ThumbSpace: Generalized One-Handed Input for Touchscreen-Based Mobile Devices

Abstract

Abstract. In this paper, we present ThumbSpace, a software-based interaction technique that provides general one-handed thumb operation of touchscreenbased mobile devices. Our goals are to provide controlled and accurate selection of all interface objects, especially small and far targets, which are traditionally difficult to interact with using the thumb. ThumbSpace is designed to provide these benefits independent of the application design, which can free designers to focus on effective presentation, as well as efficient interaction when two hands are available. We present the ThumbSpace design and a comparative evaluation against direct interaction for target selection. Our results show that in addition to being well received, ThumbSpace improves accuracy for selecting targets that are out of thumb reach, and makes users as effective at selecting small targets as large targets. The results further suggest user practice and strategic design iterations hold potential to close the gap in access time between the two input methods, where ThumbSpace does not do as well as direct interactions.

Experimental analysis of touch-screen gesture designs in mobile environments

“…In comparison, the mean width of the adult male index finger and thumb is 18.2 mm and 22.9 mm; adult female, 15.5 mm and 19.1 mm [23]. Though smaller than an average finger, these buttons are typical in size of many smart phones, and we observed in pilot testing are easily pressed with the thumb, consistent with [24] [25] [26]. Each button is white with a black single-letter label.…”

One-handed touchscreen input for legacy applications

“…Users can benefit from interfaces that free one hand for the physical and intellectual demands of mobile tasks [16], and surveys [13] confirm that users would generally prefer to use touchscreens with one hand when possible. But today's hardware and software designs typically offer little support.…”

A Review on Interaction Techniques on Mobile Phones

“…With these the selected area is not hidden by the finger and more precision is possible [7] [6]. Enlarging the area around the cursor by magnifying it, is another solution [8] [2]. Using magnetic device could function automatically to select the target close to finger's touch contact point [9] [1], making it easier to click on small icon.…”