This quick start guide aimed to demystify the mobile platform and equip them with key insights from a high-level perspective *
* Please note: This is circa 2011, so go easy
The Essence of a mobile platform
Imagine being a senior executive at a UK company, suddenly tasked with understanding the intricate world of Android. Time is tight, and you need a crash course that cuts through the technical jargon and delivers the essence of this mobile platform. That’s where I stepped in.
For senior executives
My UK client were seeking a crash course in the world of Android, I crafted a top-down, user-experience-focused overview of its driving principles.
Download the full deck on request
What is Android?
This quick-start guide wasn’t just about features and functionalities; it was about the why behind them. In essence, how Android shapes user interactions, from app design to navigation and information consumption.
By focusing on the driving principles that underpin the Android experience, equipping the user with the knowledge to make informed decisions. Whether you’re evaluating potential development projects, understanding your target audience’s behaviour, or simply staying ahead of the curve, this guide provided a solid foundation.
Design for Humans
Understanding the user experience isn’t just about technical specifications; it’s about grasping the human element that drives engagement and ultimately, success. This quick-start guide was designed to do just that, empowering you to navigate the world of Android with confidence and clarity.
Android Widgets: Tiny Tools, Big Impact
Think of Android widgets as miniature apps living on your home screen. They offer:
- Quick Info: Weather, news, calendar events, and more at a glance.
- Instant Actions: Play music, add events, control smart devices – all without opening the app.
- Customization: Choose size, information, and even themes to fit your needs.
These handy tools boost your efficiency, personalize your experience, and keep you informed without opening full apps. Explore various types like simple info displays, scrollable lists, and interactive buttons to find the perfect fit for your needs.
The End of an Era
RIP Flash
Flash was designed for the desktop era. I have left this in as IT IS interesting to get an insight in UX 15-years-ago, but to clear: ANDROID DOES NOT USE FLASH NOW
Why?
Outdated tech: Flash wasn’t built for touchscreens. It will drain batteries and there is no native support.
Security sieve: Flash’s history of vulnerabilities made it a hacker magnet.
Better options emerged: HTML5 and native apps offered richer, safer experiences.
Adobe officially announced the end of Flash in 2017. Its inability to adapt to the changing landscape left it vulnerable to the more agile and secure alternatives that had taken center stage.
While Flash may hold a place in internet history, its reign in the mobile world was short-lived, ultimately succumbing to the demands of a faster, more secure, and user-centric mobile experience.
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