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Chapter 6 – Summary

We’ve looked at three different Internet applications using a variety of technologies. Clearly, the Internet provides the possibility of delivering a large number of channels in the form of digital entertainment. Much like broadcasting, these channels compete for viewers among millions of Internet users.

As channels and Web sites evolve, broadcasters and the entertainment industry are becoming more and more involved with the development of content on the Internet. Currently, the most popular sites on the Internet consist of traditional forms of entertainment such as magazines, television, music, movies and news. Channels are enhancing the entertainment value of these products. Consumers expect equivalent quality to TV entertainment and will expect nothing less from channels delivered to the PC.

In order to create successful digital channels and entertainment, channels need to make use of real-time delivery of video and audio for live broadcasts. Too, advertising and electronic commerce are critical to make channels economically profitable. Channels require updated and compelling content to keep viewers connected, and can differentiate themselves by providing 3D graphics, animation, video and audio into an integrated, easy-to-use interface that ultimately provides the best possible user experience. In the three applications, we have touched on just a few of the technologies used to enhance a channel. Refer to the appendices for other technologies and data types which can be used to build a compelling channel.

The Pentium^® II Processor based computer is the ideal delivery vehicle for these emerging digital channels. The PC’s flexibility in handling a wide variety of rich data types, including the communication infrastructure to deliver compelling content, makes it the platform of choice. The integration of these data types into a user interface that attracts users is the challenge of the developer, who should aim high or risk losing out to digital channels that do.

Ultimately, the digital channels with the most compelling content delivered in a rich manner will capture the largest consumer audience.

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