Doro - News

Tips when buying a new mobile phone

With so many mobile phones to choose from, ranging from very basic to the amazingly clever, the choices are seemingly endless. Here are a few things you may want to think about when looking for a new mobile that suits you[more].

Purpose

Start with your reason for having one. Is it...
• just for making and receiving calls?
• also for text or picture messaging?
• for taking photos?
• for acessing e-mail and the Internet?

Previous experience

If you’ve had a mobile phone before, think about what you did and didn’t like about it:
• Did it feel too fragile, or need frequent charging?
• Was it hard to hear it clearly or to read the display?
• Did you often press two keys at a time because they were too small and too close together?

Features and functions

Decide which features and functions you will use often:
• Do you want to set reminders or wake-up alarms?
• What about playing games or listening to radio?
• If you use a hearing aid you may want to check the phone’s HAC rating; M3/T3 or higher is best.

Style

Choose a style that appeals to you:
• A bar style phone has that classic mobile ‘look’.
• A slider or clamshell mobile phone has a somewhat larger display and hides the keypad to prevent accidental calls.
• A smartphone offers an even larger display for reading e-mail and exploring the Internet.

Budget

Having a price range in mind helps narrow the choices. If you’re on a strict budget you should keep in mind that there may be other costs associated with the phone you buy besides the choice of operator and calling plan:
• Check if you need other accessories such as a protective case, charging cradle, etc.
• Phones used to access e-mail and the Internet may be subject to additional charges for data traffic.

Better photos with your mobile!

Photographer Christian Andersson often gets asked, ”Oh what a nice camera. It must take great pictures?” The last time someone tried to start a conversation with that phrase his answer was short and sweet: “Yes, it does.”[more]

The answer is actually that terrible cameras can take fantastic pictures, or more accurately: good photographers can take fantastic photos regardless of the equipment they are using. Most cameras don’t take pictures at all, but leave that up to the photographer.

It really isn’t the camera that sets the limits. Sure, some camera phones have certain technical limitations, but most tips for how to take better pictures are general and work no matter what camera is being used.

Ten tips for becoming a better camera phone photographer:

1. Dare to go close to the subject.

2. Select what has to be in the photo rather than trying to get it all in.

3. Anticipate. ”An image approaches like a snail but disappears like lightning.” If you know where something is going to happen, place yourselft right in plenty of time.

4. Keep in mind that some camera phones take the picture first have releasing the shutter button.

5. Hold the camera still. If you take pictures indoors without a flash, this is essential for getting a sharp focus. Lean against a door jamb or a chair for support.

6. Don’t allow your subject to be illuminated by several light sources with different temperatures, e.g. warm incandescent lighting and cool outdoor lighting.

7. Find a “clean” background. When taking portraits it’s important to think about not letting the background steal too much attention. Avoid having things stick up behind people’s heads.

8. Try to capture true sensations in your snapshots.

9. Be sociable when you take photos; downplay the situation and shoot even when the subject isn’t prepared.

10. Last but not least, the best advice used even by all pro photographers: Take lots of photos and you will increase your chances of taking some that are good.

Johan Rodriguez, 520X

Johan Rodriguez Magdalena helps builders with the materials they need. “I meet lots of people who work in tough places,” he says. “They all have smartphones – most with a cracked glass[more].” Johan uses a smartphone at home, but at work he prefers a more durable phone and has tested a number of them over the years. His latest on-the-job phone is the robust Doro PhoneEasy® 520X.

“It’s less bulky than the ‘rugged’ phones I’ve tried, and I can even use it with gloves on. The display is really clear, battery life is extremely good, and the sound is better than what I am used to. I often missed calls because of the loud machinery here, but not with this phone. Calls are also clearer and louder than the sound I get when using my smartphone or the cordless phones we have here at work

Xavier Corbin

Speaking about Doro’s entry into the telecare sector, Telecare Business Unit Manager, Xavier Corbin, says that the company’s focus on developing phones specially designed for ‘younger seniors’ is a huge advantage[more].

“There are plenty of large white boxes with big red buttons on the market that basically say about the user: ‘Old, feeble person in need of lots of help,’” explains Xavier. “In France and other markets, people find such devices stigmatizing. Phones like the new Doro Secure 351, on the other hand, change all of that by integrating telecare functions directly into a well-designed phone that will look nice in any home.”

