Solo hobbyist, need tips on promoting a niche product!
Hi there!
Years ago I have started working on an audiobook player for elderly (85+), visually impaired users. It was born of real need. Over time it gathered a small number of happy users.
However, I've always struggled with promotion:
It's a niche product, any promotion should try to reach family members and caregivers.
The audioplayer is an app that you use with an off-the-shelf tablets to make a sort-of-DIY device.
I'm a software developer with a bit of knack for UX, not a marketing guy. Plus it's a hobby project that I tinker with after my day job.
I'm bad at social media: I have a BlueSky account for the project but except for one post it's tumbleweed and crickets :D
I did create a few YouTube videos and the seem to bring in some people but only those who know what to look for.
To expand on points 1 and 2: what we needed was a device, a specialized MP3 player. I can build software so I have created an app that, with a special setup procedure (the DIY element), converts an Android tablet or smartphone into a dedicated audiobooks player. Add to this a smart case and magnetic charging cable (more DIY elements) and you have a solid, easy to use device for someone with special needs (so most of us as we get old).
Recently I've rebuilt it from scratch based on all the feedback and experience I got over the years and thus my next promotion step is a launch here in a week or so (stay tuned and follow ;) ). But I feel Product Hunt might not be the best channel - it feels like it's best for promoting tools for running a startup.
I would be really grateful for any tips on promoting the app/device.
Thanks!
Replies
Hey Marcin, I think your post is interesting but the challenge you presented is a difficult one. On one hand, there is a need for what you're presenting so there is a unique value proposition there. However, the true challenge is in aligning the product with the customer. For example, the elderly and disabled can be more challenging as customers than young, tech savvy gadget lovers.
I'd recommend identifying a clinician or someone who works with these vulnerable groups to ask them about your idea. Specifically, ask them: "how do the elderly/disabled read or listen to audio books now?" "are there things they would like to be able to do, which they cannot do now?" "are devices available that do what they want but are unaffordable?"
These questions are important because it is currently possible to ask Amazon Alexa to read an audio book, or ask Siri to play something on Spotify, but these options may not be available to these groups due to technical limitations of the user or device. Identifying where these gaps are will allow you to make a more refined "proof of concept" which can be used to drill down into more concrete user requirements.
Homer Player
cricket sounds
See, I'm really bad with social media :)