The ePad Femme, a new tablet designed exclusively for women from Middle-Eastern Eurostar, is generating some controversy for what some are perceiving as insulting to women.
The tablet comes pre-loaded with apps that Eurostar thinks that Middle-Eastern women will want to use, such as Yoga, cooking, shopping and weight loss. The ePad Femme also comes pre-loaded with a bright pink background. Some consumers are upset at the idea that women aren't tech-savvy enough to download their own apps and the presumptuous nature of the color and app choices. Eman Al Nafjan, a Saudi feminist blogger is quoted in the original Mashable article as saying that since Saudi women aren't allowed to drive or travel without a male relative, they end up spending lots of time at home and online.
Perhaps this is all just a misunderstanding and Eurostar just wanted to release a product for the less tech-savvy women in their market segment? Either way, the optics could be better.
Gender Specific Tablets
The ePad Femme is a Tablet Designed for Women and is Causing Controversy
Trend Themes
1. Gender-specific Technology - Opportunity for companies to develop innovative and inclusive technology solutions that cater to specific gender preferences.
2. Personalized Pre-loaded Apps - Potential for customization of devices with pre-loaded apps tailored to individual user needs and interests.
3. Controversial Marketing Strategies - Growing importance of ethical and inclusive marketing approaches to avoid backlash and negative consumer perception.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - Opportunity for tech companies to develop gender-specific devices and software solutions.
2. App Development - Rise in demand for customizable apps that cater to individual preferences and interests.
3. Marketing and Advertising - Growing need for inclusive and socially responsible marketing strategies to avoid controversy and backlash.