Demands for mobile solutions

Xavier also says that because the growing population of seniors is more and more experienced with mobile phones, service providers are now pushing harder for mobile telecare solutions.
“This is good news for us, because our success in the area of designing mobile devices gives us a head start,” says Xavier. “We are now integrating telecare functionality in a way that appeals to younger seniors. These are people who may not necessarily live alone, but perhaps enjoy going out on their own from time to time for a walk, to pick mushrooms and so on. Being able to stay connected is important for their sense of security.
“Our new Doro PhoneEasy® 680 is a great example. It looks like a regular mobile phone, and is therefore a departure from traditional telecare devices that say, ‘Now I am old.’ Instead, it enables people to feel, ‘This is a very attractive phone for me with a big advantage because it keeps me connected with my telecare service provider.’

Comfortable and convenient

Xavier says that another huge advantage of integrating telecare functionality with ordinary phones has to do with comfort level. “It’s natural to use a phone. People use them daily throughout their lives, unlike devices that you use only when you’re older and then only when you need help.
“And in the case of a real emergency you don’t even have to remember ‘112,’ or provide a lot of info to an operator. With telecare functionality in your mobile you just have to activate an alert and the service provider will automatically know who and where you are. If they are unable to communicate with you, they can then immediately notify emergency services.”

740 wins IF award

Doro PhoneEasy® 740 has been awarded the esteemed iF Product Design Award for innovative product design. The iF Design Awards are highly regarded around the world for recognizing and rewarding innovative design of the highest quality[more].
Like many of Doro’s other award-winning products, the company’s first ever smartphone is designed from the perspective of senior users. Developed in collaboration with Veryday in Stockholm (formerly Ergonomidesign), the smartphone is based entirely on the needs and wishes of older users.

Tough competition

In competition with over 3,000 entries, Doro PhoneEasy® 740 won the award based on its user-friendliness and functionality. The criteria used by the jury to decide on a winner include materials, degree of innovation, functionality, ergonomics, security and universal design.
“Naturally, we are extremely proud to receive this award”, says Jérome Arnaud, CEO at Doro. “The design team at Veryday has truly listened to the needs of seniors and developed a user-friendly smartphone that is unique in its category. This smartphone enables more people to feel included in an increasingly digital society.”

No ordinary smartphone

The smartphone features another award-winning innovation, Doro Experience®. Doro Experience® combines a simple and clear user interface with specially selected applications and a web-based service from which the user or relatives can manage the phone remotely.
The interface features large icons that guide users to well-organised apps and functions. Shape, colour and details of icons and graphics are designed with an emphasis on differentiation and recognition. Other features include a GPS alarm, a 5MP camera and a practical magnifier function.

Consumers’ favourite

In addition to the iF award, Doro PhoneEasy® 740 has also been awarded a universal design consumer favorite 2013 award. A consumer jury consisting of 100 people of different ages and professions selected the smartphone using criteria such as easy and intuitive use, flexible use and error tolerance and safety.

Rolf Löthgren

Rolf Löthgren is a retired schoolteacher from Sweden’s alpine ski region. His passion has always been skiing, but in recent years he has traded winter days on the slopes for driving a cabriolet during the warmer months[more]. And at age 71, he’s also traded his old mobile phone for a new smartphone from Doro.
“It took me a little while to get used to tapping on the screen and using a mobile phone for more than just calling and texting. But it’s nice to be able to check things on the Internet and reply to email when I don’t have my laptop nearby. It has a nice robust feeling to it, and although my fingers are a bit clumsy these days I have no problem using the touchscreen. In fact I very rarely use the keypad.”

Birgit and Göte Martinsson, 612

Birgit and Göte Martinsson are in their 80’s and live in the countryside near Siljan, one of Sweden’s most scenic lakes. The couple enjoys being outdoors, whether in their garden or the surrounding forest[more]. “Hunting and fishing are hobbies of mine,” says Göte, “and we both like picking berries and mushrooms – especially chantarelles.”

“One day when Birgit went out to walk the dog she stumbled and hit her head,” says Göte. “She pressed the alarm button on her mobile phone, which alerted both me and my daughter. So now I have a Doro PhoneEasy® 612 too.” Göte also says that because regular home emergency buttons don’t work beyond 50 metres they even take their phones into the garden: “It feels safer.”

Rolf Hepp - Doro PhoneEasy® 715

“My hearing is fine!” says Rolf Hepp, the former dancer, choreographer and ballet director who recently celebrated his 80th birthday. “Others might disagree, of course.” he admits with a chuckle[more]. Good hearing or not, Rolf has quickly become a fan of his new Doro slider phone that combines a big display with a slide out keypad and loud sound.

