H1000 posted:Bryant Dunivan 111417 posted:H1000 posted:Bryant Dunivan 111417 posted:I forgot to mention. Upgraded app (25.00) x DCS users (???) to get features we have with remote, TIU, & AIU. Sounds like income without representation ($$$) to me.
We have a single google account that has already purchased the upgraded $25 app. Anyone who uses that account to download the app doesn't pay for each device and or user of the premium app. Our cost to install the premium app on 6 devices was a total of $25.
$25.00 per user, up to 6 devices. I am talking about $25.00 x user, not $25.00 x devices. Still $25.00 x users is real money. Customer money. Every user will spend $25.00. Can't estimate because I don't know how many DCS users are out there. I would speculate that there are a few users out there who have or had not intention of using the app. This does not take into account the users that want to stay under the radar (no wireless tech) because they don't trust anything that goes over a radio wave. Some avoid potential hacking by not going there. I know it is safe with DCS and the app. But there is still an educational process to deal with making people feel secure. They won't be bothered. They will be like the quiet customers, and just go away and in time people will ask why? That is usually to late to reverse the tide.
Buy what you need, something that APP allows you to do.
What about those DCS remote users who bought features they don't need because they didn't opt for an AIU.
There is also a standard upgrade for $5 to allow full access to all engine features without accessory or switch control features.
My last new DCS remote cost just as much as a WIU plus the $25 app upgrade. Now I can add as many (disposable) remotes as I want without incurring any extra cost.
I see what you are saying about the app upgrade looking like a money grab especially when it isn't a an object you can hold or put on the shelf. It is software and you pay to unlock features within it. Some people get it, other just don't like paying money for something they can't physically touch.
Both are kinda correct though.
Here is how I got burned and although I am not super upset about it, it still kinds ticked me off.
I am a die hard android user, I have never purchased an iPhone in my life. I bought the WIU after purchasing a TIU with remote. Went home hooked everything up, whipped out my android phone and had some fun. Then, I told myself, self, it would be better for you to use your company iPad since it has a larger screen. OOOPPPSSS!!! I need t pay another $25 to access the features on my iPad! That kinda sticks IMO, I am the same person, using the same WIU to control one layout, why does it sound fair to MTH to charge me $50 to run my trains in my personal situation, I am sure others have both Android and IOS devices in their lives.
Last I checked, MTH had one remote, no matter if you are android, IOS, windows, linux, ms-dos, blackberry, palm pilot; the remote doesn't care how many engines you have, doesn't care if you like Star Wars or Star Trek, it just worked.
I am sorry but a successful business, not only grows with the times, but also caters to all possible customers not just those who decide to purchase something going forward.
