Ergo Audrey

But Audrey was short lived.  Shortly after launch the dot-com bust began.  We began to see our content providers go out of business one by one.  People began losing trust in the internet and were not buying Audrey.  But we felt the biggest issue was that we were ahead of the times.  Consumers were still buying buying their first computers and were getting online for the first time.  So buying a fancy internet appliance was not something conceivable and so 3Com cut Audrey and the Internet Appliance division.

Verizon Hub

Just recently I began seeing TV commercials about Verizon Wireless’ new phone – the Verizon Hub.  I nearly jumped out of my chair when I saw the first commercial.  It was almost like seeing Audrey all over again.  I have to admit that although envious I am excited to see the Hub launch.  The Hub is meant to serve as the family hub – similar to Audrey’s approach.  Yes, Audrey was ahead of the times but I am convinced that it paved the way for products like The Hub and hopefully more to come in the future.  I also believe that everything happens for a reason so because of Audrey’s failure I have been able to start up my own business.  I learned a lot during my days at 3Com and I thank the guys at 3Com and especially Jen, Daniel and Chris for showing me the ropes, giving a rookie a chance and being a pretty darn good team.