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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”.

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 cell phones were only for closed environments and to assist 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 the 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 the 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.”

Fantastically simple cell phones for everyone

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

Easy to read display

Making cell 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 cell 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 cell phones easier to hear. Some models also feature Hearing Aid Compatibility.

Clearly understandable functions

At Doro, we believe cell phones shouldn’t have to be complicated. So whether you want to make a call, send a text or look someone up in the phone book, 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 cell 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 cell 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.

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 cell 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 cell 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.
Cell phone experience: About 11 years.
Words of wisdom: If you can’t jump, crawl under!
My best cell phone tip: As most regular cell 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.
Cell phone experience: Lots.
Words of wisdom: Live what you preach.
My best cell phone tip: Don’t buy a cell 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.
Cell phone experience: I’m now on my second cell 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 cell phone tip: Test different cell 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.
Cell phone experience: I have always been interested in the development of electronic devices suitable for people who, for example, have never owned a cell phone.
Words of wisdom: You can learn anything, if only you try.
My best cell 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.

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 cell phones[more].

What does your position at Doro involve?

It means I am responsible for Doro’s cell 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 cell phone with camera" or “Easy cell 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 cell 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. Very easy to use Among our cell 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 kilometers a week!

Walter Gretzky named Canadas 2011 Father of the Year

Walter Gretzky, father to famous hockey player Wayne Gretzky and four other children, has been recognized by Doro as Canada’s 2011 Father of the Year[more].

The announcement was part of a campaign to inspire people in Canada to “make the call” on Father’s Day and tell their dads how much they meant.

"Walter Gretzky is the ultimate dad - an encouraging motivator whose hard won wisdom continues to inspire generations of youth," said Doro CEO Jerome Arnaud. "In honour of Father's Day, we are proud to name him Doro's 2011 Father of the Year. We admire him for his commitment to his family, unfailing positive attitude, and his dedication to improving the lives of others.”

Read full story

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 cell 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 cell 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 cell phones cannot 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.”

Cell phones for everyone

Doro cell phones are created with the philosophy that a cell phone should be easy enough for anyone to use, and still be good-looking. By teaming up with sound experts with award winning industrial designers, and involving users in the process, we have succeeded in developing a range that meets real needs.[more]

Easy to use

Our cell phones are so easy to handle and understand that really anyone can use them. Large buttons simplify operation, and some models also have one-touch memory buttons, a feature not found with ordinary cell phones. Menus are kept simple and straightforward, and shown on large, clear displays. Selected models also have options for removing unwanted or unused functions, to simplify menus even more.

Easy to read display

One key to making cell phones easier to use is making them easier to read. That’s why we focus so strongly on increasing readability. Our phones have very clear displays with large characters that are easier to distinguish. Types range from high contrast white on black displays, to sharp color displays, depending on model and user preference.

Large separated buttons

Big buttons are a standard key feature on all of our cell phones. And with our latest models we’ve gone one step further by separating the buttons. In spreading them out, we have created a keypad more like that of a normal telephone, providing optimal ease when dialing or messaging.

Loud and clear sound

All of our easy cell phones provide loud, clear sound for easier conversation. Some models also offer enhanced sound level adjustments and amplified handset volume levels for users with reduced hearing.

HAC – Hearing Aid Compatibility

For hearing aid users we offer several cell phones marked with the HAC symbol signifying hearing aid compatibility. All of these are rated M3/T3 or higher, and most are compliant with the HAC ‘preferred levels’, making them virtually interference free.

Emergency functions

For those who consider security an important issue, we offer cell phones with various built-in security functions such as automatic emergency SMS alert messages and call dialing.

Some models also offer a dedicated SOS button for one-touch dialing to pre-registered emergency services.

Doro PhoneEasy® 410gsm on display at Sweden pavilion in Shanghai

Sweden’s contribution to the 2010 world fair is a tribute to the ‘Spirit of Innovation.’ Fifty examples of Swedish inventiveness have been specially selected to represent the country, and Doro’s popular easy to use cell phone is one of them[more]

The 2008 Olympic Games in Peking were a huge event for China, but Expo 2010 Shanghai is even bigger. An estimated 70 million visitors, 95% of them Chinese, are expected to visit the world’s trade fair between May 1 and October 31, 2010.

In keeping with the trade fair’s theme of ‘Better City, Better Life,’ visitors to the Swedish pavilion are welcomed to an experience in ‘Sustainability, Innovation and Communication’. The pavilion’s four interconnected structures have been designed and built to symbolize the harmonious interaction between city and countryside.

Doro on display

The Swedish pavilion illustrates how Sweden’s ‘Spirit of Innovation’ improves urban environments and living standards, and demonstrates the importance of communication in today’s technological world. It showcases fifty examples of Swedish ingenuity, including the popular Doro PhoneEasy® 410gsm.

The easy to use cell phone is in good company, sharing the spotlight with well-known achievements by Sweden’s most successful global companies such as Tetra Pak, Volvo and IKEA. New ideas from lesser-known companies are also on display, including an innovative solar powered water purification unit for households in areas where clean water is scarce.

The exhibition is intended to build on Sweden’s positive image in China and promote the creativity of Swedish trade and industry. You can read more about Sweden’s participation. Use the links to the right.

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 honorable mention in one of the toughest international design competitions[more].

Doro’s first clamshell cell phone, Doro PhoneEasy® 410gsm, has received honorable mention in the red dot award: communication design 2010 competition. The jury of design experts awards honorable 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 cell 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”.

Colin Orman, 410gsm

Colin, 59, says: “I work outside in all weathers, but I need to be available on the phone when customers and suppliers call me. On my old phone I was finding it harder and harder to read the caller display.”[more] Switching to a Doro PhoneEasy® 410gsm, Colin has noticed a huge difference. “The text displays are fantastic and I can see at a glance now who is calling.”

And Colin has also noticed other benefits. “Often I have cold fingers or am wearing gloves at work. But the buttons on the Doro are much easier to feel, and the text is much easier to see, so I now use text a lot more.” He adds: “I wish I’d discovered Doro years ago. The bm35 is ideal for use at home. And because it folds closed, I know that the keypad is locked and I am not going to misdial.”

Chris Edwards, 410gsm

At the age of 80, Chris Edwards’ family wanted him to use a cell phone so they could keep in touch with them, and he could reach them if needed. But because he didn’t like using the phone he had, the “dreaded unit” was virtually never switched on. But things changed when he got his Doro PhoneEasy® 410s gsm[more].

He says: “My new Doro phone is a revelation to me. It’s easy to use and has a clear picture with large, easy to read and use, buttons – the flap opening is good and I have no trouble in hearing and speaking. It is a great little unit for us older guys”.

Chris Edwards is retired and lives near London, England. He enjoys spending time with grandson Sacha.

Karin Moberg, 410gsm

Last spring our father fell in the middle of the night on his way to the bathroom. He called my brother, who in turn called the ambulance. Dad returned home from the hospital after a probable mini-stroke and was active and healthy, but living on his own. What if it happened again[more]? He was not eligible for an alarm system, so we bought him a Doro PhoneEasy® 410gsm with an alarm button to make us all feel more secure.

It turned out to be his savior. Six months later he had a stroke. He couldn’t read the numbers on his regular phone, but he remembered to push the alarm button on his Doro cell, which alerted my brother. fter a long recovery, he now takes his cellular phone with him whenever he goes out.