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Gadgets Have Consumers Crying for Help

Buyers frustrated by problems with cell phones, internet access and computers

By Peter Fearon,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 17, 2008 1:46 AM CST
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(Newser) – Digital technology plays a key role in the lives of most Americans, but it's often too complex, frustrating, and prone to failure, a study by the Pew Research Center finds. Nearly half of consumers said they regularly need help setting up a device, learning how to use it, or solving problems, reports the San Francisco Chronicle. Among researchers' findings:

 

  • 44% of consumers reported that their home Internet access failed at least once.
  • 39% of respondents said their computer didn't work properly.
  • 29% of cell phone users said that their phones didn't operate properly.
  • 26% of those with PDAs, such as BlackBerrys, reported a failure.

A new survey says consumers find new technology too complex and prone to failure.
A new survey says consumers find new technology too complex and prone to failure.   (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
A New York photographer checks out the new 13-inch Macbook at the Apple Store in New York. A new study says consumers too often find new technology too complex and prone to failure.
A New York photographer checks out the new 13-inch Macbook at the Apple Store in New York. A new study says consumers too often find new technology too complex and prone to failure.   (AP Photos/Bebeto Matthews)
A woman speaks on her cell phone. A new survey says consumers find new technology too complex and prone to failure.
A woman speaks on her cell phone. A new survey says consumers find new technology too complex and prone to failure.   (AP photo/Daniel Luna)
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COMMENTS
Showing 1 of 1 comment
Guest
Nov 17, 2008 2:18 AM CST
Gosh,problems with technology!! OMG!! You know where you can shove all that junk......

Gadget survey finds many bugs can't be fixed
Associated Press

When technology fails
Pew Research Center

Technology • Money • US

 
technology • Internet • Comcast • cell phones • iPod • BlackBerry • Pew Internet and American Life Project • MP3s • Pew Research Center • Internet access • consumers

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