iPhone Creator, Jony Ive Says In Interview To Autocar That He Would Not Use Touchscreen As Main Interface In Vehicles, Criticizes The Need To Look Away From The Road And Comments On The Expansion Of Screens Up To 55 Inches In Mercedes And Cadillac Models, As Well As His Role In The Ferrari Luce EV
The iPhone designer, Jony Ive, stated in an interview with Autocar that he would not use a touchscreen as the main control in cars, despite having popularized the technology with the iPhone, which is now present in models with screens up to 55 inches.
iPhone And The Popularization Of Touchscreen
Recognized for leading the design of the iPhone, Jony Ive helped transform the touchscreen into a dominant interface in electronic devices. The original proposition was to solve a problem: to create a unique and versatile interface capable of functioning as a typewriter, camera, or any other tool.
According to him, the team chose the touchscreen for the iPhone to consolidate multiple functions into a single general-use system. The solution propelled the adoption of the technology in phones, tablets, and even household appliances.
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For the first time in France, solar electricity will power metro trains without going through the public grid. The pioneering Rennes project will begin construction in June with 6,000 square meters of solar panels, and users themselves can invest and earn a 5% annual profit.
Criticisms Of Using Touchscreen As Main Control In Car
Despite having helped popularize the touchscreen with the iPhone, Ive stated that he would not have chosen this technology as the main interface in automobiles. He told Autocar that he would never have used touch as a central control inside a car.
For the designer, the problem lies in the need to look at the screen. He stated that this requirement makes the touchscreen unsuitable as a primary interface in vehicles, as it demands constant visual attention.
Manufacturers Expand Use Of Screens In Dashboard
In recent years, various manufacturers have heavily invested in internal screens. Mercedes equipped the GLB with a set of three screens, while Cadillac adopted a dashboard with a 55-inch screen.
At the same time, other manufacturers show signs of retreat. A concept from Hyundai was developed after questioning the real need for screens in cars, signaling a strategy review in part of the industry.
Ferrari Luce EV Combines Central Screen And Physical Buttons
Ive joined the design team for the interior of the newly presented Ferrari Luce EV. The model includes a unique central screen but maintains physical buttons and controls.
According to him, the touchscreen of the Luce is “very careful” in its design, yet most of the controls are physical. These commands can be differentiated by touch, allowing use without the driver diverting their gaze from the road.
Technology As Trend And Style Factor
Even though he is not an enthusiast of infotainment systems based exclusively on screens, Ive explained why so many manufacturers adopt the solution. He compared technology to fashion, stating that designers tend to incorporate what is most current.
This thinking, according to him, contributes to screens becoming increasingly larger and more numerous on dashboards. Despite the criticisms, the expert indicated that he does not expect an immediate change in this scenario.
When commenting on the evolution of the iPhone and digital interfaces, Ive emphasized that each technology arises to solve a specific problem. In the automotive case, he believes that the touchscreen as the main control may not be the most suitable choice, even with its widespread adoption in the current market.

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