Sometimes, before going to sleep, I thinking different strange thoughts)) Why "info" icon looks like that? - is stuck in my brain yesterday's night =)
The "info" icon, often represented by the letter "i" inside a circle, is a universally recognized symbol for "information." Here's why it looks like that:
Simplicity: Symbols need to be easily identifiable and universally understood. The lowercase "i" is simple, clean, and instantly recognizable.
International Recognition: The letter "i" is used in many languages to represent the word "information" or its equivalents, making it a good choice for global contexts.
Clarity: Other symbols might carry multiple meanings or could be misinterpreted based on context or cultural differences. A letter from the alphabet, especially one that's widely associated with "information", has a lower risk of misinterpretation.
Evolution of Icons: Over time, as graphical user interfaces (GUIs) developed, designers aimed to create symbols that are easy to reproduce, viewable at various sizes (from tiny mobile icons to larger signs), and legible across different mediums. The "i" inside a circle meets all these criteria.
**Consistency: **Once an icon becomes widely accepted and recognized, there's a strong incentive to continue using it for consistency's sake. This ensures that users across different platforms or using different software can immediately understand the symbol's meaning.
Design Balance: The circle around the "i" gives it a balanced and centered look, making it more visually appealing and easier to spot in a range of contexts.
The "info" icon's design is a testament to the power of simplicity in iconography. Its design allows it to be instantly recognized and understood, fulfilling its purpose of signifying where additional information can be found.
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