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Lifestyle Computers, the Next Big Thing?
Anonymous Howard asks: "Lifestyle computers, otherwise known as 'computers with everything contained in a single unit', are extremely popular in Japan, where living spaces are much smaller then in the North America. Probably the most popular that I know of that was released are the Apple iMacs. Many of the major manufactures like Sony and HP have released Lifestyle computers, like the Sony PCV-W20. What I like to see are the unique stylings from companies I've never heard of over in Japan, like the Sotec Afina AS7180AV, I think it looks somewhat like a high heel shoe from the side. How many of you would find these types of computers useful? In particular, if you are living in a space where you are not cramped for space, would you ever buy one? Are there any other interesting machines like the Sonys/Afina/new iMacs that not only have function, but act as a stylish addition to the room?"
I didn't look at these particular ones, but ones I've seen in the past have been underpowered and non-upgradeable, and haven't been too great at compatibility (proprietary parts for size). These same features make them difficult to repair if a part goes bad.
This removes the gamer and geek markets.
It could be good as a POS typing/intarweb kiosk, but they're generally too expensive given the purpose.
I guess the niche is the stupid rich (like that dilbert comic where dogbert has the Punnet-type square showing stupid/smart and rich/poor and saying stupid/rich is the target market), and seem to buy a lot - maybe it's not such a dumb idea (for the company) after all.
These "lifestyle" machines have all the disadvantages of a notebook - with none of the advantages:
* Performance is questionable
* They're not upgradable.
* They're not portable.
* They're expensive.
They kind of look like toys, too. I don't think they would be taken seriously by fans of notebooks or fans of desktops.
How many of you would find these types of computers useful?
You have to be in the market for a notebook computer and a desktop - and be willing to settle on something with the disadvantages of both. The technically inclined would already have a bias towards a more complete solution (full-function immobile desktop / mobile notebook). So I can only see these devices selling to the clueless, to the occasional computer users, or where fashion and looks are more important (secretary's machine on the front-desk / high-end shops, etc).
In particular, if you are living in a space where you are not cramped for space, would you ever buy one?
Not a chance. Full-function and lower price would win out any time. And even if space were a premium, I'd buy a notebook computer instead of one of these "lifestyle" machines:
* In cramped living spaces, it's preferable to use a notebook computer while lying in bed - or while lounging on the sofa. You can even take your work with you to a local cafe.
* In cramped work environments I could see the appeal, but it's still going to be more expensive than a mini-ATX cube case and separate flat panel.
* In cramped mobile work environments (back of a truck, car, plane, hot-air balloon), I imagine the lower power consumption of a notebook would be desirable.
You fail to remember that the hardcore geeks you talk about represent such an insignificant portion of the buying population that they don't matter for sales.
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