The case for all-in-one computers and devices like iMacs and iPhones

A few years ago, I was not a big fan of all-in-one devices. The biggest reason is that if it breaks, that means everything on the ship sinks with it too.

Over these years, my preference has changed and I’m starting to prefer all-in-one devices and computers. Why? This can be answered with my iMac and iPhone.

Less things to carry
Before iPhone, I had to carry an iPod, a camera phone, and a PDA. The iPhone simplified all three devices into one.

Less wires, cords, and space to take up
A regular desktop computer usually needs two power cords. And a monitor cable is needed. And the tower takes up some real estate. Enter an all-in-one computer like the iMac. Boom, three cables are gone, and the tower disappears.

The cons
Well, not everything is perfect. For example, with the iMac, I can’t turn the screen off easily. And I can’t use the screen with other devices, like a Mac Mini for example.


But, in the end, I prefer it all-in-ones, and that is why with the next TV I’m going to buy, I’m considering one with a hard drive recorder built-in. However, jamming features and functions into one device is one thing, they key is to make sure the interface is nicely done, and the final product is easy to use.

One has to wonder how far all-in-one can go. What if my iMac comes with a built-in scanner and printer? What if the PS3 or Wii were built in right into the TV? Wouldn’t that be nice?