The portability of content from one digital device to another represents the future of media consumption, according to the latest assessment by eMarketer. The market is constantly shifting, due to changing user preferences and an evolving consumer electronics landscape.
Device manufacturers, marketers and content publishers are all challenged to make digital content available anywhere, anytime and on any user preferred device.
"Even as the landscape evolves, the market for portable electronics is growing unabated," said Noah Elkin, eMarketer senior analyst.
Morgan Stanley expects high-speed wireless Internet-enabled device shipments to more than double worldwide between 2009 and 2013. Other researchers and analysts agree that the mobile device market will continue its upward trajectory.
"From their in-home television and entertainment networks, consumers have grown accustomed to an on-demand culture," said Mr. Elkin.
The combination of always-on devices and broadband networks is helping extend that culture outside the home. For the transition to be successful, devices must provide a good user experience, and content delivery needs to be immediate and seamless.
Netbook PCs in particular have struck a chord with buyers -- especially attractive in a year of financial cut-backs. DisplaySearch data shows netbooks were the only portable PC segment to see year-over-year revenue growth worldwide -- rising a strong 264 percent from Q2 2008 to Q2 2009.
In addition, e-readers, smartphones, media players, gaming devices and tablet PCs are also a major part of the fast-changing world of mobile content consumption.
"Multiple devices, numerous access modes and shifting consumer preferences mean marketers and content owners cannot afford to put all their eggs in one basket," cautioned Mr. Elkin.
Until formats and device platforms become more established, multi-mode, multi-device support remains a must. Clearly, this is an area where continued development of industry-wide standards would help to simplify and enhance the user experience.