You all know I’m not a geek or “techy.” (ok, where is the “on/off” button?) But a series of events led me to cancel my contract with T Mobile and take the plunge. I signed up for an Apple iPhone. I’m very impressed. It’s intuitive to use with functionality that blows me away. The applications (apps to us in the know) that can be downloaded are wide and varied in their scope and utility. Examples include everything from a dictionary, games, stocks, google, to a flashlight. Yup, a white screen that provides light in the darkness. My mail and music all on one iPod/phone thingamajig. After spending a total of eight hours on the phone with a Dell technical operator (read Indian connection), and $149 invoice, to “fix” my home computer, it was frustrating to end up having my boys (Lee and Clint) heal the darn thing. As with any new thingamajig of this technical nature, I needed some adjustments and help understanding how to use the tool to it’s max. You know, calendar synchronizations, Internet access, WI FI, POP3, VPN, capacity, ICCID, outgoing servers, SMTP, incoming servers IMAP, and e mail, a guy like me who has trouble finding the dip stick to check the oil in my car, needs some guidance and instruction (on/off buttons again). So, I ended up at the iPhone store today and was blown away.
First of all they all spoke English as their first language. I had an appointment with someone at the “Genius” Bar who would help answer my questions and solve my connection problems. The guy was truly a genius. He ran through my iPhone in fast motion. I had answers in about 5 minutes. Personal attention to detail. What really struck me was the crowded store. It was 11:30 am and the store was packed. They had a “concierge” and a host to help direct the traffic. There was a waiting line to receive assistance. Every display computer was busy and occupied by an eager customer.
Why the fascination? In a time of so-called economic “crisis” and depravity, capitalism was working. Someone has money to drop on a computer with prices that START at $1200. I think attentive, competent, customer service and quality of the product is the key factor. No government takeover, no rescue plan, no stimulus, no Obama needed, just quality service and a great product. Perhaps General Motors and the airline industry could learn a lesson.
I want an iphone!!