Device Developments at MWC

Touch, touch touch. Even before Apple we knew it'd come, and boy has it ever. Samsung says, "There are a number of things we can do with touchscreen phones. Touch creates a better multimedia experience."

Microsoft announced Windows Mobile 6.5, which is focused on touch (but a purely resistive touch screen, not capacitive... you'll really have to press down).

Then LG announced an Android device with a "cube" user interface, making use of transitions that will slow the experience down and not add comprehension. It might add delight, but I imagine that'll wear off after a while.

Touch is sexy, and provides some nice interaction possibilities. It also shuts down some interaction possibilities. And makes other stuff harder. Do you remember how long it took Microsoft to really replicate the Mac/Xerox windows in fundamentals, instead of just look? Many of the touch-only devices are making the same mistake by copying the iPhone. They are copying style, or even just graphics, and not function.

So the Sony Ericsson Idou looks really nice. Sure, the specs look good, but to me it's more important that it looks like a not-awkward camera (with lens cover, which makes me happy even if it doesn't officially matter), buttons I can actually find, and an intelligent distribution of controls between hardware and software. I already know how to use these softkeys. Hooray!

The other device that really makes me happy is the Nokia E75. Frankly, this is the device I was looking for in October when I last purchased a phone: a Nokia 3G device with a slide-out full keyboard. I'd be upset except that I have to expect that the E75 won't have a US release until 4Q at the earliest.

The E75 keyboard provides an important feature: a keyboard split, right down the middle.

Why is that nice? Consider the ergonomics. You'll be using two thumbs to type on this thing. Your thumbs will be coming in from the sides. Their distance accuracy will very good for middle distance (like s, d, f and j, k, l), but not so good for very close (thumb too folded) and very far (nothing is as accurate at its full range). So the split down the middle will provide you a landmark at full range, and the chrome around the outside will provide a landmark for close range.

Touch typing may be possibly on this keyboard without too much effort. Hey, there's the touch theme again!

Since iPhone the big companies have being positioning themselves in the market. The future finally came and it brings more subscribers each day and a big mobile advertising market.