Age Differences in Menu Item Selection for Smartphone: The Effects of Icon Background Colors and Icon Symbols

Abstract

Previous research found that icon background colors and symbols influenced menu selection time. However, the previous research did not consider non-generic users; especially, children and older adult users that have gathered momentum. Literature highlights the age-related differences in various dimensions, and how they are related to technology use. The purpose of the present study is to extend the previous research on the influence of icon background colors and symbols [1], by examining the age-related difference in smartphone menu item selection task, with the manipulation of icon background colors and icon symbols. A three-way ANOVA indicated that there are significant main effects of age group, background colors, and icon symbols, as well as high-order effects of the three variables.