3. INTRODUCTION
Media convergence is the process by which previously distinct
technologies come to share tasks and resources.
Media convergence in communications means where every mass
medium eventually merges to the point where they become one medium
due to the advent of new communication technologies.
The Media Convergence involves entire production, distribution, and
use process of future digital media services from contents production to
service delivery through various channels such as mobile terminals,
digital TV, or the Internet.
4. SOME DEFINITIONS OF MEDIA
CONVERGENCE
It means merging together different equipment and tools for producing and
distributing the content.
(Grant and Wilkinson, 2009)
The combination of new media and old media within a single piece of
media work the coming together of different media products/technology.
E.g., video gaming , mobile phone
It involves blending of the media, telecommunications and computer
industries
Media Convergence as a phenomenon involving the interlocking of
computing and information technology companies, telecommunications
networks, and content providers from the publishing worlds of newspapers,
magazines, music, radio, television, films, and entertainment software.
5. MEDIA CONVERGENCE
WAS MADE POSSIBLE BY:
A significant step in media convergence was brought by Web 2.0.
Web 2.0 describes the web applications that revolve around the
concept of participatory information sharing, interoperability,
user-centered design and collaboration on the
internet(Techpluto).
It allows the viewer to become the user, in a way that the web
has evolved from an information-sharing form of media to a form
of enabling functionalities in which the user is able to participate
6. MEDIA CONVERGENCE
BRINGS
The process of convergence brings the separate application
together that were previously separated
Media Convergence brings together the three Cs computing,
communications, and contents.
Content-music, images, films, TV, radio, magazines, newspapers,
books and games
Computer- hardware and software
Communication specifically networked telecommunication
enabling connectivity downloads and sharing as well as
conversational interaction.
9. OUTCOMES OF MEDIA
CONVERGENCE
The convergence makes interlinking of information technologies, media
content, media companies and communication networks emerging in the
digital media space.
It has transformed industries, services, and practices to deliver content in
new and unique ways.
Traditionally, technology has existed in different entities. For example, a
camera and telephone were two different gadgets but now have
combined to form better unique product.
Similarly, Computers were made for computing and not for other
purposes, such as gaming and surfing the internet. However, the
convergence of computers and technology gadgets now delights all users
of technology.
This interconnection of information technologies, media content, and
computer networks is known as media convergence.
10. MEDIA CONVERGENCE
INCORPORATES
It incorporates such advances for applications like:
Internet and electronic trade
Cell phone technology
Computerized film activity
Streaming music and video
High definition TV (HDTV, 3D, 4D)
Video game frameworks
12. IN CONCLUSION
Media convergence blends print, broadcast, online media, and
communication tools like social media, blogs, and video-sharing
platforms into one.
Media convergence is the process of different media technologies
merging into one medium due to new communication technologies. It's
a result of the digitization of media and the popularity of the internet.
13. CONVERGENCE HAS HAPPENED AT THREE LEVELS:
Technological convergence
Economical convergence
Convergence of socio- cultural forms as Textual
convergence
14. TECHNOLOGICAL CONVERGENCE
Technological convergence, also known as the convergence
of technology (or sometimes digital convergence), is a
game-changing concept where unrelated technological
entities come together in a single system. This often saves
space, time, and power.
This phenomenon has revolutionized the way we use and
interact with technology in our daily lives.
Technological convergence consists of the integration,
merging or the blending together of different technologies to
create a new product or offering. It's a broad concept that
covers a wide range of technologies.
15. EXAMPLE
Converged technologies can replace single-function technologies but
might also provide an alternative product offering. For example,
smartphones have for the most part replaced GPSes, calculators, etc
Also mobile phone were Originally designed for making calls, now
combine multiple technologies such as calling, texting, emailing,
internet browsing, photography, and so much more all into one
handy device
Technological convergence is the merging of technologies such as
the ability to watch TV shows online on sites like Netflix or to play
video games on mobile phones like the Apple iPhone.
16. IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGICAL CONVERGENCE
Previously Traditional stand alone devices are
being connected by networks and software,
significantly enhancing functionalities.
Previously stand-alone products are being
converged into same platform creating hybrid
products and processes
Companies are crossing traditional boundaries
such as hardware and software to provide new
products and new sources of competition.
17. ADVANTAGES OF TECHNOLOGICAL CONVERGENCE
Innovation. Technological convergence can spur innovation reducing the need for single-
use devices e.g A Smart Television offering superior quality of sound, 3D effect and digital
content
Better Access- Technological convergence results in easier access to technology at a lower
cost. E.g Wi-Fi has become ubiquitous and affordable, even for non-tech-savvy users
All-in-one piece of technology. Technological convergence also helps consumers use
devices at one time, e.g earlier making a telephone call was the only option for speaking
with someone over long distances. Today, a smartphone supports telephone calls,
messaging apps and video calls, email and other text-based services.
Reduced costs. Technological convergence can also help reduce costs. Purchasing internet,
television and telephone service is likely cheaper than subscribing to these services
separately. Similarly, buying a smartphone costs less than purchasing a collection of single-
purpose devices.
Simplified management. It's easier to manage one device than it is to manage many.
Likewise, it is easier to manage a single converged network than it is to manage multiple
separate networks.
Enabling AI based products: Technological paved way for ML, deep learning, computer
vision and NLP to create new AI-enabled products. E.g, Chatbots, for example, into
websites. Virtual assistants, such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, and Google Assistant are AI
chatbots.
18. DISADVANTAGES OF CONVERGING TECHNOLOGIES
Complexity. Due to the complexity of delivering internet, video and voice services,
network providers must make expensive investments in computing, networks, security
and continuous software development.
Points of failure. Converging services such as voice, video and internet can increase the
severity e.g, may affect voice service. The same was true for video and internet services.
Barrier to use: Existing network owners are often reluctant to share infrastructure with
new competitors. E.g, Debates over net neutrality, where larger providers might give
preferential treatment to their own services.
Compatibility and Form Factor: Devices have limitations based on their size and
design. E.g, Browsing on a smartphone is less efficient than on a desktop due to screen
size.
Data Privacy: Increased data collection can lead to concerns over personal data usage
and protection. E.g, Wearable devices can expose sensitive information if hacked or
mishandled.
Security Issues: IoT devices are vulnerable to hacking, compromising connected
networks. E,g, A hacked IoT device could be used to attack data-rich devices like PCs or
smartphones.