Commentary: Technology Has Gone High Fashion

What's the first thing you notice when looking to buy a new piece of technology? Do you see if it falls within your budget? What about the spec list? Do you go over that in detail? And though these aspects are an important part of any technological buying decision, there's one that beats them all. You ask yourself one question and if the answer is no, you won't buy it. That question is: "Is it pretty?"

Okay, so you might not say "pretty" but you most assuredly take the appearance of your next computer, TV or what have you into consideration. In fact, if an item isn't nice looking, you probably won't even consider it at all!

That might be hard to hear, but it's the truth. Think about your last computer purchase. Did you opt for a flat screen monitor? Is the CPU stylish–you know, not a beige box? Oh, don't look so sad, people. It's okay. You're still the tech-king ::rolls eyes:: What I'm saying is we all do it. If a product looks nice, we are more likely to buy it. It's basic marketing.

Let me give you an example.

One thing and one thing alone attracted me to the Samsung Touch of Color LCD HDTV that sits in my living room right now. It was only one thing, one selling point that had me–when my boyfriend suggested it–jumping at the chance to go make that purchase. It's pretty, 'nuff said. And while I did eventually read over the specs, I wanted the TV before I even saw any numbers. It's stylish, sleek, and matches my living room.

But this isn't the only product that's treating electronics like high end furniture. I mean, look at Apple. They have some of the best marketing in the world and it's based around slim, minimalist designs that really appeal to people. They are pretty products.

And it's about time more companies jump on this bandwagon. Technology does not need to look like a clunky mess. It can be sophisticated. It can go with your decor. And I think it's okay to care about the appearance of products. After all, your TV is the centerpiece of your living room. Everyone looks at it for hours at a time. It might as well look nice. Besides, a good piece of electronics or gadgetry is going to stand out for what it's capable of and how it functions, anyway. It's best that it doesn't stand out like a sore thumb.