Latest news with #usability
Phone Arena
28-07-2025
- Phone Arena
Galaxy Z Fold 7 users are adding reinforcements to the phone after unfolding struggles
Thought skinniness didn't come with its own set of problems? Think again! The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is the thinnest foldable phone in the world, and that's causing some usability problems. Hordes of Galaxy Z Fold 7 users have taken to Reddit to complain that unfolding the Fold 7 is a task in itself. Since the phone is so slender, getting a grip on the two halves to open it can be a hit or miss. It's also suspected that the magnets used to hold the two sides together securely are very strong. —Joneep, Reddit user, July 2025 This is particularly noticeable when users try to unfurl the phone with one hand while juggling another task with the other. It may have helped if the phone's frames had a grippier texture. While the issue can mostly be managed with the right case, not everyone wants to put one on, which is why many users have come up with creative solutions, such as adding rubber grips to the sides of the phones. Another idea is to use a skin with a grippy texture. —Mouser05, Reddit user, July 2025 —ContributionLive3126, Reddit user, July 2025 One user has recommended using a collapsible strip to make it easier to unfold the phone one-handed. Galaxy Z Fold 7 users can't easily unfold the phone without getting creative. | Image Credit - Reddit users Holy_chick, SpaceDandye, and KillianReaver There's also apparently a right and wrong way to open the phone, and once you get the hang of it, it might get easier to pry open the device without it feeling like an uphill task. If you place your thumbs at the same level on both sides and place your middle, ring, and index fingers on the hinge and open the phone while applying gentle downward pressure using your thumbs, it should do the trick. —grepresentitive, Reddit user, July 2025 Should it have to be this complicated is another question. While it's easy to be dismissive of the problem and call it nitpicking, it's important to remember that this is a real concern if it's bothering so many people. It was one of the first things our Victor Hristov noticed when testing out the phone. He explained that the phone's flat sides exacerbated the problem, and he came close to dropping it a few times when trying to open it. Perhaps next time, Samsung will want to opt for angled sides to fix the problem.
Fast Company
21-07-2025
- Business
- Fast Company
Building consumer-level ease into enterprise-level design
In the current landscape, fragmentation and unnecessary complexity plague technology users in enterprise environments, particularly in sectors like healthcare. Just because the nature of the work may be highly regulated and the underlying technology highly sophisticated doesn't mean the user experience shouldn't be commercialized in a similar manner as intuitively designed consumer technology. To address this, organizations should seek to incorporate consumer-level simplicity into enterprise-level design in order to drive much-needed adoption and scalability. Technology providers need to build a cohesive backbone that bridges the usability gap between personal and professional environments. By requiring minimal training and focusing on ease of use, technology providers transform complex workflows into seamless, efficient processes, redefining operational excellence in the workplace. Enterprise technology is built to solve complex problems. From managing vast supply chains to optimizing IoT connectivity, these solutions handle mission-critical functions. The traditional approach to enterprise tech has been to focus on features rather than usability. During the initial stages of solution engineering, founders want to stand out from competitors with new capabilities and businesses often equate complexity with capability, which leads to bloated systems that require specialized training just to navigate. This focus on functionality over usability results in slow adoption rates, inefficient design, and general frustration in both designers and users. User growth is stunted when users are required to be experts to get value out of the solution. In the past, companies assumed that end users—who often had advanced degrees or specialized expertise—were willing to invest the time required to master these tools. But times have changed. In today's environment, turnover is high, onboarding time is short, and people have an expectation that technology should just work. Different generations—digital migrants and digital natives—need solutions that cater to their unique needs. No one is going to read your user manual. B2B customers don't want complex solutions. They want ease of use. The core technology can be intricate. Yes, it takes great complexity on the back end to produce a simple, effective experience on the front end. Extensive configuration and technical expertise are required to create systems that enable plug-and-play functionality. But all of that must be hidden from the customer. They shouldn't be asked to manipulate or engage with the portions of the solution that function