This paper is an interesting introduction to an exciting special section about the power and potential of the new interactive technologies. The author gives a competent overview of the current, commercially available systems. She reviews current trends in videodisc technology, compact disc systems (CD-ROM), and digital video interactive (DVI). One of the best sections is a comparison between the characteristics of DVI and CD-I, which even a novice can understand. But, most important, Frenkel captures both the excitement and the confusion over the new media and multimedia computer technologies. The excitement is obviously due to the knowledge that they can have dramatic effects in the areas of education and entertainment. The confusion is over which standards will prevail. The key issue may be the selection of a standard platform that can deliver this exciting new technology. The age-old struggle between innovation and standards continues into the “new generation of interactive technologies.”