Edit: Oh dear. It was good while the belief lasted. Another one of Google's absolutely convincing April Fool's. No wonder the "beta testers" were nowhere on a Google search result. It seems that many actually fell for this, and some are convinced it's a good idea. If you think this idea is good and can work, be heartened. Read this: Email by Snail Mail.
One man's folly is another's business idea.
The old post below:
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In the battle of Email products, no one saw this coming: Gmail Paper. Gmail now giving FREE printed sets of all email for the paper-loving folks. I am speechless. This is a WOW! product. Didn't anticipate, but really needed it!
Features:
* Free
* Attachments included
* Securely handled
* Postage cost covered by ads
* Unlimited number of pages
* Environment-friendly: "made out of 96% post-consumer organic soybean sputum, and thus, actually helps the environment."
Beta User Testimonial:
"I've always felt uneasy about the whole internet thing. With the help of Gmail Paper, now I'm taking matters back into my own hands, literally."
Kevin S., CEO AdventaStar Inc.
My Review:
I've been un-digitizing my life lately - realizing that technology was supposed to save us time, not crate more pressure on time. And that we need a "technology mix" with new and old technology - whichever suits our personal needs.
I like Gmail Paper on another level too. Google remembers that it's here to "organize the world's information and make it universally accessible and useful." It's NOT here for email. Many, many companies get lost in the product, and lose sight of the purpose of the product. It's an old marketing dilemma. Seems like Google is focused on its purpose, undistracted. Good!
Gmail Paper: Surprise Paper Mail by Google
Gmail Paper: Surprise Paper Mail By Google
Trend Themes
1. Digitization Reversal - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the trend of un-digitizing products or services to cater to those who prefer a more traditional approach to technology.
2. Physical Email - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create a service that converts digital emails into physical mail, providing a tangible communication experience for users.
3. Eco-friendly Printing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop sustainable printing solutions by using environmentally friendly materials and printing processes.
Industry Implications
1. Technology - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introduce a new line of products that combines the convenience of digital technology with the familiarity of traditional tangible products.
2. Printing & Publishing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create innovative printing services that cater to the increasing demand for physical copies of digital content.
3. E-commerce - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Build an e-commerce platform that offers custom printing services for users who prefer physical copies of digital content.