Convergence will allow new opportunities for communication at many levels. Bergendahl envisions students throughout the world taking classes from MIT or doctors in different locations sharing healthcare diagnostic information over both fixed and mobile networks. As computers and IT applications in cars
become more sophisticated, manufacturers could send software updates to engines over wireless networks.
“Managers introducing new products need to start thinking around what will happen when their products get connected,” Bergendahl says. “That will be everything from supporting a farmer with a tractor out in the field to switches that can be maintained remotely.”
In a converged marketplace, “there is no one-content-fits-all strategy that will succeed,” comments Parker. “Content will need to be accessible via myriad devices and in myriad manners, via downloading, sideloading, broadcasting, unicasting, etc.”
John Harrobin, Verizon Wireless’ vice president, digital media, believes that open competition will spur development of the content and services that consumers want in a converged market. “The great thing about our industry is that we can launch products fairly quickly relative to other industries. We saw
that innovation and commitment to developing applications in the wireless stage,” says Harrobin.
But consumers won’t adopt new services unless they are simple to understand and operate. “We need to be very cognizant of user experiences,” he cautions. “As these devices hold so much content and so many applications, we need to make sure that we provide easy access to them, that they are easy to learn and
intuitive.” Companies will need to design and test user interfaces to make sure that customers have a common experience on whatever devices they are using.
Single device should do all
As content becomes more integrated across platforms, so too will the devices—especially the wireless devices—that consumers use to stay connected. Consumers who rely on their cell phones will expect them to do more. “Our surveys have shown that more than ninety percent of the people who have a wireless phone
always bring it with them. No wonder that we’re seeing cameras and MP3 players coming into phones, making them like a Swiss knife,” says Bergendahl. “That’s what you’re going to see in the future. People don’t want to carry five or six devices, so you will get devices that can handle a number of tasks, including paying for the train tickets. It will be more or less a full blown PC, and it will be very difficult to distinguish if it’s a phone-enabled camcorder or a laptop camera capable of voice.”
Johan Bergendahl
Ericsson
