Since I am learning about how to design interfaces for different types of devices, I decided to look into one of the apps that I constantly use on a weekly basis which is Harper's Bazaar Magazine app. I will talk about the differences and similarities I noticed during my interaction with the app and during the responsive design project.
(Mobile version of Magazine)
On the mobile device of the app, I noticed the different amounts of content on each page compared to the desktop version. Mobile version of the app is similar to the tablet version of the app because the pages are utilizing the same content. The purpose of the mobile version is to check out the new monthly issues being released and keeping up with current or trending news in fashion, beauty, and celebrity news. Due to the limited real estate space of the mobile device's screen, the content being presented is little. So the placement of content is different on the desktop. The content of the page and the bottom tabs are very different from what you would see on the desktop. The desktop has many more lists and navigation options leading to different tasks. The main task for the user here on the mobile device is to simply check for new monthly issues and keep up with current news while being subscribed. The mobile devices are used everywhere on the go, while tablet devices are used in a casual setting such as on the couch at home enjoying reading the new monthly issue. I learned that your location matters to which type of device you're using. For example, tablets are used in a more casual setting such as a home, work or cafe, can be used by several members/people, used for games and entertainment. While mobile devices used on the go as a way to stay connected, in everyday life. Eventually, you would spend less time on an application compared to a tablet since it's a personal device for one individual.
I personally prefer the usage of mobile and desktop devices only. Since I am a student I am on always on the go and busy that I generally wouldn’t lean towards using tablets for most of the time because it requires longer tasks even though the placement of content on the mobile and tablet devices are the same, the tablet is a lot harder to hold when you're on the go. I usually resort to desktop devices for longer tasks because I have tasks such as looking deep into topics that I am interested in finding out more about and that needs to utilize a lot of space for concentration, productivity, and organization.
(Tablet version of Magazine)
On the tablet device, the placement of content is the same as the mobile device except it's enlarged to fit the larger tablet screen size. The organization of content on the mobile and tablet are very similar as they would need more scrolling to access more content compared to the desktop.
One thing that is different from the mobile, except for the screen size, is the way you hold it. I noticed that there are different ways to hold each device. With mobile devices, I usually hold it with two hands typing away or single hand only. With the tablet, I use both of the hands most of the time while one holds it and the other taps away or scrolling. Also with the tablet, I am able to mount it up in order to watch for longer periods of time. The interaction is different across all devices too. In a desktop, you're using your cursor to help you navigate your way, perform tasks, and hover over animations. While mobile and tablet use gestures such as your fingertips to scroll, swipe, etc.
(Desktop Version)
One of the most important things I learned about the desktop is the usage of the desktop real estate is really important since the screen size is bigger. So more screen size equals the ability to put more content on the page compared to mobile and tablet design. Desktops are organized into multiple columns just like when you would read a newspaper or a print version of the magazine.
I learned so much during this responsive design project. Before I would’ve never paid attention to the purposes of each device even though I would just move to different devices without consciously knowing the purpose of why I needed to use it. After this project, I am well aware of the devices I am using and paying attention to the usage of my time on it because it allows me to explore different interactive experiences across all devices. This project was a great way to learn about UI/UX design. Since, we utilize mobile, tablet, or desktop devices on a daily basis it’s easy to forget the interactive experiences we come across so this project was a great reminder for me.
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