Four Screens: a definition

This is a simple one – the four screens are the four devices that we all use to view digital media: TV, desktop, mobile phone and tablet*.

What isn’t so simple is understanding how consumers use the four screens. Nor is it easy to track their activity across these devices – and thereby offer a more integrated experience.

BBC has a four screens plan — The BBC has a clear four screens strategy

*A slight wrinkle developing in 2015 is a redefinition where mobile and tablet are being lumped together under “mobile” and a new “fourth screen” is being added – wearable or wearable tech. Despite the shut down of Google Glass in January this year, the demand for self-quantification and flexible access to the internet has ensured that wearable is here to stay (Adobe claim that in 2014, smart glasses, smart watches, and fitness bands will reach about $3 billion).