In a world populated by gadgets with increasingly varied and complex capabilities, there stand out a lone few that do just one thing really well. The iPod is one classic example, and earlier this month another was released that may even have the potential to attain as devoted a consumer following, if the early blogs are any indication.
It's called Peek, and its creators say it's the world's first device designed for and dedicated to mobile email. Whereas email-capable smartphones can be bulky as well as complicated, the Peek's lightweight, slim design makes it easy to take along. Featuring a large colour display and full keypad, the device uses scroll navigation and can be used to access up to three email accounts. Peek offers nationwide coverage throughout the United States and is compatible with most major email providers. Perhaps best of all, using Peek involves no contracts, credit checks or activation fees. To get started, all users need do is enter their e-mail address and password. The device, available online and in Target stores, is priced at USD 99.95, with unlimited emails for USD 19.95 per month. Colours available include black cherry and aqua blue in addition to the more standard charcoal grey.
Multifeatured devices are all well and good for those with the interest and know-how to learn how to use them. But sometimes, simplicity is more appealing—everything in its place, so to speak, doing what it does best. Maybe it's time to let the iPhones and Androids of the world (or your industry's equivalent) duke it out while you quietly simplify, simplify. (Related: Phone for boomers and their parents.)
Website: www.getpeek.com
Contact: contact@getpeek.com
Spotted by: Matte Chi & Zena Hockley
While I appreciate the idea of one device that does one thing well, I question whether there is really room for something like this in a marketplace filled with mobile email devices.
The ipod revolutionized the music industry, but its sales are now suffering because of the iphone and it's ability to incorporate the capabilities of ipods and smartphones into one device.
At $19.99 a month you can pretty much upgrade any cellphone plan to receive email. I will be interested to see if this catches on, but it almost feels like it is several years too late, with the marketplace screaming for consolidation and all-in-one devices.
F A N T A S T I C O !
what I really like about this is that you have a choice of whether you want to bring your email with you. Sometimes on the weekend I dread making a call on my BB because I don't want see my email (likewise if I'm on vacation), although I really need the ability to check it when I'm not in the office. I was thinking about getting a second phone, but this would actually be a lot better.
I'm seriously considering tossing the BB and the $40 extra per month fee, switching to a basic phone and one of these...