Phase out over-the-air signals? (was: Re: WCRB to simulcast on 88.7 in R.I.)

[Garrett Wollman]

<<On Fri, 03 Jun 2011 14:35:51 -0400, Richard Chonak <rac@server4.gabrielmass.com> said:

> Is anybody thinking about a future without over-the-air broadcasting, 
> with its place taken by internet streaming?

> The obstacles seem to be cost (portable streaming requires cellphone 
> service) and convenience (a car radio is easier to use than a streaming 
> app on a smartphone).

I'm reasonably certain that the car companies are thinking about
that.  The current generation of in-car electronics like Ford's
MyFordTouch system are already equipped to control smartphone-based
media players over a bluetooth connection.

I think the cost will relatively soon cease to be an issue as many
people will have their 4G wireless data connection become their
primary Internet connection anyway.  Obviously the early adopters will
be fairly well off.

-GAWollman