Smartphone Web: A Revolution in Browsing

Smartphone web sets the stage for this enthralling narrative, offering readers a glimpse into a story that is rich in detail and brimming with originality from the outset.

The rise of the smartphone web has dramatically reshaped the way we access information and interact with the world around us. From the humble beginnings of early mobile browsers to the sophisticated and seamless experiences we enjoy today, the smartphone web has undergone a remarkable evolution. This journey has been fueled by technological advancements, shifting user expectations, and a constant drive for innovation. This exploration will delve into the key aspects of this digital landscape, examining its history, design principles, underlying technologies, and the profound impact it has had on society.

The Evolution of Smartphone Web Browsing

The evolution of smartphone web browsing has been a remarkable journey, transforming from a rudimentary experience to a seamless and integral part of our digital lives. The journey from the early days of limited connectivity and basic browsers to the sophisticated, interactive, and visually rich web experiences we enjoy today is a testament to the rapid advancements in technology.

The Early Days of Smartphone Web Browsing

The early days of smartphone web browsing were characterized by limited connectivity, small screens, and basic browsers. The first smartphones, released in the late 1990s and early 2000s, had limited internet capabilities, often relying on slow 2G networks. Browsers were basic, with limited features and slow loading times. The user experience was often frustrating, with pages taking a long time to load and difficult to navigate on small screens.

The Rise of 3G and Touchscreen Interfaces

The introduction of 3G networks in the mid-2000s marked a significant turning point in smartphone web browsing. Faster data speeds allowed for quicker page loading, making the browsing experience more enjoyable. The emergence of touchscreen interfaces revolutionized the way people interacted with their smartphones, providing a more intuitive and user-friendly way to browse the web. Browsers like Opera Mini, which optimized web pages for smaller screens, gained popularity, further improving the browsing experience.

The Era of 4G and Mobile-First Websites

The arrival of 4G networks in the late 2000s and early 2010s ushered in an era of high-speed mobile internet. This significantly improved the browsing experience, enabling users to access websites and content faster and with greater ease. The rise of mobile-first websites, designed specifically for smaller screens and touch interactions, further enhanced the user experience. These websites offered optimized layouts, intuitive navigation, and responsive design, making them ideal for browsing on smartphones.

The Impact of Technological Advancements

Several technological advancements have contributed to the improvement of smartphone web browsing:

• Faster Network Speeds: The transition from 2G to 3G and then to 4G and 5G has dramatically increased internet speeds, enabling users to browse the web with greater speed and efficiency.
• Improved Hardware: Smartphones have become more powerful, with faster processors, larger RAM, and high-resolution displays, enhancing the browsing experience.
• Responsive Web Design: Responsive web design allows websites to adapt to different screen sizes, ensuring optimal viewing on all devices, including smartphones.
• Mobile-First Indexing: Google’s mobile-first indexing prioritizes websites optimized for mobile devices, making it easier for users to find and access relevant content on their smartphones.
• Progressive Web Apps (PWAs): PWAs combine the best features of native apps and websites, offering a faster, more engaging, and app-like experience on smartphones.

Smartphone Web Design and Development

Designing websites specifically for smartphone users presents unique challenges and considerations. The small screen size, touch-based interaction, and varying network conditions demand a different approach compared to traditional desktop website design.

Responsive Web Design

Responsive web design is crucial for delivering an optimal user experience across diverse screen sizes. This approach ensures that websites adapt seamlessly to different devices, from small smartphones to large desktops.

Responsive web design allows websites to adjust their layout and content based on the screen size and orientation of the device accessing them.

The key to responsive web design is using CSS media queries, which allow developers to define different styles for different screen sizes. For example, a website might display a single column layout on a smartphone, but switch to a two-column layout on a tablet or desktop. This flexibility ensures that content remains legible and easily navigable on any device.

