Two weeks ago, consumer electronics firm Amstrad launched its E-Mailer
gadget, an all-in-one phone, voicemail, e-mail terminal and fax. But already,
Amstrad has had to scrap a plan to help subsidise the gadget’s low 拢80
price tag with surcharges on e-mail. Its 126-page manual states that failure to
use e-mail at least five times per week, at local phone rates plus a surcharge,
means the machine’s non-phone features will stop working. After complaints,
Amstrad says it is now “dramatically” changing the design: users are no longer
obliged to use the e-mail. But E-Mailer still needs a new session for each…
To continue reading, today with our introductory offers
Advertisement
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles
1
Where, when and how to watch the 2026 solar eclipse
2
If you aren't terrified by this heatwave, you should be
3
Europe鈥檚 heatwave is the hottest and most humid ever
4
Ancient human DNA found on cave art for the first time
5
Can home batteries help save the climate and save you money?
6
Our verdict on The Selfish Gene: An unpopular piece of popular science
7
We鈥檝e uncovered a master gene that switches on human development
8
Most portable air conditioners suck 鈥 but there's an easy fix
9
The surprising ways your brain changes from your 20s to your 40s
10
Lost books by ancient philosophers recovered from 'unreadable' scrolls



