Technological convergence is the process through which pre-existing technologies merge or expand their scope to encompass other, multiple functions. Samsung Electronics has embraced this philosophy with the development of the “Smart Ecosystem”, a hub within which its products can effortlessly share content and information.
Lance Berger, head of Product Marketing for TV and AV at Samsung South Africa, says that while convergence has become a common term for many South African businesses, until now it has not been readily available to individual consumers in their homes.
He says this is demonstrated through technological advancements with televisions. A standard feature in many homes, the Samsung Smart TV range brings the most advanced technology straight into the consumer’s living room.
Once connected to a home WiFi network, the Samsung Smart TV range, using the Allshare function, allows users to share movies, pictures and music between compatible devices, meaning the consumer can share pictures taken on a smart phone on the TV with their family.
Taking convergence even further, the Smart View function allows the consumer to view two different sources of content on their compatible device and their Samsung Smart TV respectively. For example, someone can watch a Blu-ray movie whilst their partner watches sports on the same TV.
“This is an immensely powerful feature and doing well around the world,” says Berger.
Finally, the Screen Mirroring feature taps into the home WiFi network or WiFi direct, enabling users to mirror the screen of a phone onto the larger display of a TV.
“Modern technology is centred on trying to make life easier for consumers and Samsung has embraced this philosophy. By simplifying the convergence of our televisions and audio visual electronic products with our smart mobile devices, Samsung has combined the convenience of mobility with the high-quality image and sound reproduction of our AV and TV products,” concludes Berger.
