Company
Date Published
Author
Reda Attarça
Word count
2017
Language
-
Hacker News points
None

Summary

The hamburger menu icon, an efficient space-saving tool in user interface design, has become integral in modern digital interfaces, especially with the rise of mobile devices. Originally created by Norm Cox at Xerox Parc in 1981, it gained prominence in 2009 as smartphones demanded more efficient use of screen space. While offering streamlined interfaces by hiding less critical options, the hamburger menu faces challenges like reduced discoverability and increased interaction costs, particularly for less tech-savvy users. To mitigate these drawbacks, designers must carefully decide which elements to include and consider platform-specific navigation preferences, such as prioritizing tab bars on iOS while employing burger menus more frequently on Android. Alternatives like veggie burger, kebab, and bento icons offer diverse approaches to UI design, catering to different functionalities and visual identities. Designers are encouraged to balance minimalism with discoverability, ensuring essential features remain accessible while employing thoughtful design practices to enhance usability.