People used to think ‘convergence’ meant all devices would morph into one: some kind of incredible ur-device that would check e-mail, play video games, store MP3s, and cook waffles.
Not likely.
Indeed, we’ve seen a profusion of devices, not a consolidation. But there’s still a kind of convergence at work: These devices are lining up on a continuum, with significant cross-overs in functionality. We’re heading not toward a single wonder-device that everyone owns, but instead toward a broad ecosystem of devices with something perfect for everyone’s needs.
Here’s an example: Microsoft is going to offer three versions of its second-generation Xbox, dubbed the Xbox Next. They will be:
- The plain ol’ Xbox Next, with no hard drive.
- The Xbox Next HD, with a hard drive.
- The Xbox Next PC, a stripped-down Media Center PC.
See that continuum? It’s an unbroken line from straight video game console to hybrid PC. All you want to do is play Halo 3? No sweat — grab an Xbox Next. Want to play Halo 3 and record and store TV shows? Maybe swap ’em with friends, too? Hook it up with the Xbox Next PC.
Look for the continuum everywhere: PCs, phones, DVRs, you name it. These days ‘convergence’ means more, not less.
