Screen real estate

Grrrrr · 10 Nov 2011 at 13:50

Where on earth did this phrase come from and why has everyone started using it all of a sudden? We don't even use the term 'real estate' when talking about houses in the UK, never mind bloody mobile phone screens!

Apologies for the pointless thread, that is all.

True_Scotsman · 10 Nov 2011 at 13:52

Ive heard it being used for a while now, never used it myself though.

Robbo · 10 Nov 2011 at 13:56

It isn't being used that much really?

loltim · 10 Nov 2011 at 14:04

never heard of it?

krooton · 10 Nov 2011 at 14:41

It's been a term used to discuss both computer monitors and tvs for years, and as mobiles have screens too, people use it.

Luke · 10 Nov 2011 at 14:53

krooton said:
It's been a term used to discuss both computer monitors and tvs for years, and as mobiles have screens too, people use it.

Pretty much. I've used the term for years, mainly when talking about useable screen sizes. Most people think there is no difference between a 17" widescreen and 17" 4:3 monitor but the useable space ("screen real estate") is significantly different.