But let us get to the heart of the matter. What exactly is convergence? A literal translation would be "to head for each other, to correspond". In the technology sector, one refers to communications channels and tools which merge together. In other words: convergence describes the tendency to come closer together, and possibly the fusion of media which originally developed separately from each other. Take the example of cellular phones, which can now be used for accessing Internet services. Or the World Wide Web, which can be accessed not only via PC but also by using TVs equipped with multimedia functions or in one's own car with the help of consumer electronics devices enabled for mobile communications.

Therefore, it is not surprising that Medien Aktuell magazine wrote in February 2001 about a "progressive media concentration against the backdrop of convergence". Or when the focus of an article in Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung at the end of April 2001 was on the "co-pilot with many functions - navigation plus radio, telematics and telephone", a perfect example for convergence. There is an unlimited number of media references.

The issue of security is once again in the limelight, especially after the events of September 11, 2001. Applications such as secure data transmission over networks, electronic signatures and personal identification, all require different semiconductor technologies. Infineon is developing these very technologies and has long been selling the appropriate semiconductor solutions. "Infineon supplies chips for Pentagon employee identification cards" (Reuters, 30.10.2001). A reference which speaks for itself. Whether in Germany, Great Britain, India or in the USA, everywhere you will confront the same message: "Chip cards are just the ticket" (Financial Times, 18.4.2001). The years to come will be the communications age of technological convergence - above and beyond the inevitable development of the next mobile communications generations such as GPRS and UMTS. And Infineon will significantly lead the way for this development.