As computers become a commodity, manufacturers are scrambling to install new features that will give their laptops a competitive advantage.
In the race for new high-tech add-ons, however, many companies forget to consider how useful flashy new features will be for the actual users.
Consider two innovations I've recently seen.
The Apple Macbook has a magnetic power connector that automatically detaches when pressure is applied to the cord.
The Toshiba Satellite has a fingerprint scanner designed to prevent unauthorized users from accessing the computer.
Are both of those inventions cool? Of course. But do they add value?
As a laptop user, it's not always possible to make sure my power cords are out of harm's way. Therefore, the magnetic power connector has direct benefits for me as a user.
It's wonderful to know that, even if someone does trip and yank on the cord, the worst thing that could happen to my laptop would be me forgetting to plug it back in. The temporarily dead battery would be tragic, of course, but I'm sure I would survive.
On the other hand, I'm not thrilled with the fingerprint scanner. As I am unfortunately not the CEO of a major corporation nor an exciting high-tech spy, I don't feel that a fingerprint scanner is necessary.
And the possible problems are glaringly obvious.
What if the fingerprint scanner breaks? Then I wouldn't be able to log-on. What if the laptop breaks and I have to send it in for repair? Then the repair facility wouldn't be able to log-on unless there's a back door into the computer.
And if there's a back door, wouldn't a hacker be able to figure that out? Then what's the point of a fingerprint scanner?
It feels to me that Toshiba added an expensive new gadget to accomplish a task that could be solved through a simple article in the user's manual about how to choose a very secure password.
Therefore, in conclusion:
Apple's magnetic power connector is a fresh new idea because it has a direct and tangible benefit for the actual computer user.
Toshiba's fingerprint scanner, on the other hand, is a not-so-fresh idea that goes for flash value instead of real value.
Both innovations add on to the cost of the computer. But are both worth the extra cost? Which would you rather have?
I know what you mean about the magnetic cord, it's already saved my MacBook's life once!
Posted by: Mark McGuinness | June 04, 2007 at 06:07 AM
Excellent illustrations and observations.
Posted by: MikeRitter | December 29, 2007 at 12:06 PM