Soft key
This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (May 2009) |
A soft key is a button flexibly programmable to invoke any of a number of functions rather than being associated with a single fixed function or a fixed set of functions. A softkey often takes the form of a screen-labeled function key located alongside a
Screen-labeled function keys are today most commonly found in kiosk applications, such as
History
Early examples are found in aviation
Graphical calculators
As of 2008[update], HP calculators use this arrangement to implement hierarchical trees of functions.[citation needed] They are rarely found on PC applications, even though the first IBM PC BASIC labeled function key use at the bottom of the screen, and there were 12 function keys, patterned after use on IBM terminals.
Modern Texas Instruments calculators such as the TI-89 series use function keys to open drop-down menus on their menu bar, the menu title acting like the key label.
Casio calculators use the function keys for a menu at the bottom of the screen.
Mobile phone
A typical mobile phone with soft keys has them located beneath the bottom left and bottom right of the display; some, especially those made by
Soft keys have become increasingly rare as touchscreens take the place of function keys on many modern smartphones.
Point of sale
Screen-labeled function keys have found use in
References
- ^ "NCR RealPOS™ DynaKey". NCR Corporation.
- Kiljander, Harri (2004) “Evolution and usability of mobile phone interaction styles” Helsinki University of Technology, dissertation
- Lindholm, Christian. Keinonen, Turkka, Kiljander, Harri (2003) “Mobile usability : how Nokia changed the face of the mobile phone” New York : McGraw-Hill
External links
- Media related to Soft key at Wikimedia Commons