over 9 years ago from TJ Taylor, Design Director @ Benchmark
Hey DN,
Where did the 3 Dot Menu come from? Does anyone know? I have noticed it popping up everywhere.
What are your thoughts on it, do you use it in your design? What are some of the best ways you've seen it used?
Here is what i'm referring to: http://note.io/1jDg5TE
Ahhh I came across an interesting article on the issue. I have seen it used more in place of the hamburger style menu in more high profile spots though recently.
I first noticed it in the dropbox iOS app, but I'm not sure if that's first use of the 3 dots.
Definitely an ellipses, hinting that there's more to be seen. Pretty similar to the hamburger menu in terms of function.
Instagram has also used it for as long as I can remember, for flagging, sharing: http://socialchacha.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/photo-5.png
Oh yeah... that's right. I wonder if this is one of the first appearances
It's an Ellipsis.
Other than it's regular usage in text, I've not used it as a standalone menu icon, although by definition it's not entirely inappropriate.
Isn't it based on an Ellipsis, eg something is cut off and there is more to see? Either way yeah, it's dotty.
Hmmm I definitely think your right that Ellipsis is probably the preferred nomenclature. But I might secretly like dotty menu.
Login to Comment
You'll need to log in before you can leave a comment.
LoginRegister Today
New accounts can leave comments immediately, and gain full permissions after one week.
Register now