Metro is a change, but it’s a new layer atop an old one. And for companies like Apple, willingness to adapt and not adopt has become a guiding principle.

Reverse scrolling is a simple but precise example of this. In terms of usability it makes sense, but to a number of users it’s disconcerting having to rethink something that’s been engrained in muscle memory for decades.

Yes, it makes sense to have the screen shift in the direction your finger pulls with iOS devices, but why carry it to legacy devices where tradition clearly states the opposite?

Because it made sense to someone, and so they pulled the trigger on it. Ultimately their willingness to make such a decision is telling. It’s almost less a matter of usability, and more a sign of clear decision making.

Most companies have a wishy-washy process of leading design changes from intern to product manager to oversight committee to department head to etc. It requires clear focus and someone willing to take responsibility for their actions.

So when you ask why natural scrolling, instead think why other companies have been so complacent as not to try it.

Further reading:

• Michael Agger - It’s Only Natural via Dave Winer