Asking "What channel is that show on?" seems like an outdated concept in 2005. I caught myself asking this question after a friend introduced me to a new TV show that he thought I would enjoy. Right after I said it, I realized that with built-in program guides, DVRs, and program search capabilities, I really didn't need to know the channel - or time for that matter.
I think that after owning a TiVo for more than five years, I have almost completely lost track of what show is on which channel. In fact, without the Season's Pass and Wish List features, I would not even be able to find my favorite shows as they jump around networks in syndication.
Only a few networks have been able to break through the haze and I have to marvel at their efforts. HBO and FX are two that stand out and I strongly associate quality programming with their respective brands. Other than that, it might as well be one big channel.
I am also excited about the future of content delivered over the Internet. Akimbo has a product that does this already and TiVo has recently previewed a similar feature. I think this would only confuse those TV viewers who have not yet experienced "channel blur" since it is likely that Internet-delivered content would complement traditional cable or satellite programming in the same way local channels are often integrated into today's guides.
One good side-effect of channel blur is that I now readily welcome the expansion of channels. If DirecTV wants to offer 1500 HD channels in the next couple of years, then I say, bring it on. By that time, Google will have taken over my TV search features so I'm not worried.
