3D and 4G

 - January 12, 2011 by David McClurg

3D and 4G are both hot topics in media convergence right now. But one is set to take off immediately and the other will likely take a bit more time. 

What do 3D and 4G have in convergence, err common?

Both are trying to make their way into the next round of media convergence, but unfortunately for 3D, this is where the commonality stops. Convergence is driven more so by consumer habits and behaviors than technology. 4G and its strong connection to our growing digital needs and 3D with its technical cool factor are good examples of this.

The devices and connections we use to consume media are converging rather rapidly. Many of the next-phase consumer goods (phones, tablets, computers) are coming equipped with the ability to connect to your wireless provider and their 4G (and 3G) networks. This 4G pipe is used to stream or download almost anything you can view from your traditional television provider.

3D television or media for that matter was pretty hot in 2010, but so too was 4G. If you followed the 2011 Consumer Electronics Show last week, you would have seen some of the largest technology companies showcasing their wares for both 3D and 4G. Aside from this, the parallels of 3D and 4G begin to part. 3D will continue to evolve but isn’t quite ready to converge with our home or personal entertainment lives. If you’re like me, your initial impression about 3D television in your home is “cool” but quickly followed with “meh”.

4G, on the other hand, is part of one of the fastest growing technology segments – smart phones. What you may not know is how quickly your cellular company is priming itself to become your media provider. The development of the smart phone has helped push the next digital device, the “tablet”. Although tablets have been around for years, consumers weren’t truly ready for them until the iPad. Apple introduced a fix for the need, but also generated a need because, well, its Apple.

So, if you’re looking to hedge your bets, I would keep a strong eye on wireless and stay away from 3D unless its coming from your local megaplex. Also, the next time you ask consumers to do something, make sure it’s a part of their existing or natural behavior or you may find yourself starring at a room full of dusty 3D televisions from 2010.

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