Devoting much of the chapter towards defining convergence, it’s features, and how it seems to be unfolding, Jenkins summarized it’s characteristics and presenting examples illustrating how he did so. Convergence, a trending topic among emerging technology, consumes much discussion due to it’s common relevance. Ranging in characteristics, one particular characteristic cannot precisely pinpoint what convergence is.
Convergence, “the flow of content across multiple media platforms, the cooperation between multiple media industries and the migratory behavior of media audiences who will go almost anywhere in search of the kinds of entertainment experience they want”, although ambiguously worded, this characterizes the many approaches convergence can take. For example, as the rise of social networking platforms continue to bloom, the consuming audience can now concisely group their desired entertainment. Sites such as twitter, and programs like RSS feeds allow consumers to do just this. Speaking from experience, I found that sites such as these allow me to filter out all undesirable news and allow me to focus on particular articles or genres of news that I find interest in.
Interestingly enough, the story shared by the author illustrates the complications that could ensue because of convergence. As Jenkins recalls, “I was told by mobile company after company that they don’t make single-function phones anymore. Nobody wants them.” A common problem amongst digital immigrant consumers, the consumers demand - an effect of convergence - doesn’t always suit everyone. Although the majority of consumers may want updated phones, there are some consumer who prefer simple conventional phones, and they’re at a disadvantage. So, while it may seem there are no flaws to convergence, not everyone benefits, namely digital immigrants.
As a result of convergence, readers, writers and consumers of media are changing. Readers, once restricted to newspapers and news broadcasts, can now access their media in many fashions: company websites, you tube, RSS feeds and more. Writers are finding themselves adjusting to convergence in whatever way might seem beneficial to them. With the emergence of bloggers and open discussion forums, the voice of the public has never been so prevalent. Once almost entirely reliable on professional writers, most individual sources of information speak for themselves now. Consumers of media may indeed have the highest advantage as a result of convergence. Prior to convergence, consumers were forced to purchase whatever media they wished to read or watch. Now, programs like Justin.tv, zshare, you tube etc. allow consumers to not only read and watch something for free, but also, whenever they want. Similarly, in last week’s reading, Palfrey and Gasser noted although the emerging technologies help digital natives, the digital immigrants are left out of consideration. In this case, the author simply wanted a traditional phone, but because of convergence, it’s imperative electronic companies respond to the consumers demand.
Finally, while convergence is a disadvantage for some, the majority of consumers appreciate it. Integrating so many platforms of information, information has never been so easy have an aggregate source of technology. Ultimately, this revolution will compliment us all with it’s benefits.
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