An artifact that I believe contains elements of marginalization is that iPhone. Apple created and introduced the iPhone to the world in June of 2007. The iPhone received Time Magazines invention of the year award and wowed people with it’s internet access and muti-touch screen technology. The product was extremely hyped and consumers believed that it did indeed live up to it. When the product hit the market though it was extremely expensive. Most people couldn’t afford it and it only seemed like upper class individuals had one.
Another problem, or set back if you will, that consumers face is that the iphone is only carried by AT&T. My plan is through Verizon Wireless; therefore no iPhone for me (Unless that has changed lately that I’m unaware of). I see a marginalization with this product in the fact that low income, poor, college students, etc. may have a hard time coughing up the cash to have one of these, and also in the fact that only people with AT&T service plans can have an iphone. Apple appeals to college students so why not give us a phone we can afford. Now Apple has recently came out with a new version the iPhone called iPhone 3G, which has faster internet, new apps, and even a lower price. (Knocking off about $200) but even lowing the price still makes it expensive. I see a marginalization of class and status with this phone. I spent time in California over the summer and it seems like everyone there has one. Here in Ohio I only know a few people with one. I hope someday the iPhone gets cheaper and becomes available for everyone because I want one.