Comcast Defines Convergence December 3, 2009

In a society where media convergence is the name of the game, Comcast takes the game to a whole new level. The Philadelphia-based cable corporation made a $30 billion deal today with General Electric Company to acquire NBC Universal Studios.

This deal, which will unite America’s largest cable TV provider with the nation’s fourth highest ranked broadcast network, offers endless possibilities for the future. Intertwining cable television, broadcast television, internet, telecommunications and the film industry, the new corporation has the makings of a monster multimedia conglomerate.

Comcast executives have not yet announced any specific plans for change. But changes are sure to take place in about 18 months, once the deal is finalized.

The acquisition of NBC Universal could provide Comcast with an opportunity to expand on its sports coverage and compete with ESPN.

Or the new corporation could revolutionize the news industry by eliminating the broadcast network entirely and creating a cable- and internet-based news network.

Not to mention, the internet service and telecommunications provided by Comcast give it an additional advantage. The all-in-one phone, internet and television package deal Comcast offers will keep its customers hooked regardless of any changes it makes to the television industry.

For now, NBC Universal will keep its name and will continue to operate out of its New York headquarters. But over the next few years, who knows?

This blending of two major multimedia outlets could redefine media completely.