Just by taking a look at how big the very first computer ever created was makes it clear that products have been compressed a great deal over the past century. Data compression is particularly useful in communications because it enables devices to transmit the same amount of data in fewer bits. There are a variety of data compression techniques, but only a few have been standardized. Data compression is also widely used in backup utilities, spreadsheet applications, and database management systems. Certain types of data, such as bit-mapped graphics, can be compressed to a small fraction of their normal size.
Compression makes products easier and faster to use.
It also benefits the portability of products. In schools, especially higher education, students are given opportunities they've never had before due to the low cost and accessibility created by compression . Compression has also brought about several law suits. This is a major downside to compression . The population appears to be split on what to call mp3s.