Technological Convergence

Technological Convergence is, in its most basic sense, the coming together and fusion of various technologies.  Convergence itself is the merging of distinct technologies, industries, or devices into a unified whole.  Combined with the term "technological", this creates the idea in which various technologies may be combined to create a simpler, more robust piece of hardware and software.

One example of Technological Convergence may be found in the modern smartphone. Through the combination of camera, display, speaker(s), silicone hardware and software, a single, cohesive item is created of which is great at performing multiple tasks (i.e. taking pictures, calling, watching videos, etc.).  

Seen Below:

Samsung Galaxy S8 and S8 Plus

Another example of Technological Convergence may be found in the form of a modern gaming consoles from Microsoft and Sony (i.e. Xbox One S, Xbox Project Scorpio, PS4, PS4 Pro) and Nintendo to a much lesser extent with the Switch.  The former examples combine hardware features such as an SoC (System on Chip), motherboard, and controllers as well as software capabilities to which an individual may game, check email, and speak verbally to the system and have it recognize language (Cortana on Xbox One) all on a single system.  

Seen Below:

Microsoft's Project Scorpio logo

Seen Below:

Microsoft's Project Scorpio SoC

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Sony PS4 Pro

Something else to consider is the Black Box model in which a single, "black" box is able to perform all necessary tasks within itself (i.e. no need to other hardware or software - all is performed by a single box).  Two important factors to consider that prevent this single box from existing are as follows...

1) A single box this capable would cannibalize a company's own products as they would no longer be necessary if this single box can perform everything well by itself.  

2) A monopoly could be formed in which a single company or product rises the point of no customer purchasing and no consumer utilizing another product(s).

Technological Convergence exists today in many facets of the technology industry (from TVs to smartphones and even refrigerators with TVs in their doors).  As long as technology continues to grow, progress, and expand into new markets, one may safely assume that Technological Convergence, too, will grow alongside the hardware and software enhancements themselves.

Sean McCarney

Devan Orr

Jack Shirk