Computing

Former colleague Joe Wilcox notes that most computer brands are met with cognitive dissonance when they journey into consumer electronics. Joe is definitely on to something (though his observations are backed by admittedly anecdotal evidence — don’t you think that’s something you guys over at JupiterResearch should be testing empirically?) Another part of the problem, though, is that consumers are slow to fully understand the implications of digital technology – never mind convergence.  (OK, I’m working with entirely anecdotal evidence here as well, but bear with me). When I meet new people and invite them to watch a movie in …

SBC preannounced their big CES news: a set top box that combines satellite TV programming, digital video recording, video on demand, and Internet content.  There have been everything-but-the-kitchen-sink set top boxes before (anybody remember last CES? the year before that?), but I believe that this is significant for one reason: distribution.  Most of the converged set top box dreams of years past are all about consumer technology value propositions: distributing content around the house, moving photos and music off the PC, and providing Internet access from the TV.  That’s nice, but other than increased tech support calls, there’s little incentive …