Prestidigitations: Interfacing with palm-sized media gadgets

Interacting with media technology implies operating and using interfaces. This article focuses on the user's immediate corporeal handling of portable media gadgets. It argues that the portability of radios video handhelds and cell phones and their innovative casing and interface designs have led users to develop new practices of interacting with media electronics. Touching carrying and new forms of manual prestidigitations have become important elements of the relation between users and media technology. Due to their bodily proximity and a steady interaction media gadgets are valued as intimate friends and travel companions. Furthermore the user-technology interaction has led to new gestures which have become apparent in today's thumb culture.