How is having an open menu that blocks input NOT a mode? Using your arrow keys will move menu items, enter will select menu items, letters will also often switch menu items attempting to find a menu item with that letter, and getting out of it requires additional clicks or hitting escape.
Ditto the multi window scenario. You have to actively change focus between windows (often between windows in the same application), until which time the application doesn't respond as you expect it to.
Another great example: spreadsheets. You're in one of two modes, editing a cell or moving around cells. Often without great feedback of which mode you're in.
Ditto the multi window scenario. You have to actively change focus between windows (often between windows in the same application), until which time the application doesn't respond as you expect it to.
Another great example: spreadsheets. You're in one of two modes, editing a cell or moving around cells. Often without great feedback of which mode you're in.
Modal interfaces are everywhere.