to meet stringent security requirements, ensure compliance with complex regulations, or run the models necessary for advanced analytics capabilities. User experience isn't the only area that requires simplicity. The brand messaging, solution name, and go-to-market strategy all need instantly recognizable clarity. Enterprises should shift their focus from solving complex problems to presenting simple solutions. If they can do this in an authentic, compelling way, they will see significantly more engagement with their sales outreach. WHY SIMPLICITY IS RARE IN B2B SOLUTIONS If simplicity is so valuable, why isn't it the norm in B2B technology? When companies develop enterprise solutions, they typically focus on the sophistication of their capabilities. Feature creep leads to cluttered and unintuitive interfaces. For established solution providers, the prospect of refactoring a complex system into a simple one requires a fundamental shift in how they approach product design. The cost, time, and effort to rethink the user experience keeps less ambitious companies from producing best-in-class solutions. Consumer tech companies like Apple and Samsung have mastered this balance. Apple, for instance, restricts customization to ensure a seamless, controlled experience, while Samsung has introduced templates that allow for both simplicity and flexibility. This approach has started making its way into enterprise solutions, but it requires a cultural shift. Companies that want to embed consumer-level ease into enterprise solutions should follow these strategies using their existing resources: Adopt A User-First Mindset: Conduct usability testing and gather feedback from non-technical employees to ensure accessibility and gain a deeper understanding of the end-user experience. Automate Complexity: Build all machine learning and advanced analytics that handle complex processes in the background, delivering only descriptive insights and appropriate prescriptive guidance to users and eliminating multiple options. Simplify Onboarding: Design systems that require minimal training. If a new user needs a manual, the interface isn't simple enough. Embed Compliance Into The System: Make security and compliance a seamless part of the workflow rather than an extra manual step required of the user. Measure Usability Success: Track adoption rates, user engagement, and customer feedback to continuously refine and simplify the experience. The best technology is the kind you don't have to think—or worry—about. When enterprise solutions mirror the ease of consumer products, adoption soars, operational efficiency increases, and organizations unlock more value from their technology investments. The future of enterprise technology is intuitive, seamless, and invisible, making powerful tools feel effortless.
Geeky Gadgets
19-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Don't Miss These 15 iOS 26 Hidden Features!
iOS 26 introduces a variety of hidden features designed to enhance customization, usability, and everyday convenience. These updates span across multiple apps and functionalities, offering practical improvements that cater to diverse user needs. Whether you're looking to personalize your device, streamline tasks, or explore new tools, iOS 26 has something for everyone. The video below from Zollotech shows us these hidden features. Watch this video on YouTube. Enhanced Customization Options iOS 26 offers several new customization features that allow you to tailor your device to your preferences. These updates focus on improving usability and giving you greater control over your device's settings: Custom Ringtones: Create and set ringtones directly from the Files app, eliminating the need to purchase tones from the store. Create and set ringtones directly from the Files app, eliminating the need to purchase tones from the store. Adjustable Alarm Snooze: Customize snooze durations between 1 and 15 minutes, making sure your alarms fit your daily routine. Customize snooze durations between 1 and 15 minutes, making sure your alarms fit your daily routine. Safari Address Bar Placement: Move the address bar to either the top or bottom of the screen, depending on your navigation preferences. These features make it easier to personalize your device, enhancing both functionality and user satisfaction. Streamlined Call and Communication Management Managing calls and communication is now more intuitive with iOS 26, thanks to new tools that prioritize efficiency and convenience: Call Screening: Automatically silence spam calls and identify unknown callers before your phone rings, reducing interruptions. Automatically silence spam calls and identify unknown callers before your phone rings, reducing interruptions. Hold Assist: Receive notifications when a call on hold is ready to resume, allowing you to multitask without missing important updates. These updates make handling calls less disruptive, helping you stay focused on what matters most. Photos App and 3D Imaging Enhancements The Photos app receives a significant upgrade with the introduction of 3D spatial scene effects. This feature adds depth and parallax effects