The simple fact is that “novelty” has a limited run-rate in the technology space.
We are so ADHD as a culture (and as a people) that it’s only the web-apps that have unique and sustainable value and use that stay with us. I think Google has managed to consistently create apps and services that are super-high in usefulness.
Take for example the new “In Stock Nearby” feature for mobile shopping:
This is such an obvious feature and is super-useful. I think if we constantly remind ourselves “Is this feature or app useful?” we’ll have a better return on the time and investment.
I think too many people do things because they have the resources than the need.
Brian Barela says
couple things i’ve heard at sxsw that connect w your post:
–plan for interruptions when thinking about mobile applications
–do not fight the constrictions of the mobile platform
stuffing a full website into any mobile platform automatically makes it less useful.
here’s a list of mobile that have to be considered:
–gestures
–camera
–microphone
–accelerometer
–light sensors
–proximity sensors
–bluetooth
–address book
–calendar
John Saddington says
dude, love this!
Scott Magdalein says
This is what makes me nervous for the sustained adoption of the iPad. If you watch the presentation, the differences between it and the iPhone (or any other powerful mobile touch device) it’s 90% novelty and 10% useful.
Nick Shoemaker says
10% useful! I couldn’t AGREE more!
John Saddington says
might be a “bit” more…. 🙂
John Saddington says
hopefully.
John Saddington says
oh… but i’m still buying it.