Nonsensical Tech Convergence

A few years ago I attended a Trendwatching conference when, during a discussion on the convergence of technology, a person in the audience argued that cell phones, cameras, MP3 players, and computers would not converge. His contention was that people wanted specialty tech devices for specialty purposes because they were easier to use.

While he was generally correct about the ease of use, I was quite sure he was wrong about convergence. Consumers don't want to carry eight devices clipped to their belts or in in their pockets; they want one device. Since that conference, cameras have started wirelessly transmitting images, music players have begun to allow for wireless sharing and download, cell phones are becoming capable MP3 players, and the cameras and flashes on cell phones are improving in quality. So, it seems clear convergence is and will continue to occur.

But, here is some convergence that makes no sense: It's a lighter that is also an MP3 player. Why? Who knows--maybe the company thinks employees need music on their smoking breaks.

If this makes any more sense to you, please let me know. This is the most useless tech idea I've seen since the toilet paper holder/iPod docking station.