Rather than competing for the attention of the same people, these items appeal to different groups of people with identifiable characteristics. Computers and internet appliances are both here to stay. Recent studies report on the acquisition and use of computers by adults age 55 and up living in their own homes. They report that older adults are increasingly interested in computer technology with approximately six million owning personal computers. These users report that they primarily do word processing, play games, manage personal finances and do desktop publishing.
Internet appliances are similar to cable TV in many ways.
They pay a monthly fee for access to e-mail and the world wide web, and special features to support their use. Currently, software for word processing, financial management, and desktop publishing are not available through internet appliances. Most people already have a television. The cost of a printer would be the same for both systems. Personal computers are like the fancy cameras that photographers use, and most people who are comfortable with their PCs are like professional photographers.