Just read this blog about converged devices from Technology Review.
Personally, I have always felt that there will always be a need for two different types of devices: the all-in-one integrated swiss army knife of device and one that just does what one particular function. There are those people who do not like to carry so many devices or carry a Bat belt as it is (which I sometimes do at times!) so they like to have one converged device. However, there are others like myself who like separate devices, a device that works exactly for one particular purpose. With converged devices, the problem is that you can't possibly get the best of everything. A smartphone is not the best for listening or downloading MP3s, an iPod-type of device would be better. Another thing is that, having separate devices gives users choice, I can choose what MP3 player I want, what phone I want etc. A third thing is that I don't have to worry if my MP3 player breaks down, I can get it replaced or get a new one. If something goes wrong with my converged device (especially hardware), then I can't use it.
In short, there will always be two camps of devices, and this will make the device manufacturers with much room to play with! So I don't think that one is better than another, it depends on the purpose and the person. Technology catered towards the person and the environment, that is pervasive computing!
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