SimplicITy PC has simple interface aimed at seniors
updated 04:55 pm EST, Wed November 11, 2009
SimplicITy PC aimed at seniors new to Internet
A UK SimplicITy branded desktop computer is being made for first-time PC and Internet users who are over 60 years old. The simple interface has just six buttons that lead to commonly used tasks or applications such as e-mail, chat, documents, and the Internet in a main screen labeled Square One. There is also an About Me and video tutorial page.
The video tutorial page has UK TV presenter Valerie Singleton going through 17 step by step instructional videos seniors can watch to get familiarized with their system's functions and how to use them.
The SimplicITy computer takes two weeks to build and can be ordered and delivered by mail. It was developed in conjunction with Wessex Computers and Valerie Singleton.
Other features of the PC aimed to ease computing for seasoned beginners include the lack of a log-in screen and no drop-down menus. The e-mail is set up through Eldy, an Italian system which allows users with the same eldy.org address to chat. The operating system is Linux, which can be customized by users and keeps costs down.
The SimplicITy desktops are so far only available in the UK, priced at the equivalent of $726. [via BBC]
