Here is an extreme example of what I discussed in chapter 7 of my book: one technology imitating another. In this case Toyota is making cars that look like smart phones. See (in Japanese):
http://www.yomiuri.co.jp/atmoney/news/20111128-OYT1T01025.htm You can program your smart phone to display an image on the side panel of the car. It is sorta cute, but pointless. I cannot think of a reason why anyone would do that or what benefit it might have. Maybe for rolling advertisements? In this case we have one technology imitating an unrelated one. In most cases, new technology imitates the older version of the same thing. For example early word processors imitated typewriters. Designers do that because they think customers are used to the old version and that is what they want. The demand for an imitation of the old technology does not last long. People soon get used to the new version and they want it instead. The president of Toyota, Mr. Toyoda, says these cars will "fun." Fun is not a high priority with me when it comes to transportation. this thing also has pop-up GPS with artificial intelligence enhancements such as a warning when you are about to whack into another car. You would probably need that if you are busy with your smartphone designing a new display for your side panel. - Jed
