In the desktop world, we have the option to use the command line: a uniform interface for a multitude of apps that would otherwise be very different when implemented as GUIs.

Using the same interface, I can move or edit files, cross out tasks on my to-do list, retrieve my password for my email account (using Bitwarden or pass), etc. All in the command line. The GUI for each of those are wildly different.

The other benefit is it is very easy to create a new command line app, as opposed to a GUI.

Is anything like this possible for the smartphone world (even if it doesn’t or will never exist)? What would it look like?

Since smartphone typing is much slower, we can’t simply reuse the command line. We’d need something different. An interface that can still support a various spectrum of different operations, yet ergonomic for a smartphone. What are your thoughts?

  • @[email protected]
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    17 months ago

    While I agree with you, I do find myself doing a lot of file management via my phone, as much of a PITA as it is.

    I do perhaps 1/4 of my file management there. PC is just far easier.

    • @[email protected]OP
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      -27 months ago

      Despite the smartphone touch interface being worse for these tasks, the convenience of having a phone always with you and within a couple seconds of reach is a big benefit. It would be really nice if the interface could be made easier