“I text a lot, especially with my daughter. With this phone it is so much easier to read what I’m writing than with the phones I’ve had before. The characters are really sharp, and I like how big and well lit they show up on the screen. The last time I was at the theatre a woman asked me, ‘What phone is that?’ I showed it to her, and she said, ‘Oh, those are really big numbers!’”

Marianne Lindberg, 515

At 77 years of age Marianne Lindberg of Norra Rörum in the south of Sweden says there’s nothing wrong with her vision or hearing. “But I do have a lot of pain in my hands, so I often drop things[more].” Marianne says that what she appreciates most about her Doro mobile phone is its size and grip, which together make the phone very easy for her to hold on to despite the pain in her hands.

“The other thing I really like about it is that it feels really sturdy and durable, which is good in case I should drop it anyway.” Marianne has had other mobile phones before, but says she’s never had one that was as easy to hold on to as this one.

CTIA

Doro is proud to announce that its innovative software "Doro Experience" not only won the Best of CTIA Wireless 2012 Award from Techlicious but also came third in the prestigious CTIA E-Tech Awards[more]. The awards were selected by the Techlicious editors for those products that truly excelled in their categories. After evaluating all the products, the magazine’s editorial staff chose the winner based on a combination of: benefit to the consumer, innovation, value and availability. According to Techlicious, Doro is simply the best for seniors!

Simplifies the smartphone

“Even the most technically advanced of us sometimes get lost in the plethora of features and apps on today’s smartphones,” says Suzanne Kantra, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Techlicious. “For seniors, who may not be familiar with the latest technology, this problem is even more daunting. Doro has done an excellent job at simplifying the smartphone interface to its core functions, while also giving family members a way to remotely manage the content and applications.”

Jerôme Arnaud, CEO at Doro comments, “Doro team is excited and proud to receive the Best of CTIA 2012 Awards. It is a huge honor for us to get recognized by Techlicious.

Third in the prestigious CTIA E-Tech Awards

Doro was also recognized by The CTIA E-Tech Awards program, that honors the industry's innovative new wireless products and services in mobile apps, consumer electronics, enterprise & vertical markets and network technology.

CTIA E-Tech submissions were judged on innovation, functionality, technological importance or impact, implementation and overall “wow” factor. This year there were 15 submission categories and Doro came third in “Social, Content, Media & Entertainment”.

More than big buttons!

With so much to choose from today, making choices can sometimes be more difficult than people would like. At Doro we want to make it as easy as possible for you to choose a mobile phone that gives you what you care most about[more]. Like being able to hear it, read it and handle it, without any fuss. That’s why you’ll find these features are standard on Doro’s easy mobile phones*:

Loud and clear sound
All Doro mobile phones offer some degree of amplification, making them louder to hear than ordinary mobile phones, but without sacrificing clarity.

Adjustable frequency
The ability to adjust the tone to compensate for different types of hearing loss is a key reason for why Doro mobile phones are about more than loud sound.

Hearing Aid Compatible
In addition to amplification and helpful features such as a strong vibrating signal, Doro mobile phones are also designed to work with hearing aids**.

Large separated keys
Not only are the keys on our mobile phones larger than on ordinary mobiles, but they also have concave surfaces and are separated, all of which makes them easier for everyone to use.

Adjustable contrast and theme
Our sharp, high-contrast displays offer alternative, carefully verified themes and colours optimised to suit different types of vision impairments.

Adjustable text size
Reading numbers and texts are never a problem thanks to adjustable text size and display brightness.

Security functions
All Doro mobiles come with an emergency button discreetly integrated in the back of the phone, and most have a special ICE (In Case of Emergency) function. Some even offer GPS location.

Ergonomic design
We make our products easier to handle by enhancing their tactile characteristics through easy grip surfaces, easy connecting accessories, one-touch functions and more.

Easy menu handling
Even our menus are specially designed to be clear and easy to understand for everything from making calls to sending a text or looking someone up in the phonebook.

Hide unwanted functions
We believe you should always have a say in what you want and don’t, which is why our menus can be easily customised to hide the functions you never use.

* Earlier models may lack one or more of these features – see specifications for Doro PhoneEasy® 332–345.
** HAC not available on Doro PhoneEasy® 505

Gary Lilley, wt91x pro

Gary lives in Chesham, Buckinghamshire and has been a motorcycle instructor for 16 years. When out on the open road, he uses Doro wt91x pro walkie talkies to direct his students and is very impressed their performance[more].

