When comparing modern mobile app iconography to ancient writing systems such as Egyptian hieroglyphics or Mayan pictographs, it is evident that both types use images to transmit concepts swiftly. For example, consider the “mail” icon in many mobile apps—a basic envelope indicating communication, similar to how Egyptian glyphs employed animals or symbols to describe activities or concepts. Both systems rely on learned metaphors: comprehending an envelope implies “message” in today’s context, much as understanding a bird glyph may signify “soul” or “flying” in ancient times.

Ancient writings, such as Sumerian cuneiform, also served a utilitarian purpose, conveying abstract concepts like ownership or numbers. Similarly, modern icons have evolved as universally known symbols for digital actions: the “trash bin” icon represents deletion, using the physical metaphor of throwing something away. To interact effectively, modern app users must understand the context behind icons, just as they would learn the meanings of ancient scripts.