This is KOMP.
Easy communication technology for elderly relatives.
Smartphones and tablets aren’t suitable for everyone
Societies’ most vulnerable groups are often hardest hit by feelings of loneliness and social isolation. That’s why we made KOMP, a one-button computer for seniors who didn’t grow up with technology. KOMP is simple to use, giving its user confidence and a sense of mastery when accessing the most important communication features of a modern device, without the need to remember passwords, use touch screens, or navigate complicated user interfaces. With KOMP, family members can make video calls, share photos and send messages to their relatives in a safe, secure and truly inclusive social network.
KOMP is available for rent here.
KOMP vs Tablets
What makes KOMP different?
For those of us accustomed to technology, it’s easy to assume that using smartphones, tablets and computers comes naturally. Unfortunately, it doesn't. Technology is usually developed for the masses, not for people with cognitive or physical limitations. We designed KOMP specifically for seniors, and involved them in the process throughout development. Each feature has been included or excluded specifically with this group in mind, rather than adapting an existing product. For more information on each feature, press the “i”.
Only one button
Only one button
Growing old, our bodies change. Dry fingertips make it hard to use touch screens, vision and hearing impairments make it hard to see and hear what happens on an average tablet or computer screen. KOMP only has one button, a high contrast screen and clear audio so that the senior can easily use the device, and see and hear the content.
No user names or passwords
No user names or passwords
Generic products require usernames and passwords for anything from logging in, to using the app. Automatic updates bring new and foreign layouts. KOMP requires no usernames or passwords to use, and has no changing layouts or error messages.
App for sharing content and managing KOMP
App for sharing content and managing KOMP
Through the KOMP app the family is responsible for the administration (e.g. installing apps). This lessens the burden of use on the senior, making it more inviting to start using KOMP and easier to navigate when using it. All app-members are invite only, making it easy to control who can contact the senior.
Limited functionality
Limited functionality
Endless functionality and endless choices makes manoeuvring the product hard and confusing for people who are inexperienced using technology. With KOMP, anything new that is added is user tested with seniors, and only implemented if it increases opportunity without decreasing the feeling of independence.
No tracking or sharing of personal user data
No tracking or sharing of personal user data
As consumers we are becoming increasingly aware of how our data is handled. Many companies operate on the fringe of what is acceptable. No Isolation only tracks metadata (e.g. number of photos/messages sent by total users), but never private messages or photos, and we never share personal data with third parties, such as other apps.
Touch screen
Touch screen
Growing old, our bodies change. Dry fingertips make it hard to use touch screens, vision and hearing impairments make it hard to see and hear what happens on an average tablet or computer screen. KOMP only has one button, a high contrast screen and clear audio so that the senior can easily use the device, and see and hear the content.
User names and passwords required
User names and passwords required
Generic products require usernames and passwords for anything from logging in, to using the app. Automatic updates bring new and foreign layouts. KOMP requires no usernames or passwords to use, and has no changing layouts or error messages.
Managed through the device
Managed through the device
Through the KOMP app the family is responsible for the administration (e.g. installing apps). This lessens the burden of use on the senior, making it more inviting to start using KOMP and easier to navigate when using it. All app-members are invite only, making it easy to control who can contact the senior.
Endless functionality
Endless functionality
Endless functionality and endless choices makes manoeuvring the product hard and confusing for people who are inexperienced using technology. With KOMP, anything new that is added is user tested with seniors, and only implemented if it increases opportunity without decreasing the feeling of independence.
Often tracks and shared personal data
Often tracks and shared personal data
As consumers we are becoming increasingly aware of how our data is handled. Many companies operate on the fringe of what is acceptable. No Isolation only tracks metadata (e.g. number of photos/messages sent by total users), but never private messages or photos, and we never share personal data with third parties, such as other apps.
Easy to use
High contrast screen
The screen has a high contrast ratio and large text, making the content easy to see.
No touchscreen
As skin ages, fingertips can become dry and leathery, making interaction with a touch screen more difficult. KOMP has no touch screen and is operated by a single button.
Clear audio connection
The sound is loud and clear, and seeing the person you talk with makes it easier to understand what they say.
One-button, physical interface
KOMP is easy to operate through a big, accessible button, with no complicated interactions to learn.