“They’re actually amazing. I could be sitting at a set of lights. The student has turned left. I tell him to turn left at the end of that road, then right – he could be three streets away when the light has turned green and he’s taken exactly the path I’ve asked him to. The range is phenomenal and I get very little interference, and I’m very impressed with that.”

Elza Streak, 615

“I have owned a mobile phone for more than 14 years. During this time I hardly used it as I was always too confused about how to operate it[more]. Even after being given lessons by members of my family I found the phone difficult to use because of the small buttons, a screen that was difficult to read, and what seemed to me complex ways of answering the phone or making a call.

“My Doro PhoneEasy® 615 has changed my life. Within a few hours of being shown how to use it I have not looked back. I make and receive phone calls without any trouble whatsoever. I even send and receive SMS messages at the drop of hat. My Doro also takes superb photographs of my grandchildren with a very simple push of a single button.”

Marge Clarke, 615

Marge, whose hearing isn’t quite what it used to be, loves her Doro PhoneEasy 615 as the ring is loud and high quality of the sound makes her conversations on the phone a pleasure[more].
“Other than the quality sound I really enjoy the easy-to-read screen and the large buttons which make the keypad so easy to use. It is considerably less complicated than the other mobile phones I have used in the past. My family were surprised how quickly I became totally at ease with it.

“Sending SMS messages is so much quicker and easier. The camera is a really nice feature and simple to operate. I now have a reputation with my family and friends for capturing those ‘Kodak moments’!”

Caroline Noublanche

When Doro acquired the French company Prylos in July 2011, one of the most motivating factors behind the decision was the addition of Prylos’ dynamic founder and CEO, Caroline Noublanche[more]. Today, half a year after acquisition, the inspiring entrepreneur from Paris is a strong contributor to the ‘esprit de corps’ that exists at Doro, and says she feels as enthusiastic as ever about her work.

“This is a really great team to work with, and I am very happy to be a part of group management. I also feel proud of what we are doing at Doro, because it has a real impact on people. Adapting technology in areas like mHealth and telecare benefits society, which adds real meaning to what we do.”

Evolved with the industry

Caroline’s career has followed the evolution of the mobile telecom industry from enabler of calls to being all about applications. After graduating from HEC Paris, Europe’s top-rated business school, she went to work for the top French companies SFR and Phonevalley. In 2003, at the age of 27, she started her own company, Prylos.

“Back then applications for mobile phones were only for closed environments and for assisting technicians, drivers, field workers, etc. At Prylos we also began developing B2C applications for companies like the Yellow Pages. Later we decided to specialize in mHealth and home care.”

Prylos soon grew to 15 people and an annual turnover of more than €1,2 million. “In 2010 we knew that it would be difficult to take the company to the next level on our own,” says Caroline, “so we knew we either had to find good companies to acquire, or get bought by someone else.” At the same time, a Swedish company named Doro was riding in its own success and looking towards developing mHealth and telecare applications as part of its long-term strategy.

A great match

“I first met Jérôme (Arnaud, Doro CEO) just before the 2011 Mobile World Congress,” says Caroline. “Later at the exhibition we met again and he asked me about what the future looked like for Prylos. ‘Funny you should ask,’ I said.”

After considering a number of different avenues, Caroline and the board of Prylos decided to move forward with Doro. Today she is the business unit director for Applications and Webstore.

“My role is to define strategy for applications as well as the roadmap that will get us where we want to be. That involves building an ecosystem of partners around our ‘Doro Selection.’ I work closely with rest of the team and support our Key Account Managers in meetings with customers, which I truly enjoy.”

“Right now I am very much looking forward to the launch of our first smartphone, which will feature a collection of specially selected apps developed just for seniors.”

Telecare, taking the next step

Not long ago Doro introduced the idea of easy to use mobile phones specially adapted to the needs of seniors. An idea that has become immensely popular. Now we’re taking everything we know from these and earlier experiences, and applying it to the world of telecare[more], a natural step in the evolution of Doro’s core business. Our latest developments include a new range of products designed specifically for telecare applications.