Best Practices for Optimizing Websites for Mobile Devices

Optimizing websites for mobile devices involves several best practices:

• Prioritize Content: Mobile users often have limited attention spans and may be browsing on the go. Therefore, prioritize the most essential content and present it in a clear and concise manner.
• Use Large Fonts: Small screens require larger fonts to ensure readability. Avoid using overly small fonts that strain the eyes.
• Minimize Scrolling: Keep content above the fold, meaning the content that is visible without scrolling. This reduces scrolling and encourages users to explore more of the website.
• Optimize Images: Images should be compressed and resized to reduce file sizes and improve loading times on mobile devices. Images should be optimized for mobile devices, ensuring they load quickly and don’t take up too much space on the screen.
• Use Touch-Friendly Elements: Buttons and other interactive elements should be large enough to be easily tapped with a finger. Avoid using elements that require precise mouse movements, as these can be difficult to interact with on a touchscreen.
• Consider Navigation: Mobile navigation should be simple and intuitive. Consider using a hamburger menu to conserve screen space and provide access to all website sections.
• Test Across Devices: Test the website on different smartphones and tablets to ensure it functions correctly and looks good on each device.

Mobile Web Technologies and Frameworks

Mobile web technologies and frameworks play a crucial role in building interactive and engaging experiences for users accessing the web on their smartphones. These technologies power the seamless navigation, responsiveness, and performance of mobile web applications, making them a vital part of the modern mobile web ecosystem.

HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript

These core technologies form the foundation of web development, enabling the creation of dynamic and interactive web experiences.

• HTML5 (HyperText Markup Language 5) is the latest version of the language used to structure the content of web pages. It offers a range of new features and improvements, including enhanced multimedia support, offline storage capabilities, and improved accessibility features. HTML5 simplifies the development process by providing standardized elements and attributes, making it easier to create responsive and mobile-friendly websites.
• CSS3 (Cascading Style Sheets 3) is the language used to style the appearance of web pages. It provides a wide range of styling options, including advanced layout techniques, animations, transitions, and gradients. CSS3 is essential for creating visually appealing and user-friendly mobile web experiences, ensuring that websites adapt seamlessly to different screen sizes and orientations.
• JavaScript is a programming language used to add interactivity and dynamic functionality to web pages. It allows developers to create responsive user interfaces, handle user input, manipulate data, and communicate with servers. JavaScript is crucial for creating engaging mobile web applications that respond to user actions and provide a dynamic browsing experience.

Mobile Web Frameworks

Mobile web frameworks provide pre-built components, libraries, and tools that simplify the development process for mobile web applications. They offer a structured approach to building responsive and performant web applications, allowing developers to focus on building unique features and functionalities.

• React Native is a popular framework developed by Facebook. It allows developers to build native mobile applications using JavaScript and React. React Native leverages native components, providing a smooth and performant user experience. It also offers a robust ecosystem of libraries and tools, making it a versatile framework for building cross-platform mobile applications.
• Ionic is a hybrid mobile app development framework that utilizes web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to build cross-platform mobile applications. It leverages Cordova, a framework that enables web applications to be packaged as native mobile apps. Ionic offers a wide range of pre-built UI components and tools, making it easier to create visually appealing and functional mobile applications.
• Sencha Ext JS is a comprehensive JavaScript framework for building enterprise-grade web applications. It provides a rich set of UI components, data management tools, and a robust architecture for building complex mobile web applications. Sencha Ext JS is known for its high performance and scalability, making it suitable for demanding mobile web projects.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Mobile Web Frameworks

Mobile web frameworks offer several advantages, including:

• Faster Development Time: Frameworks provide pre-built components and libraries, reducing the time required to build mobile web applications.
• Improved Code Reusability: Frameworks encourage code reuse, leading to more efficient development and reduced maintenance costs.
• Enhanced Performance: Many frameworks are optimized for performance, resulting in faster loading times and smoother user experiences.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Frameworks like React Native and Ionic allow developers to build mobile web applications that can run on multiple platforms, reducing development time and effort.

However, there are also some disadvantages to consider:

• Learning Curve: Some frameworks have a steep learning curve, requiring developers to invest time in understanding the framework’s concepts and syntax.
• Framework Dependencies: Mobile web applications built using frameworks may have dependencies on specific libraries and tools, which could impact the application’s flexibility and maintainability.
• Limited Customization: Some frameworks may limit customization options, making it challenging to create unique and distinctive mobile web applications.

