Dual Camera Smart Phones Will Drive More Video Calling Possibilities

Video Call Technology More Available
The recent introduction of a few smart phones, including the iPhone R4, with both front and back cameras, will drive the use of video calling to more commonplace levels.  I expect many more of these phones to be introduced with two cameras as the phone vendors and service providers fight to keep up with and out-do each other.  These phones are supporting point to point video call or "chat".  Given the new communication capability and social impacts that have already been brought on by mobility and social networks, I expect similar impact from this.  In short, the technology availability via these smart phones and Skype on PCs is making video calling more and more common and expected.  The days of "why would I want to do video calls?" are likely behind us both personally and in the enterprise.  The simple answer is because I can!
 
What May Be Next With These Video-Enabled Devices?
The smart phone is both a personal as well as business communicator.  In today's world, the distinction between personal vs. business communication and collaboration devices and applications is virtually non-existent.  Do you carry two cell phones?  Do you want to?  See identity crisis, device overload and here for additional context on this.

An opportunity I see ahead is in how to offer interoperability and participation of these smart phones in business video conferences and collaboration sessions.   Isn't it desirable that workers on the road with only their smart phone conveniently available be able to join in video conferences or do a point to point video session with a co-worker at the office? Applications will likely emerge to connect these smart phones into enterprise video conferencing systems.

Let's not forget about the emerging tablets.  These devices are coming out at a rapid rate.  Today they are primarily positioned as personal media and entertainment devices without much focus on communication capabilities.  I don't expect that to remain the case for too long.  These devices may not be as portable as a smart phone but do offer larger and more viewable screens for video calling and collaboration.  When these devices are properly integrated into both personal and business/enterprise communications and collaboration systems a merged personal/business and single device video communication experience can be offered.

Do you think video is ready for prime time?  Is the distinction between your personal and business communication needs disappearing?