Who would have ever guessed that when Apple announced the name of its new tablet computer, the iPad, it would make many people, women in particular, cringe? With the release of the name this past week, many women begin to question why Apple has decided to name their new device after a feminine hygiene product. A CNBC anchor has agreed that the name reminded her of feminine products and she thinks it was a “terrible” name to choose. This topic has also been the talk on Twitter among many, resulting in the creation of terms such as “iTampon” and phrases stating that that Apple has an app for everything including a women’s menstrual cycle. While many women seem irritated by the name, men think the opposite. Many men have said that they did not make the same connection as women. With further investigation into the name’s origin, it was found that no women hold top executive positions at Apple. But it has been very evident that no matter male or female, one has to acknowledge that the “iPad” name has been effective and a great marketing strategy. It has been on the tip of everyone’s tongue.
There is no denying that Apple has created a great advertising plan to showcase the iPad. Seeing the “I” in front of any technological device’s name is a clear indication that Apple owns it. This has been their trademark for years. And whether or not someone made the connection between feminine products and a computer, the only thing that matters is that everyone knew who was introducing them to this new product. Also, it may have made more women interested in this new product. Maybe the top Apple executives thought that women fit into the stereotypical image of not being as tech savvy as men. Is there proof that gender determines technological differences? The control of these top executives, men, can spark many of questions. Would the name have been different if a woman had a say into the name-making process?
So why does this matter? It questions and forces people to look at society though a magnifying glass. This “controversy” forces one to question men and women’s role in the media. Apple, a very popular brand, is run mostly by men. Should there be more diversity in their offices? Does this affect the way products are shown to the public? Should there be an equal representation of men and women views (whatever they are) when advertising? Do big companies such as Apple look past this issue, because they know people will buy their products anyway? These are all questions to explore when buying any product.
Any thoughts?
-Dominique
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