Enabling seniors to continue living at home

Telecare is a fast growing sector in some of Doro’s markets that involves the use of specially developed telecommunication equipment to monitor and respond to people’s needs, particularly for people who live home alone. User-activated triggers such as alarm pendants, as well as automatic triggers such as smoke detectors, communicate with a telecare unit in the home. The telecare unit relays the alarm to a monitoring centre that in turn contacts a carer prepared to provide the appropriate response.

These needs are not solely related to emergency situations. Many people who live alone have much to gain from simply being able to ask an operator about something they may be curious or need information about. Telecare services can therefore also deliver the type of social interaction that can play an important role in enabling people to continue living at home as long as they wish to.

A more secure alternative

Many existing telecare solutions use a traditional landline for the communication between the home and the monitoring centre. However, due to the increasing migration from PSTN-based (fixed landline) networks to IP-based and wireless telecom networks that is taking place in many areas, alternative telecare solutions using ADSL (internet) technology have emerged. Yet the problem with these is that ADSL modems often need to be reset and are completely inoperable during power outages.

For this reason, Doro’s new range of telecare products, Doro Secure, offers specially developed solutions for situations where a landline is not installed or available. Using Doro’s technology for secure radio and mobile communication, these solutions not only represent a safer alternative to ADSL technology, but also deliver more information to telecare operators. Naturally, the range also includes traditional landline products for areas where PSTN is still the preferred technology.

David Burdett 409gsm

“My daughter-in-law must sometimes think I’m an invalid,” says David jokingly, “But the truth is, with the keypad on this phone I don’t press two keys at a time like I did with my last one[more].” At 74, David Burdett of Maidenhead in Berkshire, England is far from being an invalid. “I don’t like sitting at home reading books and such,” he says emphatically, “I have too much to do! I prefer being out gardening, hunting small game like pheasants and rabbits, or fly-fishing!”

David used to have a Nokia mobile phone, but now owns a Doro PhoneEasy® 409gsm. “I like the look of my Doro phone, and how easy everything works. When I take it out I sometimes get asked ‘What kind of phone is that?’ and I tell them. My hearing isn’t 100% any more, but I have no problem having conversations on this phone. I recommend it unreservedly!”

Brilliantly simple mobile phones for everyone

At Doro we design mobile phones to be easy enough for anyone to use, without sacrificing style. That’s because many people find reading, hearing or handling ordinary mobile phones difficult, but don’t like how typical assistive devices draw attention to their needs[more].

Easy to read display

Making mobile phones easier to use means, for example, making them easier to read. The screens on our phones offer good contrast as well as large numbers and letters. Adjustable text sizes and changeable background scenes let you adapt the phone to your visual needs.
We also have models featuring a high-contrast black on white display for people whose vision requires this alternative. No matter if you want to dial or answer a call, use the menus, or read or write a text message, our phones are simply easier to read.

The key(s) to an easier experience

Small keys can make any device difficult to use. That’s why we devote more space to keypads and separate the keys for easier operation. Our keys are also larger and have high contrast, so they are much easier to read. Many models also come with shortcut keys to frequently used numbers or functions such as text messaging and camera.

Quality you can hear

Hearing is something that varies widely from person to person. Doro mobile phones are designed to provide good, clear sound that can be adjusted to suit individual needs. Tone adjustments as well as louder ring signals and speaker volume make our mobile phones easier to hear. Some models also feature Hearing Aid Compatibility.

Clearly understandable functions

At Doro, we believe mobile phones shouldn’t have to be complicated. So whether you want to make a call, send a text or look someone up in the phonebook, our menu symbols are clear and easy to find.
Some models even let you hide functions you don’t want. Regardless of what functions a particular Doro mobile phone offers, we strive to make each one very simple to understand.

Security features for peace of mind

You never know when you’re going to need help. That’s why all Doro mobile phones offer built-in security features like the convenient alarm button subtly integrated in the back of the phone. Pressing the button sends alerts to people who can help you when you need it, and is perfect for anyone who lives alone.

We never stop

Our designers and engineers work continuously to develop products that are even better, easier and more attractive than previous models. Recent examples include our latest, highly popular clamshell models for easier answering and ending of calls, now with even better tactile features. Another example is the introduction of our first camera phones that make it very easy for anyone to take a photo and send a picture message. There are even models for use with Bluetooth headsets and hearing aids.

Seniors Panel applauds Doro PhoneEasy® 615

Our Seniors Panel has now tested Doro’s first mobile phone to feature a camera and we’re prouder than ever. The panel continuously tests our products and this time they are very pleased[more]! All panel members have given the new Doro PhoneEasy® 615 the 60plus stamp of approval. Tests by the panel are performed using selected criteria in four main areas: user instructions, initial start up and settings, user-friendliness and proper function.

