Yep, I was one of those naysayers. $499 for something with apps? My tiny little Razr was sleek, fit in my bag, did what I needed and didn’t have a glass surface I’d surely smash on week 1.

 

Well many iPhones later (and cracked and lost screens), I’d lose my mind without it. I wouldn’t know the time, where I’m supposed to be, the weather in 10 cities, the last 23 thoughts my friends and 81-year-old mom texted. I couldn’t access email, my plane ticket, lyrics to a song, the news, order dinner or a car in the pouring rain in any city. Worst of all, I couldn’t take the stealthy photos and videos that are the lifeblood of what a fellow researcher calls our “curiosity disorder.” I gotta capture data in real time.

 

So happy birthday and look at you now. You’ve enhanced the lives of millions, killed off many industries and toppled others. Your sister, Apple TV at a mere $150 (I’m too cheap to buy a smart TV), has me so happily entertained with HBO on demand and movies that are playing in theaters at a fraction of the price.

Yep, I’m about to break up with my cable company… that’s how happy I am with connected entertainment.

 

So, what’s next? Lots of “smart home” doubters say it is only “early adopters” that have or will create fully connected homes. I can understand their concerns. That said, the influencers in my life have introduced me to Amazon’s Alexa, Kasa smart plugs and, best of all, my Dropcam that keeps my home and office safe. This creeping influx of smart devices makes me wonder when I too will have a fully connected home.

 

If this tidal wave is anything like that of the smartphone and connected entertainment, it’s only a matter of time before surf’s up for the mainstreamers.