The Disadvantages of Touch Screen Mobile
By Nick Davis
Navigating a touchscreen mobile phone requires the use of your fingers to tap the device and select applications, settings and functions. The phones are similar to tablet computers but don’t require the use of a stylus. Touchscreen mobile phones are ideal for individuals who don’t want the hassle of inputting data via small buttons. But the phones are not problem-free and they require a learning period to get used to them.
Accuracy And Feedback
One disadvantage of a touchscreen mobile phone is the lack of accuracy and feedback. Touch screen mobile phones contain a completely flat screen that doesn’t give the user feedback when pressed. When tapping the screen, you may or may not tap the application or setting you wanted. You may also encounter problems when accessing the Internet via the device’s browser because you may not tap the link or item you want.
On-screen Keyboard Issues
Difficulty in entering data, sending text messages and navigating the device’s on-screen keyboard is a disadvantage of using the devices. Not all touch screen mobile phones contain a slide-out keyboard, but the devices do contain an on-screen keyboard. Using the on-screen keyboard is a challenge for people who can’t use the small keys.
Sensitivity Issues
Touch screens are sensitive, and you don’t have to completely touch the screen to select items, tap links and complete functions. This is an issue that can lead to you accidentally selecting a function such as delete and erasing an email or document. You may or may not be able to adjust your touch screen mobile phone’s sensitivity setting.
Screen Size
Another disadvantage of touch screen mobile phones is the lack of a large LCD or LED display screen. The device’s screen is smaller than a tablet computer and doesn’t allow you to view an entire website, document or other file without scrolling down with your finger. Touch screens vary in size with models that are 3.25, 3.5 and 5.6 inches diagonally. The screen’s resolution setting -- the amount of pixels it can display -- also varies with models, from 480 by 320 pixels, 480 by 854 pixels and 480 by 360 pixels.
Accidental Dialing
Most phones have a lock feature that requires you to slide a bar across the phone to unlock the touch screen. However, some phone do not have this feature and on some phones this feature is not secure enough. Because the touch screen can be engaged so easily, it is easy for users to call contacts accidentally -- even when the phone is in your pocket. This has become humorously known as "pocket dialing."
References
Writer Bio
Nick Davis is a freelance writer specializing in technical, travel and entertainment articles. He holds a bachelor's degree in journalism from the University of Memphis and an associate degree in computer information systems from the State Technical Institute at Memphis. His work has appeared in "Elite Memphis" and "The Daily Helmsman" in Memphis, Tenn. He is currently living in Albuquerque, N.M.