When advertising high-tech products, commonly referred to as Hi-tech gadgets, manufacturers often intentionally overlook their shortcomings.
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Using Hi-tech gadgets wisely means considering the “downsides” and drawbacks of each product rather than blindly trusting advertisements! |
Like everything in life, no matter how advanced they are, Hi-tech products come with their fair share of downsides that we need to consider when using them.
Nowadays, laptops are increasingly being integrated to become “all-in-one” devices, garnering admiration from many Hi-tech enthusiasts. However, apart from the price, few people want to mention the numerous weaknesses of laptops compared to desktop computers (PCs).
Due to their compact size, upgrading configurations and adding accessories can be quite complex and costly. When compared to desktops with similar configurations and features, laptops can be $300 to $500 more expensive while failing to meet the same operational demands.
The compact keyboards can be a hindrance for those who primarily use laptops for office work. Additionally, they are more prone to damage, often come with shorter warranties, and the battery life is always a concern. Advertisements may claim continuous usage for three hours, but in reality, many laptops shut down after just over an hour…
Accessories like USB devices that double as digital TV receivers and Wi-Fi cards seem to provide a mobile office experience; however, the quality of Internet connectivity and TV images is often spotty and doesn’t always deliver on the promised features.
Moreover, with laptops priced under $1,200, users often find themselves lugging around a hefty 8.4 kg device in a large bag, and any need for repair or replacement incurs “additional costs.”
Alongside the rush to purchase laptops, the trend of using PDAs combined with mobile phones is also in vogue. Yet, how many dare to speak about the flaws of their “beloved gadgets”?
The O2 mini was once a dream for many before the O2 Atom emerged, but those who have used it know the importance of never restarting or turning it off, as it risks losing all data.
Using one of the most modern devices while constantly worrying about battery life is genuinely frustrating. Many users proudly flaunt their “exclusive devices” for browsing the Internet or sending MMS to friends, or claim to use global positioning (GPRS), but with limited network support in Vietnam, these features often end up being more of a hassle than a benefit.
Major brands like Nokia, Samsung, and Motorola are vigorously promoting their “sophisticated, luxurious, and attractive” products but never mention the limitations of each product line. For instance, with Nokia Series 40, forget about software upgrades; Motorola E 680I supports memory cards up to 1 GB but offers no additional features compared to the E 680, and Samsung D500 allows music playback only within a 96 MB range… (which is actually closer to 90 MB).
Like many other Hi-tech products, mobile phones require users to constantly upgrade; otherwise, they may end up selling them off cheaply or even giving them away, as many manufacturers focus solely on new products and “forget” to produce replacement parts for items that are over a year old.
In addition to the prominent examples mentioned, other Hi-tech products like digital cameras, LCD or Plasma TVs, and MP3 players also have their “Achilles’ heels” that often go unmentioned.
Currently, digital cameras are plummeting in price even more than PCs. Nikon, Casio, Sony, and Canon models that were once priced over $500 a year ago are now available for $200-300, but resale value is even lower, and there may not be buyers if the resolution is under 5.0 MP.
Besides the race to increase screen sizes, the integration of Wi-Fi technology has significantly raised prices, yet few buy these cameras just to print or share photos wirelessly.
LCD TVs face a similar fate after Sony launched its Bravia line. Compared to September 2005, products of the same generation and features have dropped in price by an average of 7-10 million VND each and are likely to decrease further.
Issues with LCD TVs, such as narrow viewing angles, vulnerability to damage, difficulty in repairs, and lower lifespan compared to traditional CRT TVs, as well as low resolution in cheaper models, are quite significant, yet manufacturers tend to ignore them.
Using Hi-tech gadgets wisely means considering the “downsides” and drawbacks of each product rather than blindly trusting advertisements.
