Midmarket: Why E-Readers, MP3 Players and Other Single-Purpose Devices Are Endangered Species

Throughout the history of technology, there have been devices that have revolutionized how people used technology by providing a unique capability. But when these devices only do one thing, no matter how well they do it, their lifespan is often short. This is usually because their core functionality quickly becomes a feature of devices that are more popular and can do more than just one thing. Looking back, it's easy to see this in action, from devices that were once ubiquitous and are now extinct to current product categories that are on their way out to new, exciting devices that are destined to become a feature checklist of next-generation smartphones. So take a look at this list of the dismal past, sad present and unpromising future of single-purpose devices.