COMMENTS

14 responses to “Open Thread Update: Dumbest “Smart” Technology”

1. I have used computers at work for years, and thought I was ok. But as things get more complicated, I’m constantly frustrated. What happened to the “on” and “off” buttons we used to love. I have 3 cats & bought an automatic kitty litter machine. It’s great but do I really want my phone to tell me each time a cat goes to the bathroom? I think not. That’s a bit more than I need to know.

   Reply to Sharon Riley

2. Recently, I’ve been looking at home decor videos because I’m moving into a new COOP and am interested in ideas. One of the things I’ve noticed that makes no sense to me are lamps that are controlled by an app. I’m sure it would be a lot easier and faster to just walk over to a traditional lamp and turn it on rather than my taking time to find the phone then open an app just to turn on a lamp.

   Reply to Vivian Y.

3. I’m unusual for a 68 year old, in that I was raised with computers beginning in the early 1960s. Part of my job now is helping other people with computer issues, & the biggest issue is their feeling intimidated. I remind them their computers & other devices are just machines. They aren’t “smart” they are fast, & speed is their only advantage over humans. No home computerized device can store anywhere near the 2,500,000 gigabyte capacity of the adult human brain, nor can it reason. No fear!

   Reply to Catherine Gervasio

4. I am truly amazed and a bit saddened that no commenter was sickened by the continual foul language in the video. Call me anything you like but I really thought the AARP population believed in a more gentile personage. We are Not Millennials.

   Reply to William G Jackson Jr

   1. I’m not thrilled with the language, either, but we were warned it was “wildly profane.” He is not a milennial, either, obviously. He just seems like a New Yorker ;) And it was GenX that first made the F bomb a part of daily language, not millenials. I’ve learned to filter it out.

      Reply to Catherine Gervasio

5. Not so smart. I don’t want anything cooking in my house if I’m not home,. Does the pot or oven have a fire extinguisher to put out a fire.

   Reply to Linda Hearn

6. I have to confess that I only read this article because it said “smart toothbrush”. I did not realize such a thing existed. So, I investigated. And quickly realized that my idea of smart is different than the toothbrush’s. While it may time how long I brushed my teeth ( my simple electric already does that); it does not tell me to floss or use mouthwash. It does not fly into my bedroom when I’ve collapsed on my bed exhausted and make me get up and brush my teeth (my mother used to do that).

   Reply to Bonnie Miller

7. LOL, literally, & I agree, mostly. I will point out, however, some smart appliance features are really great & in most cases not connecting the device to wi-fi doesn’t affect its ability to perform its basic function. For example, my coffee maker can hook up to the internet, save exactly how each user wants their coffee, & tell you when you are running low on which variety, even placing orders if you want. But if not connected you just enter your choices each time & keep your own inventory.

   Reply to Catherine Gervasio

   1. Loved your reply.I do think we learn what we find useful and ignore what we don’t want. However, the learning what we want can be stressful. I remember my first computer and talkng to tech help. He had me turn it on and later said turn it off. I told him there was no “off” button. He kept telling me where to find it and I told him it wasn’t there. FINALLY, I realized the “off” button was the same button that said “on”. Why didn’t it say “on/off” like my TV did? Live and learn.

      Reply to Bonnie Miller

8. Solicito info que aplicacion es es mas conveniente para traduccion
   audio de clases de Senior Planet de ingles al espanol gratis

   Reply to Susana Leonoff

9. Funny video, but I’m amazed that he has a PAPER instruction manual.

   Reply to Ann

   1. Right?! I love paper manuals (when they’re well written, that is, which most no longer are) and hardly anyone supplies them. What if I need information and I’m out of internet range? Also, a book never needs to be recharged or get new batteries!

      Reply to Catherine Gervasio

10. Do I really need to turn the heat down through mr phone, I have an old fashioned clock thermostat for that. Why do I have to have a subscription to watch TV? They still push ads even if you pay. Door bells that send a signal to let you know someone is at the door. If I am away, they can leave a calling card. Computer browsers that follow your every click then sell your information. When did the world need so many cameras? There is no privacy anywhere. Happy to not be my children’s age!

    Reply to Michael F

11. My LG washer dryer combo. That machine is like a space ship. I feel like a dumb bell every time I use it. I can’t believe that a piece of machinery is making me nervous.

    Reply to Vicki Lehrer