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The user

For many people in the UK the mobile revolution never happened because due to various conditions such as cerebral palsy and arthritis they are unable to use a standard mobile phone interface. The specific capability necessary for many mobile phone-related tasks and upon which this study is focussing is dexterity. Dexterity impairments result from a number of different conditions and many but not all are age-related.

The number of people in the UK with a dexterity impairment significant enough to prevent them from using a mobile phone is approximately 2.2 million (over 16 years of age and based on 1997 population data). Taking this into account removing just the dexterity requirements to operate a mobile phone would enable 1.2 million more people in the UK to use a mobile phone than is currently the case.

When our workshop participants were asked about what the impact on their life would be if they were able to use a mobile phone more effectively or perhaps even at all some common themes came up: more independence more of a social life Better personal security. One volunteer literally said that he felt he would “know more people” if it were easier for him to use his mobile phone - he loses touch with people he meets due to difficulties using his phone. It should be noted here that social isolation is a significant health risk particularly for older people.

The experience

A motion interface design concept for a simplified mobile experience, that anyone could use. Created in response to research gathered from the feasibility study focusing on improving the experience on touchscreen devices for people with dexterity impairment. An interface and experience that has very simple information heirarchy, requires little tap resolution and visually does not stigmatize the intended target market. The workshop participants responded incredibly well towards our concept, which was an incredibly encouraging sign of its potential.

A joint venture by ixPocket and ribot.