In years to come, it has been suggested, we will each own a single device that acts as our phone, our camera, our portable music player, our games console, our email and internet platform and our personal organiser. It makes sense, in many instances, to integrate such applications and data networks for convenience and portability. Reduced cost of service, improved coverage and convenience for the user are just some of the advantages and hence drivers for uptake. However, blanket integration of devices and networks is not always the solution sought by the user. Into the future, we will continue to see some spectacular failures as well as some success stories in the integration of devices, services and systems. But service providers should remain vigilant, ensuring that products are in line with what end users and businesses really need.
What do users really want and need from integrated technologies, particularly if they are struggling to switch on and off?