The How Stuff Works website has an excellent explanation of how Iphones use accelerometers to change the screen orientation as you move the phone. (file:///Users/Andy/Desktop/HowStuffWorks%20%22What%20does%20the%20iPhone%20accelerometer%20do%3F%22.webarchive).
Basically, an accelerometer is a sensor that can measure movement and the speed of movement. The move and tilt of the Iphone is noted by these accelerometers placed in the phone, which allows it automatically adjust the visual orientation of the screen from portrait to landscape as appropriate. Accelerometers can also be found in Nike running shoes that work with your Ipod or Iphone to measure the speed and distance of your rtun. They are also found in Wii controllers.
In an Iphone this feature greatly improves usability because you can change the orientation of the screen just by turning it on its side. This allows you to read lists and websites in portrait view, or to move to landscape for videos. Landscape view also zooms in on any text, resizing to fit the screen, making it easier to read smaller text on websites. This feature can also be turned off if people do not like it.
Great post Andrew. I would love to read the How Stuff Works article that you recommend, but I can't get your link to work. Is it me?
ReplyDeleteHi Grette. Sorry about that - i had accidentally posted the link to a webarchive page on my computer. The actual link is http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/iphone-accelerometer.htm
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