keeping it co mpact

The opinion expressed by Matt Bolton (MF # 332) is right on the nail. Quite a few people, not just women, have no use for a large screen and awkward-sized phone. I’m glad I moved fast when the SE model was brought out as I have no room when working for anything bigger.

If Apple proceeds to produce only the big screen phones I will not update – and may even give up smartphones if this one packs up. That would be a shame, as map apps are very useful, but size and weight are vital when carrying a loaded rucksack all day. I can see no logic in the direction Apple is going; I believe it’s due to desk-based designers who don’t understand their full market. by Mi ke D urr ans

Alan sa ys… We’re pleased Matt’s column struck a chord. The iPhone size each of us picks is a personal decision, often about more than just hand size. It can seem strange to hear Apple talking about how personal devices like iPhone and Watch are, yet making decisions like killing off the (relatively) compact iPhone SE and alienating some customers.

It’s a shame there’s nothing comparable to the SE in Apple’s current line-up. Some people didn’t like even the relatively modest vertical size increase introduced on the iPhone 5 back in 2012. Even that form, shared by the 5S and SE, lacked universal appeal. Navigational gestures on the latest iPhones, such as swiping inwards from the display’s left edge rather than having to reach the top-left corner to go back, help only so far. Right now, we can but hope Apple reintroduces a smaller option soon.