Contribution to Functionality and Performance, Smartphone web

Mobile web technologies and frameworks significantly contribute to the functionality and performance of smartphone web browsing:

• Responsiveness and Adaptability: HTML5 and CSS3 enable websites to adapt to different screen sizes and orientations, ensuring a consistent and optimal user experience across various devices.
• Interactive User Experiences: JavaScript provides the foundation for creating dynamic and interactive user interfaces, allowing users to engage with web applications in a more intuitive and engaging way.
• Offline Access: HTML5’s offline storage capabilities allow users to access content even when they are not connected to the internet. This improves the user experience by providing access to essential information even in areas with limited connectivity.
• Enhanced Performance: Mobile web frameworks are optimized for performance, ensuring fast loading times and smooth user interactions. They often leverage native components and optimize code for efficient execution, resulting in a more responsive and enjoyable browsing experience.

User Experience (UX) on the Smartphone Web

The smartphone web has become an integral part of our lives, and a positive user experience is crucial for any website aiming to engage mobile users. Several key factors contribute to a seamless and enjoyable browsing experience on smartphones. This section will delve into the crucial aspects of user experience, including navigation, content accessibility, loading speed, and the impact of mobile-first design principles.

Navigation

Effective navigation is essential for users to easily find the information they need on a smartphone website. The limited screen size and touch-based interaction necessitate a clear and intuitive navigation structure.

Here are some key considerations for navigation on smartphone websites:

• Clear and Concise Menu Structure: The navigation menu should be simple and organized, with clear labels for each section. Avoid overly complex or nested menus, as they can be difficult to navigate on a small screen.
• Easy-to-Tap Buttons: Navigation buttons should be large enough to be easily tapped with a finger. Consider using a hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) to condense the navigation menu and conserve screen space.
• Intuitive Gestures: Smartphones offer a range of touch gestures that can enhance navigation. Utilize gestures like swiping, pinching, and tapping to create a more natural and engaging user experience.

Content Accessibility

Content accessibility is crucial for making smartphone websites usable for everyone, regardless of their abilities. This includes factors such as font size, color contrast, and the ability to zoom in on content.

Here are some key aspects of content accessibility for smartphone websites:

• Responsive Design: Websites should adapt to different screen sizes and resolutions, ensuring content remains readable and accessible on all devices. This can be achieved using CSS media queries.
• Large Font Sizes: Text should be large enough to be easily read on a small screen. Avoid using overly small font sizes, especially for body text.
• High Contrast: Use color combinations that provide sufficient contrast between text and background. This makes it easier for users with visual impairments to read content.
• Alternative Text for Images: Provide alternative text descriptions for images, which are read aloud by screen readers for visually impaired users.

Loading Speed

In the fast-paced world of mobile browsing, loading speed is paramount. Users expect websites to load quickly, and slow loading times can lead to frustration and abandonment.

Here are some key factors that influence loading speed on smartphone websites:

• Optimize Images: Images are often the largest files on a website, so optimizing them is crucial. Compress images without sacrificing quality to reduce file sizes.
• Minimize HTTP Requests: Each element on a website requires a separate HTTP request. Reducing the number of requests can significantly improve loading speed. Combine CSS and JavaScript files, and use image sprites to reduce the number of requests.
• Enable Caching: Caching allows browsers to store copies of website files locally, reducing the need to download them again on subsequent visits. This can significantly improve loading speed.
• Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN): CDNs distribute website content across multiple servers around the world, ensuring faster delivery to users regardless of their location.

Mobile-First Design Principles

Mobile-first design is a philosophy that prioritizes the mobile user experience. Websites designed with a mobile-first approach are optimized for small screens and touch interactions, providing a seamless experience on smartphones.

Here are some key principles of mobile-first design:

• Prioritize Essential Content: Focus on the most important content for mobile users, and remove or simplify less essential information.
• Large Touch Targets: Design buttons and other interactive elements to be large enough to be easily tapped with a finger.
• Simplified Navigation: Keep the navigation menu simple and easy to use, using a hamburger menu if necessary.
• Focus on Speed: Optimize for fast loading times, using techniques like image optimization and caching.

