Google plans simple smart display for seniors
The U.S. tech giant Google is currently testing a simpler interface for its «Nest Hub Max» smart displays, which is designed to be easy to use even for older people who are not very familiar with technology.
The group is conducting these tests in U.S. nursing homes so that residents can use the video chat application to Google Duo can easily stay in touch with their families and friends.
"Important for health"
"Staying connected to others is important for seniors' mental and emotional health. Social isolation in quarantine makes that especially difficult. With Nest Hub Max and Duo, families can be "together" even though they're not in the same place," Google says.
Google has distributed about 1000 simplified Nest Hub Max devices to seven nursing homes in Washington state. The smart displays are easier to use than ordinary ones. A list of contacts was previously created to facilitate video calls. In addition, the displays are equipped with simply designed cards that tell users exactly what they can do with them and serve as shortcuts to functions such as music, weather reports or settings.
"Activity is anonymous"
Google wants to make the retirement home version of Nest Hub Max as private as possible. The devices are managed by Nest Hub's fleet management system. In addition, they run on a "logged out" mode where no data is stored. "All activity on them is anonymous," Google says. (pte)
