One of the most consistent rumors on the next iPhone is that it will have a four-inch screen. The Wall Street Journal recently added another log to that particular fire. For five generations, the iPhone has rocked a 3.5-inch screen. There have been dramatic improvements in resolution and image quality, but the size has remained the same. Apple’s competitors, on the other hand, have been pushing larger and larger phones, even hitting a whopping 5.3-inches with the Samsung Galaxy Note. Is the time right for Apple to finally use a larger screen for the iPhone?
The argument is usability vs. visibility. For most users, one-handed operation (get your mind out of the gutter!) with a 3.5-inch phone is ideal. Larger screens make one-handed use difficult or impossible (unless your name is Paul Wight). That said, larger screens make video content, web browsing, gaming, etc. more enjoyable. While the iPhone 4S is a fantastic phone, I just can’t deal with the screen size. I’m thrilled by the potential awesomeness of an iPhone with a four-inch screen; it seems like it would hit the sweet spot for most people in terms usability and visibility.
Out of curiosity, which iPhone rumor excites you the most? Are you drooling over the prospects of metal construction? Do you long for an iPhone with an LTE radio? Or is it all about the iPhone having a four-inch screen?
I hope they do finally go to a larger screen and 4" is the most logical step to get people to make the switch without alienating too many users.
I love my GNote. I tried to use a friends Captivate the other day and even though it is a great size it feel too small now.
As for 1 handed operation, ICS on my Galaxy Note has a feature called One-Handed operation. It moves the keyboards over to which ever side of the screen you choose so you can use…..well one hand.