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Valerie Singleton launches desktop computer SimplicITy PC designed for 'older generation'

11 November 2009

Former Blue Peter TV presenter, Valerie Singleton, has launched a desktop computer called simplicITy, designed to make computing simpler for the 50+ generation and technophobes.

The simplicITy computer doesn’t have a start-up or log-in screen. Instead, it takes the user straight to a menu screen with six options to choose from.

These options are email, browse the web, chat, about me, documents and video tutorials (presented by Valerie Singleton).

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The options are clearly laid out as big on-screen buttons that are easy to read and with plenty of room to click on them.

Valerie Singleton said: 'A large number of 50 pluses only require email, internet, a writing package, perhaps a means of storing or viewing pictures and a facility to chat.'

How does simplicITy work?

Each of the six menu options takes users to another easy to use menu.

For example, the simplicITy computer includes a large text browser window designed to make web browsing simple. Once you’ve finished browsing, you can return to the menu screen by clicking 'Back to Square One'.

Similarly, SimplicITy makes reading and writing emails as simple as 1,2,3. Three large buttons ask you whether you want to Read your emails, write your emails or to use your address book.

Sarah Kidner, editor of Which? Computing said: 'Computers can be complex beasts. Making them easier to use is a good thing as long as it doesn't prevent people from being able to do great things with them, such as editing their photographs and videos and communicating with friends and family.'

‘Which? Computing helps demystify computers, and show everyone how to get even more out of them,' she added.

The SimplicITy computer is the result of a partnership between the money-saving website Discount-age (co-founded by Singleton), Wessex Computers and Vegan Solutions.

How to order the simplicITy desktop

There will initially be a choice of two computers: a desktop with a single core processor selling for £300 (including VAT) and a mini desktop with a dual core processor £390 (including VAT).

Complete packages including screen, keyboard, mouse and stereo speakers will cost £436 and £526 respectively. Delivery takes a minimum of two weeks.

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