This article comes from my newsletter, which I have stopped after just 3 issues. It was just an idea that didn’t work out for me personally, as it required a more focussed piece every week. And I realised I prefer the shorter and quicker form of writing, that I do here on Radical Thinker.
So here is the last issue, which is about personalising your devices.
I’m sure you’ll understand that a house is not always a home, as you have to do some level of customisation to make sure it fits with your desires and needs. You add a sense of personality to transform it into a home.
Well I believe that you can apply the same idea into technology, and the devices you use everyday, because they are your “virtual home”.
So why shouldn’t it be comfortable?
The first place everyone starts off with is the wallpaper, it’s a pretty big part of a device, especially when it’s the lock screen and the home screen. But this isn’t true personality, as you’ve still got the same device as everyone else.
The little things that make a difference are cool cases, different coloured covers, putting stickers on your devices, and then there’s even the way you set up and layout your devices.
I’m a big sticker fan myself, and you can see below what it looks like:
It’s not much, but the stickers are things that I like, and it feels mine when I’m holding it. I find it really interesting to see what other people do to their devices as well, I’ve seen some cool creations in the past.
So for the software side of things, using iOS as an example, your app layout and selection of apps can really change the feel of a device as well. I’ve previously been a person who likes to keep things standard, that’s fine I guess, but it’s not fun.
Don’t be afraid to move SnapChat into your Dock, delete Mail from your iPhone, or even set cat noises as your ringtone.
I think if you have a laptop, tablet, and sometimes even a phone, don’t hesitate to personalise it. It is yours after all.
I’d love to hear other peoples thoughts on this, and also see any of your customised devices!
P.S. Just because I don’t write for the newsletter, it doesn’t mean I’ll stop writing these types of articles. I’ll just post them here instead!