Examples of Websites with Excellent UX for Smartphone Users

Many websites excel in providing a positive user experience for smartphone users. Here are a few examples:

• Google: Google’s website is a prime example of a mobile-first design approach. The website is incredibly fast, with a simple and intuitive interface that prioritizes search functionality.
• Airbnb: Airbnb’s website is known for its beautiful design and user-friendly interface. The website is optimized for mobile browsing, with a clear navigation menu and easy-to-use booking features.
• Medium: Medium’s website is a great example of a website that focuses on content accessibility. The website uses a large font size, high contrast, and a clean design that makes it easy to read on a smartphone.

Mobile Web Security

The mobile web, while incredibly convenient, presents unique security risks that users must be aware of. These risks can range from data breaches to identity theft, making it crucial to adopt best practices for securing your smartphone browsing experience.

Understanding Mobile Web Security Risks

The mobile web environment is vulnerable to various security threats, including phishing, malware, and data breaches.

• Phishing involves fraudulent attempts to acquire sensitive information, such as login credentials and credit card details, by disguising as legitimate websites or communication channels. These deceptive tactics often employ social engineering techniques to trick users into revealing their personal data.
• Malware, malicious software designed to harm devices or steal data, can be downloaded unknowingly through infected apps, websites, or even malicious links shared through social media or email. This software can compromise user privacy, steal financial information, or even take control of the device.
• Data Breaches occur when sensitive information stored on a device or within a mobile web application is compromised, potentially exposing personal data, financial details, or other confidential information to unauthorized access. This can happen due to weak security measures, vulnerabilities in the application, or malicious attacks.

Best Practices for Secure Mobile Web Browsing

Several steps can be taken to enhance mobile web security and mitigate these risks.

• Use Strong Passwords: Create complex passwords that combine uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols for each account. Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts.
• Enable HTTPS: Always ensure that the websites you visit use HTTPS, indicated by a padlock icon in the address bar. HTTPS encrypts communication between your device and the website, making it harder for attackers to intercept data.
• Avoid Suspicious Links: Be cautious of links received via email, text messages, or social media, especially if they seem unexpected or too good to be true. Hover over the link to check the actual destination URL before clicking.
• Install and Update Security Software: Utilize mobile security software to scan for malware, protect against phishing attacks, and monitor app permissions. Ensure that the software is regularly updated to address new threats.
• Be Aware of App Permissions: Carefully review the permissions requested by apps before installing them. Only grant permissions that are absolutely necessary for the app’s functionality.
• Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet traffic and routes it through a secure server, making it harder for attackers to track your online activity or intercept your data.

Role of Mobile Security Software and Updates

Mobile security software plays a vital role in protecting user data by proactively scanning for malware, detecting phishing attempts, and blocking suspicious websites. These applications often provide features such as real-time protection, anti-theft capabilities, and app permission management.

Regularly updating your smartphone’s operating system and security software is crucial for maintaining a secure browsing environment. Updates often include security patches that address newly discovered vulnerabilities and enhance protection against emerging threats.

The Future of Smartphone Web Browsing

The smartphone web is constantly evolving, driven by advancements in technology and changing user behaviors. As we move forward, several trends are poised to shape the future of smartphone web browsing, creating a more immersive, personalized, and connected experience.

Progressive Web Apps (PWAs)

Progressive web apps (PWAs) are a game-changer in the world of mobile web browsing. They combine the best of web and native apps, offering a seamless and engaging user experience. PWAs are built with modern web technologies, enabling them to deliver app-like features while remaining accessible through a web browser. They are also responsive, adapting to different screen sizes and devices.

• PWAs are designed to work offline, allowing users to access content and functionality even when they don’t have an internet connection. This is particularly valuable in areas with limited connectivity or when users are on the move.
• PWAs offer push notifications, enabling developers to engage users proactively and deliver timely updates or reminders. This helps improve user engagement and retention.
• PWAs are installable, meaning users can add them to their home screen for quick and easy access, similar to native apps. This enhances the user experience by providing a more streamlined and integrated approach.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly important role in enhancing the smartphone web browsing experience. AI algorithms are being used to personalize content, improve search results, and provide more relevant recommendations.

• AI-powered search engines can understand user intent and provide more accurate and relevant search results, making it easier for users to find the information they need.
• AI can personalize content recommendations based on user preferences and browsing history, creating a more tailored and engaging experience.
• AI-powered chatbots can provide instant customer support and answer user queries, improving the overall user experience.

