Tech Companies Talking Down to Boomers and Seniors
Smart Boomer Woman Using Her Laptop
AVG Technologies’ research charts device usage and concerns of 50+
AMSTERDAM and SAN FRANCISCO – January 6, 2014 – Over two fifths (43%) of those over 50 feel patronized by technology companies. So say the results of the latest study by AVG Technologies N.V. (NYSE: AVG), the online security company™ for 188 million active users, which surveyed almost six thousand people over the age of 50 about their technology habits and opinions as part of its ongoing AVG Digital Diaries research.
With CES kicking off this week in Las Vegas and many companies expected to launch their latest devices to what is an increasingly competitive market, the research highlighted that older customers can feel that they are treated as technologically illiterate by technology companies.
Further complaints among those who felt patronized related to technology companies talking down to them (39%) and treating all those over a certain age the same (32%). This treatment is far from justified, as only 16% of respondents labelled themselves as novice technology users while the majority (76%) ranked themselves as average users of tech.
The research, which provided further insights into the device and application use of those over 50, also highlighted some ongoing security and privacy concerns:
- 87% of respondents admitted to having some security and privacy concerns over their online activity
- 66% worry about the security of their data and files
- 44% worry about keeping their personal information private
“Technology companies should think hard before they risk isolating older customers,” said Judith Bitterli, Chief Marketing Officer at AVG Technologies. “This is an audience that is expanding, has more spending power and is actively using devices and apps. For example, our research found 83% use apps on their devices. While it is important to address their privacy and security concerns, this must be done in a manner that is considered, not condescending.”
Bitterli, who regularly blogs on tech topics for Boomers and Seniors on Now AVG, will share further insights from the study in her talk “The Privacy Fear Factor” at the 2015 CES Lifelong Tech Summit taking place at the Venetian today.
Category: Baby Boomer
