Tool Technology versus Entertainment Technology

I have been toying with the idea of tool technology versus entertainment technology. By this I mean the distinction between technology that we use as tools (such as getting from place to place, improve our vision or communicate across long distances) and technology that we use to entertain ourselves, like DVD players, iPods and video games.

What makes the Internet, computers, cell phones and all modern technology so powerful is that many of these devices combine the best (and in some cases the worst) aspects of “tool” technology and “entertainment” technology. Rarely before have we seen technologies that can be used so seamlessly for both purposes. Prior to the advent of computers and certain consumer electronic devices, most technology fell primarily into one of the two camps. The automobile, for example, solved the problem of crossing long distances – while many people used it to cross distances for purposes of amusement, the automobile is primarily a tool. The television, on the other hand, is primarily an entertainment technology. While a few enterprising individuals sought to use it as a tool for education, its main purpose is entertainment.

As the line between tool technologies and entertainment technologies blur, consumers are beginning to expect that all of their devices – even those that are primarily “tool” oriented – have an entertainment component. Imagine, for example, buying a car these days that does not have a CD player, much less a DVD player for passengers, an MP3 input, a GPS device and a docking station for your blackberry. Consider, too, the fact that we have refrigerators with TV screens and our cell phones (originally used as a communications tool), can be used to take pictures and watch videos.

I think this melding of tool technology and entertainment technology is related to engagism. People expect to use their devices, regardles of their original "category" to engage in content and ideas -- and if their devices don't provide that capacity, they won't use them. I'd love additional thoughts and examples from anyone who wants to send them.

Henry Jenkins' upcoming book "Convergence Culture" will consider these ideas and far, far more (and, much more eloquently). The book is coming our in the next week and can be found on Amazon.com. You can check out his blog at www.henryjenkins.org