While we’re on the subject of Windows Mobile and whether it’s ‘broken’ and in need of revitalizing, there’s another new ‘user interface’ program that revamps the Windows Mobile UI coming along and already getting some praise.

Pointui is due to be released soon, and is described as:

Pointui has been built from the ground up so we can deliver a total user experience never before achieved on a Windows Mobile device.

We aim to provide a consistent enjoyable experience across all products we develop without compromising on performance. Home is the first of many products we aim to release to make your device simpler to use and more functionally rich.

It’s a free add-on for Windows  Mobile, and there are some good demo videos up on YouTube that walk you through navigating the Pointui interface, and using some of its key components.  I watched a couple of the videos just now and here’s some quick notes:

• Applications Bar at the bottom of the screen gives quick access to ‘Create New’ (note, message, task), or listing of all apps on the device, or view currently running apps (not sure if you could close running apps from there; if not, that’s a big miss)
• Cog symbol top right takes you to Settings
• The use of BIG, button bars that extend just about the full width of the screen throughout the UI is a very good idea I think – so much of the WM interface is hurt by small buttons or icons, or text etc.
• I like the Applet Ribbon middle of the home screen – to sideways scroll through Calendar, Tasks, Appointments
• I really like the Return Arrow that sits almost top right of the screen to quickly jump back to the previous screen

The other couple things that occur to me when seeing this are:

– We keep trying to say ‘no comparisons with iPhone’ – but you can’t help but notice the emphasis on scrolling and tapping and sliding etc. with a finger – file under imitation is the sincerest form of flattery?

– Also, if Windows Mobile isn’t ‘broken’ – user interface wise – howcome so many folks seem to want to be re-doing its UI? I think the popularity of apps like Spb Mobile Shell proves that WM users are looking for it to be redone too.

In any case, Pointui looks well worth a look when it comes out.  I know I want to play with it.  In the meantime, have a look at the demo videos at:

Pointui YouTube pages

Via: Mobility Site and Geekzone