Web 2.0 and Technological Convergence

• Technological convergence: allows audiences to access media content from multiple platforms on one device. It involves the coming together of information and communication technologies to create new ways of production and distributing products and services to media audiences. 

• Black box: a device that supplies us with all of our informational and media requirements (e.g. a smartphone).

Web 2.0

• The dot.com boom (1998-2001) was a huge rise in the number of internet-based companies
• There was a shift from Web 1.0 to Web 2.0
• The internet became more interactive
• Allowed mass communication 
• Reached a larger audience 
• Web 2.0 site allows users to interact and collaborate with each other in social media dialog as creators (prosumers) of user generated content. 
• Web 2.0 shapes the relations of public/ private, work/non-work, home/ outside home
• Mobile phones enhanced pre-existing social connections eg gossip, making arrangements, etc

How is social networking different from more traditional forms of networking?

Due to there being so many different forms of social media, there is a large range of choice in how to communicate. For example, through 'in the moment pictures' on Snapchat, live video calls on FaceTime, photos on Instagram, updates on Facebook etc. However in the past communication would not be so reliable as individuals would not have constantly have a phone on hand and be able to respond instantly.

Impact of online distribution

• Music and television can now be downloaded, streamed or simulcasted at the click of a button - available wherever, whenever
• Simulcasting: When a media product is both online and via a traditional media at the same line. A programme being broadcasted on two different channels e.g. the French Open Tennis Tournament. 
• Narrowcast channels: TV channels thats distribute niche content 
• Below the line advertising: Distribution of pamphlets, sticker, promotions etc

Lovefilm 

• UK based provider of DVD by mail and video streaming on demand 
• Acquired by amazon in 2011
• Claimed over 70,000 titles, 4 million DVDs , Blue-ray or game rentals per month in five countries
• Became the leading online DVD rental and streaming outlet in the UK and Europe
• Company started a 'watch online' service offering over 4,700 films available to watch over subscription 
• Postal service ended August 2017 due to decreasing demand for discs