Virtual Information Piles for Small Screen Devices

We describe an implementation that has users `flick’ notes, images, audio, and video files onto virtual piles beyond the display of small-screen devices. This scheme allows PDA users to keep information close at hand without sacrificing valuable screen real estate. Our approach takes advantage of human spatial memory capabilities. It also obviates the need to browse complex folder trees during a working session. The system also allows co-located individuals with PDAs to share and organize information items (e.g., photos, text, sound clips, etc.) by placing them in shared, imaginary off-screen piles. We also introduce an extension that allows PDA owners to transfer information piles to and from a shared tabletop display.