Shauna GMMay 15, 2023

I'm looking for examples of UX/interface design where:

* users started using a feature in a way that wasn't intended (can be for good or for ill)
* the product team responded by removing the feature entirely

Also very interested in interfaces where there is an obvious feature that users would want/need that's not provided, and that feature is obviously not provided because it's against the interests of the company who makes the software.

Can anyone think of examples which fit?

Show threadDrew MochakMay 15, 2023
@shauna Re last, I think the biggest example is imessage lack of RCS. I think there have been emails revealed in court proceedings from Apple to the effect that they see the imessage lock-in as a competative advantage.
Show threadShauna GM

@objectinspace Oh wow! Thanks, what a great example. I assume you're talking about this:

https://www.theverge.com/2021/4/9/22375128/apple-imessage-android-ecosystem-lock-in-epic-games-filings-app-store-dispute

https://www.theverge.com/2022/9/7/23342243/tim-cook-apple-rcs-imessage-android-iphone-compatibility

Apple says iMessage on Android ‘will hurt us more than help us’

Apple knows that iMessage’s blue bubbles are a big barrier to people switching to Android, which is why the service has never appeared on Google’s mobile operating system. That’s according to a court filing from Epic Games.

The Verge
May 15, 2023 at 7:52pmWeb
Show threadDrew MochakMay 15, 2023
@shauna Yep that's the one! :)