Nokia 7650 versus SonyEricsson T68i

3G LAB published the results of independent usability tests conducted on two camera phones in its Cambridge usability suite. Members of the public were recruited to compare the usability of the Nokia 7650 and the SonyEricsson T68i. On first impressions test subjects preferred the T68i, but after completing a series of tasks they quickly switched allegiance to the 7650.

The SonyEricsson T68i immediately proved the most popular choice based on its stylish physical appearance and aesthetically pleasing design, but during testing participants became disappointed by the complexity of menu systems, poor screen display and phone build quality.

In contrast, the Nokia 7650 was initially found to be "chunky" and "brick-like", but on completing the tasks, all users said that they would purchase the Nokia phone over the SonyEricsson. The reasons given were that the Nokia had an easier and more intuitive menu system, the best screen size & display, and the phone was generally of higher build quality.

The tests were carefully designed by 3G LAB to give an independent evaluation of the user experience on two of the first camera-enabled mobile phones on sale in the UK today. 3G LAB aimed to find out from members of the public which phone they would buy, and which factors made them choose one phone over another. Based on the research 3G LAB have also published a series of recommendations as to how great phones can be made better. The tests were not commissioned by either Nokia or SonyEricsson.

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"Usability is a critical part of the commercial success of a mobile phone or service, as these tests have shown," said Steve Ives, CEO, 3G LAB. " The report shows that in the mobile phone world, first impressions don't always last - and that an intuitive user interface makes the difference between a good phone and a great phone. Independent usability testing is the best way for operators and handset manufacturers to safeguard revenues."

The test involved both male and female subjects, aged between 22 and 34, with a mix of educational levels and a mix of occupations. The independent test was centred on first-time, 'out-of-the-box' use and focused on the camera capability of the phones. At the time of testing, the Nokia 7650 and Sony-Ericsson T68i were the only commercially available camera-enabled mobile phones in the UK.