to your images, creating a more immersive and visually dynamic viewing experience. Whether you're revisiting cherished memories or sharing photos with friends, this enhancement brings your images to life in a way that feels modern and engaging. Additionally, the improved photo editing tools in iOS 26 make it easier to fine-tune your pictures, making sure they look their best before sharing. Control Center and Audio Improvements The Control Center in iOS 26 has been refined to offer quicker access to essential tools and settings. Key updates include: Reminders Shortcut: Add tasks directly from the Control Center without navigating through multiple menus, saving time and effort. Add tasks directly from the Control Center without navigating through multiple menus, saving time and effort. Persistent Bluetooth Audio: Maintain headphone audio playback even when connecting to other Bluetooth devices, such as your car, making sure uninterrupted listening. These updates streamline multitasking and improve audio management, making your device more efficient in handling everyday tasks. Music App Innovations Music lovers will appreciate the new features introduced in the Music app, which aim to enhance the listening experience: Pinned Favorites: Pin your favorite albums or songs for quick and easy access. Pin your favorite albums or songs for quick and easy access. Automix Transitions: Enjoy seamless transitions between tracks, creating a smooth and uninterrupted playback experience. Enjoy seamless transitions between tracks, creating a smooth and uninterrupted playback experience. Real-Time Lyrics Translation: Translate song lyrics as you listen, adding a new layer of engagement and understanding to your favorite tracks. These updates make the Music app more interactive and enjoyable, catering to a wide range of musical preferences. Camera and Battery Enhancements iOS 26 introduces practical improvements to both the camera and battery functionalities, making sure your device performs optimally: Lens Cleaning Notifications: Receive prompts to clean your camera lens, helping you capture clearer and sharper images. Receive prompts to clean your camera lens, helping you capture clearer and sharper images. Adaptive Power Mode: Automatically adjust settings to extend battery life based on your usage patterns. Automatically adjust settings to extend battery life based on your usage patterns. Charging Time Estimates: View real-time charging time estimates directly on the lock screen, allowing you to plan your day more effectively. These features ensure your device remains reliable, whether you're capturing important moments or managing power throughout the day. Screen Recording and Password Management Two additional updates in iOS 26 focus on improving functionality and security: HDR Screen Recording: Record your screen in high dynamic range (HDR), capturing vibrant colors and enhanced clarity for professional-quality recordings. Record your screen in high dynamic range (HDR), capturing vibrant colors and enhanced clarity for professional-quality recordings. Password Export: Easily transfer passwords and passkeys to third-party apps, simplifying password management while maintaining robust security. These tools make it easier to share content and manage sensitive information, making sure a seamless and secure user experience. Unlocking the Potential of iOS 26 iOS 26 delivers a comprehensive suite of hidden features that prioritize personalization, usability, and functionality. From enhanced customization options and streamlined call management to advanced photo effects and battery optimization, these updates cater to a wide range of user needs. By exploring these features, you can unlock the full potential of iOS 26, making your device more versatile, efficient, and enjoyable to use. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on iOS 26 hidden features. Source & Image Credit: zollotech Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Gated Communities Are Actually Great for Crypto—Marc Vanlerberghe
For more than a decade, the crypto industry has championed decentralization, transparency, and self-sovereignty. These principles are noble—and in many ways, essential. But, if we're honest, they haven't yet translated into broad, mainstream adoption. The dream of billions of people using blockchain every day is still largely that—a dream. To make it reality, we need to rethink how we build and deliver blockchain-powered experiences. One of the biggest hurdles is usability. The current dominant interface to blockchain —non-custodial wallets—remains too complex for the average person. Managing private keys, writing down 24-word seed phrases, buying native tokens just to perform transactions, navigating multiple chains, bridging assets, KYC'ing repeatedly for each app, and figuring out how to convert crypto to fiat and back. This is not a user experience built for the mainstream. We often ask ourselves why Web3 hasn't 'crossed the chasm.' The answer may be simple: most people don't want to know they're using a blockchain. And frankly, they shouldn't have to. This is where 'gated communities' come