5G Technology

The arrival of 5G technology is set to revolutionize the mobile web experience. With significantly faster speeds and lower latency, 5G will enable a new era of mobile browsing, where users can enjoy seamless streaming, faster downloads, and more immersive experiences.

• 5G will enable faster loading times for web pages and apps, making the browsing experience smoother and more enjoyable.
• 5G will facilitate the development of more complex and data-intensive web applications, such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences.
• 5G will enable real-time interactions and communication, paving the way for new mobile gaming experiences and collaborative online platforms.

Mobile Web Analytics and Tracking

Mobile web analytics is the process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data about user behavior on websites accessed through mobile devices. It provides valuable insights into how users interact with websites, helping businesses understand user preferences, optimize website performance, and improve user experience.

Tools and Methods for Tracking Mobile Web Behavior

Mobile web analytics tools utilize various methods to track user behavior. These methods include:

• JavaScript Tracking: This involves embedding JavaScript code snippets on websites, which collect data about user actions, such as page views, clicks, and form submissions.
• Server-Side Tracking: This method involves tracking user behavior on the server side, collecting data about requests, responses, and other server-side events.
• SDK Integration: Mobile apps often integrate with analytics SDKs (Software Development Kits), which provide a framework for collecting and analyzing data specific to mobile app usage.
• Session Recording: Some tools capture user sessions, recording interactions with the website, providing a detailed understanding of user behavior.

Importance of Mobile Web Analytics

Mobile web analytics is crucial for understanding user behavior and optimizing website performance. It provides insights into:

• User Demographics: Understanding the age, gender, location, and other demographics of website visitors.
• User Engagement: Measuring user engagement metrics, such as bounce rate, time on page, and conversion rate, to identify areas for improvement.
• Content Performance: Assessing the performance of different content types, such as blog posts, product pages, and landing pages, to understand what resonates with users.
• Device and Browser Compatibility: Analyzing website performance across different devices and browsers to ensure a seamless user experience.

Ethical Considerations in Mobile Web Tracking

Mobile web tracking raises ethical concerns regarding user privacy. While analytics can provide valuable insights, it’s crucial to strike a balance between data collection and user privacy. Key ethical considerations include:

• Transparency: Users should be informed about what data is being collected, how it is used, and their options for opting out of tracking.
• Data Minimization: Only essential data should be collected, avoiding unnecessary tracking of personal information.
• Data Security: Collected data should be protected from unauthorized access and use, adhering to data privacy regulations.
• User Consent: Users should provide explicit consent before their data is collected and used for analytics purposes.

The Role of Mobile Apps in Smartphone Web Browsing

Mobile apps have become an integral part of the smartphone web browsing experience, offering specialized functionality and access to specific content that often surpasses the capabilities of traditional web browsers. While web browsers provide a universal platform for accessing information online, mobile apps offer a more tailored and often more engaging experience, catering to specific user needs and preferences.

The Relationship Between Mobile Apps and Smartphone Web Browsing

Mobile apps and smartphone web browsing are interconnected, with each complementing the other. Web browsers provide the foundation for accessing content online, while mobile apps enhance this experience by offering dedicated features and functionalities. For instance, a user might browse the web to find a restaurant, but then use a dedicated food delivery app to order a meal from that restaurant.

How Mobile Apps Enhance the Mobile Web Experience

Mobile apps enhance the mobile web experience by providing:

• Specialized Functionality: Mobile apps can provide functionalities that are difficult or impossible to implement within a web browser. Examples include using GPS location services for navigation apps, accessing camera and microphone functionalities for social media apps, or utilizing push notifications for communication apps.
• Offline Access: Many mobile apps allow users to access content offline, which is particularly useful for situations with limited or no internet connectivity. For instance, users can download music, podcasts, or ebooks through dedicated apps and access them even when they are offline.
• Personalized Content: Mobile apps can personalize content based on user preferences and behavior. This can include tailored news feeds, personalized recommendations, or customized settings.
• Faster Performance: Mobile apps are often optimized for specific devices and platforms, leading to faster loading times and smoother performance compared to web browsers.

