In mass communication, media are usually the physical media used or resources used to transmit and retrieve data or information. The word itself refers to various units of the mass communications industry, including broadcast media, print media, television, radio, music, films, theatre, visual arts, publishing, and marketing. The mass media generally refers to any type of tangible medium that allows people to receive, store, and evaluate information. Major mediums in the media include print media such as books, periodicals, magazines, newspapers, books, and other printed media and electronic media such as movies, music, television, computer software, photographic images, and sound.

Print media generally refers to the most traditional and first widespread form of communication media. It includes the most well-known printed publications such as journals, books, periodicals, and other printed materials. These medium to provide a platform for the expression of ideas, opinions, news, and views. The scope of print media includes both the written and spoken word. Examples of print media include periodicals, magazines, books, and newspapers.

Television, is the oldest and largest mass communication medium that enables visual information to be transmitted for playback on a screen. Most television programmes, movies, and sporting events are transmitted on television sets, portable personal computers (PVCs), satellite dishes, cable services, video televisions, and other similar devices. The terms “televison” and “telemoney” often are used interchangeably. Satellite TV, cable television, and the dish network are examples of the various media entities that produce and distribute television programs available over the worldwide web.

Early forms of mass communication have been categorized as primary, secondary, or tertiary forms. First forms of early forms of communication included barkings, cave drums, and cave paintings. Second forms of early forms of communication included signs, billboards, flags, and lanterns. Tertiary forms of early forms of communication included systems of wheels, wagons, rackets, and gun sights.

A combination of primary and secondary forms of early forms of communication have been combined into modern day culture. Mass print media provides a platform for newsprint, which circulates news around the world in a variety of formats. This includes such popular formats as periodicals, magazines, and newspapers. Major print media outlets include: The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, The Chicago Daily Herald, The Los Angeles Times, The Financial Times, International Herald Tribune, and numerous other daily newspapers. Major electronic media entities include: The Associated Press, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Time, CNET, Yahoo! Online sources include: Wikipedia, Facebook, MySpace, and Twitter.

The evolution of modern digital media has created unprecedented opportunities for individuals who would like to engage in the open marketplace and the marketplace of ideas. While traditional forms of media continue to evolve, there is an increasing need to develop and innovate new media formats in order to remain relevant. It appears that digital media organizations and newspapers will continue to play a vital role in the shaping of the next era of media. This is especially true in this digital age, where the web has become an integral part of our lives.