Carin thinks Doro PhoneEasy® 615 is a perfect mobile phone and especially appreciates the folding clamshell design. She says that once you’ve learned all the functions, you won’t want any other phone. It is easy to call and text with, and Carin gives it the highest score in the category user-friendliness. She also appreciates the camera which she says takes good pictures, as well as the MMS function that is both fun and easy to use.

Bo has tried a number of phones in his day and says this the best he’s tested. If you want a real phone, then Doro PhoneEasy® 615 is the phone to own! The folding cover and well-adapted size of the phone are his reasons for giving it 5 out of 5 for proper function. Even if he personally would prefer a separate keypad for texting, Bo gives the phone an overall score of 5 out 5.

Monica, who doesn’t have a lot of experience with mobile phones, says this phone suits her perfectly. With its good choice of ring signals and clear text, she finds it is also well adapted both for people with hearing loss and people with vision problems. And because she takes it with her everywhere, Monica is pleased to find that the phone’s camera takes better pictures than her ordinary camera. Monica gives Doro PhoneEasy® 615 an overall score of 5 out of 5.

Bernt-Erik has long experience with mobile phones and finds the size of the Doro PhoneEasy® 615 to be just right for him, but doubts that an old lumberjack with large hands would feel the same way. He has used the camera and feels the pictures are of high quality. Another function that he has used and appreciates is the radio, which works well with the headset included with Doro PhoneEasy® 615. He gives the phone an overall score of 4 out of 5.

In conclusion we can sum up the Doro PhoneEasy® 615 as a phone that is both easy to call and text with, but also has an easy to use camera and picture message function. The test panel also likes its design and easy grip textures.

Doro’s Seniors Panel

At Doro we work closely with the people we develop our products for, constantly gathering input from our most valuable source of knowledge: the users themselves[more]. One example is a collaboration with 60plus.se, a Swedish online community for people over the age of 60. Four men and women of different ages and mobile phone experience continuously test and review our latest models. The panel has in-depth knowledge of what seniors should consider when looking for an easy to use mobile phone.

All tests are carried out according to selected criteria touching mainly on four principle areas: user instructions, initial start up and settings, user-friendliness and proper function. This is followed by an overall assessment and phones that are considered worthy are awarded with the 60plus stamp of approval (shown right).

Our Seniors Panel is made up of:

Monica

Age: 68
Occupation: Active pensioner who manages a hostel.
Mobile phone experience: About 11 years.
Words of wisdom: If you can’t jump, crawl under!
My best mobile phone tip: As most regular mobile phones don’t offer sound that is adapted for people with hearing loss, send a text message.

Bernt-Erik

Age: 62
Occupation: 34 years as a technician at Swedish air force base; now prematurely pensioned due to work shortage.
Mobile phone experience: Lots.
Words of wisdom: Live what you preach.
My best mobile phone tip: Don’t buy a mobile phone from a salesperson that calls you over the phone. Go to the store instead, so you can look, touch and ask.

Carin

Age: 61
Occupation: Prematurely retired, formerly a supervisor and pantry chef.
Mobile phone experience: I’m now on my second mobile phone (for the last seven years) without a camera. I can only call. I can send text messages, but have trouble seeing the text; I can also use the alarm function and add my friends’ numbers to the list of contacts.
Words of wisdom: Take it a little easy, live in the ‘now’, learn!
My best mobile phone tip: Test different mobile phones and find one that suits your needs. Don’t buy an iPhone just because everyone has one; choose a phone with functions that you will actually use.

Bo

Age: 68
Occupation: High school teacher, now unfortunately retired.
Mobile phone experience: I have always been interested in the development of electronic devices suitable for people who, for example, have never owned a mobile phone.
Words of wisdom: You can learn anything, if only you try.
My best mobile phone tip: Don’t really have one, but I am accustomed to teaching other people how to use electric devices so ask me anything and I’ll find the answer.

Francy Lundgren, 615

“This is my second mobile phone from Doro, and it has a camera that is so easy to use. Looking through all the pictures I’ve taken is also very simple. And I really like the number keys and the way it looks[more]. One of my customers in the health food store where I work even commented on how nice it looks.”

