iOS 16 adds a tiny button that will make it easier for millions of users to discover.
One big problem with modern devices is discoverability.
Take Spotlight, for example, the built-in, system-wide search feature on iOS devices and Macs.
Kevin Hart (Screenshot) / Pexels / Mockup Photos
Prior to that, there was no built-in way to find a file based on its contents.
The problem is, it’s hidden.
A more discoverable app is an app that is more likely to be used.
SpeechCentral (screenshot) / Unsplash / Mockup Photos
If you ever directed somebody else to do this, you’ll know how badly it’s implemented.
In iOS 16, Apple has added a Spotlight button.
It’s right there, under the grid of icons, on every Home Screen page.
you’re free to’t miss it, and this is the whole point.
iOS 16, which should launch in the next couple of weeks, also adds new features to Spotlight.
iOS 16 Spotlight will also trigger quick actions, right from the results panel.
That’s the thing with computers.
They don’t have knobs and buttons for every function.
In fact, they have so many functions that many of them have to be tucked away until needed.
You mouse up there, click, and look around until you find the function you need.
into the Help menu’s search field, and it will show you exactly where that function lives.
SpeechCentral (screenshot) / Unsplash / Mockup Photos
Apple’s recent design language hides most of these features.
This results in a clean, uncluttered interface, making everything hard to find.
“A more discoverable app is an app that is more likely to be used.”
And if you don’t like the new search button?you could remove it.
