Alexrd said:

Chewtobacca said:

RLM explained that it wouldn't make sense for Anakin to construct Threepio to help Shmi by observing that a protocol droid wouldn't be much use in the home.

That's his personal opinion. Where did he observe that?

Presumably, from this little gem of dialogue from 77, between Uncle Owen (who lives on the same planet and in pretty much the same setting as Shmi did), and 3p0:

Owen: You, I suppose you're programmed for Etiquette and protocol.

3p0: Protocol? Why, it's my primary function, sir. I am well-versed in all the customs-

Owen: I have no need for a protocol droid.

3p0: Of course you haven't, sir. Not in an environment such as this.

Moreover, it just seems like common sense. Are you seriously suggesting that a slave woman living on a backwater planet run by the hutts, owned by a sleazy junk dealer, apparently stuck at home all day, would have some pressing need for a droid that's been programmed for "etiquette and protocol"? What, do you think Watto had her busy entertaining foreign dignitaries or something?