Francy’s first Doro mobile phone was a gift she received from a family member after missing a lot of calls with phones that weren’t as loud as Doro’s. “My husband’s hearing is even worse than mine,” she says, “so he is also glad that I have a new phone. Now he uses my old Doro, which he really likes.”

Meet Doro Product Manager Peter Cullin

It’s time we present some of the people behind our products, beginning with Peter Cullin, product manager here at Doro®. Peter is responsible for developing our entire range of easy to use mobile phones[more].

What does your position at Doro involve?

It means I am responsible for Doro’s mobile phones throughout the development process – from initial concept to market launch.

How does the development process begin?

I gather ideas and turn them into a concept. For example, “Easy mobile phone with camera" or “Easy mobile phone with alarm function." Then, a larger process is initiated in which different partners are invited to contribute with specific expertise. I have the overall responsibility in the cooperation between these parties to manage the project and make sure that we reach our goals.

What projects are you currently working on?

Right now we’re busy working on mHeatlh - mobile devices to support health services. The development of our Doro PhoneEasy® 680/682 is the first step in this direction. We also have a number of other projects in the works, but it’s too early to reveal anything about those now.

What else have you worked with at Doro before?

I began as a service technician here in 1983 and advanced to service manager and project manager before becoming a product manager ten years ago. During these past ten years I have developed much of Doro's Care range, which includes both home phones and mobile phones.

Is there a product that you are especially proud of?

I am most proud of the Doro HearPlus 318w. It follows our philosophy the entire way - no compromises. It is very easy and practical to use. Among our mobile phones I would say the Doro PhoneEasy® 410gsm and, of course, our new model, Doro PhoneEasy® 615, which is our first handset for 3G networks.

What do you do in your spare time?

Mostly I do things with my wife and two sons at home in Staffanstorp. I also cycle a lot - about 100 kilometres a week!

Designing success

Some products are designed for some people, others for everyone. ‘Inclusive Design’ focuses on reaching a broader user group, and is the key to Doro’s successful product development strategy[more].

Keeping it simple

Peter Cullin is chief of product development for Doro’s popular easy to use mobile phones.
“Making things easier to use than mainstream products brings out a lot of different reactions. Some say, ‘Finally!’, others say, ‘That’s good, but what if you add this or that?’, and others assume they can’t be good-looking. We respond to those reactions by working with the best designers in the field of Inclusive Design.”

For as many people as possible

Cullin is referring to Doro’s close collaboration with Ergonomidesign, one of the world’s foremost design consultancies devoted to ‘adapting the world of things to the world of people.’

“Inclusive Design is about making sure that as many people as possible are able to use the technology regardless of any physical or other difficulties,” says acclaimed designer Maria Benktzon at Ergonomidesign. “By developing products for people not considered a main target group by everyone else, Doro really exhibits what Inclusive Design is all about.”

Easy, Yes! Ugly, No!

Building on the success of previous generations of easy mobile phones, Doro continues to develop and introduce new models with a firm focus on Inclusive Design.
“Whenever we introduce a new generation featuring more functions than before, such as text messaging or a built-in camera,” says Cullin, “we always start with ‘how can we make these functions easier to use?’ If it isn’t easy to use, it doesn’t belong in our products.”
In their latest products, extra attention has also been given to aesthetic details to offset the idea that easy mobile phones can’t be very appealing to look at. “Lots of younger people appreciate ease of use, too,” says Cullin, “but don’t want a phone that looks like something their grandmother would use. And neither do many grandmothers, by the way.”

Sandra and Trevor Greenway, 410s

Sandra, 67, found that she was having more and more trouble with complicated menus, small buttons and sending messages on her old mobile phone. So she bought a Doro PhoneEasy® 410s earlier this year and noticed an immediate difference[more]. She says :“The letters are big enough for the days when you just can't lay your hands on a pair of spectacles. Now I never have trouble seeing who is calling, or when I read a message. It has made a huge difference to me."

Trevor, 71, had never owned a mobile before, but was so impressed with Sandra’s new phone that he has become a convert. He says: "I never thought I would use a mobile because they seemed so complicated. But when I saw Sandra’s, I decided to take the plunge.

Per Andersson, 750X and wt91x pro

Per manages an old-fashioned bakery well known for its sourdough bread baked in a traditional stone oven. “Our kitchen is a lot tougher environment you might think, but people love our bread and we enjoy making it this way.”[more] The problem says Per is very high humidity and flour everywhere, two conditions that reek havoc on electronic devices.
“We’ve gone through three cordless phones in the past year, and the walkie talkies we bought pretty much died right away.” Now Per and his co-workers are using Doro’s rugged 750x cordless phone and waterproof wt91xpro walkie talkies. “So far they’ve been working great, even covered with flour.”