in. I use the term gated communities to mean, simply, 'urban planning.' A nice setup that is easy to navigate, offers comfort, security, and curated experiences. And in the case of a neighborhood, yes, also behind a protective layer of some kind. In crypto, gated communities are platforms that abstract away blockchain complexity while retaining its benefits. These environments give users seamless, Web2-style interfaces while the blockchain does the heavy lifting in the background. Custodial wallets, centralized interfaces, and trusted intermediaries are the gatekeepers—not to restrict access to only a special few, but to reduce friction for all. Critics argue this betrays the ethos of decentralization ('not your keys, not your coins'). But this overlooks the broader opportunity: to onboard millions, even billions, of users through intuitive experiences that build real value and solve real problems for users. Not everyone will start their crypto journey managing a cold wallet. Many will begin inside a safe, guided, user-friendly 'gated' experience—and that's okay. We can see this with dApps that successfully serve non-crypto natives. In the U.S., is quietly transforming real estate investing by using blockchain behind the scenes while delivering a simple, intuitive experience for traditional investors. Users can buy fractional ownership in income-generating properties for as little as $50, receive rental income automatically, and resell their shares at any time. What's notable is that Lofty doesn't attract the typical crypto crowd—it appeals to mainstream real estate investors who want passive income without the legal paperwork, title transfers, or tax headaches typically involved in managing properties. Renters can gradually invest in the property they live in, reducing their monthly rent as their equity grows—eventually becoming full owners. Blockchain enables flexibility and trust; but the user experience is pure Web2 simplicity. On the other side of the world, in Kabul, HesabPay enables women to buy food and supplies at local shops using simple plastic cards and SMS confirmations. These transactions settle instantly on-chain, providing transparency and traceability to NGOs and donors. But for the women using them, it's just a card—not a crypto wallet. They never had a bank account and probably will never need one. That's what success looks like: real-world utility without a steep learning curve. In Italy, home renters can buy 'tokenized' solar panels through Enel's blockchain-enabled app—even if they live in apartments or can't install anything physically on their roof. The app tracks the energy generated by those panels elsewhere and deducts it from the user's electricity bill. The blockchain ensures automatic accounting and real-time settlement; the user experience is intuitive, app-based, and familiar. In online chess, players can now earn rewards for participating in games, tournaments, or contributing to the community—without ever knowing that the loyalty points they're collecting are blockchain tokens. Worldchess, the official organizer of the FIDE Grand Prix, has launched a blockchain-based rewards program that allows players to accumulate and redeem points simply by playing and engaging. The underlying infrastructure ensures transparency and portability, but for the users, it feels like any other modern loyalty program. The technology is invisible—the experience is seamless. These examples demonstrate that blockchain is not a product. It's an infrastructure layer. And like all great infrastructure, its job is to disappear. Over time, we believe these gated communities will serve as ramps—onboarding users gradually into more decentralized, self-sovereign experiences. But to get there, we need a new generation of tools that marry user control with ease of use. Self-custody will evolve. Social recovery mechanisms (like those being developed by the DeRec Alliance) will make it possible to recover wallets without remembering seed phrases. Verifiable credentials will let users carry their identity securely across apps and services, enabling one-time KYC that persists across platforms. And complete fee abstraction will mean users never need to touch native gas tokens unless they want to. You'll sign in and approve transactions with your fingerprint, and access any app without even realizing you're interacting with a blockchain. That's the path forward: a world where the blockchain fades into the background, and delightful, safe, user-centric experiences come to the fore. If we're serious about mainstream adoption, we must stop building for crypto-native users alone. The future belongs to builders who can merge the best of Web2 design with the power of Web3 infrastructure—without making users choose between them. Gated communities are not the end-goal. But they are the best way to get millions of people in the door. And once they're in, we can invite them to explore everything else that the open world of blockchain has to in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Geeky Gadgets
11-07-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 26 Beta 3: Apple Nerfed Liquid Glass?
