New media refers to the new forms of communication that allows people to interact with one another and share content easily through digital platforms. Examples of new media include the huge rise of social media throughout the years. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have made it possible for users to create and take content. Users are able to post a video, then receive feedback and have discussions through comments or messages with other people across the world. Conversations no longer have to be face to face. These platforms allow for any discourse to take place from anywhere. These create new opportunities to get different perspectives from others with their different experiences. This was something that could not have been possible before. Before, people had to wait to be in the same place for discussions and did not have the access to different people with different experiences. They were limited to the people surrounding them, but now there is no limit. There are also blogs, podcasts, and services like YouTube that are other examples of new media.
Anything that can create opportunities for users to be interactive can be new media. New media is something that is computer accessible, something that Manovich argues is the foundation for it. It is more than just receiving information; it is a back-and-forth process that brings collaboration and communication. Communication with others brings new perspectives, experiences, ideas, and connections. It doesn’t even have to be for new connections. New media allows people to connect with friends and family that are not nearby. They are able to share pieces of their lives with loved ones that are not there to see it in person. New media has brought so many great opportunities for everybody.
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