skeuomorphic design
Touchscreens use mimicry to visually render designs so they can behave like metaphorical references to actual objects. But how functional are brushed aluminium, natural woodgrain and shiny leather? And does simulation improve the user experience, or is it just an excuse to show off? Surely it depends on who you ask, since iOS 7 does away with digital trompe l’œil altogether in favour of 2-dimensional sameness, dayglo colouration and hairline typography. If you’re like us, you might find yourself torn between real-life relevance and technological occultism. A bit of both will do nicely, thanks.