Apple's iOS 26 Beta 3 marks a notable shift in design philosophy, moving away from the bold 'liquid glass' aesthetic introduced at WWDC 2025. The company has opted for a more subdued frosted glass design, emphasizing usability over visual spectacle. This change has sparked a mix of reactions, reflecting Apple's ongoing effort to balance innovation with practicality. The update highlights the company's commitment to creating software that is not only visually appealing but also functional in everyday use. The video below from SaranByte gives us more details on the changes to Liquid Glass in IOS 26 beta 3. Watch this video on YouTube. Understanding the Design Shift: Usability as a Priority The transition from liquid glass to frosted glass represents a deliberate recalibration of priorities. While the liquid glass aesthetic was undeniably striking, it introduced challenges in real-world application. Beta testers frequently reported issues such as reduced text readability and visual clutter, particularly in high-use areas like the control center and notifications. The frosted glass design directly addresses these concerns by softening transparency effects, enhancing text visibility, and creating a cleaner, more streamlined interface. This change has divided opinions among users. Some lament the loss of the futuristic, bold visuals that initially set iOS 26 apart, while others welcome the improved functionality. The shift underscores Apple's focus on usability, though it raises questions about whether a customizable option—such as a translucency slider—could offer a middle ground to satisfy both camps. By prioritizing clarity and ease of use, Apple demonstrates its commitment to delivering a design that works seamlessly in everyday scenarios. User Feedback: The Driving Force Behind iOS 26 Apple's iterative design process is evident in iOS 26 Beta 3, showcasing the company's responsiveness to user feedback. The frosted glass design is a direct result of concerns raised by beta testers, highlighting Apple's willingness to adapt its vision to meet practical needs. This approach underscores the importance of community involvement in shaping the final product. The liquid glass aesthetic initially captured attention with its boldness, but the frosted glass design reflects a more measured response to user input. By actively listening to feedback, Apple ensures that its software evolves in a way that aligns with real-world usage. Your participation in the beta program plays a pivotal role in this process, influencing not only the current iteration but also the direction of future updates. This collaborative approach reinforces Apple's reputation for prioritizing user experience. New Features: Practical Enhancements for Everyday Use In addition to design updates, iOS 26 Beta 3 introduces several new features aimed at improving functionality and convenience. These updates are designed to enhance your daily interactions with your device, offering practical benefits across various applications: Call Management: The phone app now includes call screening and hold assist features, making it easier to manage incoming calls, particularly in professional or busy settings. The phone app now includes call screening and hold assist features, making it easier to manage incoming calls, particularly in professional or busy settings. Photos and Camera Improvements: Updates to these apps focus on usability, streamlining tasks like capturing high-quality images and organizing your photo library more efficiently. Updates to these apps focus on usability, streamlining tasks like capturing high-quality images and organizing your photo library more efficiently. Battery Optimization: Adaptive power modes and smarter battery notifications help extend battery life, making sure your device remains functional throughout the day, especially on newer iPhone models. These features aim to make iOS 26 not only visually refined but also more practical and user-friendly, enhancing its value in everyday scenarios. Challenges and Opportunities in Beta Testing While iOS 26 Beta 3 introduces meaningful improvements, it also comes with the typical challenges of beta software. Users have reported occasional performance issues, such as lag and increased battery drain. However, Apple has made strides in addressing usability concerns, including repositioning certain UI elements to improve one-handed operation—a particularly welcome change for users of larger devices. These challenges highlight the essential purpose of beta testing: identifying and resolving issues before the final release. By participating in the beta program, you contribute to this refinement process, helping Apple deliver a polished and stable operating system. The feedback gathered during this phase is invaluable, making sure that the final product meets the high standards expected by users. The Road Ahead: Balancing Form and Function As Apple continues to refine iOS 26, the frosted glass design signals a shift toward prioritizing usability without completely abandoning aesthetic appeal. While some users may miss the dramatic visuals of the liquid glass aesthetic, the updated design reflects a practical approach tailored to real-world use. With the final release anticipated in September, further adjustments are likely as Apple seeks to perfect the balance between form and function. Ultimately, iOS 26 Beta 3 underscores the critical role of user feedback in shaping Apple's software. By addressing concerns and introducing thoughtful updates, Apple demonstrates its commitment to delivering an operating system that aligns with your needs. As the beta evolves, you can expect continued improvements, making sure that iOS 26 is as polished, functional, and user-friendly as possible upon its official launch. Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on Frosted glass design. Source & Image Credit: SaranByte Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
