Clamshell design is *unbelievably* uncool in Europe, and Asian and US
handset manufacturers need to understand (and accept) this if they are to
increase their market share in Europe. Personally I think the main reasons
are that clamshell is associated with demonstrative and obvious use of a
mobile , it is difficult to hide a clamshell due to its size and the extra
step in opening makes it even more obvious. I believe most Europeans are
post this phase of mobile use and now prefer a discreet phone that is
invisible because it fits in the palm of your hand. Clamshell is almost as
uncool as pulling up the antenna or walking around using a handsfree kit in
the airport: Soooo nineties!
Remember Nokia is no. 6 in top world brands according to Business Week. Sony
is #20 and Samsung #25. They know a thing or too about design I think.
BTW: the Nokia 7200 is a clamshell of sorts but very unique in typical
Nokia innovative design. I am no design expert but I think Nokia is
minimalist whereas clamshell is the opposite of minimalist (whatever that is
called) especially with shiny metal effect and flashing bright leds. Perhaps
the word is "tacky". Less is more.
John
-----Original Message-----
From: keitai-l-bounce@appelsiini.net
[mailto:keitai-l-bounce@appelsiini.net]On Behalf Of Ken Chang
Sent: 20 April 2004 17:23
To: keitai-l@appelsiini.net
Subject: (keitai-l) Re: Nokia warns of tough times ahead
(1) Nokia design
I cannot understand why Nokia doesn't like flip phones. but I do
like the design of N-Gage. I was attracted by BANDAI Wonder Swan
which was release about the same time as the first i-mode phones.
(2) clamshell
I think flip phone was invented in the US. Motorola StarTAC used
to be a symbol of status and the price was very high. the idea was
to extend the line between the speaker and microphone, probably for
Senator John Kerry.
[ excessive quoting removed by moderator ]
Received on Wed Apr 21 11:59:58 2004