Graphy: Exploring the potential of the Contacts application

Abstract

The number of mobile devices is growing very fast. Smart phones and tablets are, step by step, replacing desktops and laptops as the primary method of computing in daily life. Along with the rapid evolution of mobile devices, the applications on them are undergoing fast transformation. We can see many improvements in traditional applications (messaging, calling, etc.) like multimedia text messages, video calls, voice over IP and so forth. However, the Contacts application has not changed much while it has many potentials. In this thesis, we propose a new model which improves the Contacts application by introducing three novel capabilities: searching for contacts by their miscellaneous information, retaining knowledge of contacts via a tags system, and establishing a Personal Social Network which consists of the relationships between the contacts. By introducing these capabilities, the model helps its users to accomplish new tasks which are not currently handled by modern Contacts applications. Furthermore, the model is implemented and become a fully functional prototype on iOS and Android. The prototype is then evaluated in a user study and a system performance test. The studies yield positive results which indicate that the three new capabilities are valuable and should be included in today’s Contacts applications.