "some"...

Here is a 5.3 inch screen cell phone coming close to being offered.....

http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/24/samsung-galaxy-note-for-t-mobile-spotted-in-the-wild/

4.0 inch with the same form factor is the sweet spot. Any larger and it just does not feel right in ones hand....

 

[MonkeySee....]

Spot on! It's hilarious listening to fans rationalising Apple's spin for why they did one thing, then when Apple flip-flops… of course, this way is better now.

The screen is too small, always was, and too narrow - don't you get tired of those carefully explaining how their thumb almost reaches the whole length of the phone… as if they would be incapable of using a phone bigger than the 4, even though the 3 was and they never complained.

The 3G/S form factor could fit a 5" 16:9 screen, and frankly, Apple really needs to get moving on that. Samsung might not have a clue about a lot of things, but they know how much more useable a bigger screen is.

Its not spot on at all. Apple hasn't made the screen smaller. Apple users such as myself are very comfortable with the screen as thats what we're used to. If Apple feel the need to make it bigger than so be it.

I don't use any other phone so its not an issue.

 

[chdwil]

IMHO to continue to call these devices a phone is dated. The phone aspect of my device is one of the least used functions. I have the least amount of minutes available and unlimited data. It is a pocket computer with a phone built in. And since moving to a 4.6" screen from the 4s 3.5" I can tell you that I love the iPhone but wont even considered going back until the screen is bigger and is LTE capable.

 

[allmIne]

Its not spot on at all. Apple hasn't made the screen smaller. Apple users such as myself are very comfortable with the screen as thats what we're used to. If Apple feel the need to make it bigger than so be it.

I don't use any other phone so its not an issue.

His point stands for many respondents on this thread, and the forum at large. Many are vociferous in their opposition to a larger screen, and adament that 3.5 inches is the sweet spot.

Of course, when Apple inevitably release an iPhone with a larger screen, they'll buy it, and instead denigrate users of Android phones with screens still bigger than the phone they've just purchased. That's no bad reflection on Apple, incidentally, for forum users with itchy downrank fingers and little ability to logically debate a point.

 

[saberz]

See I don't get it. Yes its a 3.5 inch screen, but for the most part its a very good size, maybe 4 would be better but all in all its good.

These are PHONES first. Not a portable tv first, not a computer first. Its portable, intuitive and does a good job of doing everything. IMO a bigger screen over 4 inches would be horrible to carry(for me). I pocket the phone in a Tuch wallet sleeve and bigger would make it less mobile for me. I dont want a holster or case. But in the end its opinion.

 

[groupersandwich]

Try putting "the competition" in your pocket.

I went from a 4.3" Droid X to an iphone 4. Honestly, the Droid X fit in my front pocket of whatever britches I happen to be wearing as comfortably as my iphone. My guess is that most of those making claims such as "it won't fit in your pocket, your thumb won't cover the screen, can't use it one handed, it looks silly next to your ear, etc..." have never actually owned a larger a device. None of those are issues with a 4.3" phone. That said, I prefer the iphone for iOS and all that goes with it. However, the 3.5" screen does cheapen the experience of what the iphone could truly be. Smartphones are more portable internet devices capable of making phone calls then they actual phones. I'd venture to guess that the majority of users spend more time using varying apps, web browsers and texting than they do on actual voice calls.

 

[kilj0y]

See I don't get it. Yes its a 3.5 inch screen, but for the most part its a very good size, maybe 4 would be better but all in all its good.

These are PHONES first. Not a portable tv first, not a computer first. Its portable, intuitive and does a good job of doing everything. IMO a bigger screen over 4 inches would be horrible to carry(for me). I pocket the phone in a Tuch wallet sleeve and bigger would make it less mobile for me. I dont want a holster or case. But in the end its opinion.

Not everyone uses a phone the same way. I know for myself I rarely make calls anymore. I mainly use my phone for social apps like tapatalk, twitter, and buying/selling ebay, paypal, craiglist. Other people may have vastly different uses that do not include voice as much. I am willing to bet that if carriers would allow people to cut out voice calls and only pay for data/texts that, that would be the most popular plan for highschool/college kids and some of the younger generations in the work force.

 

[CrAkD]

It's not the size of the ship but the motion of the ocean

 

[pooleman]

I like the current size of the iPhone screen. It's big enough to see and use easily. It fits in your pocket and doesn't look like you're holding a dinner plate next to your face when making a call like some other phones (cough-galaxy-cough). It's perfect.

 

[Menel]

4 years in technology is very long time.. People weren't browsing the internet and watching tv, sports, and movies the way they do now. Apple is always innovating, "thinner, faster, lighter". How about a bigger screen?

They can innovate a bigger screen when they can innovate me a larger hand that can still use it one handed and my thumb still reach across to the far corners.

 

[pooleman]

+1 on the above post regarding hand size.

 

[groupersandwich]

They can innovate a bigger screen when they can innovate me a larger hand that can still use it one handed and my thumb still reach across to the far corners.

Unless an alien life form with miniature hands, those tasks are just as easily accomplished with a 4.3" device as with the iphone. I've had both, there is no difference. In fact, I found my Droid X to be EASIER to use one handed than my iphone because of swype. I prefer my iphone, but your parroted reason for poopooing a larger screen doesn't exist in the real world.

 

[cynics]

Unless an alien life form with miniature hands, those tasks are just as easily accomplished with a 4.3" device as with the iphone. I've had both, there is no difference. In fact, I found my Droid X to be EASIER to use one handed than my iphone because of swype. I prefer my iphone, but your parroted reason for poopooing a larger screen doesn't exist in the real world.

I too have found a larger android device easier to use one handed because of the placement of the buttons. I don't understand why apple decided to put the back button at the far upper left. Its like it's designed for a left handed person.

 

[pooleman]

...but your parroted reason for poopooing a larger screen doesn't exist in the real world.

False. I have used and held the droids and I find them uncomfortable to use one handed. And last I check I was in the "real world" when I used those phones.

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I too have found a larger android device easier to use one handed because of the placement of the buttons. I don't understand why apple decided to put the back button at the far upper left. Its like it's designed for a left handed person.

My iPhone has the Safari back button on the lower left. Right next to my thumb. What are you talking about?

 

[Menel]

I too have found a larger android device easier to use one handed because of the placement of the buttons. I don't understand why apple decided to put the back button at the far upper left. Its like it's designed for a left handed person.

So you admit you're a troll who has never used an iPhone. Nice...

iPhone Safari's back button is on the bottom left, very easy from single right hand.

 

[onthecouchagain]

I was apprehensive of the 4.6 Galaxy Nexus screen, and yes, occasionally it can be awkward to wield when I have only one hand free, but the trade off is that the larger screen is absolutely glorious to use. Reading messages or books; surfing the web; reading and writing emails; pictures and videos; games... all of it is enhanced by the larger screen.

I truly believe iOS on the iPhone would be just as glorious of an experience if Apple goes that route later this year. It would really be a shame if they didn't.

Also, the battery life on my GN is better than what I was experiencing on the 4S.

 

[doubledown7d]

Try putting "the competition" in your pocket.

When I went to buy a phone in Dec I bought the Galaxy Nexus just because of the screen real estate. I have never had a problem with it being in my pocket nor do I even think about it being there. Imho 4.3" would be a sweet spot. Now, unfortunately, I am looking to buy a used 4s since I find myself needing bluetooth 4.0 and wanting my itunes in my pocket. Wish I had known that when I plunked down my money. I know my only regrets will be missing 4g and the bigger screen.
On a side note it sucks that you need 250 posts to access marketplace when you need a phone and don't have 250 posts at any forum you have ever used lol.