Marie-Louise and Bernard 326igsm

Marie-Louise and Bernard own a large, one-hectare field located two kilometres from their home in France. In December 2009 they bought a Doro HandlePlus 326i gsm. They had been looking for a product like this for some time[more].

“Now when Bernard takes his daily walk out there in our field he always takes the phone with him. It feels good to know that I can call him when I need to.” Besides the peace of mind it brings them, the couple also appreciates the phone’s large keys, the four one-touch buttons and just how easy it is to use.

Joel Martin 331ph

Joel Martin’s aunt has Alzheimer’s disease and lives in a nursing home. When she accidentally broke her cordless phone, Joel consulted with his wife, an occupational therapist familiar with Doro’s easy to use phones, before replacing it[more]. Rather than purchase a new cordless phone, Joel and his wife instead decided on the Doro PhoneEasy® 331ph corded phone.

Joel’s aunt now has a new, sturdy, wall-mounted phone with one-touch photo buttons for calling Joel and two others simply by looking at a photo and pressing just one button.

Chantal Mathieu 331ph

“My name is Chantal Mathieu. I saw one of your phones with photo buttons in a shop window in Paris and thought it might be a good product for my mother. She has Alzheimer’s disease, but still lives at home[more]. After researching the phone a bit more on the internet I bought it for her and it’s perfect. It has three photo buttons and my mother has three daughters. So now she can easily call any one of us whenever she wants.”

Chantal’s mother uses a Doro PhoneEasy® 331ph, which also has a spacious keypad and oversized buttons for easier operation.

Claus Zimmermann Pedersen 335

“My family gave me a Doro object finder. Now I don’t have to look through the house ten times to see where I last placed my keys[more]. The object finder I recommend to anyone who forgets where they put things. What I like best about these products is the way that simplicity and good sense work together.”

The object finder that has made Claus’ life easier is the Doro MemoryPlus 335.

Doro's ECO Functionality lessens impact on the environment

The green ECO FUNCTIONALITY label found on Doro’s new DECT products is part of the company’s commitment to environmentally aware customers[more] “A lot of people today want to make better choices from an environmental perspective,” says Camilla Nilsson, Marketing Director at Doro. “The problem is that with products like ours, it’s not always easy to know which choices are better.”

Reduce the environmental impact

Doro therefore implemented its ECO FUNCTIONALITY program with two main goals in mind: “To see how we can reduce the impact of our products on the environment, and to guide customers to these products,” Camilla Nilsson explains. To qualify for the label, a cordless DECT product must offer reduced power consumption in both operational and standby modes. Also, transmission power between the handset and the base unit must automatically adjust to the distance between the two units, using less power when closer together.

Doro adds red dot to celebrated design awards

Doro’s ergonomically designed products continue to receive some of the world’s most distinguished design awards. After receiving Janus, IDEA and iF Gold Awards, Doro has now received honourable mention in one of the toughest international design competitions[more].

Doro’s first clamshell mobile phone, Doro PhoneEasy® 410gsm, has received honourable mention in the red dot award: communication design 2010 competition. The jury of design experts awards honourable mentions to products that distinguish themselves through particularly successful design details. The highly popular GSM phone was among more than 4,200 entries submitted from nearly 60 countries. The red dot award is regarded as one of the world’s toughest design competitions.

A long list of praise

The recognition follows a series of earlier awards acknowledging the exceptional design and innovative approach captured in these Doro products. In the 2009 opening of the CeBIT exhibition, Doro CEO Jérôme Arnaud was presented with the prestigious iF Gold Award. Weeks earlier Stevie Wonder had presented him with the “Wonder Vision Award”. And that came after a 2008 highlighted by the Janus Award, a BIO 21 Honorable Mention and, most notably, the IDEA® Bronze Award.

Specialists in Inclusive Design

The Doro products receiving all the attention were developed specifically for seniors, and have been designed in collaboration with Ergonomidesign. The Stockholm firm is home to renowned specialists in the field of Inclusive Design, or design for everyone, including individuals with special needs. The cooperation has resulted in several award-winning telephones and mobile phones. “We set out to develop products that are very easy to use and to understand, but also attractive,” says Jérôme Arnaud. “These awards tell us that we have succeeded”.