Probably one of the devices with the largest disconnect for those who haven't experienced one is the photoframe. I bought our first photoframe some years ago; they weren't very common and could only be bought sight unseen from online retailers.
When you explain what a photoframe is, people invariably react with "So what?" and are usually dismissive or just can't see the point. Yet, photoframes are an essential adjunct to digital photography.
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But the reaction from people who see a photoframe for the first time is totally the opposite.
Photoframes are now available at retail and are starting to become common. E-readers have exactly the same problem, it will take some time to establish a critical mass so people will come into contact with them casually before they know they need to buy one.
There is another issue with photoframes, and that is, that people who have never used one seem to think they are qualified to influence the design. Hence, the absolutely pointless inclusion by some manufacturers of video and audio playback, to the detriment of the primary use of the device. Same could apply to e-readers; let's get the basic features sorted before adding wifi, video and colour!