Mark Bridge writes:

The mobile user interface seems to fall in and out of fashion. Nokia and Apple have both transformed the mobile UI in previous years… but still the challenge of creating the 'perfect' user interface design remains.

This focus on mobile usability is the main topic of today's special podcast, which includes Chris Millington of Doro UK and Jerome Nadel from MobiWire.

Mobile usability is the main topic of this special podcast, which includes Chris Millington from Doro UK and Jérôme Nadel of MobiWire (recorded at Mobile World Congress). Conversation topics include the user interface, encouraging usage and designing mobile phones to suit a specific customer group.

Ofcom has issued a consultation about a number of changes it needs to make by 25th May 2011, which is a deadline set by the EU for new telecoms laws to be in place.

These include mobile number portability, SMS access to emergency services and contract terms.

Vodafone UK has set up a commission-free text donation number for customers wishing to donate to the Red Cross New Zealand earthquake appeal.

UK Vodafone customers can make a £5 donation to the Red Cross by texting NZQUAKE to 70801. The donation will be taken from the customer's 'pay as you talk' credit or added to their 'pay monthly' bill.

A new report from telecoms analyst Ovum says mobile operators are in danger of underestimating the threat that Facebook poses.

Mobile Social Networking: change driver & key players states that operators tend to view Facebook as a non-competitive presence to partner with. However, it suggests that Facebook’s ambitions spread much wider than simply being a social network.