Trade-offs Between Mobile Apps and Web Browsers

While mobile apps offer several advantages, there are also trade-offs to consider:

• Limited Functionality: Mobile apps are typically designed for specific tasks, which can limit their versatility compared to web browsers.
• App Store Dependence: Mobile apps are distributed through app stores, which can restrict user access to certain apps or limit their ability to customize app functionalities.
• Storage Consumption: Mobile apps require storage space on the device, which can become a concern for users with limited storage capacity.
• Security Concerns: Mobile apps can pose security risks if they are not developed and maintained properly. Users should be cautious about the permissions they grant to apps and ensure that they are downloading apps from reputable sources.

Smartphone Web Browsing Across Different Platforms

The smartphone web browsing experience is significantly influenced by the underlying operating system. Each platform boasts its unique strengths and weaknesses, impacting user experience, browser functionality, performance, and security. Understanding these differences is crucial for website designers and developers to create optimized experiences across various platforms.

Platform Differences and Their Impact on Web Browsing

The differences between iOS, Android, and Windows Phone impact website design and development in several ways. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors:

• Browser Functionality: Each platform features its native browser with varying functionalities and support for web standards. For instance, iOS’s Safari browser is known for its smooth performance and integration with the Apple ecosystem. Android, on the other hand, offers a wider range of browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, and Opera, with diverse functionalities and features. Windows Phone’s Internet Explorer, though less popular, provides a streamlined browsing experience.
• Performance: The processing power and hardware capabilities of the device significantly influence browsing performance. Generally, iOS devices tend to offer smoother browsing experiences due to their optimized hardware and software integration. Android devices, with their diverse hardware configurations, exhibit varying performance levels. Windows Phone devices, while catching up, often lag behind in terms of overall performance.
• Security: Each platform has its security measures in place to protect users from online threats. iOS’s closed ecosystem and strict app store policies contribute to a higher level of security. Android, being an open platform, faces challenges in maintaining security due to its fragmented nature. Windows Phone, though improving, still needs to catch up in terms of security features and app ecosystem maturity.
• User Interface: The user interface of each platform’s browser differs significantly, impacting user experience. iOS’s Safari browser features a minimalist design with a focus on speed and efficiency. Android browsers offer more customization options, while Windows Phone’s browser prioritizes a tile-based interface. These differences in user interface design can affect how users interact with websites and navigate the web.

The Impact of Smartphone Web Browsing on Society

The widespread adoption of smartphone web browsing has profoundly impacted society, reshaping how we consume information, interact with others, and conduct business. The mobile web has become an indispensable tool for communication, entertainment, education, and commerce, transforming our daily lives in ways we might not have imagined just a few decades ago.

The Transformation of Information Consumption

The mobile web has revolutionized how we access and consume information. We no longer need to rely on traditional media sources like newspapers, television, or radio for news and updates. With smartphones, we have access to a vast repository of information at our fingertips, anytime and anywhere. This has empowered individuals to become more informed and engaged citizens.

• Real-time News and Updates: Smartphones allow us to stay up-to-date with breaking news, weather forecasts, and other crucial information in real-time. News apps and websites provide instant notifications, ensuring we are informed about events as they unfold. For example, during natural disasters or emergencies, smartphone web browsing enables people to receive critical updates and alerts, potentially saving lives.
• Access to Diverse Perspectives: The mobile web offers access to a wide range of perspectives and opinions on various topics. We can explore different news sources, read blog posts, and engage in online discussions, fostering a more diverse and nuanced understanding of the world.
• On-demand Information: Smartphones have made information readily available on demand. We can quickly research any topic, access educational resources, or learn new skills through online courses and tutorials. This has democratized knowledge and made learning more accessible than ever before.

End of Discussion

The smartphone web is not just a technological marvel; it’s a powerful force that has fundamentally altered the way we live, work, and connect with each other. As technology continues to evolve, the smartphone web will undoubtedly continue to play a central role in shaping our digital future. The possibilities are boundless, and the journey ahead promises to be as exciting as it is transformative.

The smartphone web has become an essential part of our lives, offering access to information, entertainment, and communication. However, the constant use and potential for accidental drops make the durability of smartphones a significant concern. Fortunately, advancements in materials and design have led to devices that are more resistant to damage, allowing us to confidently navigate the digital world with our trusty companions.