Apple has once again changed the technological landscape with the debut of the multipurpose iPad tablet. Among other neat things, one can check e-mail, listen to music, and read a book with the iPad. But, as the Wall Street Journal points out, “the unveiling of Apple Inc.’s iPad renews a classic gadget debate: Do consumers want purpose-built devices that do one thing and one thing well, or all-in-one wonders that try to accomplish many different tasks?”
This question cuts to the heart of the difference between the single-purpose Kindle and the multi-functional iPad, two products that allow you to download a book and read it electronically on the go. This contrast seems to be of particular interest to the senior consumer, who might require a product with certain elder friendly features.
The Kindle uses black and white electronic ink, while the iPad is equipped with a bright color touchscreen. The reason for the dissimilarity is pretty straightforward: the Kindle only performs one task – providing electronic books. Because black and white electronic ink is easier on the eyes than color, it makes sense for the Kindle to use only black and white. But just because it might be easier to look at a Kindle for a prolonged period of time, that doesn’t necessary make it a better product for everyone. The iPad color screen might strain the eyes a tad bit more than the Kindle, but because the product does more, it needs color. Think about it this way: no one wants to watch black and white Youtube videos.
Back to the broader question though — do we want a gadget that performs one task flawlessly or a gadget that performs numerous tasks adequately but not perfectly? We don’t have a simple answer to his dilemma but just a series of general suggestions and thoughts:
-At this stage of the game, the Kindle isn’t better or worse than the iPad for seniors in general. It’s just different.
-It is crucial to assess your personal needs. If you have ailing eyesight and your eyes are sensitive to brightness, then something like the iPad wouldn’t be a good buy. However, if you respond better to colors than black and white, then maybe you should consider the iPad over the Kindle.
-What do you want your gadget to do? If you don’t care about e-mail, the internet, music, or iPhone-like applications, then maybe you don’t need to invest in an iPad, which is more expensive than a Kindle.
-Simplicity is key but just because a product has more functions, that doesn’t necessarily mean it is complex or difficult to manage. In other words, don’t be scared of the iPad just because it does more.
The iPad doesn’t officially hit the market until March and we are very interested to see how senior buyers respond. E-mail us or post comments about your initial impressions on the product! Likewise, if you had to pick between a Kindle or an iPad, what would you decide?
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