Computerworld

Telstra simplifies mobile phone interface

TelstraOne Experience aims to simplify the mobile phone experience

In a stark admission that most mobile phones are too hard to use, communications giant Telstra has released a simplified user interface for two of its NextG phones.

The simplified interface, called the TelstraOne Experience, will initially be available on two handsets – the Motorola MOTOSURF A3100 and the Sony Ericsson W705. Telstra says that more handsets will join the line-up in future.

The TelstraOne Experience gives phone users one-click access to the most commonly used features on their phones. It also allows them to customise the user interface to meet their requirements. “Customised icons take customers directly to the popular applications and services like phone book and calendar, and social networking and search,” said Glenice Maclellan, executive director for Telstra Consumer.

The interface can be customised to suit traditional handsets or touch screens, and can be deployed across multiple platforms, including Windows Mobile and Sony Ericsson’s proprietary OS.

“We know mobile users want a navigation experience that is intuitive and allows them to get to their favourite features quickly without having to hunt through endless sub-menus,” said Ross Fielding, executive director for Telstra Product Management.

The TelstraOne Experience interface was developed in Australia. It was developed for Windows Mobile by Victorian-based company Pointui, while the Sony Ericsson version was developed by technology company SurfKitchen in conjunction with Sony Ericsson.