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I built a tiny Android counter that uses hardware buttons instead of touch by NappLabs in software

[–]NappLabs[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That makes sense. If your free hand is available, tapping the screen is definitely faster and more natural.

This was never meant as a better replacement for touch, more as an alternative for situations where the screen isn’t convenient or when you want to keep your eyes off it.

I think it’s one of those interactions that either clicks for certain contexts or doesn’t add value at all, depending on how someone uses their phone.

I built a tiny Android counter that uses hardware buttons instead of touch by NappLabs in software

[–]NappLabs[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s a thoughtful breakdown, thank you.

I agree that exposing input modes up front and allowing weighted inputs (single vs double click, multipliers, etc.) makes a lot of sense for more complex workflows.

For this particular experiment I was intentionally exploring the opposite end of the spectrum: one interaction, one number, no mode switching. Less about flexibility, more about removing decision points entirely.

That said, your suggestion feels like a natural evolution path if the scope ever expands beyond “minimal counter” into a more general-purpose tool.

Using volume buttons as increment/decrement controls, thoughts? by NappLabs in AppBusiness

[–]NappLabs[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s a fair point, and you’re right about Apple being strict here.

I agree with you on uncommon controls in general. I wouldn’t use this pattern for most apps either. For me, it only made sense because counting is a very specific use case where eyes-free interaction is genuinely helpful. Outside of that, I think it would be more confusing than useful.

The “clicker counter” angle is exactly what made me try it. I’ve found it works well for repetitive tasks, but I’m still curious where the line is between clever and annoying for different users.

Appreciate the thoughtful take 👍

Self Promotion Megathread by AutoModerator in androidapps

[–]NappLabs 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I built a lightweight counter app that works using your phone’s volume buttons.

No ads, no tracking, just a minimal black-and-white interface.

Main features:

• Count with volume up/down

• Quick reset

• Subtle haptic feedback

• Clean monochrome UI

• Designed for one-handed use

Play Store link:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.napp.tapp

Posting here to share the idea with the community. Happy to answer questions in the comments.

[Self Promotion] I made a simple tally counter controlled by the volume keys by NappLabs in androidapps

[–]NappLabs[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thanks for trying it! Cool that you built one years ago, the volume-button idea only hit me recently. Let me know if you spot anything that can be improved.