McCarthy's foresight about technology was remarkable, showcasing a unique understanding of computer science and artificial intelligence. However, his ideas were fundamentally different from the modern interconnected reality envisioned by Kay and others. Unlike the current paradigm that relies heavily on personal computers equipped with their own storage and processing capabilities, McCarthy's vision did not prioritize individual computing devices.

This divergence highlights a significant shift in how we view and utilize technology today. While McCarthy laid the groundwork for future technological advancements, it was the emergence of personal computing that transformed these concepts into a widely accessible format, shaping the digital landscape we navigate now.