SIZE
Due to advances in technology, digital devices especially mobile phones are designed to be as small and compact as possible. However this causes one of the largest problems from a design and user perspective; screen size.
(above) restrictions of small screens.Not only is there the problem of remediating content for small screens but also having to take into account the diversity of different screens relating to each different device.
(above) are the relative screen sizes of the Ipod Nano, Nokia N73 mobile phone and a PSP.
INPUT DEVICE
Digital devices are not always designed with web browsing as a main function, mobile phones are primarily communication tools with sometimes only a keypad and joystick as a means of input and navigation. PDAs are generally used as organisers and many feature a touch screen with a pen to input information. Therefore navigating web pages using these methods is often difficult and confusing for the user.
CONTEXT
Users are always on the go when using their mobile or PDA and are often going to be in a distracting environment or trying to multi-task while accessing the web. Therefore web pages or applications need to be kept as simple and easy as possible.
WHATS THE SOLUTION THEN?
What is the user most likely to be accessing the web for? What are they doing, that makes them require some sort of information form the web? Finding out what the user wants, where and at what time is perhaps the best way to making mobile web and applications successful. Having purpose specific applications for individual tasks, as opposed to the web in general having apply to any situation.
