We're nearly done with our annual look at the most influential, ground-breaking, or otherwise important stories of 2010. In addition to our own staff, we consulted with some industry experts including ACB Radio Main Menu's Jamie Pauls, the Blind Geek Zone's Rick Harmon and Ranger from the Ranger Station Blog to help create our list. We'll present one item every day until we reach number 1. Today, a less than bitter divorce.
For much of its existence, Hims was an unknown quantity in the United States. In fact, many users associated the BrailleSense, BookSense, and other portable products with GW Micro, often incorrectly attributing them with their creation. In 2010, however, Hims began to ramp up its U.S. presence by increasing its visibility at trade shows and later with the establishment of its own office in Austin. So it really didn't come as much of a surprise when Hims and GW Micro severed ties in October.
While the news itself wasn't much of a shock, the ripple effects now and in the coming months will be a rather interesting story to watch. Hims has assembled a staff of U.S.-based individuals for its tech support and repair departments, but will they have the experience in marketing and supporting products which GW Micro provided? An agreement with Sendero for future development of the SenseNav GPS products is certainly a good start. And what will GW Micro do now that much of its hardware division has been eliminated? In a possible turn of events, GW Micro may continue to sell some Hims products, at least while it has stock on hand. And there is talk of future hardware partnerships down the line. GW Micro is also launching new services for script development, in an effort to diversify its business. 2010's biggest divorce may also be one of the biggest stories to watch in 2011. It's number 3 on our year-end countdown.
Category: ArticlesQuite honestly, I think this is a good thing. Hims created the products and know them best, and this should allow GW Micro to get back on track with their own product (Window-Eyes). WE needs some serious attention, especially in the areas of web support and memory management.
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J.J. Meddaugh is an experienced technology writer and computer enthusiast. He is a graduate of Western Michigan University with a major in telecommunications management and a minor in business. When not writing for Blind Bargains, he enjoys travel, playing the keyboard, and meeting new people.
